3 Days of Land Adventures in Mammoth Lakes

Play big in our massive mountain paradise, where endless adventures await. From amazing views along hiking trails to thrilling rides at the number one mountain bike park in the United States, summertime in here is full of outdoor activities. Whether you’re exploring the wilderness on horseback or sampling world-class cuisine at a festival, Mammoth Lakes delivers excitement for everyone.

Day 1 – Exploration on Wheels

Mammoth Lakes offers over 20 kilometers of paved bike trails, including a bike path climbing over 1,000 feet in elevation from town into the Mammoth Lakes Basin, featuring 360-degree mountain views as you pedal around town. Additionally, numerous backcountry trails provide ample opportunities to explore the forest on two wheels. Road biking is also popular here. With light traffic and stunning scenery, the Eastern Sierra is ideal for high-altitude training rides. Rent bikes and jump on the free trolley to Mammoth Lakes Basin from The Village at Mammoth. Take the trolley up to Horseshoe Lake. Then ride the unpaved Horseshoe Lake Loop trail, crossing seven bridges, before joining the paved Lakes Basin Path. Pass lakes and waterfalls beneath towering granite crags as you descend the five miles back to town, stopping at designated pullouts for perfect photo opportunities. Or if you are looking for a bit more of a thrill, check out the Mammoth Mountain Bike Park. Each summer, mountain bikers flock to the bike park, ranked #1 in the US, to hone their skills on nearly 80 miles of single track spread across 3,500 acres. Get started with a beginner package that includes your lift ticket, bike rental and instruction. Families should take advantage of the Kids Adventure Pass that combines trail and lift access with unlimited, all-day access to the climbing wall, zip line and bungee trampoline. Wrap up the day with a scenic gondola ride to the Eleven53 Interpretive Center for lunch and learning. Afterward, you can bike, hike or ride back down the mountain.

Day 2 – Equestrian & Links

Local outfitters offer unique opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to get out into the wilderness on horseback. Get your feet wet with Mammoth Lakes Pack Outfit on an hour-long, family-friendly trail ride or take a half-day ride through pine forests, passing high alpine lakes and lush meadows. Experienced riders might enjoy a multi-day pack trip from Mammoth Lakes to Yosemite National Park. After exploring the equestrian trails, head back into town to play an afternoon round of golf on one of two stunning mountain courses. Your ball flies further at altitude, so you may even take a few strokes off your game. In the evening, take in free entertainment at The Village at Mammoth for the evening, whether it’s family movie night or there’s a live band playing. Unwind over cocktails while the kids hang out in a nearby sandbox or play ping-pong or ladder ball.

Day 3 – Trails, Tours & Festivals

Surrounded by 2 million acres of the Inyo National Forest, Mammoth Lakes has seemingly infinite opportunities for hiking, ranging from short strolls to challenging climbs up 13,000-foot peaks. Easily accessible trailheads even connect to the world-renowned Pacific Crest Trail and John Muir Wilderness. Stop by the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center for detailed maps, trail conditions and route suggestions before setting out on a hike. Wind down with a well-earned beer or cocktail at a local brewery or distillery.  Brewed at 8,000 feet and above, each offers something unique to the tastebuds. Mammoth Lakes also plays host to dozens of events and festivals. Check the events calendar to plan your trip around an event that interests you. Listen to nationally-known blues artists and sample beer from more than 60 craft breweries at the annual Mammoth Festival of Beers and Bluesapalooza or catch a rising filmmaking star at the Mammoth Lakes Film Festival. Summer art shows, classical music concerts, and local theatre performances including Shakespeare in the Woods round out a thriving arts and culture scene.