Cappie’s Scoop: The canyon is very big and there are a few trails that you can hike on to see fall colors. We hiked for a while into the canyon and found a few streams crossing the trail which was fun because I love playing in the water. There aren’t a lot of people the further you go into the canyon so I had the trail all to myself! Don’t hesitate to add YOUR scoop in the comments below!
Tips: This trail is the most beautiful in the fall. You can enjoy a short or longer hike in this canyon! The further you go, you will eventually enter into John Muir Wilderness. The elevation listed is for ~6.6 miles RT. If you want to camp nearby, the McGee Creek Campground has 28 reservable camp sites, bear lockers, and a flush toilet.
Directions: From Mammoth Lakes, head east on CA 203 to US 395. Head south on 395 for 11.7 miles and turn right onto McGee Creek Road. Follow the road until it ends in 3.2 miles (the road becomes a dirt road but is easily passable for passenger cars). There is a parking area at the trailhead. If you’re coming from Bishop, the head north on 395 for 30.6 miles (from the center of town), then turn left onto McGee Creek Road, shortly after Tom’s Place.
Mileage (round trip) | 4+ |
Difficulty | Moderate |
Gain (in feet) | 1210 |
Trailhead | 37.551026, -118.802531 |
Hike Time (in hours) | 3-4 |
Exposure | Mostly Sunny |
Scenery | Canyon Views, Trees, Creek |
Facilities | Toilets in parking area. |
Fees/Permits | None |
More Info | https://modernhiker.com/hike/hike-mcgee-creek-canyon; https://www.monocounty.org/listing/mcgee-creek-trail/1306 |
Last Hiked | 10/11/2018, 10/10/2019, 6/18/2023 |