Top Outdoor Winter & Summer Adventures to Experience in Mammoth Lakes

Hey, you! Yes, you! Are you an adrenaline junkie? Well, if you are, here’s just the right place for your next adventure! Situated in California, Mammoth Lakes is an action-packed paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From exploring beautiful mountain trails in the summer to skiing through the snow in the winter, this place is built for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. From epic skiing and snowboarding to hiking, fishing, and kayaking, there are endless things to do in Mammoth Lakes. No matter the season, adventure is always in full swing here at Mammoth Lakes. Ready to dive in? Here’s your guide to the top outdoor winter and summer adventures to experience in Mammoth Lakes!

Top 5 Winter Activities in Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes has some of the best snow in North America, giving it one of the longest snowy seasons. Whether you crave deep, powdery snow or sunny California skies, there’s a perfect winter adventure waiting for you. Hit the slopes at Mammoth Mountain and explore endless cross-country and snowshoe trails, ride snowmobiles, or enjoy classic winter fun with sledding and snowball fights. Winter activities in Mammoth Lakes are sure to provide a fulfilling experience.

1. Skiing & Snowboarding

Mammoth Lakes is a winter paradise—and for good reason. With over 300 days of sunshine each year, this place offers a true California snow experience. Whether you’re a ski expert or a beginner, this destination welcomes everyone! As California’s highest chairlift-accessible resort, Mammoth gets an average of 400 inches of snow per season. With four base lodges, 150 named trails, 11 terrain parks, and 3,500 acres of skiable terrain, the fun never stops. The resort also offers rental equipment for all activities.

Best Spots for Skiing & Snowboarding:

Mammoth Mountain: Offers more than 140 scenic trails
June Mountain: Featuring more than 30 trails, it’s an iconic spot for both beginners and advanced ski enthusiasts

2. Cross Country & Nordic Skiing

Cross-country and Nordic skiing in Mammoth Lakes is the perfect way to unwind and connect with nature. Outdoor enthusiasts will surely enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as they glide through this winter wonderland, surrounded by snow-covered peaks and frozen lakes. With miles of beautiful trails, there’s plenty to explore. Experience the scenic cross-country tracks winding through Mammoth Lakes and the Inyo National Forest as you ski through the mountains.

Best Routes:

Shady Rest Park to Mammoth Lakes Basin
Shady Rest Park to Minaret Vista

3. Tubing & Sledding

Sledding is a classic winter thrill for all ages. Pick up a sled from a local shop or check if your lodge has one to borrow. If you have your own tube, you can find plenty of open hills to slide down. Just choose a public area with a clear, obstacle-free slope, hike up, and enjoy the ride! Sledding is one of the best winter activities in Mammoth Lakes. Stay safe by avoiding trees and roads and consider wearing a helmet for extra protection.

Best Spots for Tubing & Sledding:

Woolly’s Adventure Summit: Featuring a Tube Park, snow play area for kids, and a Mountain Coaster
Mammoth Scenic Loop: A popular sledding spot
Highway 395: An iconic sledding spot in Mammoth Lakes
Shady Rest Park: Perfect for little ones

4. Ice Skating

There’s nobody on this earth who doesn’t love ice skating. Strap on your skates and hit the ice! To enjoy the thrill of Ice Skating, head to LA Kings Ice at Mammoth Lakes. If you’re a beginner, take a lesson and learn at your own pace. If you’re a seasoned ice skater, play ice hockey for a soul-satisfying experience.

Pricing Details of LA Kings Ice:

Senior Citizens/College Students/Military Personnel- $19
Adults- $22
Youth (5-17)- $18
Kids- $5

5. Snowshoeing & Snowmobiling

Whether you traverse the spectacular snowy trails of Mammoth Mountain on foot or by snowmobile, both provide an exhilarating experience. Start on the beginners’ trails at Shady Rest Park, then challenge yourself with the scenic climb to Minaret Vista. To keep yourself warm, dress in layers and wear waterproof boots. For a faster thrill, try snowmobiling. Don’t forget to check Mammoth Lake trails for the best routes if you have your own snowmobile.

Best Snowshoeing Zones:

Panorama Dome
Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center
Shady Rest Park

Top 5 Summer Activities in Mammoth Lakes

There are so many summer activities in Mammoth Lakes, California, with breathtaking views all around you. Here are some of the major attractions that are must-see for sightseeing in the summer. Visit Devils Postpile National Monument, Rainbow Falls’ 101-foot cascade, and Minaret Vista’s stunning sunsets for a soul-filling experience in Mammoth Lake. Apart from this, let’s explore some of the best things to do in Mammoth Lakes in the summer!

1.Hiking & Backpacking

With miles of scenic trails, Mammoth Lakes is every hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re after a relaxed stroll or a high-altitude challenge, there’s always a perfect trail waiting for you. The Mammoth Lake Basin, located only a few minutes away, is one of the best spots for hikers. If a scenic nature getaway excites you for backpacking, then head to this scenic viewpoint of Eastern Sierra.

Best Hiking Trails:

Crystal Lake Trail
John Muir Trail
The Mammoth Crest Trail
Dragon’s Back Trail
Mammoth Mountain-Mammoth Pass Trail

2. Biking

Mammoth Lakes offers great spots for biking, from thrilling mountain trails to scenic road rides. With the stunning scenery of the Sierra and the breathtaking sunshine of California, Mammoth Lakes makes one of the best places for biking. You might also experience microclimates as you pedal down the trails of Inyo National Forest.

Best Biking Spots:

Mammoth Mountain Bike Park: Boasting 80+ miles of trails
Lakes Basin Path: For a relaxed ride
Off the Top Bike Park: An enthralling ride down the summit
June Lake Loop: An exciting road-biking adventure

3. Camping & Rock Climbing

Don’t miss out on rock climbing. Whether you are a trained rock climber or just trying it out for the first time, Mammoth Lakes has options for everyone. Clark Canyon is a wonderful choice for beginners. Adventurers who are a bit apprehensive can also take guided tours. Ground Up Climbing Guides provides custom-guided climbs, along with camps and clinics for all skill levels. Summertime camping is one of the best things to do in Mammoth Lakes, California!

Best Camping Sites:

Inyo National Forest: Boasts an excellent collection of campgrounds
Mammoth Lakes: Home to more than 800 campsites

4. Fishing

Mammoth Lakes is also a great spot with trout-filled lakes, rivers, and streams. Lake George and Lake Mary offer trophy-sized catches, while Convict Lake boasts deep, clear waters. Owens River is great for fly fishing, and Hot Creek is a top catch-and-release spot. Fishing is one of the best summer activities in Mammoth Lake.

More Fishing Spots:

Rock Creek Lake
San Joaquin River
Crowley Lake
June Lake Loop

5. Boating, Kayaking & Paddleboarding

Boating and paddling in Mammoth Lakes offer stunning views and wildlife sightings. Experience the thrill of kayaking at Lake Mary Marina with a stunning view of the backdrop. June Lake’s crystal-clear waters and sandy beach make it perfect for a relaxing family outing. Convict Lake, surrounded by towering peaks, offers a peaceful and scenic paddling experience. Mammoth Lakes’ stunning waters provide endless fun with unforgettable views for all outdoor enthusiasts.

Other Water Adventures to Try:

Jet Skiing
Motor Boating
Windsurfing

Wrapping Up:

Mammoth Lakes is truly a year-round destination, offering both thrilling winter sports and relaxing summer activities. Whether you’re an adventure seeker looking for an adrenaline rush or someone who enjoys soaking in nature’s beauty, this destination has it all. Plan your trip to Mammoth Lakes, California, and experience some of California’s best outdoor adventures!

Winter & Summer Adventures in Mammoth Lakes FAQs

What is the best time to visit Mammoth Lakes for outdoor activities?

Mammoth Lakes is a year-round destination, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter (November–March) and incredible hiking, biking, and water activities in summer (June-August).

Do I need a permit for camping and hiking in Mammoth Lakes, California?

For developed campgrounds, reservations are recommended but not always required. However, permits can be obtained through local authorities.

Can beginners enjoy outdoor winter activities in Mammoth Lakes?

Absolutely! Mammoth Lakes offers beginner-friendly trails for hiking and biking, guided horseback riding tours, and calm lakes perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. Ski resorts also provide lessons for first-time skiers and snowboarders in winter.

Are there rental shops for outdoor gear in Mammoth Lakes?

Yes! Several rental shops in town offer skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing gear in winter and bikes, fishing gear, kayaks, and paddleboards in summer.

What wildlife can I encounter while exploring Mammoth Lakes?

One of the highlights of a trip to Mammoth Lakes is the opportunity to observe wildlife. While black bears are a major draw, visitors can also spot birds of prey, alpine-dwelling rodents, and the rare Sierra Nevada Bighorn Sheep.

Tboacademy Team