A less-traveled way to see the highs and lows of the beautiful Eastern Sierra, the fairly demanding Deer Lake Trail climbs the Crystal Crag Trail out of the Lake George Parking lot for up-high ridge views, then traverses the rim of the Sierra Crest before leading back to a lush alpine lake valley. Ideal for a one-night overnight backpacking trip out of Mammoth Lakes (permit required), this hike is 4.5 miles from the parking lot out to the lakes (one-way). To extend the hike, connect with the John Muir Trail or loop back to Lake Mary Rd. via Duck Pass Trail.