We took our first trip together up to Mammoth Lakes. This place means so much to us, and we’re so excited to share it with you. Below are a few iconic spots as well as some of our personal favorites in and around town.
Outdoor Activities
Popular Sights
Devil’s Postpile National Monument
Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort - take the gondola to the top of the mountain, where we got engaged!
Hot Springs - there are lots of natural, volunteer-maintained hot springs in the valley. If you go, make sure to leave no trace! Our favorites are Hilltop and Crab Cooker. You probably need an all-wheel drive vehicle for Crab Cooker.
Hikes
There is so much hiking in and around Mammoth Lakes — we haven’t even scratched the surface. Here are a few recommendations:
Coldwater - Lake George Trail - this one is super close to Tamarack Lodge.
Sherwin Lakes Trail - not too far from town and leads to a very nice lake.
Lundy Canyon Trail- it might be a little early for fall colors in the Eastern Sierras, but if it’s cold enough by then, this trail is incredible for seeing the leaves on the aspens change.
Lower Rock Creek Trail- this one is between Mammoth and Bishop. Great for hiking or biking, it’s a really pretty trail that parallels a creek.
Rides
We have more experience biking around Mammoth than hiking (naturally). Tamarack Lodge has cruiser bikes to rent, and mountain bikes are available for rental at the Main Lodge and the Mountain Center in the Village. If you’re driving in, bring bikes! Evan and I will be bringing ours. Here are a few recommendations for every skill level.
Lakes Basin Path and Mammoth Creek Trail. - these are paved! Great for road biking or just toolin’ around near the lakes. Tamarack Lodge is right by the Lakes Basin Path.
Inyo Craters Loop, Mammoth Knolls Loop, Big Smokey Loop - these are primarily non-technical OHV and jeep roads, with some singletrack mixed in.
Mammoth Mountain Bike Park - there’s a mix of terrain here, we’ve never been but this might be the weekend!
Water Activities
Tamarack Lodge is right on Twin Lakes and has paddleboards and kayaks available to rent. Other great lakes in the area include Horseshoe Lake, Lake Mary, and Lake George.
Food and drinks
Along the 395
Mahogany Smoked Meats in Bishop. Pick up the smoked flank steak to go. You won’t regret it.
Black Sheep Coffee Roasters in Bishop
Copper Top BBQ in Big Pine