Holidays to Mammoth Lakes

Locals don’t count years lived in Mammoth Lakes, they count epic winters survived! Visiting this magnificent mountain town, just a two-hour drive from Yosemite Valley, and its vast wilderness surroundings hidden deep in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, is no small adventure. Often overlooked by California road-trippers, Mammoth Lakes is a hidden gem that we love and adore for its outdoor spirit and wholesome sense of community.

If you’re planning a journey through California between May and October, Mammoth Lakes is likely to be bathed in sunshine and bustling with happy hikers and mountain bikers. Surrounded by 2.2 million acres of federally protected land, you can go for days without seeing another soul. Although it’s a known mecca for adventure junkies and professional athletes, the special thing about Mammoth Lakes is that all activities on offer are accessible for every ability and every age. Rent a bike and explore over 30km of paved bike paths which surround the town, or head back-country and take on some of the steep mountain climbs. Drive 45 minutes north and you’ll be entering the jewel in California’s crown, Yosemite National Park. Visit this area of jaw-droppingly stunning natural beauty during the day and then escape the crowds by heading back to Mammoth Lakes in the evening. Enjoy a cold craft beer from the Mammoth Brewing Company and a delicious evening meal at Petra’s, an elegant eatery in the heart of town.

A common debate amongst locals is which season is best to visit Mammoth Lakes. The honest answer is that both are fantastic. In 2016, Mammoth received 18 metres of snow, the most out of any ski resort on the planet. When you blend that with 300 days of sunshine, you'll get plenty of epic ‘bluebird’ days on the mountain. Although the 'world-class' conditions may sound intimidating to those yet to master the slopes, Mammoth mountain has an array of runs to cater for all abilities and a fabulous ski school offering group and private lessons for all ages. Keen boarders and skiers will never tire of the vast amount of back-country terrain to be covered, accessible from the top of the lifts, or by helicopter. One local hang-out not to miss is The Clocktower; Mammoth’s great après ski bar, where you can grab a pre or post-slope drink any time of day!

Aside from skiing, snowboarding, mountaineering, biking, hiking and every other activity you can think of... here are five things not to miss whilst on holiday in Mammoth Lakes.