River Trail


Explore the headwaters of the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River by following the River Trail to Thousand Island Lake. Starting from Agnew Meadows, shuttle bus stop #1, the River Trail and Shadow Creek Trail are combined for the first 3 miles, where the Shadow Creek trail splits off to go past Shadow Lake. The River Trail stays in the valley to follow the San Joaquin River to its headwaters. Before Thousand Island Lake several trail junctions give the option to join the Pacific Crest and John Muir Trails.

Water crossings may be high during spring snow melt. This is an active bear area so you must secure your food and refuse in bear resistant food storage containers.

Common Destinations: Thousand Island Lake loop

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

At a Glance

Reservations: Reserve wilderness permits up to 6 months in advance at the Inyo National Forest Wilderness Permit Recreation.gov Page
Rentals & Guides: Reds Meadow Pack Outfit is located near Reds Meadow Resort offering day rides and mule pack trips (800) 292-7758.
Fees: Visitors to the Reds Meadow Valley pay a per-person transportation fee which allows use of the mandatory shuttle bus. Call Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center for more shuttle information. (760)924-5500.
Permit Info:
  • Wilderness permits are 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
Open Season: Road closed in winter.
Restrictions:
  • No campfires at Thousand Island, Garnet, Ruby, Emerald, Badger or Clark Lakes. No campfires all locations above 10,000 ft. Campfire Restriction Maps
  • No Camping within 1/4 mile of the outflow of Garnet or Thousand Island Lake.
  • Food, trash and scented items must be stored in bear proof containers.
  • Spur trail from River trail to Garnet Lake is not recommended for stock
  • 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:
  • Mammoth Lakes, CA (full service, hospital)
Water: Water from creeks, lakes and springs should be treated before drinking.
Restroom: Vault toilet at trailhead. Please Leave No Trace. Bury human waste away from water sources.
Operated By: Forest Service
Information Center:

General Information

Directions:

Leave Hwy 395 at Hwy 203 to the town of Mammoth Lakes. Turn right on Minaret Road and go to Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center (Main Lodge) for long term parking and to board the mandatory shuttle to the trailhead. Shuttle stop #1 is Agnew Meadows.


Parking:

 Backpacker parking at Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge.


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Lake and Pond Fishing

Rainbow and Brook Trout are common in this area. Olaine Lake fish for Rainbows, Thousand Island Lake catch Brook and Rainbow Trout. Check the Eastern Sierra Back Country Fishing Guide for trout species in the other lakes.

River and Stream Fishing

Rainbow and Brook Trout are usually caught in the streams in this area, Check the Eastern Sierra Back Country Fishing Guide for more information.

Day Hiking

Backpacking

Horse Camping

Horse Riding

Quick Links

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Related Links

Location

 
  Latitude : 
37.40986

  Longitude : 
-119.05576

  Elevation : 
8,322 ft. at Agnew Meadow Trailhead - 9,839 ft. at Thousand Island Lake

 

This poster talks about the need to dispose of human waste properly.

Please dispose of human waste properly