Road Cycling the Mammoth Scenic Loop

June 03, 2026

The Scenic Loop is a rolling, bending road that is a favorite out-and-back cycling route in Mammoth Lakes.

It is often used as a way to get to-and-from Highway 395 for longer rides, but it is also a beginner-friendly, or short and relatively easy route all by itself.

Mammoth Scenic Loop Route Summary

Distance: 18 miles round-trip | Elevation gain: ~1,000 ft | Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate | Surface: Paved | Season: Late May through October

Scenic Loop Road

The road has wide shoulders, little traffic, and mountain views through the treetops. It’s one of the quieter roads you’ll find just outside of town. The cars that you do see tend to be friendly, sharing the road and waving hello as the pass.

There is just enough uphill climbing to the highest point to get your aerobic system working, but before you get too tired you’ll be whizzing down to the end of the road. As you pedal along the rolling pavement you’ll see wildflowers speckling the side of the road, birds soaring overhead, and occasionally deer crossing the road.

How to Ride It

From the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center ride up Main Street or Forest Trail and turn right on Minaret Road. Continue past The Village at Mammoth toward Mammoth Mountain. It’s a quick climb before turning right on the Mammoth Scenic Loop. The road continues to climb gradually before it begins the rolling descent through a dense Jeffrey pine forest. You’ll pass the turn-off to the Inyo Craters and in 9 miles you’ll reach Highway 395 north of Mammoth Lakes. Return the same route for an 18-mile round-trip ride with nearly 1,000 feet of climbing and descending.

Quick Tips

It’s best to ride from your front door, but parking is available at the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center for free and at the Village at Mammoth for a fee. There are no services on the Mammoth Scenic Loop. Bring plenty of water and snacks.

More Road Cycling in Mammoth Lakes

The Scenic Loop pairs well with two other classic routes in the area. The June Lake Loop is a 16-mile circuit through one of the most scenic valleys in the Eastern Sierra—rolling terrain with big views and minimal traffic.

For a shorter but more demanding climb, Road Cycling to Minaret Vista takes you up to 9,265 feet with views across the San Joaquin Ridge and the Minarets. Both are accessible directly from Mammoth Lakes, making it easy to tackle multiple rides over a long weekend. Browse lodging options and base yourself in town for easy access to all three routes.

Visit Mammoth
Author
Visit Mammoth
Unreal. There is no better way to describe Mammoth Lakes, California. A place so majestic that breathtaking views surround you in every direction. The staff at Mammoth Lakes Tourism is committed to stewardship, education, providing the ultimate visitor experience, and keeping the Real Unreal.
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