Boasting unreal SKI conditions, a 400+ inch average of snow per season, and the state’s highest lifts – Mammoth Lakes, California, is the peak of winter retreats, but the adventures don’t stop when the snow begins to melt. This award-winning ski destination has countless seasonal activities, making it the perfect place for a family-friendly summer escape, too.
A Natural Playground
Situated on the rim of a volcanic crater, Mammoth Lakes covers over three million acres of wilderness. Crisscrossed by glaciers, rivers, and the ancient Sierra Nevada mountains, the Mammoth Lakes Basin is home to some of nature’s most breathtaking feats. With boundless miles of trails coaxing you into the Ansel Adams, and John Muir Wilderness and beyond, this place is a snapshot of Eastern Sierra’s finest. Enjoy stunningly scenic hikes meandering past dramatic wildflower blooms, rushing alpine creeks and jaw-dropping mountainscapes. If you’re looking for another extraordinary viewpoint, try Hot Creek Geological Site. Located less than a 20-minute drive from town, this undulating plain of bubbling springs and steamy turquoise pools shows exactly why Mammoth Lakes is a mecca for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Formed from boiling pockets of underground rock, this ever-changing geothermal site sprouts new springs overnight at scalding temperatures. A short, well-maintained trail descends 100 feet into the heart of the activity, offering a closer look at this incredible natural marvel.
Water-Fueled fun
Where better to cool off from the Sierra rays than in the crisp waters of Horseshoe Lake? Framed by a thick pine forest, this sandy beach centers you in a natural oasis like no other. Its calm waters make a great place for families to swim, sunbathe, and even launch a kayak or paddle board. Local shops and marinas offer rentals for water sports, including motorboats and fishing supplies, so you can fill your itinerary with all the activities that Mammoth Lakes has to offer.
Another seasonal treasure to take advantage of is the numerous music festivals. The Village at Mammoth hosts plenty of free events from June to September, making the most of the warm evenings with a mix of underground talent and a variety of local vendors. Emerging country artists, jazz bands, and classic rock tributes are some of the acts you can expect to see at this season’s shows. A few stand-out events include Mammoth Villagefest and Mammoth Margarita Festival.
Dinner with a View
Mealtimes at Mammoth Lakes deliver the perfect al fresco experience with views to match. The destination has a range of unique dining spots, many of which have their own outside spaces, so you can dine to your heart’s content as you drink in the Eastern Sierra’s incredible vistas. Dos Alas is a cozy restaurant, full of character and surrounded by gorgeous panoramas of the towering mountain backdrop. You’ll find authentic comfort foods inspired by Puerto Rican, Cuban and Spanish cuisine, vibrant live music, and overall good vibes. Be sure to grab a reservation, this spot fills up fast
for good reason.
Then there’s The Brasserie, an exceptional fine dining spot located above the iconic Mammoth Rock’N’Bowl bowling alley. This hidden gem is flanked with an open-air terrace, serving as an ideal spot to take in the iconic alpenglow sunsets the Sierra Nevada is known for.
Unplug and unwind
No trip is complete without the perfect homebase to rest up after a day filled with all your favorite mountain activities. Find a wide variety of lodging options from quaint cabins, to comfortable condos and upscale resorts. There are plenty of accommodations to suit your unique tastes and set you up for a picturesque retreat you won’t soon forget.
Ready for the ultimate summer getaway? Go to… visitmammoth.com
