Exhilarating mountain highways loaded with scenic viewpoints are part of the adventure of driving from Northern California to Mammoth Lakes. Once the winter’s snow melts in late May to early June (although sometimes as late as July), many of the high-alpine passes that cross the Sierra Nevada Mountains open for travel.
Each route has its own distinct natural beauty that begs to be explored. With several options on hand, you may want to consider taking a different route home so you can see more of the area.
Driving via Highway 120 (Tioga Pass)—Seasonal
California Highway 120 through Yosemite National Park is the shortest and most scenic route from San Francisco to Mammoth Lakes when open. This drive crosses Tioga Pass, the highest highway pass in California, and delivers breathtaking views of granite peaks, alpine meadows, and glacial landscapes.
After exiting Yosemite’s eastern gate, the route connects to Highway 395 near Mono Lake, where the landscape opens dramatically into the Eastern Sierra.
- Typical drive time: ~6 hours (traffic dependent)
- Seasonal access: Usually opens between late May and June (sometimes later)
- Important note: Check the National Park Service for current Tioga Pass conditions
Services are limited inside Yosemite, so plan fuel and food stops accordingly. Once you reach Lee Vining on the east side of the pass, you’ll find small eateries and services, with Mammoth Lakes less than 30 minutes south.
Driving via Highway 108 (Sonora Pass)—Seasonal
Highway 108 offers a quieter alternative to Tioga Pass, winding through Gold Country forests before crossing Sonora Pass into the Eastern Sierra. This route is especially popular in late summer and fall, when quaking aspens turn the eastern slopes brilliant shades of gold.
Fishing access along the Walker River headwaters and lighter traffic make this a favorite for travelers looking to avoid crowds.
- Typical drive time: ~6.5 hours
- Seasonal access: Summer through early fall
- Services: Very limited over the pass
