We are hoping that you'll be able to explore some of our favorite places in the Eastern Sierra over the weekend. Mammoth is a special place to us and there are so many amazing sites to see and activities to do — we're not lying. From fishing holes to hot springs to breweries, there is something for everyone. Below is a small list of some of our favorite activities and destinations. If you have any questions or are looking for more adventurous ideas, please don't hesitate to reach out and ask us!
THINGS TO DO IN MAMMOTH
HIKING
There are so many awesome hikes in the Mammoth Lakes area. Even within a 5-10 minute drive from town, you'll feel like you've transported to a different world of spring-fed streams and thousand-year old Bristlecone Pine Trees. There are tons of options from creekside trails to sub-alpine meadows, and even lakes filled with the ever-elusive California Golden Trout. Here are a few of our favorite hikes.
rainbow falls / devils postpile
Hiking to Devils Postpile and Rainbow Falls is fairly easy, but there is some vertical gain and you’ll want to take your time to learn about the geology and soak in the views. This route gives you a 4.5 mile tour of the postpile before winding down the San Joaquin River to Rainbow Falls, and finally climbing back up to Red’s Meadow — a place well known to every JMT and PCT hiker. You can take a shuttle from Main Lodge in the summertime, which will drop you off right at the trailhead.
mcleod lake
A sandy shore, alpine views and crystal blue water make McLeod Lake a spectacular destination in the Mammoth Lakes Basin. Perched above Horseshoe Lake near Mammoth Pass, at an elevation of 9,300 feet the lake is ideal for a short day hike. A visit to the lake is as much a lesson in geology as it is an adventure. Striking red volcanic rocks, the sheer granite cliffs, and the crystal-clear blue water of combine for a colorful backdrop.
FISHING
The Eastern Sierras are home to some of the best fresh water trout fishing in the Western United States. There are rivers, lakes, streams, and tributaries with Rainbow, Brown, Brook, and even Golden Trout. Here are a couple of our favorite places to fish during the summer months.
the upper owens & hot creek
The longest river in the Eastern Sierra is also the most famous: the Owens River. While folks have been fighting over the rights to the water for generations, people have been fishing here even longer. The Upper stretch of the Owens River is a popular spot to fish for a tackle box full of reasons.
convict lake
You don’t have to be a great photographer to take amazing photos at Convict Lake. The lake and the surrounding mountains are pretty enough to make any picture look good—if there’s a fish of a lifetime involved, all the better. Originally carved out by glaciers, Convict Lake is a glistening aquatic blessing.
RELAXING
Hiking and fishing are a lot of work (see above photo) — ask Heidi! Sometimes after a long day of catching fish or after bagging a couple of 14,000 ft. peaks, you need to take a break, relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
WILD WILLIES HOT SPRINGS
Looking for a place to relax and unwind after a long day of hiking? We've got you covered. Head to Mammoth Lake's area hot springs to enjoy scenic alpine views as you relax in the warm spring water. Wild Willies is one of the more popular springs, but there are tons more in the area.
scenic gondola ride
Take a Scenic Gondola Ride up Mammoth Mountain to explore all the fun at 11,053 ft. At the top, snap a selfie at the summit sign, enjoy lunch with panoramic views at the Eleven53 Café, and discover the history and wonder of the Sierra at the interpretive center.
RECREATION
From mountain biking to paddle boarding — and everything in between — there is an endless amount of fun to be had. If you're looking to get in some exercise and enjoy the spectacular scenery, we've got a few ideas for you.
golfing
With immaculate forest-lined fairways, big views of granite peaks, clear mountain streams, open meadows, wildflowers and even an occasional herd of deer or a wandering black bear on the green, there’s no more inspiring place to tee off than on one of Mammoth Lakes’ two public golf courses. Experts claim that you’ll see a 5-10% increase in your driving distance at more than a mile above sea level... but is that actually true? You'll have to find out.
biking
Whether you are looking for mountain or road biking, Mammoth Lakes is your spot. Test your suspension on the Inyo National Forest's vast network of trails and unpaved roads. Road bikers have plenty of asphalt routes to choose from, whether pedaling around town, gearing down to puff up Minaret Road to the Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge and beyond to the breathtaking Minaret Vista or cruising the scenic stretches of US 395.
FOOD
Having spent many winters and summers in the town of Mammoth Lakes and June Lake Loop, we've been to a good number of mom & pop restaurants, craft breweries, and coffee shops. Here are a few of our favorite places to grab a bite to eat.
schat's bakery
Erick Schat's Bakery is without a doubt the best bakery in the Eastern Sierra. His brother Erik, down in Bishop, isn't bad either — but here you will find the best baked goods in town. From fruit danishes to jalapeño rolls and steaming hot coffee, this is the place to go for a morning snack and coffee before a hike to Rainbow Falls or a long day catching trout on Lake Mary.
the stove
After a long morning catching German Brown Trout on the Owen's River, this is THE spot to stop for breakfast. The Stove is home to some of the best country-cooking that you will find in town. They serve homemade omelettes, hash browns, and fresh fruit pie for dessert. You will not be disappointed.
campo
This is one of the newer dinner spots in town, and it's really grown on us the past year or so. Campo Mammoth serves homemade pizza, pasta, and they have a great wine list for those looking to have a nice glass of cabernet with your dinner.
DRINKS
Whether you're looking for the best IPA in town or the tastiest pourover coffee, we've got you covered. These are some of our favorite spots to grab a beer and stay caffeinated.
mammoth brewing company + the Eatery
Mammoth Brewing is the best [and one of the only] breweries in town. They serve a variety of beers that range from their famous 395 IPA to their award-winning Double Nut Brown. For those non-beer drinkers, they also have the best homemade rootbeer you will find and some choice bottles of wine on tap as well.
black velvet coffee
There is a Starbucks in town, but if you're looking for something a little different [and a little tastier], we suggest you check out Black Velvet Coffee. They serve a great pour over, a very well-caffeinated cold brew, and some tasty waffle treats to get your morning started.
the clocktower CELLAR
Simply put, the Clocktower is the best [and diviest] dive bar in town. It's our favorite bar — which may be because we often frequent the Alpenhof Lodge, but it's got a great beer and spirit list and an eclectic atmosphere. The Clocktower is also home to the BEST appetizer in town, Totchos. Yes, Totchos — tater tot nachos, topped with cheese, sour cream, chives, jalapeños, and more. If you don't believe us, try some totchos for yourself.