June Lake Loop Opens for the Spring Season in the Eastern Sierra
The June Lake Loop, which takes vehicles to four lakes in Mono County, is now open following a snowy winter the in the Sierra Nevada. The opening signifies the move to the spring and summer seasons in the Mammoth Lakes region, despite receiving historic snowfall this winter.
The June Lake Loop, or Highway 158, is a 16-mile stretch of road that begins in the town of June Lake and circles around four interconnected lakes: June Lake, Gull Lake, Silver Lake, and Grant Lake. The drive takes visitors through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Eastern Sierra, with jagged peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and meadows of wildflowers.
The loop is a popular destination for fishing, with each of the four lakes offering its own unique experience. June Lake is known for its rainbow trout, while Gull Lake is home to brown and rainbow trout. Silver Lake is a popular spot for shore fishing and fly fishing, and Grant Lake is a great spot for trolling for trout and kokanee salmon.
The loop also offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, with several trails leading into the surrounding mountains. The Parker Lake Trail, for example, is a 3.6-mile round-trip hike that takes visitors through a pine forest and ends at a pristine alpine lake. The Rush Creek Trail is another popular hike, offering stunning views of June Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Camping is also a popular activity on the June Lake Loop, with several campgrounds located along the route. The Silver Lake Campground, for example, is a popular spot for families, offering easy access to the lake and nearby hiking trails.
