This post explores one of the most beautiful areas of California. In here, you would find details about the Mammoth Lakes Basin hiking, walking biking, picnicking and day-use opportunities.
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If you are from the West Coast, you have probably heard of Mammoth Lakes or Mammoth Mountain.
If you are not from the area, no worries. I will fill you in in less than a minute.
Mammoth Mountain is the “go to” ski resort for Southern Californians. There are other ski areas located closer to Los Angeles but Mammoth is considered the real deal. In winter, all you hear at work is people making plans for the 4+ hour drive to the mountain.
See. That was less than a minute ;0)
Since people from the Caribbean (me) and snow do not mix well, I didn’t follow the crowds and visited Mammoth during fall. Guess what? It. Was. Beautiful.
I was like, Mammoth, where have you been all my life?
There is way more up there than lifts, cozy chimneys, and hot cocoa.
Just five minutes from the center of town (Mammoth Lakes is the only incorporated city in Mono County), you will find an area known as Mammoth Lakes Basin. The best part is that you have super easy access to pine forests, alpine lakes, and clear streams. On-site, you can enjoy over a dozen lakes, five campgrounds and over 50 miles of well-marked hiking trails.
All that sounds like paradise for those who love to play on the outdoors. However, remember I said there is easy access to all these? That is true too.
Five of the lakes in the area can be visited by car. You can decide to take a look, walk around, fish, relax in a hammock, rent a boat or embark on a longer hike. The choice is yours.
Table of Contents
Highlights of Mammoth Lakes Basin
Here is a series of stops for those visiting for a day or making it part of a longer trip.
Twin Lakes Mammoth
This is the first set of lakes you are going to find by road. I find the name a little bit confusing since, if you look at a map, there are three lakes connected by the Mammoth Creek. So, not sure how this place got its name (natural elements change a lot though).
The lakes are famous for their super cute bridge located in one of the narrow connecting points. It is a popular place for wedding photos.
Places to Stay: Tamarack Lodge & Resort (restaurant on site), Twin Lakes Campground
Lake Mary Mammoth
This is the largest lake in the area and, consequently, a spot with varying landscapes and facilities galore.
If you like to fish, this is the place to be. I took a photo of a group showcasing their 20+ trout on a line. I was hoping for a little gift from them but it didn’t happen.
The area surrounding the lake is very relaxing. People were paddling their boats, taking a dip in the water or resting on their hammocks. What a life!
One corner of the lake presents a phantasmagorical scene of dead trees and barren trunks. I assume the water level increase and flooded part of the forest. I was attracted to the spot since it is not something I see every day.
In addition, a red, sterile dome can be observed once you keep circling the lake. This promontory reminds us of the volcanic origins of Mammoth Lakes and the Owens Valley.
Places to Stay: Crystal Crag Lodge, Cold Water, and Pine City Campgrounds
Rent a Boat / Water Access: Lake Mary Marina, Pokonobe Marina at Lake Marina
Lake George Mammoth
This lake is small but one of the loveliest in the area because of its turquoise waters. It is important to mention the famous Crystal Crag, a granite promontory, can be seen in all its splendor from the lake’s shores. Climbing fans go to the top of the rock to get prime views of the chain of lakes and tall mountains.
Rent a Boat / Water Access: Woods Lodge Boat Rental
The Crystal Lake Trailhead is located at Lake George.
Lake Mamie Mammoth
During our visit, time was against us and we had to hurry up to finish seeing the lakes. When I was taking a quick look at Lake Mamie, I noticed a group of people congregated on the other side of the road.
I moved towards them and my jaw dropped! They were looking at the Twin Lakes from a viewpoint. I didn’t even notice we were gaining altitude while driving the road. It was crazy to think we were down there about two hours before.
Place to Stay: Wildyrie Lodge
Horseshoe Lake Mammoth
I was able to take a very small peek at this lake. The water level was low, so, I took a couple of photos and said goodbye to the gorgeous area.
Foodie Stop
After hours exploring the lakes, we indulged by having pizza, salad, and lemonade at the Mammoth Brewing Company. Everything was delicious and the atmosphere was unbeatable. This is an ideal stop for those who enjoy good food and conversation.
Mammoth Lakes Hiking
The basin area offers excellent hiking opportunities. Here are some of the best Mammoth hikes:
- Crystal Lake – This hike (approx. 3 miles) is one of the more popular and scenic in the area. It offers great views of Crystal Cragg, a granite dome that dominates the panorama. Park your car on the Lake George day-use area and find the nearby trailhead (just follow other hikers)
- TJ and Barrett Lakes – This is a shorter (1.5 miles) and moderate hikes (ideal for the entire family). Get prepared to be surrounded by pines and mountains! Start from the Lake George day-use area too
- McLeod Lake – This lake is located a short walk from the Horseshoe Lake parking lot. May people swim and sunbath in here during summer
- Duck Pass – This 5-mile trail is for hikers with more experience and stamina. If you are fit enough to conquer the trail, you will be rewarded with lakes, creeks and amazing views
- Mammoth Crest – Another hike for those who know what they are doing. The trail will take you high enough to see the entire basin and parts of the John Muir Wilderness
- Lakes Basin Path – The 5 mile, multi-use trail (you can walk, jog or bike) connects the North Village to the basin area. You do not have to walk the entire path. For example, you can park your car on one of the lakes day-use areas and walk to another lake. Take into consideration some part in here is steep
- Other Mammoth hikes include Arrowhead Lake, Heart Lake, Emerald Lake, Panorama Dome and walk / hikes around the lakes presented in the article
How to Find the Mammoth Lakes Basin
- From US-395 (main road/freeway on the Eastern Sierra area) – take road 203 and continue on Lake Mary Road (instead of turning towards Downtown)
- During summer, the free Orange Line Trolley runs between Downtown and the Lakes Basin. Bikes can be mounted on the trolley
- There is a paved bike path between the areas of interest
Mammoth Lakes Airport
- If you do not want to drive the Mammoth Lakes Airport is located 20 minutes from Downtown. Alaska Airlines offer year-round flight from Los Angeles. San Francisco and San Diego flights are added during winter.
Details
- Getting to the area is what I consider an “easy drive,” no crazy curves, sharp turns or scary drops
- All the lakes are above 8,000 feet. Drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen before getting exposed to the sun
- For camping availability, expert advice and trail conditions, drop by the local office of the U.S. Forest Service at the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center or visit their website
- Campsites may be reserved online here. Book in advance if you intend to visit during summer
- This is bear country. Follow instructions on the camping and day-use areas
Visitors Center
- Mammoth Lakes Visitors Center is located at 2510 Main Street. These should be the first stop for those looking for things to do and adventure in the area. Stop by even if you have researched your trip. Locals know best!
- A California Welcome Center is located there too
Mammoth Lakes to Yosemite
Many visitors do not want to miss the opportunity to visit Yosemite National Park if they are in the Mammoth area. The Tioga Pass, the Eastern Sierra gateway to the park is located 30 miles from Downtown Mammoth. The world-famous Yosemite Valley can be reached in about 2 hours (100 miles). That is a long, long day trip! An option is to explore the Tioga Pass / Road. Here is my post about Yosemite’s high country in case you are interested. And, here is my post about the valley just in case.
More of the Eastern Sierra
Click on any of the links below to see how you can combine Mammoth Lakes with other nearby spots in the area.
Have you visited the Mammoth Lakes Basin?
Ready to Pin? Let’s do this!
Mini Travellers says
Oh these really are some beautiful photos, I’d love to visit. #mondayEscapes
Ruth says
Thanks you! It is a great place to visit during summer. Next time, I want to hike to some of the lakes that are not accessed by road.
TraveLynn Family - Jenny says
What a truly stunning place! Amazing photography! Would love to be camping by one of those lake shores right now 🙂 #mondayEscapes
Ruth says
Me too! The thing is that those campsites are in high demand. That is why we camped in a nearby town and visited during the day.
image-in-ing: weekly photo linky says
Stunning indeed! These are breathtaking scenes.
Thanks for joining in @ http://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2017/07/splish-splash.html
Ruth says
Thanks a lot! Breathtaking is the right word to use. I adore all the beautiful spots that can be found at the Eastern Sierra.
Jim, Sydney, Australia says
Beautiful scenery.
Ruth says
Thanks Jim!
Rhonda Albom says
Mammoth is a gorgeous area. The lakes and mountains are wonderful. It reminds me a bit of Lake Tahoe where I used to spend a lot of time.
Ruth says
Never been to Tahoe, which is a shame. The entire US-395 area is gorgeous. One day I will drive it completely and make it to Tahoe.
Birgitta says
Wonderful photo series!
Ruth says
Thank you Birgitta!
Carol says
I’m not a snow person either. Great informative post with beautiful pictures.
Ruth says
Right? That is why I do not feel the urge to visit during winter. I would like to see the resort area during summer (I have not been).
Molly says
They are all so beautiful. What a wonderful place to get to visit
Mollyx
Ruth says
Thanks Molly! I loved the area. Can’t wait to visit once again an drive to other spots.
Phil Slade says
Hi Ruth and thanks for stopping by my blog whilst on your travels. I am mightily impresssed by your photos. You get so much colour in all of them. Guess it helps with your perpetual sunshine? Now I must go back and read about your time in Spain, one of my favourite places to visit.
Ruth says
Phil, thanks for your kind words. What can I say? Southern California is blessed with gorgeous weather. Go ahead and read about Spain. I have tons of posts about the country (I love it in there).
Christine Keane says
I love, love mountains and lakes! It makes for the BEST scenery! I have a lot of friends that go to Mammoth and it looks so beautiful there! We usually go to CO when we need a winter break since it’s closer to TX but CA is hard to beat!
Ruth says
Wow, Colorado! I really want to go. Several friends have told me that the drive from Los Angeles to Denver is gorgeous. It would be so awesome to drive there (but flying work too).
Katherine says
Is it bad that I’ve lived in Cali for two years and hadn’t heard of Mammoth Lakes before? They are gorgeous though, I’ll have to put it on my list of road trips! Pinning for when I finally do. 🙂 #WanderfulWednesday
Ruth says
Well, California is huge! I barely know anything about the northern part. The other day I discover there is a lake called like me (Lake Ruth).
Lolo says
Another fabulous place I never ever made it to! All my friends in high school always went but somehow I never managed to go! Looks a lot like Montana! Pinned! #WanderfulWednesday
Ruth says
I guess it appeals a lot to winter fanatics. I do not hear a lot of people saying they are going to visit during summer.
Sara says
I love how crystal clear the lakes are!! I have a friend who has a house in Mammoth and I’m always amazed at the snow they receive. It looks like a gorgeous area of the country. I’ve never spent any time in the California mountains.
Ruth says
This year they got crazy snow up there. I think there is still some around. The lakes in the entire area are so beautiful. The water is as stunning as it can get.
Olivia Johnson says
Beautiful pictures, I would like to visit these places. Thanks for sharing such lovely pictures.
Ruth says
No problem Olivia. Stoked you liked it!
Pat says
Mammoth Lakes Basin has such beautiful lakes and shorelines! What wonderful places to camp and enjoy the water, one site as wonderful as the next!
I follow you on Instagram, Ruth, under my blog name
Ruth says
Pat, I am glad you liked it. If somebody knows about gorgeous scenery is you.
Sharon Wagner says
Sounds like a great giveaway and a nice way to get instagram followers without employing the horrible follow/unfollow method. kudos to you. In answer to your comment, yes, we’re off to Guatemala in 6 months. it should be an amazing trip.
Ruth says
I love Guatemala and I am sure you are going to have a great time. I am thinking to go to Central America during my end of year break.
Sharon says
Yes — we’ve visited Mammoth, but so briefly I had no idea all this was in Mammoth. We need to plan a getaway here! We drove down 395 last month and many roads into the mountains were still closed. I’d love to go back!
Ruth says
This is the only spot I have visited. I know there is much more in the area. I hope to make it back soon.
Anisa says
I don’t mix well with snow either, so I have traveled to ski places in the summer. I went to Whistler one August and it was wonderful. The hiking was amazing. Mammoth Lake looks so pretty too. I would love to visit when it’s not freezing. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.
Ruth says
Mmmm, I would like to visit Whistler when there is no snow there. In short, I love the Vancouver area and I would go back in a second (and visit Victoria too).
Anda says
I can’t imagine how beautiful this area is in summer. We always go to Mammoth Lakes in winter, for skiing, but seeing your pictures I realized I’m missing a lot of photo opportunities. I should probably take my dog there too. She would love it! #TheWeeklyPostcard
Ruth says
Oh yes! Your dog will have a blast in here. The good think is that it doesn’t feel crowded. There are lots of space and the facilities are good. So, you can get close to nature without roughing it.
Vanessa Brune says
This is such a dreamy landscape! I’d love to visit! Also, it doesn’t really look like the California I picture in my head at all! Looks more like Canada or Alaska – so gorgeous! Thanks for putting the lakes on my radar 🙂
Ruth says
Ha, ha! That is funny. I’ll take the comparison with Canada or Alaska. California is a surprising place!
Jim ~ ReflectionsEnroute says
I could definitely spend some time here with a fishing pole! The lakes and mountains are absolutely gorgeous! Thanks for linking in to #wkendtravelinspiration!
Ruth says
And I think you will have tons of success pulling trout from the lake. I have to get my husband into fishing, so, I can eat what he catches.
Annabel says
Wow, what stunning photos! The States seems to have an endless supply of amazing landscapes! #theweeklypostcard
Ruth says
I know! You can guess why I love to live here. I have barely visited areas in the mountain in Los Angeles and San Diego (I have hear of gorgeous places up there).
Steve says
Love this post and your gorgeous photos – Now I definitely want to make it out that way later this summer, George Lake is top of the list!
Ruth says
I am glad you enjoyed the photos. Hope you make it to the area. I am thinking about going back early fall.
budget jan says
Hi Ruth, These lakes are gorgeous. Would they ice over in winter? I had already liked your instagram page – I’m not sure if your comp is just for USA or Australia, but please enter me if I’m eligible.
Ruth says
I do not think they completely freeze in winter but I am sure some parts of the lakes get icy. There are no restrictions for the giveaway. Thanks for entering.
Lyf&Spice says
Wow wow.. This is so beautiful. I love Lake Mamie. Looks like a good place to spend a lot of time.
Ruth says
I didn’t have time to see a lo of Lake Mamie. Have to go back and see if I can walk around the shores of that lake.
Rachel Heller says
Beautiful photos! I have to admit I’ve never been to Mammoth Lakes, winter or summer. And I lived in the San Francisco Bay area for eight years! I did see Mono once and Tahoe several times, which look similar to your photos.
Ruth says
Well, if you are from San Francisco, the resorts in Tahoe are closer and superior to Mammoth (I never said that, ok). I have been to Mono Lake but never to Tahoe.
Clare (Suitcases and Sandcastles) says
This really is stunning, Ruth. I just love those reflections in the water. Looks like a fabulous summer destination as well. Thanks for sharing on #FarawayFiles
Ruth says
I really like when I am able to catch reflections. The water was still, so, it worked out great that day.
Sally's Tips 4 Trips says
What a beautiful place for a getaway. I’m not one for the cold either so love that there is so much more to do in the milder climates.
Ruth says
Gotta love a place that can be visited during all seasons. It is not like the deserts in here that can only be visited when it is cool (well, people visit during summer but that doesn’t make sense).
Elaine J Masters says
I’m a California girl and keep finding places to visit in this incredible state. Not being much of a winter sports fan, I’ve never been to Mammoth but that Basin area is gorgeous. Seems like a road trip with my hiking boots is in order. Great post.
Ruth says
This is an excellent road trip spot! You can combine it with other places such as the Bishop Creek, Rock Creek, Mono Lake and the June Lake Loop. And, those are only some suggestions.
Sallie says
I never know if it is more fun to learn about new places on your blog or to see your take on places we’ve been …like this area! we didn’t have a camera when we were here, so I really appreciate your great pictures. Thanks for the memories.
Ruth says
Oh thanks Sallie! It feel great to remember places we have been to!
Erin Gustafson says
Great post Ruth! What a great guide to the area. I grew up camping around lakes like this – though a little further north in Shasta-Trinity area. These are so beautiful! Thanks for sharing with #FarawayFiles, Erin
Ruth says
Erin, I have never been to the Shasta-Trinity area. If I decide to visit, I know who to ask for recommendations.
Claire at Tin Box Traveller says
What an out of season find! Those lakes are stunning. Sometimes the best time to visit a destination – to find out what it’s really all about – is when everyone else has left 🙂 Thanks for sharing this on #MondayEscapes
Ruth says
That is so true Claire! I do not want to be here when the streets are full of cars and when you cannot find a parking spot. Everything felt so relaxing when I was there.
Vlad says
What a gorgeous place! I admit, I’ve never heard of it, but I’ve added it on my list now. I love-love your photos! 😀
Ruth says
Thanks Vlad! Appreciate your comment.
eileen g says
There is just so much space out west. I’m always so impressed by how big the national parks out your way are. Wish they were easier for us to get to!
Ruth says
You are right! I have to do a better job visiting the National Parks. There are a lot I need to visit.
Leigh says
Mammoth Lakes is so pretty, I need to go there! I think fall is the best time to visit just about anywhere, but especially the mountains!
#TheWeeklyPostcard
Ruth says
Yes, that makes sense. That is why I am thinking about going back this fall. I associate summer with the beaches.
Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says
We’re opposites to the Mammoth crowd. We don’t ski, but for Rob’s family had an annual summer picnic in Mammoth for many years. That’s not to say we’ve never been there during ski season but, like you, we’re children of warmer climes. 😉 As always, thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard!
Helen says
I have been to so many places during the ski season that I bet are stunning once the snow has thawed. Mammoth is one of them and I’d love to visit during the warmer seasons. Another one to add to the bucket list!
Brian Lange says
Really I love your post. Its really Inspire me.
Thank you for sharing with us.
Chris says
Wow amazing photos. I would love to fish there one day. Thanks for sharing.
Jim Watson says
I am speechless.
Mother nature put her beauty in everywhere. But the best in the water (my opinion).
Thanks for share this awesome photograph with us.
Among all of these i personally like lake Mary.
Don’t ask why?
If you ask, then my ans is i went there few years back with my friends mike and robin.
That trip will remain so special.
Thanks again for remind me my best memory Ruth.
Michael - The Boys Abroad says
What a stunning spot! I love visiting populsr places in the off-season to get a different take on them. Hiking to some of the other lakes next time sounds like a great idea too.
California Globetrotter says
I’m ashamed to admit that my whole life living in SoCal, I never ever went to Mammoth Lakes! We always went to Big Bear or Lake Arrowhead. Would love to go! #feetdotravel
Ania says
I’d never heard of Mammoth Lakes Basin until I read your post! The area is absolutely gorgeous, and I can definitely see the appeal of going in the fall rather than the winter. I’m totally sold on visiting Lake George. Its turquoise water is incredible!
Helene says
Gorgeous, the landscapes are so untouched!:) Would love to spend more time in these kinds of surroundings, but I somehow always end up in cities! Will have to travel more:) Thanks for the inspiration!
Tracy says
What a beautiful place! And your photographs are stunning! I love learning more about the geography of the USA. Definitely a lot to plan when we decide to visit again!#feetdotravel
Shona says
Beautiful lakes and overall stunning scenery brought to us by your wonderful pics. It’s hard to imagine this area as a skiing destination from what we’ve seen here but would no doubt be picturesque covered in snow too. A lovely area to visit easily from L.A. 🙂
Ilana says
It looks so gorgeous! I would love to camp there for a week or so! A perfect place to relax after a busy year at work!
Anna says
I´m one of these “not from the area” who never heard of Mammoth Lakes or Mammoth Mountain lol I´m so happy I came across your post – another amazing place to see! These landscapes look so lovely and peaceful! Indeed, I just realized we don´t have that many lakes here in Spain, and there is absolutely some kind of special charm there! Pinned 😉
Travel Lexx says
Really love those lakes – I recently did a post on some of my favourite lakes in America and I would have loved to visit Mammoth Lakes! Looks like the weather was great for you and you made the most of your trip. Lookout at Lake Mamie looks incredible! Thanks for sharing
Carmen Baguio says
Oh my! These lakes are so gorgeous and so high above sea level. About how many days would you recommend to visit all 5?
James says
I’ve been to California so many times but never to Mammoth Lakes. On a clear day like you had they photograph so beautifully. I understand why you wondered where they had been all your life!
Cat says
So beautiful!! I’m one to be distracted by ski slopes, so it’s good to see what else there is to do. I’ll have to branch out from the slopes and check out the other areas. Thanks for sharing 😀
Kate and Kris says
Some stunning pictures there! Looks like I imagine the wild areas of American to look – high mountains and huge lakes.
Marcelle says
I’d love to hike along the three lakes connected by the Mammoth Creek and discover this beautiful area in fall or spring when the crowds left. It’s like the alps, skiing is beautiful but most of the time it’s too crowded for my liking. But to visit in the off season is breathtakingly beautiful!
Jenn | By Land and Sea says
Wow, this looks great! Would love to spend some time here – have never heard of this area until now!
mustafa says
photos of lake are so fascinating. thanks.
Sandy N Vyjay says
What a picturesque locale. The lakes look really enchanting and straight out of a fairytale book.
Nick Nomad says
the lake is very beautiful and the most awesome is that small waterfall. One thing i want ask, can we swim also in this lake or can’t.?