Distance: 10.3 miles round trip on trail
Summit Elevation: 10811' (Duck Pass)
Elevation Gain: 2278'
Elevation Gain (in Empire State Buildings): 1.8
Round trip time: 5 hour 40 minutes
Recommended water: 64 oz.
Parking/Fees: Free at Duck Pass trailhead
Difficulty: Moderate
Leisa and I headed to Mammoth Lakes, camping at Coldwater Campground south of Lake Mary. From our tent, we hiked to the Duck Pass trailhead and got on our way. Our destination was Pika Lake, but we would pass many other lakes on the way. The trails were wide, sandy, and well groomed. Dogs were allowed on the crowded trail, and half of the parties included one or more dog. They were all friendly and happy to be out exploring with their humans. First up was Arrowhead Lake. There was short side trail to reach it, but we decided to continue and view it from higher elevation. We hiked by the shores of Skelton Lake where some people were fishing. Next came Barney Lake, another large lake with more fisherman. After Barney Lake, we followed switchbacks heading up to Duck Pass. Most of the elevation gain was up to Duck Pass at 10811'. From the pass, the views back down the valley were dramatic. We also got a great view of Duck Lake, the largest by far. We could also see part of Pika Lake, just south of Duck Lake. We picked up the Pika Lake trail there and dropped 300' to the shores of Duck Lake. The trail wound around Duck Lake and ended at the north shore of Pika Lake. The surrounding mountains showcased veins of snow in their deep, north facing gullies. It was serene and quiet at Pika Lake and we had it to ourselves. After a lunch break, we headed back the same way.
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