From Slopes to Sun: 5 of the Top Summer Activities in Mammoth Lakes

One of California’s leading winter destinations, Mammoth Lakes is known for snow-capped peaks and alpine scenery. But as the snow thaws and temperatures rise, a different side to The Real Unreal emerges, one defined by open trails, crystal-clear lakes and a roster of seasonal outdoor activities.

Credit: Samantha Lindberg (via Mammoth Lakes Tourism)

A year-round hotspot, Mammoth Lakes pairs signature peaks-to-lakes panoramas with scenic hiking trails, mountain biking, kayaking and more. Whether catering to casual nature lovers or outdoor thrill seekers, those with clients looking to explore the Eastern Sierra’s greener side will find plenty to work with. Read on for our top picks of the best ways to get off the beaten path in Mammoth Lakes.

Hiking

From low-impact sightseeing to demanding ascents, the 300 miles of loops and trails in the Lakes Basin deliver limitless hiking at every turn, whether alpine canopies, glassy lakes or jagged granite peaks.

Credit: Cody Mathison (via Mammoth Lakes Tourism)

For easy-going adventures defined by their surroundings, trails like the Horseshoe Lake Loop and Panorama Dome Trail offer easier, or elevated but shorter hikes. Alternatively, visitors can head to the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area for the Minaret Vista Trail as another lighter option. For those looking to take things further and perhaps climb a little higher, longer routes such as Deer Lakes Loop or the Duck Pass Trail offer more challenging hikes with equally scenic payoffs.

While hiking areas are accessible by car in the summer, parking can be limited, making the local shuttle servicing the region from The Village at Mammoth a worthwhile recommendation. With visitors able to hop on and off across the Mammoth Lakes Trail System, the Lakes Basin Trolley’s Orange Line seamlessly connects a host of trailheads.

Hit the Water

Taking to the water is one of the more peaceful ways to experience the Eastern Sierra in summer.

Credit: Samantha Lindberg (via Mammoth Lakes Tourism)

Whether stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking or canoeing, with rentals available from spots like Lake Mary Marina & Store, a leisurely paddle across clear alpine waters offers a welcome change of pace.

Nestled in the Inyo National Forest, Lake Mary is among the most popular spots for paddling, as well as boating and fishing. Lake Mary spans around 140 acres, making it the largest of Mammoth’s lakes and a perfect opportunity to soak up 360º panoramas. Elsewhere, spots like Horseshoe Lake and Convict Lake offer equally scenic settings, with equipment rentals available nearby, giving visitors plenty of options to get out on the water at their own pace.

Mountain Biking & Cycling

Mountain biking is one of Mammoth Lakes’ defining summer experiences, with everything from picture-postcard lakeside routes to technical downhill terrain woven into the Eastern Sierras.

Credit: Kim Espinosa (via Mammoth Lakes Tourism)

Whether clients are craving a leisurely pedal around town or rugged adrenaline-fuelled descents, the region caters to a host of abilities and preferences. Guided rides and rentals are available through local outfitters like Black Tie Ski & Bike Rentals, while independent riders can explore public access trails like Inyo Craters Trail and Horseshoe Lake Loop.

For the more experienced riders, Mammoth Mountain Bike Park offers lift-accessed trails ranging in difficulty alongside sweeping mountain vistas, with visitors able to purchase a selection of day passes via the Mammoth Mountain website.

Woolly’s Adventure Summit

Lingering on downhill adventures, summer in Mammoth Lakes is packed with thrilling, high-energy experiences designed to entice across age groups.

Credit: Mammoth Mountain Ski Area

Located on Mammoth Mountain, Woolly’s Adventure Summit is a go-to hub for adventure-driven activities. Open year-round with several activities exclusive to the summer months, it’s the perfect recommendation for families and groups in the Mammoth Lakes area.

Among its most popular activities during the warmer months, the mountain coaster, tubing and ziplining are perfect opportunities for visitors to get the wind in their hair and their adrenaline up. For those looking to mix things up, rope courses, rock climbing and even S.A.F.E archery are also available for those keen to test their aim and sharpen their skills.

For those after an even bigger challenge, Via Ferrata, meaning “iron path”, offers a network of six progressive climbing routes equipped with fixed safety cables. Available as guided group or private experiences, the activity combines alpine adventure with sweeping views, followed by a scenic gondola ride back down the mountain.

Fishing

Nothing invites slowing down and savouring the moment quite like an afternoon of casting out into some of Mammoth’s fishable waters.

Credit: Samantha Lindberg (via Mammoth Lakes Tourism)

With a mix of alpine lakes, rivers and streams flowing across the region, it’s a well-established destination for keen anglers. Whether catching-and-releasing prize trout in the Mammoth Lakes Basin, casting out at Rock Creek Lake or even venturing to the San Joaquin River for a spot of skilful fly fishing, there’s few better ways to kick back and savour the alpine tranquillity.

Visitors aged 16 and over can purchase a one or two-day fishing pass at select locations around the region, with more information available via the Department of Fish & Wildlife.

Whether natural-born adventurers or those keen to step outside their comfort zone, Mammoth Lakes is a year-round gateway with something to suit every traveller. While the winter months effortlessly captivate with snow-capped vistas and a world-class skiing and snowboarding scene, summer unveils the thrill of open trails and outdoor experiences designed to reconnect visitors with nature.

From high-thrill adventures to slower-paced moments in the great outdoors, Mammoth Lakes is a worthy addition to any California summer bucket list. For travel professionals looking to learn more or explore how Mammoth lakes can be incorporated into wider California itineraries, don’t hesitate to get in touch via info@rocket.london.co.uk.