Things to do & places to visit in Mammoth Lakes, California, United States

High in the Eastern Sierra of California is the growing ski resort town of Mammoth Lakes, surrounded by alpine beauty and majesty. Powdered peaks of the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area and surrounding wilderness draw skiers, snowboarders, snowmobilers and ice skaters every winter. Summers are quieter and less crowded, but vacationers in search of the path less traveled will find secluded biking and hiking trails, rushing rivers, icy mountain lakes, green golf courses and breathtaking scenery.

Mammoth Lakes city in California, United States. Timezone: America/Los_Angeles, current date and time: Friday, May 03, 2024, 19:09.

Top things to do (14)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Mammoth Crest Trail (22 reviews)
- Incredible Hike
Hiking Trails

We did many hikes while in Mammoth, but this was by far our favorite. The Mammoth Crest Trail takes you above timberline, to the approximate boundary of John Muir Wilderness and Ansel Adams Wilderness. All of the Mammoth Lakes, and the beautiful vistas of the High Sierra are visible below, while the terrain becomes more and more Martian-like the further up you go. The trailhead is at Lake George, and the hike is roughly 8-9 miles. See more..
5.0 Twin Lakes Trails (16 reviews)
- Beautiful scenery!
Spent 2-3 hours Hiking Trails

My husband and I took our son here late August. The lakes are beautiful. We took photos on the bridge that crossed between the lakes and you can see the water fall in the back. The pine trees and mountain ranges behind with the beautiful lake was just gorgeous. We would return to go on the boats when it is not windy. See more..
5.0 Valentine Lake Trail (4 reviews)
- A Great 9.2 Mile Trail!
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Hiking Trails

My husband and I hiked this trail for the first time on a Saturday afternoon. The first lake you hit is Sherwin Lake and then moving on you get to Valentine Lake. The trail was not too crowded at all. On our way down the trail it began to hail, thunder, and lightening. We actually walked up on a black bear that was trying to keep dry under a tree. We slowly backed up and were able to go far around him. We sang songs and clapped our hands so that he'd definitely know we were there. A crazy experience but one we will never forget! See more..
4.5 Mammoth Mountain (1.160 reviews)
- Better than many Tahoe resorts
Spent More than 3 hours Ski & Snowboard Areas

A variety of late spring and early summer terrain is available for first-time beginners and double diamond pursuers. See more..
4.5 Devils Postpile National Monument (973 reviews)
- Incredible Rock Formation
Friday: 7:00 AM - 7:30 PM Geologic Formations

This obscure part of the National Park System features unique basalt rock formations. See more..
4.5 Convict Lake Campground (584 reviews)
- Beautiful
Bodies of Water

Lake known for its alpine scenery and rainbow trout. See more..
4.5 Lake Mary (419 reviews)
- Best of mammoth
Bodies of Water

Absolutely beautiful and serene Lake. Flat calm and great for photographs. I visited during a massive Eastern Sierra wildfire, so the air was filled with smoke and the sky was dark. But that did not stop this place from being fantastic. See more..
4.5 Rainbow Falls (328 reviews)
- Rainbow Falls - logistics without a car
Spent 2-3 hours Waterfalls

With Covid 19, we highly suggest you get to the trailhead parking lot and start your hike well before 8:00am - (There is no shuttle service for the summer of 2020 due to Covid 19). Otherwise, you’ll be hiking with a lot of people who Do Not social distance and only around 5% of the hikers wore any face coverings while crossing on the trail or at Rainbow Falls (where it was very crowded). FYI - check the hourly temperatures before you hike. It was 35 degrees at 5:00am and 36 degrees at 7:30am. It was also 74 degrees at 12:00pm. The “Rainbow” was only slightly visible at 12:00pm. The hike is Very beautiful and an easy hike down to the falls from Devil’s Postpile. The hike back is a steady uphill climb. There are no restrooms and no potable water along the trail, so plan accordingly. Water is available from the San Joaquin River, but you’ll need to filter/sterilize before drinking. It’s approximately 0.4 miles from the Parking lot to Devil’s Postpile and 2.0 miles more to Rainbow Falls (2.4 miles one way, 4.8 miles round trip). Highly recommend for the beautiful scenery, but beware of those who do not wear face masks and do not social distance. Some other reviews have suggested hiking to Red’s Meadows Resort from Rainbow Falls, which is 0.9 miles each way. Red’s Meadows Resort are cabins, a small store, and a cafe. We don’t think it’s worth the 1.8 additional mile hike. Instead, we suggest going to Minaret Falls (2.6 mile round trip) from the Devil’sPostpile area. See more..
4.5 Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center (219 reviews)
- Very accommodating
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Visitor Centers

The Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center specializes in providing general information about the Inyo National Forest and surrounding local areas. Stop in for maps of the area and suggestions on great places to hike, camp and visit. The center provides campfire permits, wooding permits, and backpacking permits for those looking to begin a trip in the Inyo National Forest backcountry. There are also many fantastic interpretive program opportunities available through the center. A great first stop for a trip to Mammoth. If you are looking for souvenirs, there are many fun items for sale in the center including books, maps, hats, bandanas, t-shirts, and lots of other souvenirs. The Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center is managed through a partnership with the US Forest Service and the Eastern Sierra Interpretive Association. See more..
4.5 Hot Creek (172 reviews)
- Hot springs visit
Geologic Formations • Hot Springs & Geysers

You can relax in the heated springs of this popular fishing spot. See more..
4.5 Minaret Vista (124 reviews)
- First time visit, and very impressed
Lookouts • Geologic Formations

Was told by a friend to go up to the vista, and it was well worth it. I live on the Western side of the Sierras and the views here were very spectacular. You can see down to Devils Postpile, Mount Adler (highest point in Yosemite NP), and off to the southwest and the headwaters of the San Joaquin River. Take your camera and your binoculars. It'll be worth it. See more..
4.5 Obsidian Dome (115 reviews)
- Great Experience
Geologic Formations

Location is in Mono County near June lakes, this natural dome was created out of lava which solidified to black glass, hence the name, obsidian. See more..
4.5 Mammoth Mountain Bike Park (109 reviews)
- Wow! What a park!!
Biking Trails

Welcome to Mammoth Mountain, California's highest four-season resort and playground with a summit at 11,053 feet above sea level. With 300 days of sunshine annually, the Eastern Sierra offers infinite recreation and scenic beauty all year long, including skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and mountain biking and golf in the summer. Our legendary snowfall provides a perfect winter playground, enabling Mammoth to truly claim the title of Southern California's mountain home. See more..
4.5 Crystal Lake trail (98 reviews)
- The One Hike to Do in Mammoth
Hiking Trails

If you have only one hike to do in Mammoth Lakes, do this one. The 35-60' climb to the high point before the short descent to the lake is moderately difficult because of the altitude and 1000' ascent. The switchback nature of the trail brings Lake Mary/Lake George into view, providing frequent opportunities to stop, catch your breath and admire the landscape. The main reward, however, is Crystal Lake and the way it is backdropped by the Sierra Crest. You will frequently be exposed; a hat and sunblock are smart. You will lose fluids because of your rapid breath and the altitude; a hydration pack is smart, along with a snack. Or, pack your lunch and relax for a bit as you admire the scene. See more..
4.5 Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center (54 reviews)
- Cross country, walking, and snowshoeing rental center with trails
Ski & Snowboard Areas

Came here on a Friday around 2pm to go snowshoeing with three other friends, and didn’t have any reservation. We opted to get the rentals, which note that you don’t need to get a pass (as that’s for the cross country skiers). For the afternoon package, it’s $35 for the snowshoes and you can get poles for balance as well. Free parking is available in the front. The paths were clearly delineated on a map, although the employee who helped us said that we could go off-road as well. When we went to the trail, we tried to go on the shorter one that went through the forest, but somehow just kept going on the longer one that went around the lake. It was still a fun experience, we just got a longer workout than expected (which trust me, it’s definitely a full body workout). Be sure to bring sunglasses and water, since the snow made everything super bright and you gotta protect your eyes! SPF is a must as well. See more..
4.5 Eleven53 Interpretive Center (53 reviews)
- Packed with Info!
Speciality Museums • Lookouts

This is a GREAT place where to learn about the mountain ranges of Mammoth, it's geological history, and the wildlife that is indigenous to the area. It is small, but packed with info--if you have the opportunity, listen to the ranger of this interpretive center. A nice stop at the summit for those not skiing, or if you brought young ones for the (360°) view. See more..
4.5 Horseshoe Lake (51 reviews)
- Fun place to go swimming
Spent 1-2 hours Bodies of Water

This is a fascinating lake. It's great for swimming as it's shallow and you can wade pretty far into the lake; it also has a "sandy" beach that goes around a big portion of the lake. I don't think it's a good lake for fishing though. See more..
4.5 McGee Creek (32 reviews)
- Mc Gee Canyon's stunning fall colors!
Nature & Wildlife Areas

The Eastern Sierras have over the years become a favorite autumn destination for me. There are many little and larger canyons you can easily reach from highway 395. Mc Gee Creek's Canyon is one of those. You don't have to drive in very far to see awesome displays of yellow, orange, and red leaves. In many spots when you turn around you get Owens Lake into the picture. The Sierras are always looming right in front of you. Bring a picnic lunch or visit the town of Mammoth Lakes with its myriad of dining opportunities. A picture is worth a thousand words, so I'll let the pictures do the talking. These were taken October 10th. However, the autumn leaves' color development may vary by as much as 2 weeks every year. If you are too early for Mc Gee Canyon drive North on 395 to Virginia Lakes or Lundy Canyon. It's higher up and might have good colors earlier. See more..
4.5 Earthquake Fault (31 reviews)
- Very cool
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Hiking Trails

Located near the Mammoth scenic loop. Can drive to within 100 yds or so of the fault. No fee free to all. But something you don’t see. See more..
4.5 Wild Willy's Hot Springs (25 reviews)
- 2nd Visit Here, Must See in Mammoth
Spent < 1 hour Bodies of Water

We’ve been here twice now and it’s a great sight to visit. There are no markers so it’s easily missed. Past the second cow guard make a right and follow the dirt road to the parking lot. There is no fee and dogs are welcome. There’s a shirt walk on a trail that leads to the pools. I recommend taking a picnic. There are 3 pools and plenty of areas to relax in the very warm water. There’s a smell of sulphur but it’s light and easily tolerable. Our second trip wasn’t as pretty due to the Creek Fire but enjoyable either way. See more..
4.5 McLeod Lake (23 reviews)
- Outstanding for your pet
Spent More than 3 hours Bodies of Water

I am 80 years old and my wife is 74. We are in great shape for "old" people, but be aware the .6 mile trek from the parking lot to the lake is quite challenging at 9000 feet!! But it was worth it. The lake is beautiful and the 2 mile path around it offers pleasant, relatively flat, walking. Our Golden Retriever went nuts with all the convenient beach access and he enjoyed several stick fetching swims - very pet friendly. Highly recommended. See more..
4.5 Shelter Distilling (22 reviews)
- Excellent cocktails, atmosphere, food and social experience! My new Favorite!!
Friday: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM Distilleries • Breweries

Distillery, Brewery and Kitchen, crafting beers and spirits as grandiose as the Sierra Nevada. Cocktail bar, restaurant and tasting room. See more..
4.5 Skelton Lake (19 reviews)
- Duck lake loop is the best
Bodies of Water

Take the time to visit the many lakes on the duck pass/lake trail from the end of the cold water campground parking lot. You get terrific views of the lakes basin and can tailor the hike to your energy level, just stop and turn around when you've had enough. Skelton lake is the largest of the group and is quite scenic. If you have the gumption to do the switchbacks and climb all the way up to Duck lake you will be rewarded by a above tree line a large alpine lake. See more..
4.5 Garnet Lake (17 reviews)
- Simply breath taking!
Bodies of Water

I have been trekking for more than 2 decades. This is the most beautiful trek ever. The route we took was from Agnew Meadows then up the Shadow Creek trail to Shadow Lake. From there we went to beautiful Garnet Lake. The trail to Garnet Lake was the hardest because of the elevation gain and a 9 mile total. For one day that is not for the fainted hearted. It pays to train before any climb, this proved it to be. Perhaps it would be easier to overnight around Shadow Lake before continuing to Garnet Lake. But once there, I forgot all the hardship going up. The still waters of the lake reflected the mountains and the sky. See more..
4.5 Inyo Craters (17 reviews)
- Most excellent hike and vistas
Geologic Formations

On a whim, took an afternoon hike up to the craters. The trails are very walkable; some trails are better-less fallen trees. There are at least three paths up to the craters. Pros; beautiful vistas and an easy walk. Highly recommend if in the area. See more..
4.0 Mammoth Brewing Company (271 reviews)
- great food, beverages and covid-conscious experience
Friday: 10:00 AM - 10:30 PM Breweries

We are a week into a month long stay in Mammoth lakes and have already eaten at the brewing company twice. They have a fantastic mobile-first ordering process, and a lot of outdoor seating which is great for these covid times. My partner and I are vaccinated but still haven't eaten inside restaurants so we loved this experience. You just use your camera to scan the QR code and order from the menu and pay online. The drinks came almost immediately and the food came quickly too. I also liked this place because it was dog friendly, as we're traveling with my Labrador. there was plenty of space between tables so he wasn't too distracted by people and other dogs. They have a wide array of locally brewed beers and other beverages. I had two different salads, and my partner had the tacos/pitas and the smoke stack. Smoke stack was a lot of meat (pulled chicken). My salads were both great too! I tried the sour beers and liked them both - especially the gooseberry sour. See more..
4.0 Hot Creek Fish Hatchery (55 reviews)
- The life cycle of fish
Nature & Wildlife Areas

The entry point for millions of trout eggs, this is one of the main hatcheries in California's fish-stocking program. See more..
4.0 Crowley Lake (38 reviews)
- FishMammoth Flyfishing Guide Service
Bodies of Water

This man-made lake is well-stocked with several types of trout for prime fishing. See more..
4.0 Kamikaze (5 reviews)
- Slow-mo Kamikaze is still fun
Biking Trails

Downhill mountain bike trail located in the Mammoth Mountain Bike Park. See more..
4.0 Edison Theatre (4 reviews)
- Great little theater in the mountains!
Theaters
Edison Theatre houses the Mammoth Lakes Repertory Theatre and imports many other professional quality productions to fill the season with entertainment year round. See more..