Glass Elevators Trail
Extreme granite slabs in the Eastern Sierra
Glass Elevators earned its name from the steep, polished granite slabs that rise like elevator shafts above Mammoth Lakes, offering some of the most technical rock crawling in the Eastern Sierra. This 12-mile loop climbs from Mammoth Creek through a series of increasingly difficult granite steps, passing pristine alpine lakes and offering jaw-dropping views of the Minarets. The “elevators” themselves — smooth granite faces with minimal traction — demand precise line choice and serious wheel placement skills.
Rated Expert, this trail requires a well-built rig with 35-inch tires, lockers, and comprehensive armor including rock sliders and skid plates. The granite is unforgiving and recovery points are limited on the steepest sections. July through September offers the best window when snow clears from the high country. No permits required, but expect crowds during peak summer weekends. The trail rewards skilled drivers with world-class alpine scenery and technical challenges that’ll push both driver and machine to their limits.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Expert |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 10400 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Built 4WD with lockers and 35s |
| Nearest town | Mammoth Lakes, CA |
| Land manager | Inyo National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler make it through Glass Elevators Trail?
No way. This trail requires a built 4WD with lockers and 35-inch tires minimum. The granite slabs will eat stock vehicles alive.
Is Glass Elevators Trail open in winter?
No, it's typically snowed in from October through June. Best access is July through September when the high country clears out.
Do I need permits to run Glass Elevators Trail?
No permits required for the trail itself, but you'll need to follow Inyo National Forest dispersed camping rules if staying overnight.
What's the gnarliest part of this trail?
The steep granite slab climbs that give the trail its name. These are technical Class 4+ sections that require precise line choice and serious wheel articulation.
How deep are the water crossings on Glass Elevators?
Typically shallow creek crossings, but they can vary with snowmelt and weather. Most are under 18 inches but scout them first as granite makes for slippery footing.