Mammoth Lakes, California: Ultimate Hiking Guide
Best Time To Visit
The best time for hiking in Mammoth Lakes is from late spring to early fall (June to October). The weather is generally mild during this period, and the trails are most accessible. Summer temperatures average between 70°F and 80°F with lows in the 40s, making it perfect hiking and swimming weather. August is typically the hottest month and September is my favorite month to visit Mammoth!
It’s essential to note that many trails in Mammoth remain covered in snow until it fully melts, sometimes as late as July or even August. The snowpack from the previous winter can affect trail conditions, so it's crucial to plan accordingly. Always check current conditions before heading out to ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.
Visitor Center Information
Stop by the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center for up-to-date trail openings and closures, trail conditions, and expert advice. They can provide the latest details on which trails are accessible and which ones are still snow-covered. Pick up maps, get local tips, and ensure a safe and enjoyable hike!
Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center
Best Hikes in Mammoth
1. Rainbow Falls and Lower Falls
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5.4 miles (out and back)
Elevation Gain: 550 feet
Rainbow Falls and Lower Falls trail offers a scenic journey through lush forests alongside the San Joaquin River. The hike begins at the Devil's Postpile trailhead, making it convenient to visit the unique basalt columns of Devil's Postpile National Monument first. Continuing along the trail, you'll encounter Lower Falls first, a serene and less crowded spot ideal for a refreshing dip. Further along, you'll reach the magnificent Rainbow Falls, where the mist creates beautiful rainbows in the sunlight, providing an unforgettable sight. This hike combines stunning natural formations with tranquil forest scenery, making it a must-visit.
2. Devil’s Postpile
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.5 miles (out and back)
Elevation Gain: 100 feet
Devil's Postpile features striking hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. The short hike to the formation offers close-up views of the impressive columns and a glimpse into the area's geological past. For an extended adventure, continue on to Rainbow Falls, where you'll be rewarded with the sight of a 101-foot waterfall creating stunning rainbows in the mist. This hike combines two iconic natural attractions, making it a must-see for visitors to Mammoth Lakes.
3. Duck Lake Pass Trail & Pika Lake Trail
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Distance: 10 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 1,800 feet
Duck Pass Trail offers stunning alpine scenery, with views of Mammoth Crest and Duck Lake. Starting near Lake Mary in the Lake Basin, the trailhead is conveniently located close to the Lake Basin Path. The trail meanders through pine forests, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain, culminating at Duck Lake, where hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. For those looking for an extra adventure, the Pika Lake Trail branches off just before Duck Lake, adding about 1-mile round trip. This hike is perfect for those seeking a moderately challenging day hike with breathtaking scenery. Additionally, parts of the Duck Pass Trail intersect with the renowned John Muir Trail, providing an opportunity to experience a segment of this iconic long-distance path.
Pika Lake Trail offers a serene and scenic extension to the Duck Pass Trail. Just before reaching Duck Lake, a side trail leads to Pika Lake, adding about 1 mile round trip. Pika Lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil surroundings, making it a rewarding destination for those seeking solitude and stunning alpine beauty.
4. Lake Basin Path
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 5 mile loop
Elevation Gain: Minimal
The Lake Basin Path offers a leisurely stroll around the scenic Mammoth Lakes Basin, passing by several pristine alpine lakes such as Lake Mary, Lake Mamie, Lake George, and Horseshoe Lake. This easy loop trail is perfect for families and casual hikers, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the area's natural beauty. The path is also bike-friendly, making it a great option for cyclists.
The trailhead is easily accessible with ample parking available near Lake Mary. During peak seasons, a trolley service runs through the Lake Basin area, providing convenient transportation to various trailheads and picnic spots. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing walk or a scenic bike ride, the Lake Basin
Twin Lakes, Lake George, Lake Mary, & Lake Mamie
Twin Lakes, accessible from the Lake Basin Path, are located at the beginning of the scenic loop. These picturesque lakes are known for their stunning waterfall views and serene ambiance. The area offers numerous campsites and picnic tables, making it a perfect spot for a family outing. Activities include fishing, canoeing, and paddleboarding, providing a variety of options for outdoor enthusiasts. The Twin Lakes area also features several trailheads for more adventurous hikes, including the path to Lake George.
Lake George, accessible via a short hike from the Lake Basin Path, is nestled in a beautiful alpine setting. This lake offers campsites and picnic areas, making it an excellent destination for a day trip or an overnight camping adventure. Lake George is popular for fishing, with its clear waters teeming with trout. The trailhead for the Crystal Lake Trail starts here, offering more challenging hikes with rewarding views. The lake's elevation provides cooler temperatures, making it a refreshing escape during the summer months.
Lake Mary, the largest lake in the Mammoth Lakes Basin, is easily accessible from the Lake Basin Path. Situated at the heart of the loop, Lake Mary offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and kayaking. The area is well-equipped with campsites, picnic tables, and restroom facilities. The crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountain views make it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. Additionally, Lake Mary is a starting point for several trails, including the Duck Pass Trail.
Lake Mamie is a serene, smaller lake located along the Lake Basin Path, just a short distance from Lake Mary. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks, Lake Mamie is an ideal spot for fishing and picnicking. The lake features a few picnic tables and is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. It’s also a wonderful spot for photography enthusiasts, with its calm waters providing perfect mirror images of the surrounding scenery.
5. Crystal Lake Trail
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: 3.6 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 850 feet
Crystal Lake Trail is a scenic hike starting near Lake George, offering a moderately challenging route to the beautiful Crystal Lake. The trail winds through dense pine forests and alpine meadows, providing opportunities to spot wildflowers and wildlife along the way. This 3-mile round-trip hike features an elevation gain of approximately 850 feet, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Once at Crystal Lake, visitors can enjoy picnicking, fishing, or simply relaxing by the tranquil waters. This trail is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat with stunning mountain scenery.
6. Horseshoe Lake Loop Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.7 miles (loop)
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Horseshoe Lake Loop Trail is a family-friendly hike accessible from the trailhead near Horseshoe Lake. This easy loop trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests as it circles the tranquil lake. With mostly flat terrain, the trail is suitable for hikers of all ages and abilities, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll or a scenic picnic by the water. The trail is accessible year-round, providing opportunities to enjoy the area's natural beauty in every season.
7. McLeod Lake Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
McLeod Lake Trail is a leisurely hike that starts at the trailhead near Horseshoe Lake. The trail leads to the picturesque McLeod Lake, surrounded by towering granite cliffs and lush forests. Following the shoreline, it offers ample opportunities for birdwatching and photography. With its easy terrain and scenic beauty, McLeod Lake Trail is perfect for families and casual hikers looking to enjoy a peaceful day in nature.
8. T J Lake Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 1.5 miles (loop)
Elevation Gain: 370 feet
TJ Lake Trail is a moderately challenging hike that starts at the Lake George trailhead. This 1.5-mile round-trip trail has an elevation gain of approximately 370 feet, making it a short yet rewarding hike. The trail winds through dense pine forests and rocky terrain, leading to the serene TJ Lake. Surrounded by granite peaks, the lake is perfect for picnicking, fishing, or simply enjoying the tranquil mountain views. Ideal for those looking for a brief but scenic adventure in the Mammoth Lakes area.
9. Convict Lake Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2.5 miles (loop)
Elevation Gain: 100 feet
Convict Lake Loop Trail is a scenic hike that circles the picturesque Convict Lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and crystal-clear waters. Accessible from the trailhead near the Convict Lake parking area, this 2.5-mile loop trail is perfect for hikers of all ages and skill levels. The trail meanders through pine forests and along the shoreline, providing opportunities for fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. With its easy terrain and breathtaking scenery, the Convict Lake Loop Trail is a must-do for anyone visiting the Mammoth Lakes area.
10. Sherwin Lake Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5 miles (out and back)
Elevation Gain: 900 feet
Sherwin Lakes Trail offers a scenic hike through dense forests and meadows, leading to a pair of stunning alpine lakes nestled beneath the Sherwin Range. Accessible from the Sherwin Creek Road trailhead, this 5-mile round-trip hike is suitable for moderate hikers, featuring an elevation gain of 900 feet. Hikers can enjoy beautiful views of Mammoth Mountain and the surrounding peaks, making this trail a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. For those seeking more adventure, the hike can be extended to Valentine Lake, adding even more scenic beauty to the journey.
11. Valentine Lake
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Strenuous
Distance: 10 miles round-trip (from Sherwin Lakes)
Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet
Valentine Lake Trail is an extension of the Sherwin Lakes hike, offering a challenging yet rewarding adventure for avid hikers. The trail continues beyond Sherwin Lakes, ascending through dense forests and alpine meadows to reach the serene Valentine Lake, nestled in a picturesque alpine basin. The hike features stunning views of the Sherwin Range and Mammoth Mountain, making it a favorite for those seeking a more strenuous and scenic trek in the Mammoth Lakes area.
12. Minaret Falls – The River Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2 miles (out and back)
Elevation Gain: 100 feet
13. Inyo Craters Loop Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.2 miles (loop)
Elevation Gain: 500 feet
Inyo Craters Loop Trail is a captivating hike that begins near Mammoth Mountain's Main Lodge. This moderate trek winds through open meadows and fragrant pine forests, immersing hikers in a landscape shaped by volcanic activity.
14. Panorama Dome Trail
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: 2.4 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 700 feet
Panorama Dome Trail is a short but rewarding hike that begins near the Twin Lakes Campground. This moderate trek ascends steadily through sagebrush and granite boulders, offering glimpses of the stunning scenery below. As you climb higher, the trail unfolds to reveal panoramic views of the Mammoth Lakes Basin and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. At the summit of Panorama Dome, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking vistas in every direction, making it an ideal spot for soaking in the beauty of the Eastern Sierra.
15. Crowley Lake Stone Columns
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 0.5 miles (loop)
Elevation Gain: Minimal
The Crowley Lake Columns trail offers a captivating glimpse into the area's geological past, with towering columns of volcanic rock formed by ancient lava flows. Located near Crowley Lake, this short loop trail provides a unique opportunity to explore the region's volcanic history up close. Hikers can marvel at the impressive rock formations and learn about the area's geological features through interpretive signs along the trail.
Where to Stay
Mammoth Lakes offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveler's needs, from camping under the stars to staying in a cozy hotel or a charming Airbnb.
Camping
Mammoth Lakes has several beautiful campgrounds, perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature. Permits and reservations may be required for certain campgrounds, so it's recommended to check in advance. Permits can be obtained from the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center or online through the Inyo National Forest website.
1. Twin Lakes Campground
2. Coldwater Campground
3. Lake Mary Campground
4. Convict Lake Campground
5. Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground
6. Reds Meadow Campground
Airbnb & VRBO
For a more comfortable and private stay, consider renting an Airbnb or VRBO property. Mammoth Lakes offers a variety of options, from cozy cabins to luxury condos, catering to different group sizes and preferences.
Hotels
Mammoth Lakes has numerous hotels that offer convenience and comfort. Here are some top picks:
1. The Westin Monache Resort
2. The Village Lodge
3. Juniper Springs Resort
4. The Mammoth Creek Inn
5. Mammoth Mountain Inn
Where to Eat & Drink
Mammoth may be a small town, but it has a diverse array of dining options! From cozy cafes to fine dining, this list features some of my top recommendations in.
Breakfast, Cafes, & Coffee Shops
1. The Stove
2. Mammoth Coffee Roasting Company
3. The Breakfast Club
4. Good Life Cafe
5. Black Velvet Coffee
6. Stellar Brew & Natural Cafe
Lunch & Dinner
1. Shea Schat’s Bakery
2. Salsa’s Taqueria
3. Burgers Restaurant
4. The Warming Hut
5. The Latin Market Taqueria
Breweries & Distilleries
1. Mammoth Brewing Company
2. Shelter Distilling
3. Devils Creek Distillery
4. Distant Brewing
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