Snowshoeing to the Inyo Craters ◉

Snowshoeing to the Inyo Craters is a perfect family-friendly introduction to this ancient means of winter travel and to the volcanic history of the area. Starting from the Inyo Craters staging area just off the Mammoth Scenic Loop, follow signs and orange diamonds through the old-growth Jeffrey pine forest to the craters trailhead. The trail is groomed and easy and best used midweek when snowmobile traffic is at a minimum. To look down into the craters, and to enjoy the sweeping views of the Long Valley Caldera, make the short climb to the rim—but don't try to go down into the craters! Return the way you came.
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Snowshoeing to the Inyo Craters is a perfect family-friendly introduction to this ancient means of winter travel and to the volcanic history of the area. Starting from the Inyo Craters staging area just off the Mammoth Scenic Loop, follow signs and orange diamonds through the old-growth Jeffrey pine forest to the craters trailhead. The trail is groomed and easy and best used midweek when snowmobile traffic is at a minimum. To look down into the craters, and to enjoy the sweeping views of the Long Valley Caldera, make the short climb to the rim—but don't try to go down into the craters! Return the way you came.

Avalanche Forecast for 11/27/2024

AVALANCHE FORECAST: Over the past five days, two storms brought periods of heavy snowfall, strong winds, and dangerous avalanche conditions to the region. As the weather settles, avalanches breaking in new and wind-drifted snow will become less likely. Be prepared to assess the recent snow for signs of instability, like cracking underfoot, before venturing into avalanche terrain. We have very limited information about the snowpack at mid and upper elevations. If old snow has formed weak layers near the base of the snowpack, you can expect avalanche conditions to settle more slowly. Find out More

Experience Checklist
- Animal Track Identifier/Guide
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Day pack
- Energy bars/electrolyte replacement
- Hat
- Hiking boots
- Ski poles
- Snowshoes
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen/lip protector
- Telephoto lens
- Tree Identifier/Guide
- Warm clothing
- Water
- Wildlife-identification guide
- Winter gloves
Public Services
Experience Information

Trail Length
3.1 miles

Trail Surface
Snow

Duration
Less than 4 hours
This experience is accessed from the Inyo Craters Winter Access on the Mammoth Scenic Loop.
- Get driving directions to Inyo Craters Winter Access
- Get public-transit options*
*Note that not all facilities are accessible via public transit.