Lake Basin Path

Shady Rest Park is located on Sawmill Road just minutes from the Mammoth Lakes town center. Start off by crossing through the parking lot headed north towards the large open field covered in snow. The open field is a great place to walk around and become comfortable with wearing and walking in snowshoes, and to test new gear if you've got it. For those that are feeling more adventurous, you can...

This is a great short hike, located near the turn off for Twin Lakes. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with 360 degree views of the lakes basin, the town, Mammoth Mountain, and the White Mountains. There was a little snow left at the top, when we hiked it over Memorial Day weekend.  Even if Lake Mary Road is closed off, this trail is accessible.  You can take the lakes basin trolley, ...

Just outside the town of Mammoth Lakes, CA is the Sherwin Lakes Trailhead. An easy 10 minute drive down some dirt roads will get you to the dirt parking lot where you can safely leave your vehicle and begin your fairly easy 2.5 mile hike to Sherwin Lakes. (Valentine Lake is not much further beyond Sherwin) The trail is very clear and easy to stay on. It is a fairly popular hike for the locals,...

Park at the Sherwin Lakes Trailhead. Begin your ascent through scrubby foliage and old pines. Once you arrive at a junction with a bench, turn around. Note that the uphill climb is pretty decent past Sherwin Lakes, so if you're feeling overly winded after the arriving at these lakes, this may be a good turn around point.  Alternatively, you can head up from the Valentine Lake Trailhead just d...

Slip away to a scenic winter wonderland. Leave it all behind and explore the Mammoth Lakes Basin on Nordic skis or snowshoes. Rentals, lessons and guided tours are available from Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center so you can experience the serene beauty of alpine lakes and ancient forests on over 19 miles (30 kilometers) of groomed world-class trails.Learn more about tickets, rentals, and lesson...

The summit of Mammoth at 11,053 feet provides one of the most stunning views you'll find in California. Take a scenic trip up the Panorama Gondola for a 360 degree vista of Sierra Nevada peaks and a commanding view of the San Joaquin River Valley below. Grab a lunch at the cafe at the top, then visit the Eleven53 Interpretive Center and on-mountain learning stations to discover the history and ...