Convict Lake is one of the lakes near Mammoth Lakes

17 Best Things To Do In Mammoth Lakes, California

Mammoth Lakes is one of the most beautiful places in California with an abundance of enormous mountains, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. It really is an outdoor lover’s paradise with so many attractions in Mammoth Lakes to keep you busy no matter the season.

Choose from a number of things to do in Mammoth Lakes that most likely involve the presence of nature’s jaw-dropping beauty.

I might be a little biased as I have spent a few weeks to a month in Mammoth Lakes every year since I was a kid.

Some of my best memories here have been camping with my family at one of our favorite lakes, going for a hike, a bike ride, or finding natural hot springs.

So many things to do in Mammoth Lakes as each lake has a profound beauty as this one with tall trees being reflected in the deep blue water of a lake and with no one else around on a sunny day.

As its name implies, Mammoth Lakes has majestic mountains that are very special to see in person.

In the warmer months, you can expect hiking, fishing, camping, cycling, and bird-watching to be prime forms of recreation.

But, come winter, the main activities in Mammoth Lakes are centered around snow sports. If you enjoy skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, or snowmobiling you’re in for some excitement.

So, if you are looking for what to do in Mammoth Lakes, you’ve come to the right spot as I have years of experience navigating the numerous lakes and trails in the area.

Note: If you are coming from Southern California, include time to stop and see the incredible rock formations and arches of the Alabama Hills.

Tip: Want to visit the coolest ghost town nearby? Find out more here: Why You Want To Visit Bodie Ghost Town.

Boats permanently docked at Gull Lake in the June Loop with the water so clear you can see right through it on a sunny fall day is just one of many attractions in Mammoth Lakes to see.

Stock up on hiking and outdoor gear: Essential Gear For Hikers!

Best Things To Do In Mammoth Lakes

1. Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center

I admit that I don’t always go to the welcome center in most places I visit but this is a great one to stop at.

Why? Well depending on the time of year you visit, it is really important to know about any road, pass or trail closures due to weather.

You don’t want to drive 30 minutes to an hour and realize you can’t pass through somewhere.

They can also inform you about the wildlife and the best practices if you should encounter any.

The Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center has someone on hand to answer any questions and get tips on things to do especially if it is a seasonal event or festival.

You can grab plenty of maps and brochures to take with you. There is even a gift shop where you can grab a souvenir from your trip.

If you plan to do some camping while backpacking on one of many trails, you will need a wilderness permit that you can get at the Welcome Center.

As you enter the town of Mammoth Lakes, you will drive right by the Welcome Center so pull in and visit!

Hours: Open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Address: 2510 Main Street, Mammoth Lakes, CA

2. Hike Mammoth Lakes

There are so many hiking options in the Mammoth Lakes area that it can be overwhelming to pick which one to go on.

I’m going to highlight a few favorites but for an in-depth guide on hikes in Mammoth, read my post Mammoth Lakes hikes for more info.

No matter where you go hiking make sure to bring plenty of water, a bag for your trash, and carry your food in smell-proof bags (so bears can’t smell).

View of Lake George and Lake Mary climbing up to Crystal Lake is one of the top Mammoth Lakes hikes for its beauty.

For all of these hikes, I carried a physical trail map of the area and used the mobile app AllTrails to keep me on track.

The app came in so handy as I veered off the trail I was supposed to be on and able to correct thankfully.

Although I didn’t have cell coverage on almost all these hikes, the app still worked to track where I was.

But since phone batteries might not last all day, having a physical map comes in useful.

Hiking in Mammoth Lakes is a popular activity such as hiking the loop around Horseshoe Lake with its deep blue water, trees along the shoreline and a mountain in the distance.

Within 15 minutes of Mammoth Lakes in the area of Lake Mary are some epic hikes with spectacular views for days.

A hike with insane views and that you get to see three lakes in total is the Crystal Lake Hike.

It is a steep climb up to Crystal Lake but you get to look down at Lake Mary and Lake George as you trek up.

A gorgeous lake with clear blue water, a fallen log at the shoreline, and mountains and trees on the other side of Lake Skelton in Mammoth Lakes, California.

Although not difficult, two hikes to combine as one is Horseshoe Lake and McLeod Lake that are both breathtaking to see.

If you are looking for a longer and more intense hike, Duck Pass Trail is it!

On this hike, you will see 4-5 lakes depending on which path you take. It is such a scenic trail and worth the tough climb.

READ MORE: Best Hikes In Mammoth Lakes!

3. Devils Postpile

Devils Postpile National Monument is one of those natural rock formations that is a wonder to see.

Taking Highway 203 that runs through Mammoth you will reach Devils Postpile after a 30-minute drive.

From the parking lot, the trail to Devils Postpile is an easy 1.6 miles (roundtrip) that takes you to the base of Devils Postpile.

Did you know that California has the most national parks in the United States with a total of 28?

Devils Postpile is one of these impressive and beautiful national parks you must see when in California.

Standing at the base of the basalt columns side by side of Devils Postpile is one of the most unique attractions in Mammoth Lakes, California.

Looking up, you can admire the basalt columns that were formed about 82,000 years ago from cooled basalt lava.

The specific composition of minerals allowed it to form into what looks like perfectly symmetrical and hexagonal columns.

It is quite amazing how they all formed so uniformly and right next to each other.

Many of the columns that you see have fallen over but the ones still standing vertically are up to 60 feet tall!

The vertical basalt pillars at Devils Postpile are all so uniform with columns that have fallen are broken into what looks like huge log like rocks at the base in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
You can see the pillars that are curved and the ones that have broken off and trees at the top at Devils Postpile in Mammoth Lakes.

As you continue on the path, you will see a sign after Devils Postpile on your left leading up to the top of it.

Make sure you don’t forget to go to the top! The perspective from above shows how the tops of the columns look like a bunch of pavers from a backyard patio.

It is such an unusual and fascinating thing to see. You can come down on the opposite side and head back down and towards the trailhead.

View of the Devils Postpile pillars with a hexagonal shape after hiking to the top.

Parking: If you go in the spring or fall, you can drive down and park at the Devils Postpile Trailhead.

If you go in the summer from mid-June to the beginning of September (Labor Day) then you MUST park at the Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge near the Adventure Center.

The Red Meadows/Devils Postpile shuttle cost is $15 per adult and $7 per kid (3-15).

4. View Rainbow Falls

If you are up for more of a hike, then continue on the same path from Devils Postpile towards Rainbow Falls.

To Rainbow Falls it is a 5-mile roundtrip trek (that includes the distance of Devils Postpile from Ranger Station).

And if you go further down to Lower Falls add another 1.3-miles for a total of 6.3 miles.

Rainbow Falls is quite a sight at 101 feet plunging into a small canyon with pine trees at the top and a small area to sit at the base of the waterfall near Devils Postpile.

You may ask if it is worth it to see both sections of the falls? And that is a big fat yes! That is if you enjoy gorgeous waterfalls of course.

Once you get to Rainbow Falls, there is a viewing platform looking down at the 101-foot waterfall.

The first viewing platform before heading down to the base of the waterfall with a direct view of Rainbow Falls.
If you are lucky, you can see a rainbow through the mist standing at the base of the falls with sheer cliffs on each side at Rainbow Falls near Devils Postpile.
Standing at the base of Rainbow Falls that can be reached taking the steps to the bottom of the waterfall for a close up view is one of the prettiest waterfalls in Mammoth Lakes area.

And if you are lucky, you will view a rainbow hovering in the mist when the sun is shining on it.

If you want to get a more up close and personal viewing, continue straight past the viewing platform until you see a staircase that leads down to the base of the waterfall.

The gorgeous small lake at the base of Lower Rainbow Falls viewed from the top of the waterfall.

After you have taken some time to get those awesome photos, head back up the stairs and follow the signs to Lower Falls.

Instead of going back the way you came, you will turn right down the path.

When you arrive at the Lower Falls you can either climb down the boulders on the side or a dirt path on the far left.

Even though Lower Rainbow Falls is a much shorter waterfall than Rainbow Falls, it is very beautiful and without the crowds.
A direct view and close up of the peaceful Lower Rainbow Falls cascading down huge boulders and yellow trees above due to the fall season.

If you bring your lunch, this is the perfect spot to sit, relax and enjoy the spectacular views of the Lower Falls.

Fun Fact: Rainbow Falls is the tallest waterfall in the Eastern Sierras at 101-feet!

Tip: If you plan to visit several of the U.S. National Parks during the year, consider purchasing the America Is Beautiful Pass.

It gives you access to 2,000 National Parks and Monuments in the U.S. including Devils Postpile and nearby Yosemite National Park!

READ MORE: Is America The Beautiful Pass Worth It?

5. Reds Meadow

To see an impressive meadow, look no further than Reds Meadow.

Reds Meadow is a quick 5-minute drive from Devils Postpile and sits between Reds Creek and Sotcher Lake.

Access to Reds Meadows is open (same as Devils Postpile) from about mid-June to early fall.

If you are visiting in the fall, Reds Meadows is a spectacular spot to see yellow, burnt orange, and crimson fall foliage.

It is an idyllic spot to camp, fish, hike, and go horseback riding in the summer and early fall.

If you aren’t much of a camper, you can stay at Reds Meadows Resort in their cabins.

For those up for a good hike, you can hike to Reds Meadows from Devils Postpile for a 12-mile trek.

If you are looking for a more leisurely hike, the 1.5-mile loop around Sotcher Lake is ideal.

Parking: If you go in the summer from mid-June to the beginning of September then you MUST park at the Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge near the Adventure Center.

The cost of the shuttle is $15 per adult and $7 for kids. If you go outside of this time or before 7 am, you can park directly at either Devils Postpile, Sotcher Lake or Reds Meadows.

6. Camp, Hike, or Fish At Convict Lake

Convict Lake might be one of the most beautiful lakes in the Mammoth area!

It has that extra something where your jaw will drop and you say “wow”!

Of course I am somewhat biased as I used to camp here every year with my parents growing up.

There are a lot of fond memories here regardless of its stunning beauty.

Convict Lake is quite stunning and will leave you in awe with crystal clear blue water and two huge mountains that cross on the far side of the lake are breathtaking and just a short drive from Mammoth Lakes, California.

As you turn onto Convict Lake Road from Highway 395, you immediately are presented with magnificent and tall mountains that seem to be inviting you to Convict Lake.

If you aren’t a huge fan of camping, they have cabins (Convict Lake Resort) that you can stay at which is something I’d like to go back and do!

Walking on the dirt trail that wraps around Convict Lake and is a total of 3-miles with yellow fall foliage along the shoreline of the lake.
The foliage around Convict Lake is gorgeous in the fall with vibrant yellow trees along the lake shoreline and steep mountains in the distance.

Hiking around the entire Convict Lake is an easy 3-mile loop that is a must to do as it is so scenic.

You will get breathtaking views of the lake and during the fall it is an extra treat to see the leaves changing colors.

Vibrant yellows and oranges are bursting with fall delight!

The bright yellow leaves grace the hiking trail as on this wooden boardwalk on the far side of Convict Lake passing under beautiful tree with yellow leaves.

At this point, you might be curious as to why the name Convict Lake?

Back in 1871, some convicts (prisoners) escaped from a prison in Carson City, Nevada.

The sheriff tracked the convicts down to what is now the area of Convict Lake.

That incident resulted in the sheriff getting killed sadly. But the mountain peak above the lake was named after him, Mount Morrison.

A person paddle boarding on Convict Lake with the water looking like glass it is so clear and a beautiful reflection of the mountains in the water.

A few of the fugitives were captured and brought to justice but the name stuck.

Despite its darker history, it is the prettiest lake with crystal clear water that won’t disappoint no matter when you visit.

There is no question, one of my favorite things to do in Mammoth Lakes is to visit Convict Lake.

The lake is very deep with crystal clear water that makes for great reflections of the mountain and yellow foliage in the foreground on the shoreline of Convict Lake outside of Mammoth Lakes.

Note: If you happen to like fishing, Convict Lake is an excellent lake for catching big trout. Over the years I always went between mid-May and mid-June and it was phenomenal.

7. Minaret Summit Vista

One of the best views in the Mammoth area and a direct line of sight of the “Minarets” is from Minaret Summit Vista.

The Minarets are a number of jagged sharp peaks on a mountain range in the Ansel Adams Wilderness.

They are immediately recognizable for their distinct shape.

The viewing platform at Minaret Summit Vista with signs showing visitors what they can see in the distance.

If you ask a local, one of the best places to watch the sunset is at Minaret Summit Vista.

There are two ways you can reach the vista point, drive or hike. If you are short on time or not up for a hike, then you can drive all the way up to the parking lot at the Minaret Summit Vista.

The view looking out at the "Minarets" with their prominent peaks and several pine trees in the foreground in Mammoth Lakes, California.

If you are looking to get some cardio in, you can park at the Mammoth Mountain Inn and start the 2.6 miles out and back trail behind the inn.

The trail has an elevation gain of 246 feet and considered to be moderate.

Remember you are at an elevation of around 9,000 feet so it will feel a little tough for that reason.

The "Minarets" and the surrounding valley is gorgeous at sunset as the peaks and forest below have a warm glow to them.

Note: There are restrooms to use at the parking lot. From the town of Mammoth, turn onto Minaret Road off of the 203 (main street in Mammoth).

Follow Minaret Road past the Mammoth Ski Area until you see a sign for Minaret Vista. Turn off to the right before the ranger gate to go down to Devils Postpile.

8. Earthquake Fault

Located in the Inyo National Forest Just a few minutes from the town of Mammoth Lakes is the Earthquake Fault.

For most people when they think of California, earthquakes and fault lines likely comes to mind.

The deep fault or hole in the earth at the Earthquake Fault is minutes from Mammoth Lakes.

At one time the Eastern Sierras was a very active volcanic region and at the Earthquake Fault, you can see up close a huge “fault”.

The fault split open around 550 and 650 years ago and is around 10 feet wide and 60 feet deep.

Incredible to see how the earth split open on the fault line on the other side of a wooden fence in Mammoth Lakes.

You can tell that at one time the land here was one because each side of the fault looks like it would match together perfectly like puzzle pieces.

The walk around the fault is an easy 0.3-mile loop where you can wander at your leisure.

Walking the Earthquake Fault is easy and fun to see how deep the earth opened up at the fault in Mammoth Lakes.

The fault sits in the middle of a forest of very old pines that tower over the area.

There are bathrooms and picnic tables in case you want to take a break here and enjoy your lunch. The Earthquake Fault is open all day and free to see.

9. Hot Creek Geologic Site

A short distance from the Mammoth Yosemite Airport is a geological wonder to see steaming hot water bubbling up from the ground.

The boiling temperatures are due to the hot magma that lies just 3 miles below the surface and part of the Long Valley Caldera.

Hot Creek Geologic Site is a hot spring paradise that can only be viewed from a distance as seen from this overlook at the vibrant blue water of the spring running between bare hills in Mammoth Lakes.
The bubbling hot springs off in the distance look so inviting but are dangerously hot and fenced off to visitors. You can only see in the distance here from the viewing platform.

For this reason, it is too dangerous to go in or get near the hot creek.

When earthquakes erupt in the area, it releases new hot springs and is why it isn’t safe or stable for people to use.

As a child, I got to go in here a bunch before the waters became too hot and unstable. After a few deaths, they had to rope it off and prevent people from entering.

Signs warn that it is too dangerous to go in the extremely hot water and a large fence to block anyone from entering in Mammoth Lakes, California.
A zoomed in view of the boiling pools of the hot springs that are dangerous but beautiful to view from a distance in Mammoth Lakes, California.

If you didn’t know it, it looks like something out of a sci-fi movie or a location on a different planet.

Along Hot Creek, there are a number of small pools that look so appealing with turquoise colored water. It really is gorgeous to see and a shame it is too dangerous to get close.

View of Hot Creek from up top at the parking lot with the shallow pools having an almost turquoise color to them.

There is a fence to prevent getting close but you can get views from above by the parking lot or on the ramp down to the creek.

Visiting the Hot Creek Geologic Site is free to visit with parking, restrooms and picnic tables.

It is amazing how these hot springs form and the beauty they create with the main hot spring river in a deep blue and smaller pools off to the side in a light blue and turquoise color near Mammoth Lakes, CA.

Note: The last section of the drive to the Hot Creek Geologic Site is on a dirt road but doable for cars to go on.

It is open daily from 8 am to 7 pm and can be reached 3 miles off of Highway 395 on Hot Creek Hatchery Road (next to Mammoth Airport).

10. Chase Fall Foliage

One of the top attractions in Mammoth Lakes in the fall is to search for the changing colors of foliage.

There are several places to drive or hike to view the brilliant yellows and oranges that line the lakes, rivers, and canyons.

The best time to see the vibrant and eye-popping colors in the Eastern Sierras is from mid-September and mid-October.

During my recent trip, I was there from mid-October to the first week of November and it was amazing to see.

Hiking up into the McGee Creek Canyon on a dirt trail with majestic mountains in the distance and fall foliage all throughout.
Finding fall foliage at McGee Creek Canyon is a sure thing each fall and a vibrant site to see at the base of the mountain.

At each Mammoth Lake, you will see various shades of autumn that will differ from lake to lake. A lot of it depends on the elevation and temperature.

South of Mammoth Lakes, the fall colors are abundant at:

  • Convict Lake
  • McGee Creek
  • Rock Creek Canyon
  • Bishop Creek Canyon
Shades of yellow burst along the McGee Creek trail with dense trees and leaves along the dirt trail.

North of Mammoth Lakes, driving the June Loop which has four lakes in it will offer plenty of striking fall colors throughout the loop.

Heading about 30 minutes north of the June Loop is Lundy Canyon. It leads to Lundy Lake and has colorful aspens leading up to the lake.

Fall is an exceptionally beautiful time of year to visit the Eastern Sierras with bright fall colors in the trees and throughout Mammoth Lakes area.

A short drive (20 minutes) north of Lundy Canyon you arrive at Virginia Lakes which also has aspens lining the road and makes for excellent photo opportunities.

Both Lundy and Virginia Lakes have great hikes and superb fishing for trout!

The stunning fall colors follow along McGee Creek and mountain beyond near Mammoth Lakes, CA.

During September and October, you can’t go wrong no matter which lake and hike you wander upon as fall foliage is bursting all along the Highway 395 corridor!

11. The June Loop

The June Loop consists of four lakes that form a loop off of Highway 395 about 30 minutes north of Mammoth Lakes.

The main town and first lake you come to is June Lake and June Lake Village.

The 16-mile June Loop is one of the most scenic drives in the Eastern Sierras during any season and fun to explore.

June Lake peaking through the trees a short drive from Mammoth Lakes.

On the loop, you will pass June Lake, Gull Lake, Silver Lake, and Grant Lake. The first three are natural lakes with Grant Lake being man-made.

You will also notice that the terrain and landscape drastically change when you get to Grant Lake. It is very bare with a lack of trees yet still gorgeous in its own way.

Sitting on the dock at Gull Lake looking out at a crystal clear blue water and mountains in the distance, one of the lakes on the June Loop in Mammoth Lakes.

The most places to stay, dine and shop will be in June Village next to June Lake.

It really has something for everyone as it is excellent for fishing (rainbow trout), kayaking, SUP and hiking.

And if you happen to come in the winter, there is even a small ski resort at June Mountain that is great for families and beginners.

Fall sprinkles the shores of Silver Lake with yellow leaves in the water and trees lining the lake, part of the June Loop.
One of numerous picnic and camping options throughout the June Loop with the picnic table having a perfect view of the lake and surrounding trees.

Gull Lake is another spectacular place to fish, picnic and walk around as it is a lovely lake that sits next to June Lake.

Next, you come across Silver Lake that is one of my favorites to visit as it has excellent fishing and a beautiful campground.

You can camp, rent a cabin or stay at a resort at June, Gull, Silver, and June Lake Village if you choose to stay here for a few days.

Grant Lake has a bare and desert vibe compared to the other lakes of June Loop.

If you visit in September or October, you will find an abundance of fall foliage throughout the loop.

All four lakes are spilling over with charm and complete tranquility. So, no matter which lake you spend your time at you will leave happy and rested.

12. Mono Lake

Visiting Mono Lake is one of those odd yet fascinating landscapes that is a must to see. What makes Mono Lake so special?

It is one of the oldest lakes in all of North America estimated to be between 760,000 and 3 million years old!

That is crazy old for sure and is one of the reasons it has an interesting history.

Walking along Mono Lake is like being on another planet with its unique rock like structures along the shoreline is one of the top places to visit in Mammoth Lakes, CA.

What makes Mono Lake so unique is that it is a very alkaline lake with a pH of 10 and that is ten times the amount of salt found in the ocean.

Talk about salty!

The water chemistry of the lake is made up of chlorides, carbonates, and sulfates. Because of its salty environment, fish can’t survive.

With no outlet for the water to flow out of leads to the lake being so salty.

The "tufa towers" at Mono Lake are made up of calcium carbonate resemble rock like formations and look like they are from another planet.

Walking along the shores of the lake, you immediately get the feeling that you are on another planet that is desolate or abandoned.

Yet, there is plenty of brine shrimp, algae and flies that thrive and call Mono Lake home.

Mono Lake is one of the oldest lakes in North America with its barren vibes of the salty lake and little vegetation around it.

Make a point to drive to South Tufa State Reserve to see the alien-looking “tufa towers”.

The tufa towers are calcium-carbonate or limestone and form towers along Mono Lake.

From the parking lot, you can follow a self-guided tour that forms a loop back up to your car.

There are signs that tell you about the history, make-up, and ecology of what you are seeing.

Mono Lake with its calm and glass like water is so salty that floating in it is easy.

Arriving before sunset is an excellent time to view the lake with the sun’s warm glow on it.

It is a very popular spot for photographers at sunset so don’t be surprised to see many tripods set up!

South Tufa at Mono Lake is a popular spot for taking in the sunset as it pours a warm glow over the lake.

If you are visiting in the summer months, take a dip into the lake and see how buoyant you are.

You will notice that the water will feel soft and somewhat silky like there is soap in it.

Another summer favorite is to go kayaking on your own or as a tour with Caldera Kayaks.

Location: Mono Lake is about a 30-minute drive north of Mammoth Lakes sitting right off of Highway 395 (south of Lee Vining).

The lake is so big, you won’t miss it! To get to South Tufa State Reserve, turn right onto the 120 off of Hwy 395 and then turn left onto Test Station Road.

Hours & Admission: Mono Lake (including South Tufa State Reserve) is open year-round and 24 hours per day. There is a self-pay box where you deposit $3 per adult at the parking lot.

Visit: Nearby Spooky Bodie Ghost Town!

13. Soak In Natural Hot Springs

As I mentioned above, the region in and around Mammoth Lakes is a geothermal hotbed of natural hot springs.

Scattered throughout this area are creeks and pools that have become popular to soak in the soothing hot waters.

Now when I say a pool, I mean tiny ones about the size of a hot tub.

One of many natural hot springs near Mammoth Lakes with land surrounding it as far as you can see and mountains in the distance.

Although the hot water pouring into the hot spring pools is natural, many of the springs have been made to resemble an actual hot tub.

For the majority of the hot springs, they fit between 4-6 people with a few that could squeeze a couple more.

Walking on a dirt path leading to a natural hot spring pool to take a dip and relax after a hike in Mammoth Lakes.

The temperatures of these hot springs range from 95 F to 105 F (35 C to 41 C), with some that you can add in cold water to cool it down a bit if needed.

I had quite a bit fun driving (mostly off-road) to find the coolest hot springs near Mammoth Lakes.

To find out more info and details on how to reach these hot springs, read Best Mammoth Lakes Hot Springs.

This hot spring really does look like a hot tub as it is small, round and perfect size for a few people in Mammoth Lakes.

Note: Do be aware that many of the locals like to soak in the hot springs in their “birthday suits”, that is naked! Although it was a bit awkward at first, it really wasn’t an issue.

READ MORE: Best Hot Springs In Mammoth Lakes!

14. Inyo Craters

A short drive (about 20 mins) from Mammoth Lakes along the Mammoth Scenic Loop are the Inyo Craters.

There are two enormous craters that were formed from eruptions in the Long Valley Caldera about 500-600 years ago.

The trail loops up and around the Inyo Craters and bordering a dense forest in Mammoth Lakes, CA.

Today it looks like two sunken holes that are now lakes with turquoise green water. Go earlier in the day to see the light hit the water and display the prettiest colors!

The Inyo Crater forms a beautiful lake of turquoise green water
The two craters are right next to each other and are quite deep at 200ft near downtown Mammoth Lakes.

Once you park your car, there are two trails that will take you to the craters.

Either one works as you can go in one way and loop back via the opposite trail.

The walk to the craters is an easy, 1.6-mile loop, and takes you through a tranquil shaded forest.

Platform to view the Inyo Crater below in Mammoth Lakes.

Hiking on the far side of the craters doesn’t have a super clear trail and is steep.

If you are not sure, you can always just walk around the side closest to you and still capture great views.

There is even a viewing observation area to see the 200 feet deep crater lakes.

To get a shot without the shade on the lake, go earlier in the day.

Note: From Mammoth Lakes take Minaret Rd (203) in the direction of Mammoth Mountain Ski area.

Turn right onto Mammoth Scenic Loop and after a few miles turn left onto a dirt road to reach the Inyo Craters parking area.

15. Ride The Panorama Gondola

Soar up above the Sierra Nevada mountains and grab a front row seat to a 360-degree view of Mammoth Mountain.

At the summit, the elevation is11,053 feet. Which means the panoramic views are endless and you can really experience the crisp mountain air no matter the time of the year.

There is even a small exhibit center where you can learn about the history and geology of the region.

If you are hungry, consider getting a Lookout Lunch Package that includes your gondola ticket with lunch at Elevens43 Cafe.

Hours: Hours vary seasonally but during the summer, it is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (mid-June to mid-September).

Location: 10001 Minaret Road, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546.

16. Go Mountain Biking

If mountain biking is your passion and you want to get in a killer workout, check out the trails in Mammoth.

There are trails that range from easy to difficult with something for everyone no matter your experience.

A few popular bike trails to tackle are the Knolls Loop, Mountain View Trail, and Panorama Mountain Bike Trail.

Head to Mammoth Mountain Bike Park where you can rent bikes, get a lesson and take the lifts up the mountain to bike down.

There are over 80 miles that you can bike as it is the biggest bike park in the United States.

Location: 10001 Minaret Rd, Mammoth Lakes, CA.

17. Hit The Slopes Skiing Or Snowboarding

Are you more of a skiing fan and looking to hop on the snowy slopes?

Then you are in luck, Mammoth Mountain has excellent skiing conditions and is beyond charming in the winter months.

Mammoth Mountain is one of the largest ski resorts in the country boasting 3,500 acres of skiing fun, 28 lift chairs and a summit elevation of 11,053 feet!

Hands down, Mammoth Mountain is the best skiing and snowboarding in California.

The slopes are usually open from mid-November into the month of June.

Slope difficulty at Mammoth Mountain is rated as 15% expert, 20% advanced, 40% intermediate and 25% beginner.

That means there are great options for all levels.

There are three areas where you can take to the slopes. The Mountain Center (Mammoth Village) which is closest to the town of Mammoth Lakes, The Mill and the main ski resort of Mammoth Mountain.

For more information and updates on snow conditions, visit here.

Note: It is recommended to take the free shuttles to the mountain to avoid driving in potentially tough conditions.

Where To Stay In Mammoth Lakes

There are numerous places to stay in and around Mammoth Lakes but some great choices with good location are:

The Village Lodge – this is an excellent choice especially if you are staying in the winter as you can catch lifts right next to it at the Mountain Center.

The Westin Monache Resort – next to both the Village Lodge and Mountain Center in the Village.

Juniper Springs Resort – located in Mammoth Lakes and a short distance to lifts, lakes, and hiking.

Camping In Mammoth Lakes Region

During the spring through fall months, camping in Mammoth Lakes is an excellent option. Especially if you want to be more “outdoors” than in a hotel.

There are so many camping options but a few favorites that all have great campsites, fishing and hiking are below.

To book a campsite at any of these lakes, click here.

Lake Mary – sits above the town of Mammoth Lakes next to Lake George and Lake Maimie (Lakes Basin).

Convict Lake – Of all these camping options, it might be the prettiest although they are all breathtaking!

June Lake – part of June Loop and next to June Village

Silver Lake – the third lake along the June Loop

Mammoth Lakes is a wonderful place to visit year-round but fall is extremely pretty with all the vibrant yellow colors seen in these trees on a trail.

Map Of Mammoth Attractions

What Is The Altitude Of Mammoth Lake?

The altitude of Mammoth Lakes (the city) is 7,880 feet.

But you can expect variations and higher altitude as high as 11,053 feet at nearby lakes and mountains.

So, it goes without saying that if you suffer from altitude sickness or are affected by it, take it easy the first few days, drink extra water, rest, and eliminate alcohol.

Since I was a little girl, I have always suffered from altitude sickness so I know first hand that it can feel debilitating.

I even like to use the Liquid IV packets in my water and take Tylenol for headaches which help.

Where Is Mammoth Lakes?

Mammoth Lakes is in the Northern California area known as the Eastern Sierras and nestled at the base of Mammoth Mountain.

You will often hear of the town referred to interchangeably as Mammoth, Mammoth Mountain, Mammoth Lakes, and Mammoth Village.

Usually just saying “Mammoth” is fine. Mammoth Lakes is the main town and the Village is next to it where you can access the ski lifts.

The town of Mammoth Lakes is part of Mono County sitting along the Long Valley Caldera and an earthquake fault line.

Because of this, the earth around Mammoth is a geological hotbed with lots of natural hot springs and interesting terrain to see.

Best Time To Visit Mammoth Lakes

Deciding when to visit Mammoth Lakes really depends on your interests and what activities you want to do.

There are so many different things to do in Mammoth Lakes year-round with every season offering unique experiences.

In the winter there is world-class skiing but you can’t hike, fish or explore as much of the area. That’s due to snow and road closures.

If you want to hike, fish and camp then spring through fall is prime for that. And if you are a fall foliage chaser then September and October are the months for you.

Mammoth Lakes Restaurants

There are many great places to eat in Mammoth Lakes but a few favorites are:

  • John’s Pizza Works (pizza)
  • Roberto’s Café (Mexican)
  • Mammoth Brewing Company (brewery and pub food)
  • Schat’s Bakery (bakery and sandwiches)
  • Stellar Brew (coffee)
  • Mammoth Rock Brasserie (Brasserie)
  • The Mogul Restaurant (American/Steak)
  • The Warming Hut (American/Breakfast)
  • Skadi (Modern Fine Dining)

Driving To Mammoth Lakes

The drive from Los Angeles to Mammoth Lakes is ~5.5 hours, 7 hours from San Diego, and 6 hours from San Francisco.

That makes it a fantastic mountain getaway from pretty much anywhere in California.

If you are coming from LA or San Diego, make a stop to see the incredible rock formations and arches in the Alabama Hills!

Tips For Visiting Mammoth Lakes

  • Make sure to pack food in bear-proof bags so they can’t smell what you have!
  • Gas up in Mammoth before heading out as gas stations are rare or very expensive.
  • Have a map of the area with you in case you lose wifi.
  • If you see a bathroom use it! You might not see another for some time…
  • Pack a lunch and bring snacks with you for the drive and/or hikes in a daypack.
  • To combat altitude sickness, drink extra water, get rest, eliminate alcohol, and ease into physical activity.
  • Carry with you this stainless-steel water bottle that will keep water cold or this water purifier straw if you will be drinking from water sources like rivers.
  • Have a good sun hat and sunscreen in case it is sunny with no coverage.

For a great selection of essential hiking and outdoor gear, explore my post Essential Gear For Hikers & Adventurers!

Is Mammoth Lakes Worth Visiting?

Yes! 100% Mammoth Lakes worth visiting. That is if you enjoy stunning landscapes, hiking, camping, mountain biking, fishing, and skiing.

Got Travel Insurance?

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Get a no-obligation quote from two trusted travel insurance companies for peace of mind on your next trip!

World Nomads Travel Insurance

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Vanessa Shields

Vanessa Shields is the founder of Traveling Ness helping people with trip ideas, itineraries, travel planning, and boosting confidence for female travelers to take a solo trip. She has been a travel writer and content creator since 2019.

 

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