Nestled in the breathtaking Eastern Sierra region of California, Mammoth Lakes is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure in every season. Surrounded by towering peaks, alpine lakes, and dense forests, this picturesque destination offers a plethora of activities that cater to nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. From hiking and skiing to soaking in natural hot springs, Mammoth Lakes is a year-round playground for those craving the great outdoors.
Owen’s River near Mammoth Lakes is a great place for kayaking, fishing, and SUPing. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Hiking:
Mammoth Lakes truly caters to hikers of all levels, providing an extensive network of trails that wind through diverse landscapes. The Pacific Crest Trail, one of the most iconic long-distance trails in the world, meanders through the region, offering hikers a chance to immerse themselves in the grandeur of the Sierra Nevada. The trail provides stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. For those seeking a shorter adventure, the Devils Postpile National Monument beckons with its hexagonal basalt columns, a geological marvel that adds a touch of mystique to any hike. Meanwhile, the Mammoth Crest Trail rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of the region.
Some of our favorites:
Duck Pass Trail: A moderately challenging hike, Duck Pass Trail offers stunning panoramic views of the Mammoth Lakes Basin. The trail takes you through alpine meadows, past crystal-clear lakes, and finally to Duck Lake at an elevation of 10,797 feet. The breathtaking scenery along the way makes it a must-try for hikers seeking a day-long adventure.
Crystal Lake Trail: For a shorter, family-friendly hike, Crystal Lake Trail is an excellent choice. This easy-to-moderate trail leads you to the pristine Crystal Lake, surrounded by towering pines and granite cliffs. It's a perfect spot for a picnic and offers a refreshing dip in the lake for those looking to cool off.
Mammoth Rock Trail: Embark on Mammoth Rock Trail for a unique perspective of the area. This moderately challenging hike takes you to the top of Mammoth Rock, providing sweeping views of the town, the valley, and the surrounding mountains. Sunset hikes along this trail offer particularly spectacular vistas.
Shadow Lake Trail: Backpackers looking for an overnight adventure can explore the Shadow Lake Trail. This trail, part of the John Muir Trail, winds through lush forests, crosses mountain streams, and leads to the serene Shadow Lake. Camping near the lake under the starlit sky is an unforgettable experience.
Soak in Hot Springs:
After a day of exploring the rugged terrain, unwinding in the natural hot springs around Mammoth Lakes is a must. Wild Willy’s Hot Spring, nestled in the Eastern Sierra, offers a therapeutic soak in steaming pools surrounded by picturesque scenery. The contrast of the warm, mineral-rich water against the crisp mountain air creates an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to connect with the geothermal wonders of the area. As the sun sets over the Sierra Nevada, the hot springs provide a tranquil setting for relaxation and reflection.
Some of our favorites:
Wild Willy's Hot Springs: As mentioned, Wild Willy's Hot Springs is a must-visit. Located just a short drive from Mammoth Lakes, these natural hot springs offer a serene atmosphere surrounded by stunning Sierra Nevada landscapes. Sunset or sunrise soaks provide an extra touch of magic.
Crab Cooker Hot Springs: For a more secluded hot spring experience, try Crab Cooker Hot Springs. Accessible via a short hike, these pools offer a more private setting, allowing visitors to relax and soak in the geothermal warmth in a more intimate environment.
Crowley Hot Springs: Located along the Owens River, Crowley Hot Springs offers a rustic hot spring experience. Nestled in a natural setting, these pools provide a peaceful environment for soaking while being surrounded by the sounds of nature.
Pulkey's Pool: Pulkey's Pool is another hidden gem worth exploring. Tucked away in the Eastern Sierra, this hot spring offers a rustic and secluded experience, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a tranquil soak away from the crowds.
Skiing:
Mammoth Lakes has earned its reputation as a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort, boasting an impressive 3,500 acres of skiable terrain, caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The resort's extensive network of trails ranges from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging black diamond runs for the more experienced. What sets Mammoth Lakes apart is its prolonged winter season, often extending into late spring. This extended season provides a unique opportunity for visitors to enjoy snow-covered adventures well after other resorts have closed, making it a haven for those seeking a more extended winter sports experience.
Some of our favorites:
Dragon's Back: For expert skiers seeking a challenge, Dragon's Back is a thrilling descent down a steep ridge on Mammoth Mountain. The stunning views and adrenaline-pumping slopes make it a must-try for those with advanced skiing skills.
Hemlock Ridge: Intermediate skiers can enjoy the varied terrain of Hemlock Ridge. This area provides a mix of groomed trails and moguls, offering a dynamic skiing experience. The surrounding scenery of the Eastern Sierra adds an extra layer of beauty to your downhill adventure.
Discovery Zone: Perfect for beginners, the Discovery Zone at the base of Mammoth Mountain offers gentle slopes and professional instructors for those new to skiing or snowboarding. It's an ideal area for families and individuals looking to learn and build confidence on the snow.
Backcountry Skiing in the Sherwin Range: For a backcountry skiing experience, venture into the Sherwin Range. With numerous options for untracked powder and challenging descents, the Sherwin Range provides a thrilling off-piste adventure for advanced skiers.
Mountain Biking:
As the snow melts and summer takes hold, Mammoth Lakes transforms into a haven for mountain bikers. The Mammoth Mountain Bike Park boasts a diverse trail system that caters to riders of all abilities. Adrenaline junkies can experience heart-pounding downhill descents, while those seeking a more leisurely ride can explore scenic cross-country routes. The stunning alpine scenery provides a breathtaking backdrop as bikers navigate through pine forests, meadows, and challenging descents, making it a paradise for anyone with a passion for two-wheeled adventure.
Some of our favorites:
Kamikaze Bike Games Trails: Explore the trails used for the Kamikaze Bike Games, an annual mountain biking event. With a variety of downhill routes, jumps, and technical features, these trails cater to experienced riders seeking an adrenaline-fueled mountain biking experience.
Big Ring Trail: Big Ring Trail is a popular cross-country route that takes riders through scenic meadows and dense forests. With a mix of ascents and descents, it offers a well-rounded biking experience for intermediate riders.
Off the Top Trail: For those seeking panoramic views, Off the Top Trail is a challenging downhill route that descends from the summit of Mammoth Mountain. The breathtaking scenery combined with technical descents makes it a thrilling adventure for advanced riders.
Lower Rock Creek Trail: Just a short drive from Mammoth Lakes, Lower Rock Creek Trail is a favorite among mountain bikers. The singletrack winds through a picturesque canyon, providing a mix of technical sections and flowy descents suitable for various skill levels.
Kayaking:
The numerous alpine lakes around Mammoth Lakes provide an idyllic setting for water-based activities, and kayaking enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise. Paddling across the crystal-clear waters of Convict Lake or exploring the scenic shores of Lake Mary allows for a serene escape into nature. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or a novice looking for a peaceful float, the tranquil lakes in this region offer a refreshing and immersive escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Some of our favorites:
Convict Lake: Paddle across the crystal-clear waters of Convict Lake, surrounded by towering mountain peaks. The serene setting and alpine beauty make this lake a perfect spot for kayakers of all levels. Rent a kayak and spend a peaceful day exploring the shoreline and enjoying the stunning mountain reflections on the water.
Lake Mary: Explore the scenic shores of Lake Mary, one of the largest lakes in the Mammoth Lakes Basin. Kayaking on Lake Mary offers a tranquil experience with opportunities to spot wildlife along the shoreline. Pack a picnic and take a break on one of the lake's small islands for a truly immersive outdoor adventure.
June Lake: Venture a bit further to June Lake, known for its clear waters and picturesque surroundings. Kayak along the lake's shoreline, taking in views of the surrounding mountains and the quaint town of June Lake. This larger lake provides ample space for paddlers to explore and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
Twin Lakes: Head south of Mammoth Lakes to the Twin Lakes, a pair of stunning alpine lakes surrounded by rocky peaks. Kayak on the mirrored waters, capturing the reflection of the mountains on the lake's surface. The Twin Lakes offer a more remote kayaking experience, perfect for those seeking a quieter escape.
Rock Climbing:
The Sherwin Range near Mammoth Lakes beckons to rock climbing enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of climbing opportunities. Granite faces and challenging boulder fields provide a vertical playground against the backdrop of stunning alpine scenery. For those new to the sport, local guides and climbing schools are available, ensuring a safe and enjoyable introduction to the vertical challenges that the region presents. Experienced climbers can explore the multitude of routes, each offering a unique blend of technical skill and breathtaking views.
Some of our favorites:
Clark Canyon: Discover the diverse climbing opportunities at Clark Canyon, located near Mammoth Lakes. This area offers a mix of sport and traditional routes suitable for climbers of varying skill levels. The stunning granite formations and the peaceful surroundings make Clark Canyon a great spot to spend a day on the rocks.
Horseshoe Slabs: For a family-friendly climbing experience, Horseshoe Slabs provide easy to moderate climbs with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The slab climbing offers a unique challenge, and the relatively low elevation makes it an accessible spot for climbers of all ages.
Crystal Crag: Experienced climbers looking for a challenging ascent can explore Crystal Crag. With routes ranging from moderate to difficult, this granite peak offers a thrilling climb and rewards climbers with breathtaking views of the Mammoth Lakes Basin from the summit.
Owens River Gorge: Venture to the nearby Owens River Gorge for world-class sport climbing. With a vast array of routes carved into volcanic tuff, this climbing destination attracts enthusiasts from around the world. The impressive canyon setting and diverse climbing options make Owens River Gorge a must-visit for any climbing enthusiast.
Trail Running:
Mammoth Lakes provides an ideal terrain for trail running enthusiasts. Miles of well-maintained trails wind through dense forests, open meadows, and along breathtaking mountain ridges. The Mammoth Lakes Trail System caters to runners of all levels, offering options ranging from easy loops for beginners to challenging ascents for seasoned trail runners. The ever-changing scenery, from alpine lakes to panoramic vistas, adds an extra layer of enjoyment to each run, making it an ideal destination for those who seek a nature-infused workout.
Some of our favorites:
Inyo Craters Trail: For a unique trail running experience, explore the Inyo Craters Trail. This moderately challenging trail takes you through a volcanic landscape with scenic views of the Mammoth Lakes Basin. The varied terrain and intriguing geological features provide an engaging and visually stunning run.
McLeod Lake Trail: McLeod Lake Trail offers a picturesque trail running experience along the shores of McLeod Lake. Surrounded by pine forests and with occasional glimpses of the Sierra Nevada peaks, this trail provides a serene and accessible option for runners seeking a peaceful escape.
Mammoth Rock Trail Run: Transform the Mammoth Rock Trail into a trail running adventure. Ascend to the top of Mammoth Rock, enjoying the changing scenery as you gain elevation. The challenging yet rewarding run concludes with breathtaking panoramic views, creating a memorable outdoor experience.
Mammoth Lakes Basin Loop: Embark on the Mammoth Lakes Basin Loop for a comprehensive trail running tour of the area. This loop covers various trails, allowing runners to explore different landscapes, from alpine meadows to dense forests. The loop's versatility makes it suitable for runners of different skill levels.
Backpacking:
For the ultimate outdoor adventure, a multi-day backpacking trip through the pristine wilderness surrounding Mammoth Lakes is unparalleled. The renowned John Muir Trail, a long-distance trek through the Sierra Nevada, provides a challenging yet immensely rewarding experience. As backpackers traverse the Ansel Adams Wilderness and the Minarets, they are treated to solitude, stunning scenery, and a profound connection with nature. The journey through this remote wilderness offers an escape from the everyday, providing a chance to disconnect, recharge, and immerse oneself in the untamed beauty of the Eastern Sierra.
Some of our favorites:
Duck Pass to Purple Lake Loop: Design a multi-day backpacking adventure by combining Duck Pass and Purple Lake Loop. This route takes you through alpine landscapes, past pristine lakes, and provides a challenging yet rewarding journey through the wilderness. Camping at Purple Lake offers a serene and secluded experience.
Ansel Adams Wilderness High Route: For a more remote and challenging backpacking experience, consider the Ansel Adams Wilderness High Route. This multi-day trek takes you through some of the most stunning and less-visited areas of the Ansel Adams Wilderness, providing solitude and awe-inspiring scenery.
Minaret Lake: Backpack to Minaret Lake for a breathtaking alpine experience. This trail leads you to a stunning high-altitude lake surrounded by rugged peaks. Camping near the lake allows you to witness the changing colors of the sky as the sun sets behind the iconic Minarets.
John Muir Trail Section: Devil's Postpile to Thousand Island Lake: For a taste of the renowned John Muir Trail, embark on the section from Devil's Postpile to Thousand Island Lake. This backpacking route showcases the diversity of the Sierra Nevada, from unique geological formations to high mountain passes. Camping at Thousand Island Lake provides a picturesque base for exploration.
Kayaking on Convict Lake for sunrise is a magical experience. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Mammoth Lakes, California, is a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of activities throughout the year. Whether you're scaling granite cliffs, gliding down snow-covered slopes, or immersing yourself in natural hot springs, Mammoth Lakes provides an unparalleled playground for those seeking adventure in the heart of nature. So, pack your gear, lace up your boots, and get ready to explore the wonders of this outdoor paradise.
