Mammoth Lakes is just as good in summer as in ski season. Warm days, cool nights, alpine lakes and trails start right outside town. Here are our family's favorite things to do in Mammoth Lakes in summer and fall.
The Mammoth Lakes Basin
About five miles up Lake Mary Road, the Lakes Basin is a chain of alpine lakes, including Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, Lake Mamie, Lake George and Horseshoe Lake. Rent a kayak or paddleboard, fish for trout, or hike to viewpoints like Crystal Lake and TJ Lake. Get there early on summer weekends, when parking fills up.
Devils Postpile and Rainbow Falls
Devils Postpile National Monument protects a wall of near-perfect basalt columns, and nearby Rainbow Falls drops over a 100-foot cliff. During the summer season, which typically runs from late June to September, most visitors must ride the Reds Meadow shuttle from the Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge area. Tickets are required and reservations are strongly encouraged, so check the National Park Service website before you go.
Mountain biking and the gondola
When the snow melts, Mammoth Mountain becomes the Mammoth Bike Park, with lift-served trails for every level. Not a rider? Take the scenic gondola to the summit at 11,053 feet for views across the Sierra Nevada and the Ritter Range.
Hiking
- Duck Pass Trail: a longer climb from the Lakes Basin past several lakes.
- Crystal Lake: a short, steep hike with big views over the basin.
- Convict Lake: an easy loop around one of the most photographed lakes in the Eastern Sierra, about 15 minutes south of town.
Day trips
- Yosemite National Park: when Tioga Pass (Highway 120) is open, usually late spring through fall, Yosemite's east entrance is about an hour's drive. Check road status and any park entry requirements before you go.
- June Lake Loop: a scenic drive past four lakes, about 30 minutes north.
- Mono Lake: see the tufa towers near Lee Vining.
Back at the condo
After a day outside, cool off in the seasonal pool at Sierra Manor, fire up the grill, or walk to restaurants and shops in town. The town shuttles run in summer too, including a route to the Village.
Stay with the Flynn family
Our
Mammoth Chalet and
Cozy Mammoth condo are a great base for summer adventures.
See availability and book direct for our best rates, or
contact us with any questions.
