While not the longest trail, the quick trip up to McLeod Lake (pronounced McCloud), is well worth the jaunt and a great trail to check out if you’re looking for a quick rip and short on time. You can also use this trail to access a larger loop by continuing over Mammoth Pass which will connect you to the John Muir/ Pacific Crest Trail. If you follow the JMT south it will loop you to the impressive Duck Lake if you’re looking for some considerable mileage. We had Mammoth Trailfest coming up so this was a shakeout run we did two days out from the event to open up the lungs.
McLeod Lake itself is absolutely beautiful, and for the trail being as short as it is, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the scenery once you arrive at McLeod. Altogether we clocked a little over 2 miles round trip with just under 400’ feet of elevation gain. Make sure to circumnavigate the lake and do this as an out and back, lollipop.
Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.
Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of McLeod Lake in Mammoth Lakes!
Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels
Website: cirquerunning.com
GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files
Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching
Instagram: @cirquerunning
Facebook: Cirque Running
Run Gear List
Patagonia Airshed Pro Pullover
Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts 5”
Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt
Patagonia Duckbill Cap
Suunto Race Titanium
Raide Research LF 2L Running Belt
Hoka Tecton X3
Goodr sunglasses
Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. Cirque Running’s mission is to inspire our trail running community through digital dirt surfing, elevated retreats and professional coaching, with certified UESCA ultrarunning coaches. We’re Trail Runners, Mountain Guides, Educators, Coaches and Stewards of the Sierra and California, and we want to share these remarkable places with all those seeking natural abundance in the Range of Light and beyond.
