The town of Mammoth Lakes, located in the Eastern Sierra of California, serves as an excellent base for those who wish to explore the great outdoors. With its natural hot springs, hiking trails, and the Mammoth Mountain ski resort, along with charming nearby towns, this destination is appealing year-round.
Depending on the season, here are some of the best activities to enjoy in and around Mammoth Lakes.
Visit Mono Lake
For a quick day trip, Mono Lake is an intriguing and accessible destination. This large saltwater lake features captivating rock formations and a picnic area, perfect for a leisurely lunch in pleasant weather.
This site is ideal for a brief stop to capture photographs or simply drive by on your way to other attractions, as it is conveniently located along the highway.
Explore Natural Hot Springs
This region is known for its numerous opportunities to soak in warm waters surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Notable hot springs near Mammoth Lakes include Wild Willy’s Hot Spring and Rock Tub Hot Spring.
Wild Willy’s is particularly popular, featuring multiple soaking pools connected by a boardwalk. As it tends to draw large crowds, consider having an alternative plan. During my visit in early December, the area was quite busy. Facilities include a porta-potty and ample parking.
If you prefer a more private experience, consider visiting Rock Tub Hot Spring, which is located shortly before Wild Willy’s on the same route. This smaller spring is akin to a compact bathtub, accommodating only two individuals, but may have some algae growth due to limited maintenance.
Upon our arrival, we found ourselves enjoying the tranquility of the Rock Tub despite the algae presence. With breathtaking mountain views surrounding us, it was a remarkably serene experience. Nearby camping options may affect this serenity during the summer months.
Consider exploring Buckeye Hot Spring and Travertine Hot Spring near Bridgeport. Travertine, conveniently located off the road, boasts multiple soaking tubs, while Buckeye is often favored for its scenic setting.
The approach to Buckeye via ridge road can be challenging in winter; thus, it is crucial to ensure your vehicle is equipped with good tires to handle potential slips. At Buckeye, there is ample parking, along with bathroom facilities and designated camping areas. While access requires a brief hike, it is manageable, and even the upper tubs present a delightful soaking option.
Located by a river, Buckeye Hot Spring allows visitors the unique opportunity to cool off in the river between soaks. We spent several hours there, enjoying an uncrowded atmosphere. Following your visit, consider having lunch at the Burger Barn in Bridgeport; their menu and hospitality are exceptional.
Drive the June Lake Loop
This picturesque drive is a must. The June Lake Loop is dotted with several stunning lakes (not just June Lake) and offers fantastic hiking options, including the challenging Fern Lake hike. This hike, rewarding with a hidden lake nestled within a forest, makes the effort worthwhile.
Hike to Inyo Craters
Inyo Craters, located in Inyo National Forest, is along the scenic route to Mammoth Mountain ski resort. This well-maintained dirt road is accessible with Google Maps, although caution is necessary during winter when snow may cover the road. If you visit during the early winter season, you may enjoy the site with minimal crowds.
The journey may take time due to the slow-dirt road but will lead you to a designated parking area with helpful signage regarding the trails available. Additionally, restroom facilities are provided at the site.
The hike itself is relatively unremarkable, with much forest management evident, as downed trees await processing. The trail leads to three craters, with the two most prominent situated alongside one another, while the third is positioned higher up and farther away.
While the precise formation process of these craters is not entirely understood, they were likely created by a single event that involved the eruption of hot steam from beneath the earth, resulting in these massive depressions. In summer, the first crater hosts beautifully turquoise water, which is frozen over in winter, making this a location worth a short visit. Additionally, lovely forest and mountain views enhance the experience, making it an inviting spot for a picnic.
Ski and Ride at Mammoth Mountain Ski Area
Mammoth Mountain is renowned as one of the top skiing and riding locations in California, boasting excellent snow conditions. For those staying in Mammoth Lakes, a complimentary shuttle service transports visitors to and from the mountain, alleviating concerns about driving on potentially hazardous roads. Given the high volume of visitors during peak ski season, early arrival is advisable, as parking lots can fill quickly.
For first-time visitors, taking at least one scenic gondola ride to the summit of Mammoth Mountain is highly recommended; the vistas from the top are nothing short of breathtaking. Even non-skiers can enjoy the gondola experience, although a fee applies.
Visit Hot Creek Geological Site
This enchanting site ranks among my favorites in the area. Offering beauty, tranquility, and remarkable geothermal activity, Hot Creek is accessible via Fish Hatchery Road, a well-maintained dirt track. The slow journey is worthwhile, as many scenic pull-offs provide opportunities for hiking along the gorge and the riverbank, while a main parking area includes camping facilities and restrooms.
The central site features a cold freshwater stream for fishing (catch and release only), with notable signage advising visitors to stay on the main trails and avoid contact with the hot water due to safety concerns. Past incidents likely prompted these regulations aimed at environmental preservation.
The vivid colors and geothermal activity here evoke a sense of magic. It’s easy to get lost in its beauty, making it a perfect spot to spend hours absorbing the serene atmosphere, especially during the offseason when crowds are minimal.
Visit Convict Lake
Situated across from the access road to Wild Willy’s Hot Spring, Convict Lake is a favored location for relaxation, photography, and picnicking, exemplifying the area’s stunning lakes.
This picturesque setting is ideal for a quick visit following a hot spring bathing experience.
Take the Shuttle to Devils Postpile National Monument and Rainbow Falls
Both of these fascinating sites are best explored using the shuttle service from the alpine sled area near Mammoth Mountain. During the peak summer months, expect large crowds at these destinations.
Devils Postpile National Monument features striking basalt columns reminiscent of Icelandic landscapes, while a hike to Rainbow Falls is highly recommended if visiting during the warmer seasons.
Note that the shuttle does not operate in winter, and access to these sites is restricted during that time.
Visit Yosemite National Park
A surprisingly short 12-mile drive connects Mammoth Lakes to Yosemite National Park. Summer is the optimal time for a visit; however, due to its popularity, the park now requires reservations for entry. Therefore, traveling during the off-season before snow falls may yield a more enjoyable experience.
Be aware that if snow conditions are present, the pass may close quickly, necessitating a longer detour of approximately five hours to access the park from an alternate route.
Go Hiking in Mammoth Lakes Basin Area
Hiking is a quintessential activity in this region, and the Mammoth Lakes Basin offers numerous trails that showcase the natural beauty of the eastern Sierra. During winter months, snowshoes or cross-country skis will be essential to navigate this pristine landscape.
Explore the Town of Mammoth Lakes
The town presents a variety of attractions beyond the great outdoors. Shopping, coffee shops, a bakery, as well as local favorites like Distant Brewing and Mammoth Lakes Brewing Company highlight the area’s vibrant culinary scene.
Concluding Thoughts
On your return journey to Reno International Airport, be sure to stop at Eve’s Eatery for lunch in Carson City, where farm-to-table dishes are served fresh upon order. In December, the main street of Mammoth Lakes is adorned with beautiful Christmas lights, adding to the town’s charm.
