Tucked away on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada, in the heart of Inyo National Forest, the quaint town of Mammoth Lakes welcomes you year-round. Similar to Big Bear, the community saw an influx of settlers with the discovery of gold in the region and the establishment of a mining company; but once the mine closed, the town's settlement shrank to a population of 10. It wasn’t until the beginning of the 20th century that Mammoth Lakes began to bloom, bringing tourists and lumberjacks to the tranquil forests surrounding today's popular ski resort. (If you're less into ski resorts, worry not: Mammoth Lakes is one of California's top lake camping destinations during the warmer months.) Thanks to the lack of development, Mammoth Lakes has maintained its pristine nature and is ready to be discovered anew.
The scenic drive to Mammoth is a part of the journey. From NorCal, follow Highway 395 or Highway 120 through Yosemite National Park, making sure to set aside time to sop along the route and admire the Eastern Sierra region. You can also opt for the gently winding road of Highway 108, which leads you through lush forests and vast valleys. From SoCal, you may take Highway 395 and pass through mountains and ancient glacial lake beds on the way to your new favorite escape. (Route 395 is also a popular detour for travelers from the north who are rewarded with the breathtaking power of the Travertine Hot Springs.)
Things to do in Mammoth
After the scenic drive, recharge with a lunch and coffee break at Stellar Brew. Order a gluten-free sandwich or toasted bagel stuffed with two fried eggs, house-made cilantro pesto and cream cheese, fresh tomato, and spinach. Or, opt for a bowl of açai—blended with bananas, blueberries, strawberries, kale, spirulina, and cinnamon—topped with in-house granola, chia seeds, banana, and honey. Order a cup of locally roasted fair trade organic coffee to-go, and make your way to Mammoth Ski Resort.
Regain full mindfulness while hiking along popular Mammoth trails. Explore the numerous pathways of the two-million-acre Inyo National Forest, venture off to witness a spectacular natural wonder called the Devils Postpile, or backpack the Sierra Nevada to follow in the footsteps of mountaineer John Muir. You can also take the scenic gondola ride up to the 11,053-foot Mammoth Mountain peak for dramatic vistas before hiking the easy, five-mile Mammoth Mountain Trail back down.
After the San Joaquin River Valley’s rewarding views have satisfied your wanderlust, check in to the Sierra Nevada Resort and Spa to treat yourself to a full day of rejuvenation. Make yourself comfortable in your very own Fireplace Suite before heading down for a relaxing deep-tissue massage at the spa. Let the day come to an end at the on-site Rafters Restaurant, where dinner is served amidst the majestic Mammoth Lakes ambiance. Remember to look up at the night sky—the stars will be dancing just for you—as you walk back to your room for a good night’s sleep.
Regardless of the weather, every new day welcomes new adventures at Mammoth Lakes. If the ground isn't quite snowy enough for a friendly ski race against your friends, the Via Ferrata is an alternative mountain activity you can’t miss out on. Challenge yourself to overcome bridges and iron rungs devised along the rugged sides of Mammoth Mountain, and take a breather to admire the untouched wilderness. From the six routes available, your guide will lead you on the one that most suits your skills and guarantees an unforgettable experience.
Savor a hearty hunch at the Bistro East Restaurant (located in the Snowcreek Athletic Club), where Japanese cuisine meets the laid-back mountain lifestyle of Mammoth. Next, stop by Get Outdoors 365 to rent a bike, and then hit the mountain trails that will make your heart race and adrenaline rush through your veins. Bike the Lakes Basin without even breaking a sweat—with your specialized electric mountain bikes, there’s no mountain too high and no valley too low—mount an action camera to your helmet to remember the life-changing journey long after you’ve returned home.