Lundy Canyon Trail, located in Mono County just 40 minutes of drive north of Mammoth Lakes, is one of the premier trails to catch fall colors in the eastern side of Sierra Nevada, California. Rated as an easy to moderate trail, Lundy Canyon Trail is a family friendly hike suitable for beginner / casual hikers. More experienced hikers can extend the hike to Lake Helen and beyond as it connects all the way to the Saddleback Lakes, making it a good starting point for a multi-day backpacking trip.
I visited this trail during October, specifically to catch shades of golden yellows and ambers of the Aspen trees. It was indeed one of the highlights during my Eastern Sierra Fall Colors Road Trip. If you’re visiting in the spring or summer, you will be greeted with wildflowers and impressive waterfalls.
trail information
DISTANCE: 1.5 – 3.5 Miles (see details)
ELEVATION GAIN: 300 – 650 Feet
TRAILHEAD: Take Lundy Lake Drive off 395
RATING: Easy to Moderate
BEST TIME TO GO: Fall or Spring
DOWNLOAD GPX:
watch this hike on Youtube
I made a YouTube video of this hike — watch it here. 👇
trail description
Lundy Canyon Trail is easily accessible. From 395, take the Lundy Lake Road exit, and drive all the way to the trailhead. The last 1.5 miles is on a dirt road. When I went, there were a couple of deep potholes which could be tricky for those without high clearance vehicle. If that’s the case, you can park by the road close to Lundy Lake Resort and hike in (like I did during this hike). Just add 1.5 miles each way to your trip calculation. You’ll drive / hike past the scenic Lundy Lake on your way to the trailhead.
Trail Overview
- Trailhead Elevation: 7,800 feet
- Trailhead to First Waterfalls:
- Distance: ~0.75 miles (one-way)
- Elevation Gain: ~350 feet
- Trail to Second Waterfalls:
- Distance: ~1.70 miles (one-way)
- Elevation Gain: ~600 feet
- If you park at Lundy Lake: add 1.5 miles (one-way) to your total distance.
From the trailhead, you’ll ascend through aspen groves and rugged terrain, reaching the first set of waterfalls after a moderate climb. For those looking to explore further, the trail to second waterfalls is a bit more challenging but rewards you with dramatic mountain and valley views. With sounds of cascading water and incredible fall scenery around every corner, this trail truly embodies the beauty of autumn in the Sierras.
Past the second waterfalls, Lundy Canyon Trail continues to Lake Helen. This section of the trail is particularly steep. Trekking poles are recommended.
Trail Highlights
- Peak Fall Colors: Mid-October (varies slightly by year)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Family Friendly: Yes, with caution for elevation gain and uneven terrain
If you’re planning a fall visit to the Eastern Sierra, Lundy Canyon Trail is the perfect place to experience nature’s seasonal show.
Happy hiking, and enjoy the fall colors! 🍂
download GPX
Download Lundy Canyon Trail GPX
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