Traveling from Reno to Mammoth Lakes

The 160 miles of roadway separating the city of Reno from Mammoth Lakes is known as one of North America’s most beautiful stretches of highway. With its trademark views, diverse landscapes, and massive snow-capped peaks, U.S. Highway 395 connects western Nevada with the eastern California wonderland via a scenic stretch of well-maintained asphalt. From river gorges to historic towns brimming with western culture, the drive is an adventure all its own.

To get to Mammoth Lakes, take U.S. Highway 395 south through the Carson Valley and into California at Topaz Lake. The highway dissects the rolling hills along the steep eastern flanks of the massive Sierra Nevada Mountains and then emerges into the gorgeous high desert of the Walker River Canyon. After passing through Bridgeport, a small western ranching community, Highway 395 reaches its apex at Conway Summit. This is arguably one of the most scenic highway viewpoints of the trip and overlooks the vast Mono Lake Basin. Farther south the highway passes the June Lakes Loop and within minutes, travelers will reach California State Route 203, which is the 2-mile stretch to downtown Mammoth Lakes and the gateway to Devils Postpile National Monument and other sights.

Many of the small towns along the 100-mile-long route between Minden, NV and Mammoth Lakes offer seasonally-based services, so it is advised to plan accordingly. The towns of Bridgeport, Walker, Topaz and Lee Vining all have year-round access to lodging and fuel. Charming Bridgeport is the seat of Mono County and is well worth a pit stop for a visit. Plus, there are several natural hot springs just outside of town (and you can find more information about those on the Mono County website).

From late spring to early fall, the preserved ghost town of Bodie immediately south of Bridgeport is open for exploration. Here you’ll find dozens of homes and commercial buildings that remain as the only evidence of the once-thriving mining community that survived here until the mid-20th century. For more information on Bodie, stop by the Mono Basin Scenic Visitor Center in Lee Vining or at the California Welcome Center in Mammoth Lakes.

For current highway conditions along U.S. 395, consult the CalTrans website. As a major commerce route, US 395 is impeccably maintained throughout the year. A majority of the drive is on divided highways with passing lanes, allowing efficient and stress-free driving during even the busiest weekends.