Snowshoeing in Mammoth Lakes

Winter in Mammoth Lakes is unlike anywhere else—deep snow, quiet forests, and snowy peaks stretching in every direction. With more than 3 million acres of public lands and wilderness surrounding the region, snowshoeing is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to explore the Eastern Sierra at your own pace. Whether you’re looking for a serene walk through the woods, views of alpine lakes, or a gentle family-friendly adventure, you’ll find snowshoe terrain for every skill level right outside town.

For quick and easy access to stunning mountain scenery, there is free public access to more than 140 miles (225 km) of track that winds throughout Mammoth Lakes and into the expanse of the Inyo National Forest. Top zones include Panorama Dome, the Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center (left-hand side of the trail), and Shady Rest Park.

These areas are also open to Cross Country, Nordic, and backcountry skiers. Please be courteous by sharing the trail and staying out of the set tracks designated for cross country skiers.

Best Places to Go Snowshoeing

You can snowshoe almost anywhere your legs can take you, but below are the three most popular and beginner-friendly areas. We also provide information on where to get rentals and tips on safety and trail etiquette to keep your adventure fun and worry-free.

MINARET VISTA

Mammoth Lakes Basin

Shady Rest Park

Snowshoe Rentals

Safety & Trail Etiquette

Snowshoeing To Minaret Vista

Snowshoe to see Mammoth Lakes’ signature skyline, the Minarets, from Minaret Vista. The gentle and gradual uphill slope of this route is perfect for beginners or families with older children.

Remember to dress in layers and keep in mind that it can be considerably cooler and windier at this elevation than in town. The high altitude of the trail allows for an extended season that can easily run from mid-November until late April or even a bit later depending on snow conditions.

Trail Information

The trail begins at Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge, an elevation of 8,909 feet, and climbs up to 9,265 feet over 2.5 miles. At Main Lodge, you’ll have access to services, including food and restrooms, before you start your trip to Minaret Vista.

Be on the lookout for snowmobiles, cross country skiers and downhill skiers, since the trail is used for multiple sports. Follow signs for Minaret Vista as the trail branches away from the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area.

Getting There

Ride the free Red Line bus to Main Lodge or drive up Highway 203 to the ski area’s large parking area. Use the Main Lodge parking shuttle or simply walk toward the Mammoth Mountain Inn and past the Mammoth Mountain Chalets, where you’ll see the trail.

Snowshoeing In The Mammoth Lakes Basin

Mammoth Lakes Basin is a great place to explore without an itinerary. You’ll discover several bridges, hidden amphitheaters, frozen lakes and endless terrain. No matter what you choose, you’ll find peaceful forested groves and breathtaking mountain vistas everywhere in the Lakes Basin.

While many of the trails in the Lakes Basin are groomed for cross country skiing (accessible with a pass from Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center), the Lake Mary Winter Public Access Corridor is free to the public for snowshoeing.

Just off the main trail, the Panorama Dome Loop is another great option for snowshoers looking for stunning views of the Mammoth Crest, Sherwin Range, White Mountains, Glass Mountains, Mammoth Mountain and the Town of Mammoth Lakes below.

Trail Information

The 2.5-mile Lakes Mary Winter Public Access Corridor winds uphill until you reach Lake Mary, where it levels out for the rest of the trip to Horseshoe Lake. Follow the trail up into the Lakes Basin or take the loop trail to Panorama Dome for a more challenging uphill climb but a shorter trail.

Snowshoers are also permitted to explore off trail. Use caution when snowshoeing near frozen or semi-frozen lakes as California sun typically warms the ice to the point that it is unsafe to walk on at times.

Getting There

Take the free Orange Line bus from the Village to Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center or drive along Lake Mary Road to Twin Lakes Road, where you can parallel park. Then walk along Lake Mary Road to the winter road closure. The public trail runs alongside a groomed trail that requires a pass, while Panorama Dome Loop veers off to the left.

Snowshoeing At Shady Rest Park

Shady Rest Park offers beautiful, convenient, free snowshoeing trails right in the heart of Mammoth Lakes. Because these trails are in town and at a lower elevations, the season for snowshoeing at Shady Rest Park is dependent on snowfall and typically shorter than higher elevation areas.

Trail Information

Snowshoers share the mostly-flat trails at Shady Rest Park with cross country skiers in the areas designated for non-motorized use. If you venture onto snowmobile trails, be cautious of over snow vehicle (OSV) traffic.

Getting There

To access the trailhead, ride the free purple line shuttle or park at the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center and walk along the path past the buildings toward Sawmill Cutoff Road.

Where To Rent Snowshoes In Mammoth Lakes

If you need equipment for your snowshoeing adventure, you can rent snowshoes from these local retailers:

Safety & Trail Etiquette

Snowshoeing is a simple and accessible winter activity, but conditions in the mountains can change quickly. A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your outing comfortable and safe — for you, the trails, and other visitors.

Share the Trail Respectfully

Many winter routes are multi-use. Snowshoers often share space with cross-country skiers, backcountry skiers, and snowmobilers, depending on the area. As a general rule:

Walk to the side of groomed cross-country ski tracks so the tracks aren’t damaged.
Step aside for faster users when possible.
Stay alert to snowmobiles on mixed-use trails.

Be Snow- and Weather-Smart

Temperature, wind, and visibility can shift throughout the day. A few key reminders:

Dress in breathable layers and avoid cotton—it loses insulation when wet.
Keep hands, head, and feet warm with waterproof gloves, warm socks, and winter boots.
Always bring water and snacks. High-altitude winter exercise uses more energy than you think.

Check Conditions Before You Go

Trail access can vary depending on storms and grooming schedules. Before heading out:

Review weather and wind forecasts.
Check road status and trail accessibility.
Be aware of early sunsets in winter months—headlamps are highly recommended.

Be Careful Around Frozen Lakes and Waterways

Lakes and ponds can freeze unevenly. Ice may look solid but can become thin when warmed by sun or moving water.

Stay near the shoreline and avoid venturing far onto frozen surfaces.
Keep children and pets close in these areas.

Pack with Safety in Mind

Beyond the basics, a few lightweight items can make a big difference:

Extra gloves and socks
Sunscreen and lip balm (sun reflects off snow)
A trail map or downloaded GPS route (cell service varies)
A phone battery backup in colder temperatures

Leave No Trace—Winter Edition

Even snow-covered trails need care.

Pack out all trash (including tissues and hand warmers).
Stick to durable surfaces—consistent trail use protects fragile winter habitats.
Keep wildlife wild: enjoy from a distance and never feed animals.

A little preparation means you can focus on what matters most: crisp air, quiet trails, and unreal mountain views.