Mammoth Lakes: Hidden Gem of California

When one thinks of the spots of natural beauty in California certain places seemed to be burned into our collective consciousness- Yosemite National Park, the Redwoods, Monterey, Death Valley. One place in particular though has always caught my eye and it tends to be a hidden gem few outside of the state know--Mammoth Lakes.

This picturesque area was first settled in the 1870’s as prospectors sought out riches in the mountains of the eastern Sierra Nevada. Alas the treasures sought were never realized and the small mining town quickly disappeared. In its place soon popped up settlers looking to find a life of prosperity based on other natural wonders— fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, and adventure.

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Mammoth in the Winter

During the winter months Mammoth Lakes transforms into one the most beautiful ski areas you will ever find. Featuring more than 150 trails and 28 snow lifts, the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area boosts some of the best skiing you will find in California. The large amounts of snow, cold weather, and altitude often mean skiing happens into June—I’ve even been up there in July watching skiers fly down the mountainside.

But it isn’t just about hitting the slopes, there are plenty of other winter activities as well. Mammoth Lakes is home to some of the most amazing cross country skiing you will find anywhere in the United States. Nearly 30 miles of machine groomed trails are ready for you to explore the natural beauty found in the region. You can also explore the Inyo National Forest by snowmobile, with more than 100 miles of trails available to you.

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Mammoth in the Summer

I have to be honest and tell you I am not a lover of winter, summer is my time at Mammoth Lakes! Whatever you could possibly want to do during the season is open and available to you at Mammoth.

As a child I used to love heading down into the Inyo National Forest to camp in some of the most beautiful sites you can possibly imagine. Mammoth provides a wonderful mix of back country camping, family camping in a tent, and even great RV options. Personally, I used to love heading down to Red’s Meadow and camping right by some of the greatest features of the Inyo National Forest.

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Admittedly since I began visiting the area nearly 30 years ago things have changed. Today in addition to camping, Red’s Meadow Resort and Pack Station offers a great mountain resort in addition to nearby camping. From here you have access to great horseback riding, kick off point for some amazing backpacking trails, easy access to awesome fishing spots, private showers, and the starting point to some great day hikes.

From here you can set off to actually hike through Reds Meadow—a beautiful open landscape that you think is right out of a nature documentary. From there you hike to Devil’s Postpile, a basalt lava formation cut by passing glaciers to create an amazing rock structure. Two miles further down the trail you come upon Rainbow Falls, a 101-foot drop that creates beautiful rainbows from the mist. Be sure to set out early morning so you can enjoy Reds Meadow and Devil’s Postpile while arriving at the falls around noon, the best part of the day for the rainbows.

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If you are a fisherman Mammoth Lakes offers some of the best fishing holes you will find in the Sierra Nevada. Now my family has a secret “spot” on Sotcher Lake I can share, but I’d have to kill you right after!  But have no fear, there are plenty of other great options out there that are no secret.

The Mammoth Lakes basin, just above the town, features multiple lakes fully stocked with Rainbow, Brook, and Brown Trout. There is also a summer bonus stocking of Alpers Trout, ranging in size from 10 to 12 pounds. If fly fishing is more your style than head back over to the San Joaquin River in Reds Meadow for some amazing fishing. And throughout the Mammoth Lakes and surrounding region there are a number of other lakes and streams with amazing fishing.

And if you’re looking for something a little more adventurous I’d recommend tackling the Minarets.  A multiple day backpacking adventure will take you to one of the most beautiful mountain peaks you can imagine and into a lake you think came from another planet. ​

Lodging

For those looking not to camp, or heading to Mammoth Lakes in the winter time, our family highly recommends The Village Lodge. This resort is a condo resort that allows owners to rent out their places to guests throughout the year. Not only is it high-end with great prices, but it is also super convenient. The lodge features great shopping and dining with shuttle service all around town. It also features direct ski trail and gondola access. You really cannot go wrong here if you’re looking for a modern, comfortable, luxury accommodations—or trying to avoid sleeping on the ground taking in the wilderness!

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About the Author

Rob Whitney is a marketing professional who tries to be a good husband and help his wife from time-to-time. When not working or volunteering with his kids events, he can be found working alongside Jenn as she builds up her travel agency.
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Editors Note: This article originally appeared on JennOnTravel.com