By Mary Bishop
Summertime in Mammoth is the perfect time to visit. I suppose if you’re an avid skier, which I am not, you would argue this point, but Mammoth has so much to offer. You are surrounded by majestic mountains and a stunning natural beauty with endless opportunities to explore the outdoors: hike, fish, paddleboard, kayak, mountain biking, hot springs and OHVs exploration.
We’re kind of an active bunch and enjoy camping and all things outdoors. The weather is so mild in the summer and thus we’ve seen every variety of campers, trailer, RV, tents and overlanders (the new trend). There is camping available in both the National Forest Service Land as well as on dedicated campgrounds. There is plenty of wilderness to go around so finding a spot is not usually an issue.
On our most recent trip we brought our Triumph motorcycles and found the best riding we’ve ever experienced. What makes the riding so spectacular is that you are surrounded by a canopy of trees as you cruise along the swooping roads, with little to no traffic.
1. The June Lake Scenic Loop is around 16 miles in length and is fully paved. The sweeping road takes you past several gorgeous lakes. There are plenty of opportunities to pull over and take a picture or drive down to the lake for a dip. The quaint June Lake village offers a variety of shops and restaurants. Our favorite place was June Lake Brewing which offered a cool atmosphere, good beer, and a delicious Mexican food truck. We enjoyed it so much that went back twice in two days.
2. Devils’ Post Pile National Park was another favorite. During the off season, you may drive into the park at any time, but during the peak summer season, only shuttle busses are allowed until 7pm. We started our ride right at 7pm and rode to Reds Meadow (the very last stop) and still finished well before dark (sunset is 9pm in the summer). It’s a steep ascent, but the roads are well paved and lined with an assortment of stunning wildflowers.
Other Favorite Things to Do in Mammoth:
1. Shady Rest Disc Golf, Mammoth: This is a relatively new park but seems to have quite the following and has become very popular. It’s free, but you’ll need to bring your down disks.
2. Favorite Hikes:
a. Mildred Lake & Dorothy Lake Trail: The trail starts at Convict Lake and is 10 miles r/t. If you like a challenge, this is a hard hike with some serious elevation gain reaching nearly 10,000ft. It took a solid 5 hours to reach Mildred Lake. Dorothy Lake is just past it by an hour or so.
b. Crystal Lake Tail: Easy to moderate hike at 3.2 miles r/t. It took 2 hrs. and awards you with several beautiful lakes along the way. Crystal Lake is great for playing, sunbathing, picnicking and rock jumping.
c. Little Lakes Valley Trail: This hike takes you past several lakes and running streams. The dogs loved it but bring mosquito spray. It’s an in-and-out hike so you can go as far in as you like. Lot of places to stop and play or have lunch.
d. Saddlebag Lake Loop Trail: This is north of Mammoth, on the way to Lee Vining, off Highway 120 and near Yosemite’s Eastern Gate. There is not a lot of elevation gain because you start high (close to 10K’) and of course the scenery is stunning. Bring mosquito spray. Hike is 6-7miles r/t.
3. Places to Paddleboard or Kayak: There are MANY lakes perfect for watersports. One of our favorites is Convict Lake, which is about 20 minutes south of Mammoth. They offer rentals or you may bring your own and launch from their dock.
4. Downhill Mountain Biking at Mammoth Mountain Bike Park: Everyone loves this day as it’s a ton of fun. You will need to purchase a lift ticket for the day and bike rental unless you have your own bike, which you may bring.
5. Bodie State Historical Town: This is a former California gold-mining town, which is now deserted. It’s about an hour drive north of Mammoth and is a fun historical place for both adults and kids. Expect an entry fee per person and bring water and snacks.
6. Natural Hot Springs: There are a bunch of free hot springs all over the Mammoth area with breathtaking views in all directions. They are situated in the middle of the valley with cows roaming around at times. They can be busy around sunset, but it is a great place to take a drink and snacks and enjoy the view. Google “hot springs in Mammoth” and you will find a selection.
7. Inyo Crater: Located in Mammoth and is a short family-friendly hike about .7 miles from the parking area. It’s a chance to explore three craters formed by volcanic activity 115,000 years ago.
8. Fishing: Unfortunately, I do not have any advice on fishing as it’s not our sport, however, many people love fishing in Mammoth because there is an abundance of lakes, reservoirs, streams and creeks. We were told that it offers some of the best trout fishing around.
The endless list of adventures in Mammoth have kept us going back for years. It has become our family’s new favorite summer vacation destination. Hope you get to explore it yourself.
