I hiked the JMT in 2005, and am hiking a short section on the JMT this summer with my wife. We have decided to hike from Kearsarge Pass to Whitney Portal. But one of the best views from the trail is of Banner Peak. My question is, can one see Banner Peak and Mt. Ritter from either June Lake loop or Mammouth Lake ski area?
TriHiker
You can see Banner, Ritter, and the Minarets from the Mammoth ski area, but I don’t think you can see it from the June Lake Loop (not certain about that). Have fun!
Lisa
Unless things have changed, you can drive past the parking area for the Devil’s Post Pipe / Red’s Meadow shuttle parking area (Mammoth main lodge) to the ridge opposite Banner and Ritter. There is a parking area and viewing platform just before the ranger kiosk where you can see that whole area. Great view.
You can also pay to ride the gondola to the top of Mammoth Mountain for a more expansive view. I’m not sure if they would let you hike to the top.
The June Lake loop would require that you hike up to the JMT to get a decent view.
Snowball