great nearby hike is this:
from Twin Lakes drive up to Lake George. Take the trail toward Crystal Lake that is nice, but even better is turning right at the junction and going all the way up to the crest. You start in the trees, climb above blue Lake George (to the junction), continue on eventually to red volcanic scree, then top out with a great view of the Minarets, Banner, Ritter.
This is one of our favorite warm-up/acclimatization hikes in the area. I think maybe 4 hrs round trip.( edit 6 miles round trip. gets you up to 10,600)
Thanks, Harvey. I think this is the hike I liked best when researching hikes in the area near the lakes for boating. Do I make it to Crystal Lake? I do want to go to Mammoth Crest. I'll find out where the trail head is and the route. It seems the right length so we can hike in the morning, have lunch, and paddle in the afternoon.
