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Mammoth Lakes is a summer paradise for everyone. The phenomenal scenery combined with incredible things to do has visitors wishing they had more time to spend in Mammoth Lakes in the summer.
Many people think of Mammoth Lakes as a ski town and don’t consider visiting in the summer. But the summer season is the perfect time to visit. The picturesque Sierra Nevada Mountains and mild weather invite vacationers to revel in the great outdoors. There are plenty of terrific summer activities in and around Mammoth Lakes to keep you busy with a smile on your face.
Even if you are not adventurous or physically fit, there are still a ton of things for you to do. The hardest part of a trip to Mammoth Lakes in the summer is deciding which extraordinary activity you want to do first.
Ten Fantastic Things to do in Mammoth Lakes in the Summer
1. Go for a Walk or Hike in Mammoth in the Summer
The postcard scenery is just one reason to go for an epically beautiful walk or hike in the mountains. Here are a few suggestions to motivate you to breathe in the fresh air and enjoy a walk in the woods.
Devils Postpile (Easy)
Located about 35 minutes from Mammoth Lakes, it is easy to see why the Devils Postpile National Monument is so popular. If you have never heard of Devils Postpile National Monument, you are not alone. It wasn’t until a recent trip to Mammoth Lakes that I first saw this bizarre and rare site. The Postpile you see in the picture above was formed less than 100,000 years ago when a cooling lava flow cracked into multi-sided columns. The 60-foot symmetrical columns are a premier example of columnar basalt.
Devils Postpile Hike Details
The round trip hike from the trailhead to the base of Devils Postpile is an easy .08 miles. A climb to the top will take about an additional 10 – 15 minutes and is a little harder walk.
Entrance and Parking
After you pay the entrance fee at the park gate ($10), continue down the winding road to the trailhead. The drive to the trailhead is steep, long, and narrow. In total, you will descend 1,500 vertical feet from the Minaret Vista Station to the parking lot. Take the drive slowly.
Just a heads up, parking can be difficult because visitors use the same parking lot for multiple hikes and overnight camping trips.
- Pro Tips
For the best chance of finding parking, try to arrive before 10:30 a.m. or after 2:00 p.m.
Alternatively, there is a shuttle from the base of Mammoth Mountain’s Main Lodge that provides access to Devils Postpile National Monument. This attraction is popular, so make sure you make a shuttle reservation in advance.
Best time to visit Devils Postpile
Devils Postpile is accessible usually from late June through mid to late October depending on the weather conditions.
Rainbow Falls (moderate)
After you reach Devils Postpile, continue on the same trail to Rainbow Falls, where you can see the rainbow in the mist of the 101-foot waterfall. The hike is worth the journey. Once you reach the falls, you can sit and relax in the viewing area or continue your hike to the bottom.
Rainbow Falls Hike Details
The five-mile round trip hike is hot and exposed in the summer, so make sure you bring lots of water. The trail is wide and easy to follow.
Best time to visit Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is accessible, usually from late June through mid to late October. By the end of October, snow starts to fall, and you will not be able to access the hike.
The best time of the day to see the rainbow is midday when the sun is the highest, but also the hottest.
- Pro Tip
Pack a picnic and a towel and spend the afternoon at Rainbow Falls. People swim in the water (at their own risk) below the falls.
McLeod Lake (Easy-Moderate)
A visit to McLeod Lake, often called McCloud Lake, is an excellent place to enjoy the afternoon. The trailhead for McLeod Lake is next to the Horseshoe Lake parking lot. When you pull into the parking lot, you will immediately notice the dead trees.
Naturally occurring carbon dioxide gas has been discharging from the ground killing approximately 120 acres of trees. Scientists believe that due to an earthquake in 1989 and magmatic activity beneath the surface, newly formed channels allow gas to reach the surface.
Thankfully, once you head up the trail, you will start to see green trees again. Visitors can spend the afternoon swimming, kayaking, and trout fishing (catch and release). McCleod Lake is also a great place to enjoy an afternoon picnic.
McCleod Lake hike details
The three-mile round trip trail is short (but steep in some places). The trail is heavily trafficked with lots of families with young kids.
The best time to visit McCleod Lake
The McCleod Lake trail is usually open from June until November and is subject to closure due to weather conditions.
- Pro Tip
There is a less crowded trail up to McCleod Lake. To reach the path, walk along the lake (the same side as the trailhead) for a short distance, and off to your right, you will see an unmarked trail. I prefer taking this trail because it is more peaceful and much quieter.
Duck Lake (Hard)
A hike to Duck Lake is an adventure that I only suggest for hikers looking for a strenuous yet rewarding hike. The views of Duck Lake are stunning and worth the effort if, and only if, you are physically fit. However, you can take shorter, easier hikes from the same trailhead to lakes like Emerald, Skelton, and Barney Lake.
How do I get to Duck Lake?
There are two ways to access Duck Lake from the Coldwater Campground. You can either take the out and back trail or the loop path. For the loop (which we did), start your hike toward Emerald Lake. Once you reach the lake (more like a pond on our hike), take a left at the fork for Duck Pass, and a right at the top toward Duck Lake. Continue past several smaller lakes like Skelton Lake and Barney Lake. We took the detour to Skelton Lake, which I think is worth your time. The lake is beautiful.
After you reach Barney Lake, continue up the challenging pass to the beautiful and pristine Duck Lake. If you have the energy (which I did not), you can also visit Pika Lake.
Head back the same way, past Barney and Skelton Lakes. When you reach the sign for Emerald Lake, don’t turn left. Instead, continue straight down the trail toward Arrowhead Lake and back to the parking lot.
Best time to hike Duck Pass
The Duck Pass trail to Duck Lake is accessible generally in the spring, summer, and fall, weather permitting.
Duck Lake Hike Details
This hike is about 7.5-miles or so round trip. I think I am in good hiking shape, and I found Duck Pass to be difficult. Partly because the pass is extremely steep, but also because the pass is very rocky. I highly suggest good hiking shoes and lots of water if you are going to make your way to Duck Lake.
Once you climb over the pass, there are several other lakes you can hike to if you have the energy, such as Pika Lake and Purple Lake. Backpackers were abundant on the trail, which makes me believe Duck Lake is a popular camping spot.
Duck Lake is a large pristine lake and a magnificent reward for your hard work. If you are in shape, then a hike to Duck Lake should be on your list of things to do in Mammoth.
- Pro Tip
Arrive in the morning to find a parking spot. Pull into the Coldwater Campground and continue past the campground until you reach the day parking lot at the very back of the campground.
For more hiking trails, visit AllTrails, to search by type of hike, difficulty, and length.
2. Rock Climbing in Mammoth Lakes in the Summer
One of the most adventurous things to do in Mammoth during the summer (I think) is rock climbing. Mammoth Mountain offers climbers of all levels an opportunity of a lifetime. I don’t think you could ever get bored climbing in Mammoth. The varied terrain provides the most experienced climbers a challenge while at the same time providing novices like me a chance to give the sport a try. I opted to climb Via Ferrata at Mammoth Mountain and loved it!
What is Via Ferrata?
Mammoth Mountain has created a network of climbing routes on its jagged cliffs accessible to all levels. The iron path called Via Ferrata is a concept popular all over Europe that is starting to take a foothold at ski mountains in the United States and Canada. Climbing a Via Ferrata course allows climbers to concentrate on climbing without inserting iron rungs as they climb up or down a mountain. So, if you are a beginner, a Via Ferrata course is a terrific way to get acquainted with rock climbing. The Mammoth Mountain Via Ferrata course includes steel cables, iron rungs, and a suspension bridge.
Summary of Your Climb at Via Ferrata
Your guided climb is a 3-hour adventure that starts with a ride up the gondola to McCoy Station, where you can take in the views all around.
As you exit the gondola at McCoy station, you will meet your guide. After gearing up, climbers head to the trial course for a short training lesson (and to make sure you are comfortable with the concept of hanging off the side of a cliff).
Our adventure started down a beginner route with our guide, Neil, who was fabulous. He supported me when I got a little scared, and his encouragement helped me conquer my fears. By the end of our three-hour adventure, we climbed all six routes that range in difficulty from beginner to advanced: 3 beginner courses, 2 moderate routes joined by a suspension bridge, and one expert route.
An inside look at climbing Via Ferrata
During your climbing adventure, you and your guide climb up and down different routes. As you climb down, you hook two carabiners at the end of your harness to a cable, one at a time, as you descend to the bottom of the mountain. Once at the bottom, it’s time to climb up another route. On the ascent, you hook both carabiners to the cables, one by one, as you climb up the side of the mountain. The trick is to attach both carabiners into the cable closest to you as you climb. Once you reach the next cable, you unhook a carabiner and hook it into the next cable. Climbers fasten the carabiners one at a time to ensure they are always connected to a cable.
It sounds simple, but when you are high up, your brain starts to misfire. I accidentally hooked my carabiners into the iron rungs instead of the cable on more than one occasion. Fortunately, I immediately caught myself and fixed the problem. On the suspension bridge, Neil noticed that one of my carabiners didn’t close all the way and quickly adjusted the carabiner (before I stepped onto the bridge).
The actual climb is fun and gets your adrenaline pumping. The Via Ferrata course is challenging and exhilarating, even for adrenaline junkies. Because let’s face it, you are climbing the side of a rock face. In some cases, you round a corner where you must extend yourself by holding onto a rock, or you need to reach high above you for your next move. You can make the climb as hard as you want by only using the mountain’s natural contours or easier by using the iron rungs. I preferred the iron rungs, while my husband used the crevasses a bit more to challenge himself. One of the best things about Via Ferrata is the routes are thoughtfully designed, so there is a step, rung, or ledge strategically placed throughout the course to support beginner climbers.
The climb was so much FUN! If you are interested in challenging yourself and not afraid of heights, you should give Via Ferrata a try.
- Pro Tips
- I suggest the morning timeslot. It’s a bit cooler, and it’s easy to park at Main Lodge. By the time we left, the parking area was packed.
- You are not permitted to take your camera out during a climb. It’s not the place where you want to risk dropping your camera anyway. Plus, you need your hands free to climb and hold on. Neil took lots of pictures for us during our adventure with his camera.
- Bring a snack that will give you energy and a bottle of water to have in between your climbs.
- Also, I suggest wearing hiking pants to protect your knees and trail runners or tennis shoes with a good grip. On occasion, I leaned into the side of the mountain on my knees. I still had a few minor bruises, but at least my knees were not all cut up. These are the type of pants we wore during our climb
After your climb, you can take the gondola to the top of Mammoth Mountain. Once at the top, stop in at the visitor’s center and step outside to take in the view.
Sierra Mountain Guides
For more experienced climbers or those who don’t want to climb a course, I suggest trying Sierra Mountain Guides. Neil, the owner, was our guide at Via Ferrata. He is extremely knowledgeable, experienced, and patient.
Sierra Mountain Guides has several different rock-climbing excursions in and around Mammoth for all ability levels. Rock climbing adventures range from a half-day to seven days. Customers can request porters, mule support, and camp assistants for longer excursions to help carry your gear, set up camp, and cook your meals. For true luxury, you can even hire a gourmet backcountry chef for some of the itineraries.
Sierra Mountain Guides offers so many other cool excursions throughout the year. In the winter, I hope to get back to Mammoth and try one of the ice climbing adventures. For advanced skiers like my husband, the backcountry skiing programs look amazing.
3. Visit Convict Lake During the Summer
One of the easiest things to do in Mammoth is to visit Convict Lake. The gorgeous lake is about fifteen minutes south of Mammoth Lakes off the 395. Convict Lake is a favorite among locals and visitors because of the breathtaking mountain backdrop, clear, calm water, and easy accessibility from the main highway.
The history of Convict Lake
You might be wondering how Convict Lake got its name. In 1871, 29 train robbing gang members escaped from a prison in Carson City, Nevada. They managed to raid the prison armory during their revolt and stole shotguns, rifles, and 3,000 rounds of ammunition. Yikes! The escaped convicts split into several groups to evade capture. A group of six men headed 200 miles south toward what is now called Convict Lake.
On the way, the convicts shot a young Pony Express rider, infuriating the town. The locals formed a posse to find those responsible for the young man’s murder. The posse located the escapees at Convict Lake. A shootout ensued, and two locals (Robert Morrison and Mono Jim) were killed. Five of the six escapees were caught and two of the escapees were hung. After that, the lake was renamed Convict Lake.
Things to do at Convict Lake in the summer
In addition to the magnificent scenery, Convict Lake is a must-visit destination because of the variety of activities you can do on the lake. While visiting, you can kayak (which we did), hike, rent a boat, fish, stand up paddleboard, go for a horseback ride (see below), or enjoy a picnic on the banks of the shore. You can even camp or stay in one of the cabins near the lake. You can bring a flotation device or rent one. There are a couple of different boats you can rent such as a pontoon or V-hull boat. If you prefer to move under your own power, you can rent a kayak or standup paddleboard.
Can you bring your own gear to Convict Lake?
Yes! We brought our own kayak, which was easy to inflate and carry down to the lake. The blow-up kayak was a breeze to paddle. Even someone like me, who is not great at kayaking, could handle the kayak on the water. (I did need a few tips from my husband, though, because I kept paddling us in circles). After I got the hang of paddling (nothing to do with the kayak), I enjoyed kayaking around the lake and checking out the little sandy beaches. Next time I would bring some food on my kayak trip to eat as I float or paddle around the lake.
What should I bring to Convict Lake?
Randomly while kayaking around the lake, someone yelled from shore to find out how we liked the kayak. We gave it two thumbs up. I would also suggest bringing a dry bag with a towel and a waterproof case for your phone. We had a dry bag and phone case at our home base but, in our excitement, forgot to bring them to the lake. Needless to say, our backpack got wet.
For a day on the lake, here are a few items that may be useful on your next visit to Convict Lake.
4. Horseback Riding in the Sierras
A terrific way to see Mammoth’s backcountry during the summer months is to go for a horseback ride. Horseback riding is a popular activity in Mammoth. Several companies in and around Mammoth offer scenic horseback rides, some of which even offer overnight trips.
We choose the 2-hour horseback ride around the north side of Convict Lake. The views of Convict Lake on our ride were stunning. In addition to the natural beauty, I liked this ride because you get off your horse and spend a few minutes exploring the back of Convict Lake. The back of the lake is not as pretty, but being able to stretch my legs was good for my knees.
The well-trained horses (and my mule) walked along the trail on our ride, basically leading themselves. I also liked having a small group on our ride (us, another couple, and the wrangler).
Summer horseback riding options in Mammoth
There are a few options for different guided horseback rides available during Mammoth’s summer months.
In addition to riding at Convict Lake, you can opt to ride with Mammoth Mountain Pack Outfit for 1, 1.5, or 2-hour rides to several different gorgeous lakes around Mammoth. Another option is to drive out to June Lake for a horseback riding journey with Frontier Pack Train and visit the beautiful lakes in that area.
5. Visit a Hot Spring Near Mammoth in the Summer
An iconic thing to do in Mammoth is to visit a hot spring. So, I finally decided to take the plunge and search one out. What I found was a little surprising. The hot springs are often small man-made pools that are large enough for only a few people. In general, The hot springs are rustic, which in all fairness, is part of the appeal.
The hot springs are easiest to access in the summer. The roads to the hot springs can be difficult to navigate in bad weather.
Pulkey’s Pool / Hilltop Hot Spring
We stopped at Pulkey’s Pool, also known as Hilltop Hot Spring. When we got to the hot spring, my disappointment was obvious. The hot spring was not exactly natural. Someone created a concrete tub in the middle of a field and diverted hot water from the creek through a PVC pipe to fill the tub. The algae floating in the small pool was not very enticing. We were hoping the hot spring would be empty. But a family was hanging out when we arrived, and one of the little kids was playing in the pool. So, even though the family was very friendly, we decided to leave without getting in.
How do I access Pulkey’s Pool?
If you want to check out Pulkey’s for yourself, enter Pulkey’s Pool into Google maps. The directions will tell you to take highway 395 north from Bishop and exit Benton Crossing Road. It’s about a 5-7 minute drive. It’s easy to drive right past it; we did. If you are coming from the 395, the hot springs will be on your left. Look for a small non-descript turn-off near a gate and drive into the dirt parking lot. At the end of the first lot, look right (opposite the parked cars), and there is a path with an elevated boardwalk out to the pool.
Wild Willy’s Hot Springs
I was determined to find a hot spring, and our experience at Pulkey’s Pool would not deter me. We drove back down Benton Crossing Road toward the 395 and Wild Willy’s Hot Springs. I was amazed at the number of people leaving when we arrived at Wild Willy’s.
We parked in the dirt parking lot, walked down the elevated boardwalk to the natural hot springs. We found a hot tub that we could sit in all by ourselves. As we sat and relaxed in the hot tub, we could see a pasture with several cows wandering around in the distance. We could hear them too. I didn’t know cows were so talkative.
At Wild Willy’s, there are several natural “hot tubs” that are large enough to fit a bunch of strangers comfortably. A natural creek filled the tub we sat in that flowed from one tub to the next. The first tub you will see from the boardwalk appears man-made, but the water flows into it naturally. BEWARE, the water is scalding hot. I sat in the tub for a few minutes, but then it was time to get out. I can tolerate hot water, but the temperature was even too much for me after a few minutes.
During our daytime visit, Wild Willy’s was family-friendly. However, I have heard that the hot tubs get rowdy at night, and as the sign says, clothing is optional. However, everyone was wearing bathing suits during our daytime visit.
How do I get to Wild Willy’s Hot Springs?
The easiest way to find Wild Willy’s Hot Springs is to put in Google Maps and follow the turn-by-turn directions. Wild Willy’s Hot Springs is between Bishop and Mammoth, near Crowley Lake. If you are on the 395 North, exit Benton Crossing Road and drive for about 3 miles. Once you pass the second cattle guard/grate, immediately turn right, and follow the dirt road for about 1.5 miles until you reach the parking lot.
- Pro Tip
Bring a bottle of water and a towel with you. It gets hot sitting in the tubs, and it’s always good to hydrate. For women, you might also want to wear a pair of swim shorts over your bathing suit. The pointy rocks you sit on can be a little uncomfortable on your bottom.
Hot Creek Geological Site
The Hot Creek Geological Springs are also popular. These springs are for viewing only. The water is so hot that it too dangerous to soak in. I did not have a chance to visit these hot springs but would like to do so on my next visit. The color of the hot springs is supposed to be a magical blue.
The Hot Creek Geological Site is near Convict Lake. If you are on the 395 North, right after you pass Mammoth Mountain Airport, exit to Hot Creek Hatchery Road and drive about a mile. You should see signs for Hot Creek Geological Site. Please note, two of the four-mile road is gravel. Proceed to the parking lot and head down the half-mile (or so) asphalt path to the viewing points.
Are there other hot springs near Mammoth Lakes?
There are many other hot springs in and around Mammoth. A friend of mine wrote a blog post about some of the hot springs between Mammoth and Bridgeport that I found helpful. You might find it useful too when deciding which hot spring is suitable for you.
6. Play a Round of Golf in Mammoth in the Summer
Did you know there are two public golf courses in Mammoth Lakes? Mammoth’s Sierra Star Golf Course is a par-70, 18-hole championship course set against a beautiful backdrop of forest-lined fairways, mountain streams, and open fields.
The second golf course in Mammoth is Sherwins Range, a 9-hole, a par-35 public golf course that features unobstructed views of Mammoth Mountain.
7. Go for a Bike Ride (Mountain or Road) in Mammoth in the Summer
Another fun activity in Mammoth is bike riding. Mountain biking and road biking are both extremely popular. If you don’t have your own bike, no problem. You can rent an electric mountain bike at Mammoth Mountain or choose from several different types of bikes (mountain bikes and regular bikes) at Footloose Sports.
Summer mountain biking at Mammoth Mountain
In the summer, Mammoth Mountain offers a premier bike park accessible to all levels of experience. Whether you are a downhill racer or you are a newbie, there is a trail for you. There are over 80-miles of singletrack trails and features like pavers, berms, jumps, and drops. Frankly, none of those things are for me, but they might be for you.
I have only been mountain biking once, and to be honest, I did not love it. I went for a ride in Deer Valley. The single-track ride with steep rounded corners was not my idea of fun. However, my husband was grinning ear to ear.
Road Biking in the summer in Mammoth
If mountain biking is not for you, you may enjoy cruising along the scenic roads and paths in Mammoth during the summer. The Mammoth Lakes Trail System offers a network of bike trails that range from easy to difficult. The trails provide picturesque scenery of the Sierras with wildflowers and cascading waterfalls. Some of the paths even include riding over bridges and past beautiful mountain lakes. A couple of popular trails include the Horseshoe Lake Loop (1.8 miles; about 1 hour), the Lakes Basin Path (10.6 miles; half a day), and the Mammoth Scenic Loop (15.7 miles; less than 4 hours).
Lakes Basin Path
We chose to ride the Lakes Basin Path (one way, 5.6-miles). The Lakes Basin Path is one of my all-time favorite bike rides. Our journey started by taking the open-air trolley to Horseshoe Lake. We then coasted downhill past Lake Mary, the Twin Lakes Vista, Tamarack Lodge, Lake Mamie, and Mammoth Mountain Pack Outfit before ending a block from the Village. The WHOLE ride is downhill, requiring minimal effort. The scenic downhill ride is a blast and one I highly recommend. Riders can extend their bike ride by taking a detour or two around some of the lakes.
On a side note, there are bathrooms at the lakes. So, if nature calls, you don’t have to do your business in nature.
- Pro Tips
- You can ride up to Horseshoe Lake, but you don’t have to. Instead, opt for the free trolley on the orange line. The trolley makes several stops around town and takes the scenic way around Lake Mary ending at Horseshoe Lake.
- The 17 bike slots on the trolley fill up quickly. I suggest you get to the trolley at least 20 minutes before the next scheduled stop and get in line to secure your spot.
Don’t miss this fun activity!
8. Visit Mono Lake during the Summer Months
Mono Lake is not your typical Sierra Nevada Lake. Instead, it is a saline lake home to shrimp, birds, and the tufa towers. Surprisingly, or at least to me, it is part of the tributary system that supplies water to Los Angeles.
What’s are the tufa towers?
One of the most popular things to do at Mono Lake is to see the tufa towers. These unusual rock formations start underneath the water. The calcium-rich freshwater from the lake’s bottom seeps up and mixes with the rich carbohydrate water forming limestone. Overtime (decades to centuries), these tufa towers form and grow to over 30 feet underwater. We can see the tufas due in part to the depletion of Mono Lake.
Is there bird watching at Mono Lake?
While at Mono Lake, you might take a tour (self-guided or guided), walk along the water’s edge, or even take out a canoe or kayak. Mono Lake is famous for bird watching too. Millions of birds visit Mono Lake each year.
Where is Mono Lake?
Mono Lake is located about 30-minutes north of Mammoth, just off the 395 in the town of Lee Vining. If you are coming from Yosemite National Park, you will see Mono Lake at the bottom of the Tioga Pass after you exit the park.
9. Swim in One of Mammoth’s Pristine Lakes in the Summer
The water in Mammoth can be rather chilly, but that doesn’t stop people from going for a swim, especially on a hot summer day. In and around Mammoth and June Lake, several recreational lakes allow swimming in the summer.
Where should I go swimming in Mammoth?
A few popular places to swim in Mammoth include Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, McCleod Lake, Lake Mamie, Lake George, and Horseshoe Lake. Although these days, with the drought, Horseshoe Lake is not nearly as full as it used to be in the summer. For that reason, I would skip it unless you are visiting in early summer.
Another top swimming spot in Mammoth is Crystal Lake. Take the Lake George trailhead to the Crystal Lake trail to access Crystal Lake.
Where should I go swimming in June Lake?
Just a short drive from Mammoth is the mountain village of June Lake. Four lakes inside the June Lake Loop are known for swimming. These lakes include Gull Lake, Silver Lake, Grant Lake, and June Lake. June Lake also has a swim beach.
10. Go Fishing in Mammoth in the Summer
Full disclosure, I haven’t fished much since I was a kid. However, even though I am not much of an angler, I recognize that fishing is an extremely popular thing to do in Mammoth in the summer.
Anglers can enjoy the stunning clear lakes and streams near Mammoth with magnificent views of the Eastern Sierra Mountains. Mammoth is a terrific fishing destination because it offers different kinds of fishing in varied environments. Whether you want to hike to an isolated stream, fish from shore, or take your boat out for the afternoon, Mammoth has something for every angler.
Things to know before you go fishing in Mammoth Lakes
When can I fish near Mammoth in the summer?
The fishing season in Mono County starts the last Saturday in April and ends on November 15th.
Do I need a fishing license in Mammoth?
Those 16 years and older need a fishing license. Anglers can buy an annual, one, or two-day fishing license (valid for two consecutive calendar days). You can buy a fishing license in Mammoth Lakes.
Are there fishing restrictions in Mammoth Lakes?
The short answer is yes. There are several rules about fishing in Mammoth. Depending on where you choose to fish, you might have a limit on the number of fish you can catch, or there might be a catch and release program in place. It’s essential to know the fishing regulations before you head out for the day.
For more information about fishing in Mammoth, contact the Department of Fish & Wildlife or call 760-934-2664.
Where should I go fishing in Mammoth?
The Eastern Sierras offer a plethora of fishing destinations, including some that are open all year. I outlined some of the highlights below, but check the Eastern Sierra fishing map (page 2) for other ideas.
- Mammoth Lakes Basin stocks trout regularly during the fishing season at Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, Lake George, and Lake Mamie.
- Mammoth Creek offers rainbow and wild brown trout.
- Convict Lake is stocked weekly during the fishing season with rainbow trout and is a beautiful place in California to visit even if you are not fishing.
- Crowley Lake is stocked with trout by the Department of Fish and Wildlife. Check out opening day at Crowley Lake.
- Crystal Lake and Hot Creek are known for fly fishing.
- Lake Mamie offers alpers trout to the lucky few how can hook them.
- Sherwin Lakes requires a hike in but rewards anglers with rainbow trout.
I hope you enjoyed my top ten list of things to do in Mammoth Lakes during the summer. Are there other activities you have done in Mammoth that did not make the list? Drop a comment below and share your experience with other travelers!
If you enjoy the outdoors, you might also like my 2-day Yosemite itinerary or my post about the best things to do in La Jolla, California.
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I never heard of Mammoth Lakes before but it looks gorgeous! I’d love to go on a hike!
I would love to go hiking in Mammoth. All of those trails look like so much fun! And the hot springs look amazing too. Adding this to my list of summer destinations!
Looks such a wonderful spot to visit in summer.
There is so much to do!! I’ve never been to Mammoth but looks like a summer trip is on the bucket list now!! It’s so interesting about the dead trees at McLeod Lake and how scientists think that’s happened! Thanks for sharing!
A very extensive guide with much choice. The natural hot springs would certainly be a something of interest.
Wow!! This looks like so much fun! I would love to try the Via Ferrata rock climbing … holding the iron cables, of course. Convict Lake looks beautiful too. Horseback riding around it sounds magical.
This is a terrific guide for Mammoth! I am pinning for my next visit. I’ve been a couple of times and missed most of the things on your list!
So pretty! I’ve only been in the winter, but I need to go during summer!
What a beautiful destination! I had never heard of it so thank you so much for sharing this 🙂
Thanks for this super helpful post. So many wonderful things to do in mammoth lakes. The rainbow falls remind me of the falls of my hometown in Morocco
It looks gorgeous. I would definitely want to hike to Rainbow Falls (I’m a sucker for waterfalls), also the hot springs would be great as well. You are certainly brave to do the rock climbing! P.S. I love your hiking pants.
I would definitely think of visiting the Mammoth Lakes district in summer. I love enjoying ski areas in off season. The outdoor sights are simply stunning at Mammoth. The Devils Postpile reminds me of the Giants Causeway in Northern Ireland. I love all the hiking opportunities. But would probably pass on climbing! Sure love those views from above. One for our travel planning list for sure.
I really enjoy post like this because we are tasked our trips based on what’s cheap, because of that we end up in a lot of places in “off-seasons.” I appreciate post like this showing the off side of places historically known for something else. Maybe, it is just me not being from CA and only knowing Mammoth for Winter Sports.
You are not alone. I live in California and until recently only went to Mammoth to ski in the winter. Visiting in the summer opened my eyes to a totally different and wonderful experience.
I can’t get over the falls and the lake! The water is incredible. Thank you for such a detailed blog post. I’ve saved this for later as I really hope to visit one day.
i am blown away by how many things to do in mammoth there are! i’ve been to Ca. about 20X now, and somehow haven’t made it to mammoth (yet), but i will 100% be remedying that on my next trip — the Devil’s Postpile looks so cool & Wild Willy’s is truly calling my name.
Wow! Very informative post! I love the history behind these areas, and Mammoth sure has a ton. Thanks for sharing these tips!
Mammoth sounds like such a great place to spend the summer! I would love to go hiking and to the hot springs!
1) Great abs! 2) The hikes look amazing. I might even be convinced to try Duck Lake. My husband and I have spent a lot of time hiking during Covid.
You’re too funny and thank you. I have been working out a lot during COVID. 🙂 I hope you make it out to Duck Lake!
First off your pictures are absolutely breathtaking. Your blog is simply beautiful. Our family is supposed to visit within the next week, so I am glad I saw your blog through this group. Now I have pointers for our family when traveling. Thank you.
Thank you so much! I am happy to hear my post is helpful. Have a great time in Mammoth. 🙂
Thanks for the great tips on exploring Mammoth Lakes! We spent a week there this summer and can second many of the activities you recommended. Based on your top 10 list, there are still a few more places near Mammoth I’d like to see and things our family would like to do!
Terrific!