Exploring Mammoth Lakes: An Unforgettable California Getaway

Mammoth Lakes, California, is a breathtaking mountain destination in the Eastern Sierra Nevada. This area offers a wide range of activities and attractions throughout the year. Whether you enjoy hiking, mountain biking, or fishing, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s an overview of activities and sights to experience in and around Mammoth Lakes, California.

Mammoth Lakes, Summer Attractions

Spring and summer in Mammoth Lakes blend lingering snow with emerging greenery, making it a unique time to visit. Snow may still blanket higher elevations while lower areas start to thaw, offering a mix of winter and summer activities.

Devils Postpile National Monument: This geological wonder features 60-foot basalt columns formed by ancient lava flows. It’s a short, easy hike from the trailhead, though access may depend on snowmelt. Devils Postpile National Monument is open during the summer.

Rainbow Falls: Rainbow Falls is a beautiful 100-foot-high waterfall along the San Joaquin River. Access to the falls is via a 2.5-mile trail. Be warned, the path to the falls is all downhill. The return to the shuttle stop (Shuttle Bus Stop 9) is an exhausting uphill climb. Allow plenty of time and water for the return trip.

Natural Hot Springs: Mammoth Lakes has numerous natural hot springs. Some are developed, and many are primitive hot springs that locals maintain. Hot springs can run up to 110 degrees, so always check before dipping into a pool. Clothing optional is the norm for the more primitive hot springs. California Eastern Sierra Hot Springs Guide.

Mammoth Mountain Scenic Gondola: Take a thrilling 11,000 ft. ride to the top of Mammoth Mountain. Enjoy extraordinary 360-degree views of the Sierra Nevada Range from this lofty mountain peak. Top off your Gondola adventure with lunch at 11,053 feet high, Eleven53 Cafe. Mammoth Mountain Gondola is open in both the summer and winter seasons.

Hot Creek Geological Site:

In this area of Hot Creek, there are numerous bubbling hot springs in and around the stream bed. A trail winds down from the parking area to the creek, where visitors can view this natural wonder. Swimming and bathing in the creek are prohibited as some hot springs here are hot enough to cause severe burns. Hot Creek Geologic Site is located along Hot Creek Hatchery Road in Mammoth Lakes, CA.

Hot Creek Fish Hatchery

Hot Creek Fish Hatchery is the primary source for replacing fish stock for Mammoth Lakes and the surrounding area. There is little to see here except for long-rearing ponds full of trout. They range from small stockers to huge lunkers. After visiting the Hatchery, it’s a short drive to Hot Creek Geological Site. Website.

Mammoth Basin Lakes:

The gorgeous five lakes in Mammoth Basin, Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, Lake Mamie, Lake George, and Horseshoe Lake are all a short drive from town. Fishing and sightseeing are the most popular activities at the lakes. The Department of Fish and Game stocks the lakes with 2 to 5-pound trout. Lake Mary and Lake George have marinas that offer fishing boat rentals, although the fishing is pretty good from shore.

Mammoth Lakes, Winter Attractions

Mammoth Mountain often keeps its ski season going well into spring—sometimes even July. The slopes cater to all levels, from beginners to experts, with over 3,500 acres of skiable terrain.

The Village at Mammoth Lakes

The village features restaurants, shops, and two excellent hotels: Westin Monache Resort and the Village Lodge. Dining options range from pizza to upscale dining. Stores in the village feature clothing and gifts. The Village Gondola Station offers quick access to the slopes of the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area.

Mammoth Mountain Ski Area

Mammoth Mountain is one of the largest ski resorts in the area, with lodges, gondolas, chairlifts, and over 100 trails. With an 11,053-foot summit, 3,500 acres of skiable terrain, and an average of over 400 inches of snowfall yearly, Mammoth Mountain can often stay open well into the spring after the snow melts. Mammoth Mountain’s hiking and biking trails are open, making Mammoth a perfect family vacation spot all year round.

Mammoth Lakes, California: Nearby Gems

Mammoth Lakes is a gateway to other Eastern Sierra treasures:

Scenic Drives: The June Lake Loop

Much like the nearby Mammoth Lakes, the June Lake Loop is home to incredibly gorgeous vistas and countless opportunities for outdoor activity. From skiing during the winter at June Mountain to fishing in the lakes during the summer, the June Lake Loop has plenty to offer the nature enthusiast.

Convict Lake Fishing – Hiking

To the south of Mammoth Lakes lies Convict Lake – the scene of a 1871 gunfight, home to some of the oldest rocks in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. There is plenty to do at Convict Lake, but fishing is probably the most popular visitor activity. Convict Lake is 13 miles south of Mammoth Lakes along Highway 395. Convict Lake Resort.

Mono Lake: Surreal Tufa Towers

Mono Lake is one of North America’s oldest lakes, formed over one million years ago. Since its creation, the lake has supported a unique ecosystem that includes algae, brine shrimp, and millions of migratory and nesting birds. Mono Lake is situated 33 miles north of Mammoth Lakes along Highway 395.

Bodie Gold Rush Ghost Town

Bodie State Historical Park was one of the wildest mining camps in the area, but is now a ghost town that will fascinate the entire family. Bodie is California’s official state gold rush ghost town. There are about 200 buildings in various stages of decay to explore and take photos of. Located in the high desert at 8375 feet, Bodie State Historical Park is 60 miles north of Mammoth Lakes. More info.

Getting to Mammoth Lakes, California

Whenever you visit Mammoth Lakes, there are many things to do and see. Mammoth Lakes is located on Highway 203 off Highway 395, about six hours from Los Angeles, three hours from Lake Tahoe, and five to seven hours from the Bay Area. If you don’t want to drive, Alaska Airlines and United Airlines offer flights from LAX to Mammoth Lakes.