The best cycling routes in Owens River Headwaters Wilderness
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Touring cycling in Owens River Headwaters Wilderness offers routes through a diverse landscape characterized by high-altitude terrain, volcanic features, and pristine lakes. The region is part of the Sierra Nevada, providing a mix of challenging climbs and scenic descents. Riders can expect to encounter varied elevations and open wilderness areas. This environment provides a distinct touring cycling experience with views of mountains and geological formations.
Best touring cycling routes in Owens River Headwaters Wilderness
- The most popular touring cycling route…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
4
riders
27.1km
02:02
610m
610m
Cycle 16.9 miles from Mammoth Mountain Resort to Devil's Postpile National Monument, a difficult route with stunning Sierra views.
12
riders
15.7km
01:04
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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(1)
11
riders
34.1km
02:32
390m
390m
Cycle the moderate 21.2-mile June Lake Loop in Inyo National Forest, passing four alpine lakes and enjoying stunning mountain views.
8.99km
00:56
170m
170m
Cycle the Obsidian Dome Loop Road in Inyo National Forest, a moderate 5.6-mile route around a unique volcanic glass dome.
9.42km
00:28
50m
260m
Embark on the Mammoth Scenic Ride, an easy touring cycling route that winds through a dense Jeffrey pine forest. As you pedal, you might catch the distinct vanilla scent of…
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Tips from the Community
Mammoth Mountain Resort is a premier destination for skiing & snowboarding. However, the resort and its surrounding area also have plenty to do throughout the rest of the year. If you don't have a bike there are plenty of places to rent from so you can take advantage of the many miles of road and trails. If you ever need to meet up with someone just say you'll find them at the iconic Mammoth statue and you won't have any trouble finding each other.
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The Obsidian Dome and its neighbors Glass Creek and Deadman Dome all erupted in early fall of 1350. Scientists were able to date this last volcanic activity based on tree rings. In this eruption, magma flew into large amounts of groundwater which led to massive explosions that formed the nearby Inyo Craters.
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Grant Lake is the largest lake along the June Lake Loop and due to this it's popular with motorized watersports such as wake-boarding and skiing. Also, unlike its neighbors, Grant Lake is nearly devoid of trees. Instead it is surrounded by a high desert landscape.
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The June Lake Loop is one Fairytale settings after another. With lakes, waterfalls, towering mountain peaks, meadows, and more you can keep coming back to this ride and find something new each time.
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One of many beautiful lakes in the June Lake area. You can't go wrong cycling around this area as every turn offers jaw dropping views.
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You can cycle down to the Ranger Station for free and there is a bike rack to leave your bike while you explore the area. If you're not up to cycling back up the hill towards Mammoth Lakes you can pay to ride the shuttle back up if there is room. Keep in mind that the road down is steep and narrow, uphill traffic has the right of way, and the 15 mph speed limits applies to bikes as well as motor vehicles.
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Starkweather Lake was named after a miner from the area in the 1920s. This lake is known for its rainbow trout and stunning views. The road that allows for access to this lake closes to motor vehicles in the winter.
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One many beautiful lakes in the June Lake area. You can't go wrong cycling around this area as every turn offers jaw dropping views.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Owens River Headwaters Wilderness?
There are over 40 touring cycling routes available in Owens River Headwaters Wilderness, catering to various skill levels and interests.
Are there easy touring cycling routes for beginners or families?
Yes, the region offers 6 easy touring cycling routes. An excellent option for a more relaxed ride is the Mammoth Scenic Ride, which is just over 9 km long with minimal elevation gain.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Owens River Headwaters Wilderness?
The terrain is diverse, characterized by high-altitude landscapes, volcanic features, and pristine lakes. You'll encounter a mix of challenging climbs and scenic descents, with routes passing through forested areas and alongside water bodies.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Owens River Headwaters Wilderness?
The best time for touring cycling is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). Due to the high-altitude nature of the region, some routes may be inaccessible or challenging during winter months due to snow and ice.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, several routes offer a loop experience. A popular choice is the June Lake Loop, a moderate 34.1 km path offering scenic views around June Lake. Another option is the Obsidian Dome Loop Road, a shorter 8.9 km loop through volcanic landscapes.
What are the typical lengths of touring cycling routes in Owens River Headwaters Wilderness?
Route lengths vary significantly. You can find shorter rides like the Obsidian Dome Loop Road at around 9 km, to longer, more challenging tours such as the Mammoth Mountain Resort to Devil's Postpile National Monument, which spans over 27 km.
What can I expect regarding elevation changes on these routes?
Given the mountainous terrain of the Sierra Nevada, many routes feature significant elevation changes. For instance, the route from Mammoth Mountain Resort to Devil's Postpile National Monument includes over 600 meters of ascent.
Are there any specific attractions or landmarks I can visit along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, some routes lead to notable natural landmarks. The route from Mammoth Mountain Resort to Devil's Postpile National Monument takes you directly to the unique geological formation of Devil's Postpile. The June Lake Loop also offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding forested areas.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Owens River Headwaters Wilderness?
The routes in Owens River Headwaters Wilderness are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.8 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from volcanic formations to scenic lake views, and the variety of options for different ability levels.
Can I find challenging routes for advanced touring cyclists?
Absolutely. There are 11 difficult routes for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge. These routes often feature significant elevation gains and cover longer distances, providing a rewarding experience in the high-altitude environment.
Is it possible to see wildlife while touring cycling in this wilderness area?
As a wilderness area, there is a good chance of encountering local wildlife, especially in quieter sections of the routes. Keep an eye out for various bird species and mammals native to the Sierra Nevada region.
Are there options for shorter touring cycling trips?
Yes, if you're looking for a shorter ride, the June Lake loop from June Lake is a moderate 13.2 km route that can be completed in just over an hour, offering a pleasant experience without committing to a full-day tour.
Most popular routes in Owens River Headwaters Wilderness
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