Let the horizon unfurl as you kick into your mini vacation full of rugged adventures. Make time to check out these vantage points as you move along to Mammoth Lakes.
Cupped within the rugged beauty of Sierra Nevada Mountains is Mammoth Lakes – California’s Eastern region known for its rich run of fun activities. Mammoth Lakes is a curious, endearing blend of adventure and tranquility bringing something for every person – from calming lakesides, towering mountains, soothing views to surrender to magical trails, authentic food, and activities for adventure enthusiasts.
You can book a flight through cities across the country (recommended during winter), but nothing comes close to self-driving through the picturesque landscapes. The journey itself is a treasured part of visiting Mammoth Lakes. Earmark these 7 precious halts along the way to your destination:
1.) Devils Postpile National Monument
The unique polished basalt columns dating back to thousands of years are simply confounding at the Mammoth Lakes landmark, Devils Postpile National Monument. Whether it’s hiking, biking, sight-seeing, relaxing, or fishing you’re seeking for the day, Devils Postpile has it all. Hike on its 8 miles of tracks, making a halt at 2.5 miles to marvel at the 101-foot Rainbow Falls. The misty spill of the colors here is a treat for the eyes at midday. Go trout fishing on the San Joaquin River, then soak up the views of the wildlife here. Black bears, pine martens, mule deer and coyotes are commonly sighted, so keep your camera handy.
2.) Scenic Gondola
It is an iconic Scenic Gondola ride up to Mammoth Mountain. With an altitude of 11,053 ft, the aerial ride is surrounded by panoramic views of the magnificent terrain distinctive to Mammoth Lakes. The Eleven53 Cafe and an Interpretive Center await at the top of the Mountain. Arrive to tuck in warm bites and then wander around to click spectacular pictures for the Gram.
3.) Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park stands 45-minutes away from Mammoth Lakes and makes for a memorable day-trip. Home to some of California’s tallest waterfalls, formations for rock-climbers, and about 800 miles of trails for bikers and hiking, Yosemite brings in the magical trail to El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, Cathedral Rocks, Sentinel Bridge, and the The Mist Trail or Yosemite Falls – the tallest waterfall in North America. Spring and early summer are the best times to truly cherish the glory of Yosemite. Make use of the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) for a comfortable transit into the park during summers.
4.) The Village
The heart of Mammoth Lakes, The Village brings in a multitude of cafes, restaurants, shopping outlets and plazas, and festivities. Dine at specialty restaurants, go souvenir seeking, stock on trip essentials, or simply tune in to the music and entertainment ongoing year-round here. Sign up for sauna at Fireside, watch movies under the stars in the Village Plaza, shop for souvenirs from local retailers, and make time for a pamper zone at the Simply Massage Body Boutique.
5.) Agnew Wildflower Loop
Unwind along the gorgeous trail of wild flora and fauna. A short trail of only 0.6 miles, the Agnew Wildflower Loop shines with a variety of wildflowers such as larkspur, lupine, lilies, columbine, Indian paintbrush, and many more. It is highly recommended to visit during early summer months when the meadow sways in full bloom. Nature’s bounty at its best!
6.) Bodie State Historic Park
An eerie experience worth adding to your bucket list, the Bodie State Historic Park is known as California’s ghost town where decades ago stood a gold-mining station. An official California Historic Hallmark, today the town exists as a canvas of desolate streets and empty ancient houses. With everything under protection and preservation of its history, you’ll only find a dedicated museum with a bookstore.
7.) Mono Lake
Spot pale gray and ivory, porous tufa towers that resemble moon rocks. A natural deposit of limestone, these fantastical towers (ethereal by moonlight, and gold tinged during dawn and dusk) are natural installations at Mono Lake. A brimming pot of nature’s gold, this is one of the oldest lakes in California – known as California’s Dead Sea. While the Lake is most renowned for its expansive views of Sierra Nevada’s signature Mountains, there is plenty of adventure one can undertake here. Thanks to the high alkalinity of its waters, you can go for a quick swim without treading. Stroll around its natural beauty, and stick around for the gorgeous sunset.
