Mammoth Lakes California – A Summer Bucket List Destination

Mammoth Lakes California – A Summer Bucket List Destination

Recently, I traveled to Mammoth Lakes, California in celebration of one of my best friend’s 40th birthdays. It was a wonderful trip filled with tons of outdoor adventure and much needed respite. Most know Mammoth Lakes as a popular winter destination because it offers unbelievable skiing. But after a week, I came to realize that Mammoth Lakes has a lot to do during the summer. Here are my 11 reasons everyone should make Mammoth Lakes California – A Summer Bucket List Destination.

#1 Mammoth Lakes is a great place for Hiking

John Muir Trail Sign near Mammoth Lakes California during the Summer
According to Visit Mammoth, the area has over a dozen hiking trails amid the 2 million acres of Inyo National Forest. With the Sierras as a backdrop, you are bound to find beauty everywhere you hike. Depending on when in the summer you hike, you’ll find most trails easily marked and generally clear. One particular hike we enjoyed was catching the John Muir trail around Sherwin Lakes.

Please note that with any outdoor adventure you should be prepared. Before heading out, check the weather and communicate your path with friends and family. It is also recommended you bring sunscreen, bug spray, plenty of water, a snack, and a map.

#2 It is a great Summer Destination for Fishing

Fishing at Lake Mary in Mammoth Lakes California during the summer

For those of you that know me, fishing is one of those activities that tends to push the limits of my attention deficit. However, spending a day fishing in Mammoth Lakes was an unbelievable experience, even for me. In Mammoth, trout fishing is a wonderful adventure even if you don’t catch anything. I recommend going to Lake Mary with your gear, a chair, plenty of sunscreen, and a picnic lunch. Not only do you have a chance to catch the “big one” but the views alone will take your breath away.

Please Note that it is required to have a valid fishing license for anyone fishing over the age of 16 in California. A day license is around $15 and can be obtained at many stores in Mammoth Lakes or online at https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing

#3 It has great Bucket List Mountain Biking Routes

Whether you are an avid mountain biker or just like cruising around town on your beach cruiser, Mammoth Lakes has tons of options for you. You will find everything from paved routes to wild trails through the scenic forest. There are plenty of shops in town that will be more than happy to facilitate your desire to roll around on two wheels. We were able to rent bikes along with proper safety gear from Footloose Sports off of Main Street.

Please note that with any cycling adventure you should be prepared. Before heading out, check the weather and communicate with friends and family about your planned route. It is recommended you bring sunscreen, bug spray, plenty of water, a snack, and a map. Also, please wear proper safety gear like your helmet, protective pads, and possibly gloves at all times. Also, we strongly recommend that you consider getting Travel Insurance from World Nomads.  It is simple and flexible insurance to keep you safe while tackling any bucket list adventure.

#4 Mammoth has some unbelievable Hot Springs in all California

view of Hot Creek Geological Site also Known as Nature's Cauldron in Mammoth California over the summer
One of my favorite things to do while travelling is finding and swimming in hot springs! There is nothing better than soaking your sore muscles after a long day of hiking in a hot spring and due to Mammoth Lakes’ volcanic past the area is still full of hydrothermal springs. One of the best options is to visit Wild Willy’s Hot Spring off Benton Crossing Road. After parking, you take a leisurely stroll along a board walk and gravel path until you arrive at two separate pools. Each pool is shallow enough to sit down in most spots and just relax in the warm waters.

Another Hot Springs option that you should visit is the Hot Creek Geological Site. Known as Nature’s Cauldron, this spring is “hot” due to the rising of heat from vents leading to large magma below. It is a picturesque site and was also the location of several movies including John Wayne’s True Grit.

Please Note that it is strongly ill advised to swim in or around the Hot Creek Geological Site because of its extreme high temperatures. Also, there have been records of “geysering” of very hot, sediment-laden water as high as 6 feet which can cause injury and even death. PLEASE DONT SWIM AT THE HOT CREEK GEOLOGICAL SITE!

#5 You can see a real Earthquake Fault

Located off Highway 203 between the town of Mammoth Lakes and the ski resort, you can easily drive to see an amazing feat of nature. More properly known as the Earthquake Fissure, you can stand near the edge where the earth separated and revealed a gap due to a series of strong quakes perhaps from about 600 years ago. For us, it was a unique viewing experience as you are able to walk around the fenced off fissure exploring into its dark depths.

Most know Mammoth California as a popular winter destination but it's also great during the summer too! Discover 11 reasons everyone should make Mammoth Lakes, California a Summer Bucket List Destination. #VisitMammoth #MammothStories Click To Tweet

#6 You can explore another world at Mono Lake

View of the Tufas at Mono Lake in Mammoth California during the Summer
Mark Twain once called Mono Lake “one of the strangest freaks of nature to be found in any land.” This is perhaps due to the Tufas. Tufas are calcium-carbonate formations created by interaction of freshwater springs and alkaline lake water. Along the 65 square miles of lake, you will find these amazing land masses that will make you feel like you are on the surface of the moon. One of the highlights of our visit was to watch the Ospreys. They flew around the tops of the Tufa spires where they had made their nests.

 

#7 You can see where the Devil keeps his Posts in Mammoth

One of the coolest features in Mammoth is a collection of basalt columns collectively known as the Devil’s Postpile. These 60-foot basalt columns were formed when lava flowed through the valley some 100,000 years ago. Devil’s Postpile National Monument is open during the summer and offers fun for the whole family. To get to the Devil’s Postpile you need to take a shuttle from The Village. When you arrive, just hike about half a mile to the base. But be sure to take your time because there are countless birds, animals, and unbelievable flowers everywhere.

#8 Try the tons of Water Activities on the Mammoth Lakes

Swimming in Lake Mary in Mammoth California during the Summer
If you are a water baby like me, then you will love the various water adventures around Mammoth Lakes. You can easily find all kinds of rental services if boating is your thing too. They will hook you up with everything from kayaks to full on motorboats as Lake Mary is a perfect spot for boating. In most places, you will also be able to find Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP) rentals so you can cruise the lakes on your own power. However, if you would rather get into some water than on top of it, then put on your bathing suit and head on over to June Lake Beach. Here you can take a dip in the pristine nippy mountain lake while enjoying the incredible scenery.

Please note that with any water adventure you should be prepared. Before heading out, check the weather. It is recommended you bring sunscreen, bug spray, plenty of water, and a snack. Also, please notice that there aren’t lifeguards present, so be careful.

#9 Golf amid the Sierras with the occasional bear hazard

So I am not a golfer at all, but my good friend Brian loves it. One of his favorite golfing experiences is to playing at the Sierra Star Golf Course in Mammoth Lakes. As he said, Sierra Star offers a great opportunity for high altitude golfing. Here he can hit the ball a ton and work through the challenge of ball control on the approach of shots. This unique experience is only enhanced with the beautiful Sierras as a backdrop. Plus the occasional bear walking near the course is a fun “hazard” to say the least.

From beautiful Hikes along the John Muir Trail to swimming in secret Hot Springs, discover 11 activities that make Mammoth Lakes, California a Summer Bucket List Destination! #VisitMammoth #MammothStories Click To Tweet

#10 Return to civilization in The Village at Mammoth

Eric Gamble playing with the metal Bear Statue in The Village at Mammoth during the Summer
After all that hiking, fishing, and just getting muddy outdoors, you might need a break from the woods. That is why I liked exploring the Village at Mammoth. With all the great restaurants, bars, and shops, the Village allowed us to clean up and just leisurely stroll through a beautiful outdoor mall. They also have all kinds of entertainment for the whole family which is a great bonus. Obviously, you will find fun concerts and festivals in their Plaza on the weekends. But one of my favorite things was the family Summer Movie events they put on in the Plaza every Thursday and Sunday. You can see what movies, festivals, comedy shows, or other events are happening in the Village at Mammoth by visiting http://villageatmammoth.com/events.

#11 Unplug & Reconnect with loved ones

Eric Gamble and Brian Simpson relaxing on the porch at their Cabin in Mammoth, California during the Summer
Not all of my Bucket List items are about travel and adventure. Many items on my list are designed to help me reconnect with friends and family. So, often I pursue opportunities like spending a week in a cabin in Mammoth Lakes with my closest friends. During the week, we enjoyed sitting on the porch amid the wonderful aroma of the trees without any distractions of television, computers, or cell phones. There is just something about staying in a cabin in Mammoth Lakes. It makes you want to read a book or play board games with your family.

 
Have you ever been to Mammoth Lakes? With all there is to do and experience there, do you think Mammoth Lakes California is A Summer Bucket List Destination? Which of the 11 reasons for Mammoth Lakes California – A Summer Bucket List Destination is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below!

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95 thoughts on “Mammoth Lakes California – A Summer Bucket List Destination

  1. It’s always interesting to see what destinations look like in their off season, and it looks like relatively speaking, you guys had the Mammoth Lakes area all to yourselves! The hot springs sound amazing right now, and Devil’s Postpile is really impressive. I saw similar columnar basalt on the Penghu Islands in Taiwan last year and it’s striking to me how similar they are despite obviously being so far apart.

  2. I heard a lot about Mammoth Lakes, and it’s one of the destinations in California that I want to visit. I would like to do a couple of hikes, and soak in at the Wild Willy’s hot springs. It looks fun!

    1. You guys will LOVE IT!! It is a beautiful area in California with tons to do for the whole family! But I have to agree with you that a soak in Wild Willy’s Hot Springs was by far one of our favorite things to do in Mammoth Lakes.

  3. We have visited California many times and I can’t believe we have not yet made it to Mammoth Lakes. Always another good reason to head back! I would certainly be heading to the hot springs. But I probably do not need to be reminded about how close I would be to an earthquake fault! Good to know the Village offers a break from all the quiet of the natural beauty! Sounds like there is something for everyone.

  4. I hadn’t heard of Mammoth Lakes before (not being from the US) but the hiking, hot springs and the golf have definitely got my name on them. The scenery is absolutely stunning. Bookmarking this for my travel bucketlist.

    1. Yeah, I am not much of a golfer but my friend from San Diego says it is one of his favorite places to golf for sure. But even if golfing isn’t your thing, there is still plenty to do during the summertime!

    2. Oh Suzanne, you will absolutely love exploring Mammoth Lakes in California. The hiking is phenomenal as you get to see a couple parts of the John Muir and Pacific Crest Trails that run through the area. But I have to say that the hot springs were by far our favorite thing to do in Mammoth Lakes.

  5. We are skiers and Mammoth has been on my hit list for some time, although we still have not made it. By chance though, we landed in this area last autumn and loved it! You are so right: the mountain biking is fabulous and Mono Lake was a real highlight. Unfortunately, we were on a bit of a tight schedule so did not have the time to explore as thoroughly as you have done, but I would love to return and experience more of the area which you have outlined here. I don’t fish, but would love to see the Earthquake fault and the hot springs. And I still want to ski!

    1. Yeah, Skiing in Mammoth is definitely a highlight for the colder seasons. But if you are there in the Summer, I would have to say that there is tons to do for kids of all ages! We absolutely loved all the hiking around the PCT and Mono Lakes is truly out of this world!

  6. I’m from California and still haven’t been to Mammoth Lakes. I remember my former boss going to Mammoth Lakes frequently to go rock climbing. Since I don’t rock climb, I would love to go on one or more hiking trails. (In the past, I did a portion of the John Muir trail when I did a Mount Whitney day trip hike, so it’s cool that the John Muir trail connects here!) The hot springs sounds like a fabulous place to unwind at the end of the day. Thanks for the tip on not to swim in the Hot Creek Geological site. I can’t wait to visit this place in the future!

  7. Wow, what a great way for anyone to celebrate their birthday. I love traveling to great outdoor destinations. The tufas at the lake look insane. I’d love to explore that region.

  8. I live in California and haven’t spent time in Mammoth Lakes. You got my attention with ‘respite’, I could use some of that and the hot springs look like to place to get it.

  9. Mammoth lakes is definitely a perfect place to go for outdoor adventures and explorations. All kinds of activities and never a dull moment. Hot springs is definitely something I would want to experience. I will be heading there first if ever I get there.

  10. I’m definitely a summer person and would love to see the park’s glory for this season. I like that there are hot springs that you can jump into whenever you feel tired already. Was expecting some mammoth remains hear though. haha

  11. This is the perfect place to go for outdoor adventures and explorations. The view and landscapes must be even more gorgeous in person! xo – Kam

  12. Mammoth Lakes does look like a great place to unplug and enjoy the gorgeous views and nature in the summer! I love the abundance of hiking trails too!

  13. Beautiful place! Mammoth Lakes looks so wild and peaceful. The perfect spot to get in touch with nature. I’m not quite a hiking person, but I don’t think I would mind to wandering around these trails. Nice post! Congrats!

  14. I love fishing! Something very Zen about ‘waiting’ for a nibble. I’ve never been to Mammoth Lakes before though. Looks fantastic. Surprised I haven’t read more about. Thanks for the excellent info, the cabin in the woods scenario is definitely calling my name!

  15. Mammoth Lakes looks so serene, it would definitely appeal to me for the hot springs and swimming. High altitude golfing is something I’ve not heard of before. Is it really a thing?

  16. I love Mammoth Lakes in summer! One of my favorite destinations in California. We love hiking there, but never swam in the lake. It’s probably not very warm. I visited Mammoth Lakes in winter also. It’s a skiers’ paradise!

    1. Not going to lie, the water is beautiful but it is very chilly for this little Cuban boy. That’s why we stick to swimming in the geothermal pools!

  17. I did a few weekend trips up to Mammoth when I was living in San Francisco, such a beautiful area. We always did a sunset or sunrise at Mono too! So unique!

  18. You had me at hot springs! I have never heard of Mammoth Lakes in California, did not know it is a popular winter destination due to the skiing options. But it looks pretty amazing in the summer too, with so much to do! I’ d love to even go for a short hiking trip, or stay in a place where I can completely disconnect from the world for a couple of days and relax.

  19. Wow, Mammoth Lake looks incredible; it seems to have all the best parts of California in one place. I love that you mentioned spending time unplugged with family and friends, that should always be a high priority on a family getaway. I had never heard of Devil’s Postpile National Monument, but I just looked it up and it’s so cool! Definitely adding Mammoth Lakes to our bucket list!

    1. Yeah, Devil’s Post Pile is really cool to explore. So many people go to places like Iceland to see the Basalt Columns and they should. But you can see amazing similar beauty also here in America.

  20. Mark Twain sure was a smart cookie so I agree with him on Mono Lake, too: Looks beautiful. However, I’m more impressed by this hot creek site – would have never believed that it can get that hot and even ‘spit’ water…definitely: wow!!

    1. Yeah there are many hot springs you can swin in around Mammoth Lakes but the Hot Creek Site is like it a hot spring, a geyser, and a volcano all had a baby.

  21. Wow this looks like a great place to go for a hike and connect with nature! Will definitely consider camping there! Thanks for sharing!

  22. I used to live a few hours away from Mammoth Lakes and love the region. Honestly, I never went during the winter for skiing. But, as you have illustrated, there is so much to do during the summer. Such a great location for hiking. Devil’s Postpile is beyond impressive and I love the Middle Eastern feel of Mono Lake.

  23. Can’t believe we haven’t been to Mammoth Lakes and we’re not even that far! It really looks like a great place to enjoy and like the perfect weekend getaway! Maybe we can squeeze it in before moving from California.

  24. oh my I’m not sure how I’d feel about seeing a bear while golfing! Good thing I’m a terribly golfer (can’t even mini golf). I’ll stick to hiking and the hot springs!

  25. What a cool place! I would go to Mammoth Lake especially for hiking and reconnecting with nature but Mono Lake does not look bad either! What a pity you did not post a picture of the quake fall, now I am curious!

  26. The mammoth Lake looks beautiful and it has lots to offer. Earthquake fault has excited me most and Mono Lake seems like actually a different world. We too would like to try some water sports. Great post and pictures.

  27. I have an obsession with hiking and this looks like it’d be perfect for a one day road trip! I love the idea of the hot springs too!

  28. Outdoor enthusiasts, even those who just want to chill, will surely love Mammoth Lakes! I love that there are so many things to do there. I think my favorite is the hiking trails!

  29. Sign me up. I really want to see Devils Postpile. I am trying to visit all of these formations in the world. Also any place with great hiking is on my list.

  30. I have never been to Mammoth Lake but it seems like such a serene place to disconnect and go off the grid for a little while. I would love to visit!

  31. I’d definitely like to pay a visit to Wild Willy’s Hot Spring off Benton Crossing Road. There are few things more delightful after hiking or biking through nature than soaking in some hot springs.

  32. This sounds like a really lovely place to stay. I would definitely love to see where the devil keeps his post. And wow, see a real fault line? THat’s both interesting and scary .

  33. Whoa! Mammoth Lakes California seems like a bucket list must place! I mean, so much to do at just one place. I love places that offer adventure. I didn’t get a chance to visit California during my visit to States last autumn 🙁 Maybe next time!

  34. One look at that last picture of the cabin and I am sold…I can only imagine the cozy interiors. Great destination for nature trails and hikes. What caught my eye was the interestingly named ‘Devils Postpile’…lava from 100,000 years ago? Wow.

  35. This post brought back so many happy memories for me!!! I haven’t been to Mammoth in over 20 years but as a kid my dad took me skiing here every winter!!!

  36. I’ve never heard of Mammoth lakes before but it sounds like an incredible place for adventure enthusiasts like myself! I would definitely go and would love to explore by hiking and cycling!

  37. Mammoth Lake is really a promising destination with so much to see and do. Apart from the hiking and cycling, I was fascinated by the Mono Lake. the Tufo spires look so intriguing, no wonder Mark Twain called it the greatest freak.

  38. My mom was just telling me that she wanted to experience some real hot springs! Sounds like Mammoth Lakes may be a great place to take her. Thanks for the suggestion!

  39. Thanks for sharing! I have never heard of Mammoth Lake and it looks awesome! So many neat places to visit! The earthquake fault seems freaky but cool too haha!

  40. I have only been to the Mammoth Lakes Basin area. I have not explored the town or the National Monument. The entire area around US-395 is so beautiful. Our last visit was last fall. I hope we can visit this fall again. #TheWeeklyPostcard

  41. I’ve never heard of Mammoth Lake but it looks gorgeous. Your photos are really great. I would love to go away from there to get away from everything for a bit.

  42. Mammoth Lake looks like it’s right up our alley. What a gorgeous spot. Definitely a great summer spot. We would love to do some hiking around there and those water spots looks like the ideal way to cool down. Great guide.

  43. The hiking looks so great! I would also love to see a real earthquake fault! Nice post. Something for everyone

  44. Gotta love a 4 season park, especially if you’re a Californian. I’m no snow bunny so I’ll keep in mind for next summer

  45. This looks like a really beautiful place! I’m definitely adding it to my bucket list!

  46. Looks like an awesome place! As I currently live on a lake I love this lifestyle and all the opportunities you get.

  47. Never heard of Mammoth Lakes but am adding this to my bucket list! The cabin option sounds fantastic especially. I’m all about digital detox – getting away from phones and computers, etc. and love spending time with friends and family too. Thanks for sharing!!

  48. Never heard of this place before but it looks amazing! Sam has spent some time in California but I’ve never been and im desperate to go, this place looks like itll make it for the many places we want to go in California! Great article!

  49. Yay for being able to unplug and reconnect! And I would love to get to see an Earthquake Fault. What a neat thing to get to see!

  50. It’s a goal of mine to start seeing more of the US. I’m definitely pinning this to my travel board so I remember when I create a road trip plan 🙂

  51. Looks like the perfect place for outdoor adventures! I didn’t realize there were hot springs there! Will have to make a road trip to spend some extended time there.

  52. Wow it sounds like a super awesome place to head for a bucket list. The last time I went to California was when I was 12 and I loved every bit of the memories I have of that place. But as an adult to be able to explore better would be even better! Thanks for sharing. One day I hope I can make it to that place. Great tips, btw!

    Maria

  53. I didn’t know there were hot springs there! All of it sounds like fun. And the golfing sounds a lot more exciting with a bear added in…. 😂

  54. I’ve never been to Mammoth Lakes but it looks amazing. Crazy I grew up in California and never once went there. The hot springs looks beautiful… in fact all of it does!

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