Mono Pass Trail


Starting from Mosquito Flat at the end of Rock Creek Road, the Mono Pass trail climbs out of the Little Lakes Valley and goes to Ruby Lake, where sheer granite walls tower above the emerald waters. Crossing over Mono Pass the trail descends down Mono Creek with side trails to Pioneer Basin and the Recesses. The trail along Mono Creek eventually connects with the John Muir Trail near Quail Meadows and Lake Thomas A Edison.

Use of Bear containers is required at Ruby Lake. Beyond Mono Pass, bear containers are the only practical way to store food due to the lack of tall trees.

Common Destinations: Ruby Lake, Mono Pass, Pioneer Basin, Hopkins Creek.
Note: This is not Mono Pass near Yosemite’s Mt Dana, use Bloody Canyon Trail for that area.

Download area map for trail location.
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: Rock Creek Pack Station is located on Rock Creek Road offers day rides and mule pack trips. (760) 935-4493 or (760) 872-8331
Permit Info:
  • Wilderness permits are required year round for overnight trips.
  • Day use does not require a permit.
  • May 1 throught November 1 quota limits visitors to 20 people per day.
Restrictions:
  • No campfires above 10,000 ft.
  • Food, trash and scented items must be stored in bear proof containers if camping between the trail head and Mono Pass. Beyond the pass, bear containers are the only practical way to store food due to the lack of tall trees for counter balance
  • Groups cannot be larger than 15 people (includes day use).
  • John Muir Wilderness regulations.
Closest Towns:
  • Crowley Lake, CA (gas, food)
  • Toms Place, CA (gas, food)
  • Mammoth Lakes, CA (full service, hospital)
  • Bishop, 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 Toms Place. Follow Rock Creek Road to Mosquito Flat where there is paved hiker parking at the end of the road.


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Lake and Pond Fishing

Before Mono Pass Ruby Lake has Brook Trout, Once over Mono Pass there are Rainbow, Brook and Golden Trout in lakes at Pioneer Basin, For more information check the Eastern Sierra Back Country Fishing Guide.

River and Stream Fishing

Day Hiking

Backpacking

Horse Riding

Quick Links

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Related Links

Featured Events

Location

 
  Latitude : 
37.4351

  Longitude : 
-118.7472

  Elevation : 
10,272ft. at trailhead - 12,077ft. at Mono Pass

 

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

Please dispose of human waste properly