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19 Jun 2022
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Mammoth Vacation Planning

Best Things to Do in Mammoth Lakes in the Summer

Mammoth in the Summer: The Perfect Getaway

When you think of Mammoth Lakes, you might picture snowy peaks and winter sports. However, Mammoth Lakes is a vibrant summer destination filled with activities and natural beauty. From May to September, the area transforms into a wonderland of outdoor adventures, making it an ideal summer vacation spot. And there's no better place to stay than the vacation rentals offered by Mammoth Mountain Reservations, providing comfort and convenience right in the heart of all the action.

Top Activities in Mammoth Lakes

1. Hiking and Exploring Nature in Mammoth:

  • Lakes Basin: Enjoy hikes for all ages and levels, with stunning views and fresh air. Don’t forget the bug spray! Trails like Crystal Lake Trail and Duck Pass Trail offer breathtaking vistas and challenging routes for experienced hikers.
  • Hot Springs: Discover hidden natural hot springs off the 395 for a relaxing dip away from the crowds. Popular spots include Wild Willy's Hot Springs and Hilltop Hot Springs, where you can unwind in naturally heated waters while enjoying panoramic mountain views.
  • Devils Postpile National Monument: Explore this unique geological formation and the nearby Rainbow Falls, a stunning 101-foot waterfall.
  • Minaret Vista: For a picturesque viewpoint, head to Minaret Vista, offering breathtaking views of the Minarets, part of the Ritter Range.
  • Mammoth Consolidated Mine: For history buffs, a visit to this historic mining site provides a glimpse into the area’s gold mining past.

2. Water Activities in Mammoth:

  • June Lake: Perfect for swimming, picnicking, and beach games, just a short drive from Mammoth. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking.
  • Fishing: With a license, explore top fishing spots like Crowley Lake, Owens River, Mammoth Creek, and the Lakes Basin. Each spot is well-stocked with trout and offers peaceful, scenic environments for a relaxing day by the water.
  • Boating: Rent a boat or kayak at Lake Mary Marina and enjoy the serene waters surrounded by majestic mountains.
  • Swimming: For a refreshing dip, visit Horseshoe Lake, known for its calm waters and scenic backdrop.
  • Kayaking and Paddleboarding: The calm waters of Twin Lakes and Lake George are perfect for these activities, offering a serene experience amidst stunning scenery.

3. Biking Adventures in Mammoth:

  • Mountain Biking: Hit the trails at Mammoth Mountain for an exhilarating ride. The Mammoth Bike Park features over 80 miles of singletrack, catering to all skill levels.
  • Road Biking: Enjoy scenic routes suitable for all skill levels. The Minaret Vista ride offers challenging climbs and rewarding views.
  • E-Biking: For a more relaxed experience, rent an e-bike and explore the paved paths around town and the Lakes Basin.
  • Family-Friendly Rides: The Town Loop and the Lakes Basin Path are perfect for families, offering safe and enjoyable routes.

4. Additional Activities in Mammoth:

  • Climbing: Various climbing walls for all skill levels, including the Mammoth Rock area and Clark Canyon.
  • Running: Scenic trails perfect for a run, such as the Mammoth Lakes Trail System, which offers over 300 miles of trails.
  • Shopping: Unique local shops and markets, like the Mammoth Luxury Outlets and Village at Mammoth, offer a variety of souvenirs and local crafts.
  • Arts and Theater: Cultural activities and local performances at venues like the Mammoth Lakes Repertory Theatre and the Edison Theatre.
  • Horseback Riding: Explore the area on horseback with guided tours from local stables like Mammoth Lakes Pack Outfit.
  • Golfing: Play a round at Sierra Star Golf Course, California's highest golf course, offering stunning mountain views.
  • Scenic Drives: Explore the scenic byways, such as the June Lake Loop, for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.

5. Adventure Tours in Mammoth:

  • Guided Tours: Explore the backcountry and national parks with experienced guides who can show you hidden gems and provide fascinating insights into the area's natural history.
  • Helicopter Tours: Get a bird's-eye view of the stunning landscape with a scenic helicopter tour over the Sierra Nevada mountains.
  • Jeep and ATV Tours: For a more rugged adventure, take a guided Jeep or ATV tour to explore the off-road trails and backcountry.

The Relaxed Summer Vibe

1. Easy Driving:

  • Summer driving is hassle-free without winter hazards, making it enjoyable. Roads are clear, and scenic drives like the June Lake Loop offer breathtaking views without the worry of icy conditions.

2. Long Days:

  • Longer daylight hours allow for a leisurely start and more time for activities. Enjoy watching the sunrise over the mountains and take advantage of extended evenings for stargazing.

3. Expansive Spaces:

  • Access to mountain ranges, forests, meadows, and deserts for endless exploration. Areas like the Inyo National Forest offer vast landscapes perfect for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.
  • Wildlife Watching: Summer is a great time to spot wildlife such as deer, marmots, and a variety of bird species.

Perfect Weather in Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth enjoys pleasant weather with temperatures rarely exceeding 80°F, making outdoor activities enjoyable. Occasional afternoon showers enhance the refreshing atmosphere, while cool evenings are perfect for campfires and cozy sweaters.

1. Blue Skies and Sunshine:

  • Most days feature clear blue skies, ideal for outdoor adventures and photography. The consistent sunshine makes every day feel like an opportunity to explore.

2. Refreshing Rain:

  • Afternoon rain showers are brief and leave the air feeling fresh and invigorating. The scent of rain on pine trees is a sensory delight that adds to the natural charm of Mammoth.

Easy Accessibility

Mammoth offers free public transportation, making it easy to reach popular spots like the Main Lodge and Lakes Basin. The extensive trail network is ideal for walking, running, and biking, with well-marked paths and maps available at visitor centers.

1. Public Transit in Mammoth:

  • Free shuttles run throughout the town and to key destinations, reducing the need for a car and making it easy to explore.

2. Trail Systems of Mammoth:

  • The Mammoth Lakes Trail System offers interactive maps and well-maintained hiking trails that connect various points of interest. Whether you're hiking, biking, or simply strolling, the trails are designed for easy navigation and enjoyment.

3. Accessibility for All:

  • Many trails and attractions are wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the beauty of Mammoth Lakes.

Plan Your Mammoth Lakes Summer Adventure

Now that you know what makes summer in Mammoth special, it’s time to plan your getaway. Mammoth Mountain Reservations offers the perfect vacation rentals to suit every need, providing comfort and convenience in the heart of all the action. Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin or a spacious condo, you'll find the ideal accommodation to make your stay memorable. Explore the variety of vacation rentals we offer to discover your perfect summer getaway!

Book your stay at Mammoth Lakes with Mammoth Mountain Reservations and experience the ultimate summer adventure. Don’t miss out on the fun—reserve your spot today!

Mammoth Lakes is a summer paradise with endless activities and natural beauty. Staying with Mammoth Mountain Reservations ensures you have the best experience, with top-notch accommodations and easy access to all the summer fun. What’s your favorite part of Mammoth in the summertime? Let us know in the comments below!

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