Explore the Mammoth Lakes Basin | Visit Mammoth

Twin Lakes

Lake Mary

Lake Mamie

Lake George

Horseshoe Lake

Although there isn’t a lake actually called “Mammoth Lake,” the Mammoth Lakes Basin is home to more than 100 alpine lakes, with five main gems that stand out: Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, Lake Mamie, Lake George, and Horseshoe Lake. Just minutes from the town of Mammoth Lakes, these lakes offer everything from fishing and kayaking to hiking and picnicking.

The Mammoth Lakes Basin is a true backyard treasure. The Lakes Basin is full of outdoor adventure all summer long, but until you’ve seen the lakes from the water, you haven’t fully experienced it. Imagine kayaking surrounded by the crystal-clear waters reflecting the forested shoreline, Crystal Crag towering overhead, while a bald eagle soars above. It’s quiet, calm, and a truly unreal experience.

Getting Around

We encourage visitors to use public transportation or the free summer Lakes Basin Trolley instead of driving. You can also walk, bike, or e-bike from town on the multi-use paths, which give you access to stunning views of all five lakes without the stress of parking.

Twin Lakes

As the first lake destination you’ll pass when entering the Lakes Basin, Twin Lakes is framed by volcanic cliffs and dense forest. The lakes are connected by a narrow channel, with dramatic views of Twin Falls cascading down the cliffside.

What to do: Paddle the lakes, fish from the marina, or take the footpath circling the shoreline.
Amenities: Tamarack Lodge (historic cabins that also includes a marina with fishing boats and kayaks) and Twin Lakes Campground.
Scenic highlight: The Twin Falls overlook and lava tubes along the eastern shore.
Getting there: You can access on bike or e-bike via the multi-use paths from town.

Lake Mary

The largest of the lakes in the Lakes Basin, Lake Mary is considered its centerpiece. On summer days it comes alive with activity and has the most amenities of any lakes within the basin.

What to do: Boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, or cycling the road that goes around the lake.
Amenities: Two marinas with rentals, campgrounds on each shore, and nearby trail access at Coldwater Campground. Pokonobe Resort and Marina (north shore) offers pontoon, motorboat, kayak, and paddleboard rentals, plus a general store. Lake Mary Marina and Store (south shore near Coldwater Campground) rents kayaks, paddleboards, and fishing boats.
Scenic highlight: Expansive views of the Mammoth Crest and Crystal Crag with big pine trees hugging the perimeter.
Getting there: We recommend using the free public trolley or biking in via the multi-use paths connecting to Lake Mary directly from town. If you must drive, arrive early, as parking fills quickly.

Lake Mamie

Tucked between Lake Mary and Twin Lakes, Lake Mamie is a small hideaway surrounded by forest and tall grasses. Despite its location right off the main road, it feels surprisingly secluded.

What to do: Shoreline fishing, kayaking, or walking the short footpath circling the lake.
Amenities: Wildyrie Lodge & Boat Rental rents rowboats by the hour, day, or week. Rustic cabins are also available.
Scenic highlight: The view of Twin Falls from the Mamie overlook.
Getting there: The multi-use paths allows you to reach Lake Mamie on bike or e-bike right from town.

Lake George

At nearly 9,000 feet, Lake George is the highest-elevation lake in the Lakes Basin accessible by road. Often called the “crown jewel,” it sits tucked beneath the dramatic granite buttress that is Crystal Crag.

What to do: Kayaking, fishing, or launching to high-country hikes like Crystal Lake or Mammoth Crest, giving you some of the most breathtaking views in the Eastern Sierra. There is also rock climbing accessible on the nearby Dyke Wall.
Amenities: Woods Lodge manages a boat launch and fishing boat rentals and also offers rustic cabin stays. There’s also a small campground: Lake George Campground.
Scenic highlight: Offers the closest views of the dramatic granite buttress of Crystal Crag. It’s also one of the best spots in the Lakes Basin for wildlife viewing - keep an eye out for bald eagles, ospreys, and mule deer along the shoreline.
Getting there: Use the free trolley and public transit to get right into the heart of the Lakes Basin right from town. Parking is limited and fills quickly, so if you do drive, arrive early.

Horseshoe Lake

At the end of Lake Mary Road, Horseshoe Lake is beloved for its wide sandy shoreline and relaxed vibe. It’s one of the best family-friendly spots in the Lakes Basin.

What to do: Swimming, paddleboarding, picnicking, hiking to nearby McLeod Lake, walking the loop trail, or climbing at Horseshoe Slabs. Take advantage of its sprawling open shoreline, Horseshoe is the best lake for spreading out with a blanket or enjoying a full day on the beach. It’s also a local favorite dog play area.
Amenities: The Horseshoe Lake Picnic Area offers plenty of tables under the pines. Bathrooms, trailhead maps, and information are a short stroll from the picnic area.
Scenic highlight: Areas of tree die-off caused by naturally occurring CO₂ emissions give the landscape a fascinating volcanic character.
Getting there: Accessible via a short drive or, better yet, the trolley or multi-use path so you don’t have to stress about parking!

Getting on the Water

Experiencing the Lakes Basin from the water is unreal, and several marinas make it easy to rent boats, tubes, kayaks, fishing gear, and paddleboards:

Twin Lakes: Tamarack Lodge & Marina
Lake Mary: Pokonobe Resort & Marina and Lake Mary Marina & Store
Lake Mamie: Wildyrie Lodge & Boat Rental
Lake George: Woods Lodge
Horseshoe Lake: No rentals accessible here

Rentals in town:

Plan Your Visit

Getting there: The Lakes Basin is best accessed via public transit and the free summer trolley or by bike/e-bike on the multi-use paths right from town. Driving is possible, but parking is limited and fills quickly.

What to pack: Layers for changing temps, sturdy shoes for hiking, fishing gear or a paddleboard, sunscreen, and a camera or binoculars for the views.

When to go: July-September offer the most reliable weather, but June brings wildflowers and October brings brilliant fall colors.

The Mammoth Lakes Basin is the ultimate mountain playground, whether you’re paddling beneath Crystal Crag, casting a line for trout, or simply soaking in the alpine scenery. There are so many alpine lakes to explore just minutes from town!

A red and green trolly drives by a lake with mountains in the distance. The snow on the mountains is melting

Winter in the Lakes Basin

The Lakes Basin isn’t just a summer playground - it transforms into a snowy wonderland in winter. Roads close to cars, but you can still explore on skis and snowshoes.

Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center grooms over 19 miles of scenic trails for classic and skate skiing, with routes that wind past Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, and Lake Mamie. Rentals, lessons, and guided tours are available, making the Lakes Basin a year-round destination.