Mosquito Flat Trailhead is located at the end of Rock Creek Road. At an elevation of 10,300 feet, Mosquito Flat starts at an altitude many trails struggle to attain. As a result, this area is perfect for even the most inexperienced hiker due to its accessibility to easy trails. The area is a haven for photographers, fishermen, botanists, backpackers, and anyone who loves the backcountry. Two very popular hikes can be started from Mosquito Flat ranging from easy to strenuous, both leading to spectacular areas of Rock Creek's backcountry.
The Morgan Pass Trail winds through Little Lakes Valley, a beautiful area containing several lakes, incredible wildflowers, riparian meadows, and excellent views of the 13,700+ foot peaks surrounding the valley. Several species of wildlife thrive in the valley, including marmot, deer, chipmunk, squirrel, pine marten, pika, and many species of birds and fish. Although small brook trout is the most prevalent species of fish, 3-5 pound browns are caught out of these lakes every summer. Some lakes have wild rainbow trout in them as well. This is a heavily-traveled trail, especially in July and August. Trail crews have worked on several sections of this trail bypassing riparian meadows and making stream crossings easier.
Mono Pass is another hike that is started at Mosquito Flat. This hike is much more difficult than Little Lakes Valley, and is drier, particularly on the upper slopes. This hike does have its advantages, however. Incredible views of Little Lakes Valley can be had from various points along the trail, fewer people use this trail compared to the Little Lakes Valley trail, and Ruby Lake, a large, secluded, and picturesque alpine lake, is accessible from here. The Mono Pass Trail continues west over the Sierra Crest and drops down into the Mono Creek Recesses and Pioneer Basin. The pass tops out at an elevation of 12,000 feet. Access to lakes containing golden trout can be achieved from this trail. Golden Lake at the headwaters of Mono Creek and Summit Lake at the top of Mono Pass are 2 of these lakes. Mono Pass is very popular with the Rock Creek Pack Station. Popular pack station trips are to Fourth Recess Lake and Pioneer Basin.