California’s Great Beyond

Shadow Lake/River Trail

Also called Shadow Creek Trail, this is a wonderful hike to see the varied terrain of the Sierra, including glacial lakes, trout-filled streams and snow-capped peaks. Hiking level is moderate. Begin at Agnew Meadows. Hike three miles along the creek with Mount Ritter and the Ritter Range towering above. At three miles the trail splits and Shadow Lake is where most day hikers choose to turn around. The River Trail continues four miles, and more options include connecting to Ediza Lake, Iceberg Lake and the John Muir Trail. This hike begins in the Reds Meadow Valley, where all visitors ride a shuttle bus from Mammoth’s Main Lodge parking lot down into the valley floor (small fee applies).