Goodbye Lake Tahoe, So Long Big Bear: This Quiet Sierra Nevada Lake Is A Peaceful Gem

Just outside of Mammoth Lakes, there's another gorgeous lake that offers breathtaking mountain views and a chance to unwind. Its name might bring to mind prisoners in stripes, but Convict Lake is better known for its crystal-clear water, trout fishing, and scenic trails. If you're looking for a simpler alternative to Lake Tahoe or Big Bear, this could just be the place for quiet hikes, paddling, and camping under the stars.

So how did Convict Lake end up with such a peculiar name? As the story goes, a crew of escaped convicts fled Nevada State Prison in Carson City in 1871. A posse eventually caught up with them near what was then known as Monte Diablo Creek. During the shootout, two posse members were killed. The convicts escaped but were later pursued, with some captured and others lynched. Two nearby peaks were named after the deceased, Robert Morrison and Mono Jim, while the lake became known as Convict Lake.

While the lore behind Convict Lake is pretty fascinating, the place itself is even more so. As one of the pristine lakes within the beautiful Inyo National Forest in California, the glacially formed lake covers 170 acres and reaches depths of 140 feet. At an elevation of 7,583 feet in the Sierra Nevada, it's also high enough that visitors coming from lower elevations may feel the effects of the altitude. So take it easy at first, drink plenty of water, and bask in the majestic splendor all around you.

If you're looking for a relatively relaxing hiking experience, the Convict Lake Loop is a great place to start. The 2-mile trail keeps you close to the shore so you can see the lake from nearly every angle. Along the way, you'll encounter pines and aspens, as well as a boardwalk that crosses Convict Creek. With only a 173-foot elevation gain, it's generally an easy hike, though you should allow an hour or two to enjoy the scenery. If you're visiting in the springtime, waterproofing your shoes or hiking boots is essential, as one section of the trail is known to flood during that time of year. The east shoreline of the path is also fully paved and ADA accessible.

But maybe you're looking for a different sort of activity. There are many places you should consider horseback riding in before you die, and Convict Lake should definitely be on that list. Fortunately, Rock Creek Pack Station offers guided horseback rides through Convict Lake Resort during the summer season, from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Two daily rides follow a 3-mile route along the lake's northern shore, with each lasting about two hours. Children ages 6 to 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Reviewers on Yelp say they've enjoyed learning more about the area and its history while on their rides, as well as getting to encounter wildlife like deer and even a bald eagle flying overhead.

Fishing is a major draw in Convict Lake, with spring and late fall among the best times to cast a line. The lake is especially known for its large rainbow trout, though brown and brook trout can also be found here. Locals and visitors also take part in the resort's annual fishing derbies. Round-up at the Lake happens between April and June, while Ambush at the Lake occurs between August and November. Each derby features $6,000 in resort prizes, with a $19 entry fee.

There are plenty of opportunities to fish from the shoreline or head out onto the water. If you'd like to rent a boat, the Convict Lake Resort marina offers V-hull fishing boats starting at $130 for two hours, while pontoon rentals start at $290 for the same period. The marina also rents kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for those who just want to take in the gorgeous mountain views from the water.

Convict Lake is just 15 minutes southeast of Mammoth Lakes via U.S. Highway 395. Most visitors fly into Eastern Sierra Regional Airport (BIH) in Bishop, about 48 minutes away, though some visitors also fly into Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH), around 11 minutes away, which offers limited seasonal flights from Southern California. As for accommodations, Convict Lake Resort offers mountain cabins and larger vacation homes, with rates varying by size and season. Camping is also available at Convict Lake Campground, which has 85 campsites, flush toilets, picnic tables, and potable water. Showers are available at the nearby resort for a fee. Some sites can accommodate RVs, but there are no hookups, so be prepared.