You’ll never run out of things to do in Mammoth Lakes during summer, when you can see the lakes and mountains in all their glory. Don your hiking boots and go for a walk in the Mammoth Lakes Basin, where there are more than 100 miles of trails. Or, if you fancy a challenge, trek up to the summit Mammoth Mountain.  

Prefer to explore on two wheels? Hire bikes and hit the scenic cycling routes. Or get out on the water when you hire a canoe, kayak or paddle-board. You can also cool off with a refreshing swim in the clear waters of Crystal Lake or Horseshoe Lake. Or head to Mono Lake to search for some of its 300 species of bird.
If you’re a keen golfer, make sure you play 18 holes on the highest course in California, Sierra Star Golf Course. You might even spot a black bear strolling across the forest-lined fairway. Alternatively, for a less challenging round, tee off on the nine-hole Snowcreek Golf Course.

As thick snow covers the mountains between November and May, Mammoth Lakes transforms into a winter wonderland. Skiers and snowboarders will be in their element on Mammoth Mountain, where 175 pistes weave across 3,500 acres of snowy terrain. Most runs are suited for intermediate and advanced skiers, but there’s a good amount for beginners, too.

Don’t worry if skiing’s not your thing, as you’ll find plenty more activities away from the slopes. Pop on a pair snowshoes join a guided walk through the knee-deep powder. Or hop on a snowmobile to explore the many trails, which cut through the pristine wilderness. Go dog-sledding, ice-skating or sledging. Or, for a fun-filled afternoon with a difference, why not go snow-tubing at Woolly’s Tube Park?

If you’d like to avoid the summer crowds, consider planning your Mammoth Lakes holiday for spring. This in-between season is a lovely time to visit, as the winter snow lingers and the meadows fill with blooming wildflowers. You can spend your mornings skiing, and your afternoons relaxing by a sun-soaked lake. Hike through purple and yellow meadows, go fishing, and kayak across blue waters.

Similarly, autumn is a wonderful time to go. The forests burn bright orange, gold and red, while the first snows begin to dust the mountaintops like icing sugar. You’ll have the perfect weather for outdoor activities – not too cool, not too hot. You can go hiking or horseback-riding along the vibrant trails, or hire bikes and enjoy an energetic cycle in the autumn breeze.

As you’ve probably gathered, there’s never a bad time for a Mammoth Lakes holiday – the best time to go simply depends on how you’d like to spend your time. Generally, the warmest weather occurs between June and September, when temperatures hover around 25°C and rain is rare. At the other end of the spectrum, November to March is the coldest time of year. Temperatures rarely reach double figures in winter, and regularly drop as low as -8°C.

Summer is ideal for golf, kayaking and swimming, while winter is all about snowsports. But if you’d prefer to visit when it’s quieter, it’s best to travel in May or October. Spring’s wildflowers and autumn’s leaves bring Mammoth Lakes to life with gorgeous colours. And, with pleasant temperatures