Sight
Horseshoe Lake (Mono County, California)
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Horseshoe Lake is a picturesque, horseshoe-shaped lake in the Mammoth Lakes basin, known for its striking turquoise waters and surrounding pine forests. Visitors can enjoy a relatively easy 1.5-mile loop trail around the lake, which also serves as the starting point for the challenging hike up to Mammoth Mountain's summit. The area is notable for its volcanic landscape, including patches of dead trees caused by high carbon dioxide emissions from underground magma. It's a favorite spot for fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing, with opportunities to see birds and deer.
Don't miss
- Hike the Horseshoe Lake Loop for panoramic lake and mountain views
- Spot volcanic gas vents and dead trees from CO2 emissions
- Fish for trout in the clear, cold waters of the lake
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Horseshoe Lake (Mono County, California)
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inElkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour4.9★ · 464 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$45 per personSee dates →
Best full dayGrand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour4.8★ · 1,684 travelers17–19 hoursFree cancellationFrom$346 per personSee dates →
Top ratedScenic Snowshoe Adventure in South Lake Tahoe, CA5★ · 196 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$110 per personSee dates →More attractions in Mammoth Lakes