You could travel the world over and you'd be hard pressed to find a more beautiful lake than Convict, especially one that is so easy to access. Just a couple paved miles from Highway 395, Convict Lake is a drive-to lake of the highest order. The scenery, the fishing and the hiking it offers are all world-class.

How do you get to Convict Lake?

Getting to Convict Lake

To get there from southern California, take US Hwy 395 north. From northern California, take CA Hwy 140 east through Yosemite National Park. From US Hwy 395 near the Mammoth Airport, follow the signs east toward Convict Lake. The exit is near mile marker 21.50.

Is there parking at Convict Lake?

Convict Lake is located right off Highway 395 in between Mammoth Lakes and Bishop. ... When you make it to Convict Lake there is a small parking lot near the boat launch and more parking around the east side of the lake where you can begin your hike from.

How long is the walk around Convict Lake?

Overview. The trail is about 2.5 miles total that follow the shoreline. You can hike in either direction around the lake.

Can you swim in Convict Lake?

Convict Lake is a big, deep lake set against an iconic backdrop of near-sheer granite faces, a perfect place for a long-distance open water swim. The water quality is good. ... Convict Lake is a popular destination. Watch out for fishing hooks and debris on the shore, and keep an eye out for boats.

The drive to Convict Lake

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Is there a hike at Convict Lake?

Convict Lake Loop Trail is a 2.5 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Mammoth Lakes, California that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and fishing and is best used from June until November. Dogs are also able to use this trail.

Is Convict Lake part of the national forest?

Convict Lake is a picturesque lake in Inyo National Forest that features turquoise water, mountains, hiking trails, and secluded beaches. This area is also popular for fishing, swimming, boating, and backpacking.

Is Convict Lake in a national forest?

Convict Lake Campground is situated near Convict Lake amidst the beautiful scenery of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The lake and surrounding national forest provide many opportunities for family fun, outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Is Convict Lake an Alpine lake?

Convict Lake is a stunning alpine lake just south of Mammoth Lakes, CA. This lake also has easy access to HWY 395 and incredible fishing in the summer/fall. In 1871, a group of inmates escaped from a prison and were ambushed near the lake by a posse who had tracked them down.

Can you rent kayaks at Convict Lake?

Rents out all manner of water crafts per hour, day and week for exploring Convict Lake and fishing trips. Pontoon, motor and deluxe boats available, as are kayaks and SUPs.

Are Virginia Lakes CA Open?

The campground is generally open from early June until October 15th. One of the favorite hikes in this area is a tour through the Virginia Lakes Basin. The hike runs about 6.6 miles, and has an elevation gain of 1,260 feet.

Is lake Mary Road Open 2021?

Lake Mary Marina is at Lake Mary Marina.

The lake is free of ice and we are now taking reservations for Friday, May 28th, 2021 forward! The road to the lakes is currently locked. We will be opening May 28th.

Is Convict Lake accessible by car?

You could travel the world over and you'd be hard pressed to find a more beautiful lake than Convict, especially one that is so easy to access. Just a couple paved miles from Highway 395, Convict Lake is a drive-to lake of the highest order. The scenery, the fishing and the hiking it offers are all world-class.

Is Convict Lake open in winter?

So, if you're wondering what to do in this weird in-between time where it's not really winter, but it's not spring or summer either, Convict Lake is your place. ...

Does Convict Lake have showers?

Campers can pay for showers at the Convict Lake Resort. A dump station is also located on Convict Lake road about 1/4 mile from the campground. There are 48 reservable campsites and 40 first-come, first-served campsites at Convict Lake campground.

Is Convict Lake man made?

Unlike many drive-to lakes in the region, Convict was created naturally. It sits snuggled in a box canyon, some 7,583 feet high in the Sierra Nevada. ... After miners discovered the area, Convict became known as Monte Diablo.

Is there cell service at Convict Lake?

Cell Phone Coverage

Mostly draws a fishing crowd but was a great stop on a 16 day road trip. Easy hike around the lake or a more rigorous one up the mountain.

What is the story behind Convict Lake?

Convict Lake located in Mono County got its name after an incident in 1871, where a group of convicts escaped from prison in Carson City, Nevada. ... Today visitors escape to Convict Lake for fishing, hiking, horseback riding, camping, and to enjoy fine dining at the Convict Lake Restaurant.

Are dogs allowed at Convict Lake?

PETS: Pets are welcome at Convict Lake Resort. All of our cabins are pet friendly. There is a $14 charge per pet per day. Pets must be kept on a leash at all times when outdoors.

Where can I fish at Convict Lake?

The lake has several areas to target, though the key here is to fish the edge of the bowl. There's a ledge around it that drops off into much deeper water. Fishing along this edge can provide some pretty great action. Starting at the main parking lot at the marina, you can go out on the jetty that forms the bay.

Is Lundy Canyon open?

The Lundy Canyon Campground is now OPEN FOR THE SEASON!

Operating under a lease from Southern California Edison, the facilities division of the Mono County Department of Public Works is responsible for the operation and maintenance of this campground since 1961.

Is lake Sabrina open for fishing?

Private boats can launch and fishing is allowed on the Lake. ...

Can you swim at Lake Mary?

Swimming is allowed in all lakes in the Mammoth Lakes Basin. The Twin Lakes are the lowest of all the lakes (at an elevation of 8500 feet). Continuing up Lake Mary Road, you'll also find Lake Mary, Lake George, Lake Mamie, and Horseshoe Lake.