The out-and-back hike to Duck Pass and Duck Lake is a classic Sierra Nevada adventure, winding through towering pine forests, open mountain meadows, rugged alpine terrain and stunning alpine lakes. The proximity of this hike to Mammoth Lakes makes it especially appealing and convenient.
The trailhead is located inside the Coldwater Campground, about a 15-20 minute drive from the town of Mammoth Lakes. The trailhead starts at approximately 9144’ and climbs close to 665’ within the first mile before reaching Arrowhead Lake, the first lake of four lakes along the trek. After reaching Arrowhead Lake, the trail continues through the forest for another 0.6 miles before reaching Skelton Lake, which proved to be one of my favorite lakes on the trail. Skelton Lake is surrounded by steep mountain slopes, pine forests and impressive granite formations of the surrounding Mammoth Crest. After taking a snack break at Skelton Lake, we continued on for about another mile before reaching Barney Lake, climbing 265’ of elevation. Barney Lake is a quintessential High Sierra alpine lake with numerous areas to take in the views or set up camp for those who are backpacking the trail with a required permit. Spending time at Barney Lake really made me want to return to this trail for an overnight trip. There are some water crossings located between the north and south ends of Barney Lake, so adequate waterproof hiking shoes are recommended. Once reaching the south end of Barney Lake, the trek up to the pass begins.
The trail shifts from a well-maintained dirt trail to a loose gravel and rocky trail as it navigates the mountainside up to the pass. This portion of the hike is when the views of the surrounding mountains really begin to take shape. From the south end of Barney Lake, the trail up to the pass climbs approximately 520’ of elevation for approximately 1 mile before reaching the pass, which sits at an elevation of 10,800’. Once reaching the pass, views of Duck Lake and Pika Lake in the distance definitely did not disappoint. I have always thought that Duck Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the High Sierra.
Once at the pass, we found a spot to rest for lunch, with views overlooking Duck Lake. Hikers do have an option here to either hike down to Duck Lake and continue to Pika Lake, which would add on an extra 1.3 miles of hiking to reach Pika Lake and 2.6 miles round trip to hike back up to the pass. Our hike ended at 9.18 miles round trip with 1,985’ of total elevation gain.
Hiking to Duck Pass and Duck Lake is more than just a rewarding hike through the Sierra Nevada – it’s an opportunity to slow down and take in the serene beauty of California’s high country. From the shaded forest trails to the expansive mountain views and peaceful alpine lakes, every stretch of the journey offers something memorable. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply looking for a scenic adventure, Duck Pass is a destination that leaves you with tired legs, a sense of accomplishment, and plenty of reasons to return.
