Rush Creek Trail


The trail name "Rush Creek" comes from how fast the water rushes down this steep canyon to recharge the beautiful Silver Lake of the June Lakes area. Climbing past Agnew and Gem Lake, this trail climbs up the Rush Creek Canyon and gives access to the John Muir Trail near Waugh Lake. Side trails go: past Alger Lakes to Parker Pass; past Clark Lakes to Agnew Pass; and to Spooky Meadow (trail not recommended for stock). 

Common Destinations: Agnew Lake, Gem Lake, Waugh Lake, John Muir Trail

Download area map for trail names
To purchase more detailed maps or guidebooks of the area, visit sierraforever.org

At a Glance

Current Conditions: Weather
Reservations: Reserve up to 6 months in advance at www.Recreation.gov
Rentals & Guides: Frontier Pack Train, located on Hwy158 near Silver Lake offers day rides and mule pack trips. (888) 437-MULE
Permit Info:
  • Wilderness permit required year round for overnight trips.
  • Day use does not require a permit.
  • May 1 through November 1 quota limits visitors to 30 people per day.
Restrictions:
  • No campfires at Waugh Lake, Lower Davis, Weber, Sullivan or Clark Lakes, north side of Gem Lake, or Upper Rush Creek; and no campfires at all locations above 10,000 ft. Map of Campfire Restrictions.
  • Food, trash and scented items must be stored in bear proof containers.
  • Groups cannot be larger than 15 people (includes day use).
  • Ansel Adams Wilderness regulations.
  • Yosemite wilderness regulations apply if entering the National Park.
Closest Towns:
  • June Lake, CA (food, gas, lodging)
  • Mammoth Lakes, CA (full service, hospital)
Water: Water from creeks, lakes and springs should be treated before drinking.
Restroom: Flush toilet at trailhead. Please Leave No Trace. Bury human waste away from water sources.
Operated By: Forest Service
Information Center:

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Lake and Pond Fishing

There are many fishing oportunities along the Rush Creek Trail, Agnew, Gem and Waugh Lakes you'll enjoy catching Rainbow and Brook Trout. 

Link to fishing regulations map.

River and Stream Fishing

Brook Trout are common in streams in this area.

Link to California Fish and Wildlife  fishing regulations map.

Day Hiking

Backpacking

Horse Camping

Horse Riding

General Info:

Directions

From Hwy 395, follow the June Lake Loop (Hwy.158). Trail head starts from a large paved parking area on the West side of the road and the North end of Silver Lake, near the pack station and Silver Lake Campground & RV Park.


Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Latitude : 
37.46963

  Longitude : 
-119.07713

  Elevation : 
7,246ft. at trailhead - 9,646 at JMT junction