Kayaking Lake Mary—The Lakefront Restaurant
Paddle Notes
- Best Seasons to Visit: Spring, summer, fall
- Distance from Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center: 10 minutes
- Parking: Yes
- Restrooms: Yes
The Adventure—Lake Mary
Lake Mary is the crown jewel of the Mammoth Lakes Basin, even more stunning when viewed from the water. Paddle past pine forests, quaint cabins, content anglers, and the impressive granite monolith of Crystal Crag towering above. With calm waters and easy access, early mornings are ideal for a mellow kayak session, when the lake lies glassy and still. Watch for trout beneath the surface and golden leaves drifting along the shoreline as autumn begins to settle in.
The Reward—The Lakefront Restaurant
Once you’ve worked up an appetite on the water, head to The Lakefront Restaurant at Tamarack Lodge. This cozy, historic spot offers a fine dining experience with rustic charm —and views that rival any trail. Known for seasonal ingredients and creative takes on mountain cuisine, it’s the perfect setting for a lakeside lunch or slow, scenic dinner devouring menu items like the Elk Medallions or Seared Duck. Seating is limited—reservations suggested.
Paddleboarding Convict Lake—Bar Sierra
Paddle Notes
- Best Seasons to Visit: Spring, summer, fall
- Distance from Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center: 11 minutes
- Parking: Yes
- Restrooms: Yes
The Adventure—Convict Lake
Tucked beneath the colorful and majestic Mount Morrison, Convict Lake is a serene, surreal place to paddle. Launch from the beach area and cruise along the shoreline as the morning light dances on the water. The reflections here—especially during peak fall color—are breathtaking. Calm mornings are best for paddleboarding, offering mirror-like conditions and a sense of total stillness. It's also a great place for a cool-down dip or a shoreline walk before heading into town.
The Reward—Bar Sierra
After a tranquil morning on the water, head back into town and turn up the energy at Bar Sierra. This spot blends modern mountain vibes with bold flavors, creative cocktails and a family-friendly atmosphere. The menu is packed with elevated comfort food like deviled eggs with chili crisp, twice-fried chicken with gochujang sauce or risotto with broccolini and jalapeno chimichurri. It’s a perfect refuel destination, whether you’re grabbing a post-paddle lunch or unwinding during happy hour. Plus, kids can play and explore in the dedicated arcade room.
Paddleboarding & Swimming Horseshoe Lake—Café Crêpe
Paddle Notes
- Best Seasons to Visit: Spring, summer, fall
- Distance from Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center: 13 minutes
- Parking: Yes
- Restrooms: Yes
The Adventure—Horseshoe Lake
For a full alpine escape just minutes from town, head up to Horseshoe Lake in the Lakes Basin. With no motorized boats allowed, it’s ideal for peaceful paddling, laid-back swimming, and even sunbathing along the sandy shore. Bring your paddleboard, towel, and maybe even a book—this spot is less about pushing limits and more about enjoying nature's quieter moments. In early fall, the water often is still warm enough for a quick plunge.
The Reward—Café Crêpe
After a day on the water, keep the feel-good moments going with a sweet or savory crêpe at this cozy, casual downtown food trailer. Whether you’re in the mood for Nutella and banana or something heartier like ham and Swiss, Café Crêpe delivers crave-worthy treats. Enjoy your meal on their outdoor terrace with a coffee or bring your meal along for an après adventure lakeside picnic. It’s a little slice of France in the California mountains. Don’t miss out on Café Crêpe’s special dog menu—perfect for treating your four-legged adventure companion!
No matter your paddling pace, Mammoth Lakes serves up the perfect pairing of outdoor adventure and delicious rewards. From calm waters to tasty sips and savory fare, the Eastern Sierra invites you to slow down, explore, and savor it all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can you kayak or paddleboard in Mammoth Lakes?
Lake Mary, Convict Lake, and Horseshoe Lake are three of the most popular paddling destinations near Mammoth Lakes, each within 15 minutes of town. Lake Mary and Convict Lake offer rentals; Horseshoe Lake is bring-your-own.
When is the best time to paddle in Mammoth Lakes?
Late spring through fall offers the best conditions. Early mornings are ideal for calm, glassy water at all three lakes.
Are motorized boats allowed on Horseshoe Lake?
No. Horseshoe Lake is non-motorized only, making it one of the quietest and most peaceful paddling spots in the Mammoth Lakes Basin.
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