Shark Fin Loop Trail

The Shark Fin Loop is an easy 1.7-mile trail located in the Alabama Hills, near Lone Pine, California. This loop takes hikers past the striking Shark Fin Arete, a popular rock formation for climbing, while offering stunning views of the Eastern Sierra, including Mount Whitney.

The trail’s relatively short distance and gentle terrain make it suitable for hikers of all skill levels, and it’s particularly favored by photographers and geology enthusiasts.

This trail is best explored in the cooler months due to the open desert climate and provides a unique glimpse into the dramatic rockscapes that have been featured in numerous films.

Trail Details

Trail type	Loop
Difficulty	Easy
Length	1.7 miles
Elevation gain/loss	290 feet
Trailhead Coordinates	36.598831, -118.118022
Location	Alabama Hills, near Lone Pine, CA
Season	Year-round (but hot in summer)
Information Number	760-872-5000

Getting to the Shark Fin Loop Trailhead

To reach the Shark Fin Loop trailhead from Lone Pine, head west on Whitney Portal Road for approximately 2.5 miles. Turn right onto Movie Road and continue for about 1.5 miles until you reach a marked parking area on the right side of the road. The trailhead is easily identifiable by the nearby Shark Fin Arete, a distinctive rock formation popular among climbers.

The Trail

The Shark Fin Loop begins at the trailhead parking area off Movie Road. The initial path is sandy and lined with scattered desert shrubs, providing an immediate sense of the rugged landscape. Early in the hike, you’ll pass the Shark Fin Arete, a notable granite formation that attracts both climbers and photographers.

As you continue, the trail offers mild ascents and descents, weaving through the unique rock formations that define the Alabama Hills. The loop presents continuous views of the towering Sierra Nevada, with Mount Whitney dominating the backdrop. The route features sandy trails interspersed with gravel paths and scattered boulders, adding variety without being overly challenging.

Wildlife sightings are common, and you may spot lizards, jackrabbits, or various desert birds along the trail. Vegetation is sparse, but sagebrush and yucca plants are common throughout the hike.

While the trail is generally well-defined, there is minimal signage, so carrying a map or GPS device is advised to ensure you stay on track. The loop concludes with a gentle descent back to the trailhead, offering more panoramic views of the Owens Valley and surrounding rock formations.

Nearby Camping

Dispersed camping is available throughout the Alabama Hills, providing a more secluded and scenic experience with views of the Sierra Nevada.

There are no developed campsites within the immediate vicinity of the Shark Fin Loop, but Tuttle Creek Campground, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), is nearby and offers amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets.