Memorial Day Weekend After Largest Snowfall on Record

November 08, 2023

Following the most historic winter on record at Mammoth Mountain, Memorial Day Weekend, which usually kicks off a lot of summer fun in the Eastern Sierra will have some limitations this year.

Water flows from snowmelt are dictating which activities and areas can safely open in the region. Please read on if you are visiting this weekend or in the near future to make sure you plan, and enjoy, a successful visit.

Camping

First, for all the campers out there, our friends from Camp Like a Pro say, plan ahead and stay safe.

  • Many campgrounds remain closed or will open late. Many roads and trails are snowed in, washed out or flooded - turn around, don't drown.
  • Cold swift water kills! Be careful near waterways, do not attempt to cross flowing water, and be alert to potential flooding. Adults can get swept away, kids and pets don’t stand a chance.
  • Be extra vigilant, plan accordingly and stay flexible – check all agency websites regarding closures and conditions. Respect safety alerts. The map below does not contain temporary closure information, current conditions or identify existing hazards.
  • Visit your local National Forest Visitor Centers for more information. You can also read more in this press release from the Forest Service.

Things to Do

If you are looking for fun things to do during your visit, check out the Mammoth Lakes Film Festival happening this weekend.

And of course, you'll want to grab bragging rights for skiing and snowboarding at Mammoth Mountain after such a monumental winter, so make sure to block off time to head out on the hill.

Additionally, many lakes in the region are ice-free and ready to be fished. Lakes include Crowley, Convict, June, Gull, Grant, Silver, Twin Lakes in Bridgeport and the Bridgeport Reservoir. Please check with marinas for information on operations at specific lakes. Please note that the Mammoth Lakes Basin is still closed and under heavy snow.

Other activities include biking the town loop, or if you'd like to explore a little further, pedal your road bike through the Owens Valley.

Snowcreek Driving Range will be open this weekend so you can start warming up your swing, while some hiking spots are open such as the Hot Creek Interpretive Area, Convict Lake, as well as the road to Rock Creek, although some of the trails in that area are still under snow.

Of course there are always great dining options available to fuel your adventures and plenty of open patios to take in the unreal views. So come on up and enjoy a different take on one of your favorite places.

Author
Lara Kaylor
Lara Kaylor is an outdoor enthusiast who gets her thrills from big time recreation in Mammoth Lakes where she resides with her husband and daughter. An award-winning journalist, Lara has been writing about all things Eastern Sierra since 2003. Lara currently works as a freelance writer and the Director of Communications and Community Engagement for Mammoth Lakes Tourism.
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