Enjoy Thanksgiving in Mammoth Lakes

October 24, 2024

If you’re budget-conscious, Thanksgiving is a very affordable time to visit Mammoth Lakes.

Thanksgiving is a special time and Mammoth Lakes is the perfect place to kick off the holiday season with your loved ones. From holiday activities to outdoor adventures (plus, delicious food, of course) here's a rundown of everything happening for Thanksgiving in Mammoth Lakes.

Plus, if you're joining Thanksgiving celebrations at the last minute, flights from Southern California to Mammoth Lakes on Advanced Air begin on November 27—perfect for a quick trip to a beautiful location.

Thanksgiving Events

Thanksgiving Activities

You won't want to miss out on these

Thanksgiving Events in Mammoth Lakes

Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot

The Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot, organized by the Mammoth Track Club, is the perfect way to spend some time outside before Thanksgiving dinner. Costumes and fun are encouraged! This family-friendly fun run through the Mammoth Lakes Community Bike Path (out and back course) is a 3Km (1.86-mile) that will take place snow or shine. Registrants will receive a commemorative shirt before the race, and a medal and cider/hot cocoa after the race. Start and finish will be at the Community Recreation Center at Mammoth Creek Park. Register here.

Ice Skating at the NEW Rink

The NEW LA Kings Ice at Mammoth Lakes will be open for the season.

Holiday Tree Lighting in the Village

Kick-off the Christmas season with the annual Holiday Tree Lighting in the Village on Friday, November 29th from 5-7:30 pm.

Close up of a Christmas tree decorated with colorful ornaments covered in snow in front of a sign for The Village in Mammoth

Activities to Enjoy During Thanksgiving Week

Explore the Trails

Trails in and around Mammoth Lakes are open to hiking year-round, weather and snow permitting. The Thanksgiving holiday is generally the perfect time to explore on foot before the big snows of the season hit. Take the Town Loop for a low-key walk in town, or head down to lower elevations for a walk around Convict Lake.

The paved path and bike-friendly trails are also great for a bike ride after a day of eating and drinking.

Hit the Slopes

Mammoth Mountain will be open for skiing and snowboarding throughout the holiday week. Check Mammoth Mountain's website for details on what lifts and trails are open.

A person skiing down a snow covered mountain

Go Sightseeing

Nothing beats having a scenic spot all to yourself. During this time of year, sightseeing locations, including Inyo Craters, Earthquake Fault, Mono Lake or Bodie State Historic Park, are much quieter than in the summertime. Depending on conditions, please check with the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center to see if access roads are passable.

Go Out on the Town

This time of year is great for getting out to explore Mammoth Lakes in all its holiday splendor.

Two cocktails on a table in a restaurant with food in the background

Plan Family-Friendly Indoor Activities

No matter the weather, indoor activities are a great way to wind down after a day of adventuring. Mammoth Rock 'N' Bowl is a one-stop shop for indoor fun. Reserve a lane for bowling or check out the golf simulator, ping pong and video games.

Axe throwing is another fun indoor option in Mammoth Lakes. Book an hour in a private throwing lane at Yosemite Axe Throwing for up to two people, or if you have the whole family in tow, check the rates and availability for groups of six or more.

When the Mammoth Mountain scenic gondola is running, the Eleven 53 Interpretive Center offers family-friendly interpretive exhibits and amazing views.

Black Friday Shopping in Mammoth Lakes

Black Friday in Mammoth Lakes is pretty mellow compared to other places, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t deals! It’s a great time to update your winter gear or find a unique, locally-made gift.

Mammoth Lakes is also a terrific place to support Small Business Saturday and many Mammoth-made products. Local merchants offer customized, friendly, small-town service and really appreciate your business.

Rows of brimmed hats hang on the wall and racks of clothing in a Mammoth shop

Author

Visit Mammoth

Unreal. There is no better way to describe Mammoth Lakes, California. A place so majestic that breathtaking views surround you in every direction. The staff at Mammoth Lakes Tourism is committed to stewardship, education, providing the ultimate visitor experience, and keeping the Real Unreal.