Top 10 Must-Do Activities in Mammoth Lakes for Nature Lovers

Top 10 Must-Do Activities in Mammoth Lakes for Nature Lovers

Photo by Airwolfhound on Flickr under CC-BY-SA-2.0

Mammoth Lakes, situated in California's Sierra Nevada sector, has something for everyone: unrivaled beauty with abundant skiing during winter, hot spring hiking, and lakes at Mammoth perfect for swimming in the summer.

Filled with breathtaking views, here's a compilation of activities that will surely amaze you for the 10 best things to do in Mammoth Lakes.

DISCLAIMER: Before traveling to a location, ensure that the location still allows for activities and make yourself aware of any rules and regulations in place.

1. Glide Across Lake Mary by Kayak or Board

Get ready to paddle into fun-filled adventures at Lake Mary, a significant hot spot for kayaking and paddle boarding in the Mammoth Lake Basin.

Rider even gets treated with calm, gleaming waters, reflecting massive mountains and towering pines.

Glide Across Lake Mary by Kayak or Board


Photo by inkknife_2000 on Flickr under CC-BY-SA-2.0

You can either rent a paddle board or a kayak from the Mary Lake Marina or bring your own and paddle across the lake. Small boats are also welcome to explore the edges of the lake. Summer is the best time to visit for ideal conditions and vibrant surroundings.

2. Take a Leisurely Float on Twin Lakes

Soak in the serene environment while floating on Twin Lakes, a beautiful treasure in the Mammoth Lakes Basin.

Take a Leisurely Float on Twin Lakes


Photo by inkknife_2000 on Flickr under CC-BY-SA-2.0

Enjoy relaxing while drifting on small paddle boats or rafts and soaking in mountain views. Calm waters with surrounding forests make this spot a perfect family getaway.

Summer or early autumn will give you the best weather and the most stunning views.

3. Swim in the Warm Waters of Horseshoe Lake

Take a dip in the warm waters of Horseshoe Lake, located at the Southern tip of Lake Mary road.

Swim in the Warm Waters of Horseshoe Lake


Photo by Allen Chen on Flickr under CC-BY-SA-3.0

Covered by pine trees and mountains, the lake is a favorite for families and swimmers looking for a picturesque slice of nature.

With its stunning nature and pine trees, the lake provides an exceptional retreat. Summer is best suited for a war,m refreshing dip.

4. Soak Up the Sun at June Lake Beach

Head on over to June Lake Beach to enjoy an afternoon of sun soaking just a short distance from Mammoth Lakes.

This amazing beach is located within the June Lake Loop and is surrounded by majestic mountains and turquoise waters.

Soak Up the Sun at June Lake Beach


Photo by Photographersnature on Wikimedia Commons under CC-BY-SA-3.0

Can you swim in Mammoth Lakes? You can swim in the crystal clear water or relax beside the beach. The beach’s gentle slope makes it ideal for families. Bring a picnic to enjoy whilst relaxing next to the water.

5. Fish at Dawn in Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes offers a tranquil setting for trout fishermen. Fishermen have the opportunity to catch rainbow and brown trout from Lake Mary, Lake George, Twin Lakes, Lake Mamie, and Convict Lake.

Fish at Dawn in Mammoth Lakes


Photo by Benjy Duke on Rawpixel.com

It is possible to book or go on a guided trip with locals to make the fishing experience even more fun. Otherwise, with the right permits, you can fish on your own. Spring and summer yield the best fishing conditions.

6. Picnic by the Lake at Shady Rest or Coldwater

Savor a lakeside picnic at Shady Rest or Coldwater, two prime spots for relaxation. Shady Rest, near town, offers shaded tables and easy lake access, perfect for a quick escape.

Picnic by the Lake at Shady Rest or Coldwater


Photo by Alex Butterfield on Flickr under CC-BY-2.0

Coldwater, in the Mammoth Lakes Basin, boasts stunning views and serene waterside spots. Both locations suit families or groups seeking a laid-back day.

Summer and fall provide ideal weather, with wildflowers or golden hues enhancing the scene.

7. Cruise Lake Mary on a BBQ or Pontoon Boat

Take your trip in Lake Mary to the next level with a BBQ boat or a pontoon. Rent a pontoon at Lake Mary Marina, pack a cooler, and set up a DIY barbecue on the water.

Cruise Lake Mary on a BBQ or Pontoon Boat


Photo by Wake Riderz Boat Rental Lake Austin on Flickr under CC-BY-SA-4.0

The lake’s expansive surface and surrounding peaks create a picturesque setting for a leisurely ride. Gather friends or family for a unique outing, grilling as you glide.

8. Explore Tranquil Lake George by Canoe

Paddle through the serene waters of Lake George, a quieter Mammoth Lakes Basin gem perfect for canoeing.

Its calm shores and small size make it an ideal position for relaxing with canoes or other little watercraft.

Explore Tranquil Lake George by Canoe


Photo by inkknife_2000 on Flickr under CC-BY-SA-2.0

The breathtaking views are a treat during the summer or even autumn. Summer and early fall provide the best conditions for a peaceful paddle.

9. Catch a Lakeside Sunset

Witness a breathtaking sunset at Twin Lakes, Lake Mamie, or Convict Lake, where west-facing shores glow with golden hues. These lakes offer prime vantage points as the sky ignites over the Sierra peaks.

Catch a Lakeside Sunset


Photo by Gwillhickers on Wikimedia Commons under CC-BY-SA-4.0

Pack a blanket, find a cozy spot, and watch the mountains reflect on the water. Convict Lake’s dramatic cliffs add extra allure.

Fall evenings enhance the colors, but summer’s warmth makes for comfortable viewing.

10. Rejuvenate in the Hot Springs

Unwind in the soothing waters of Travertine or Wild Willy’s Hot Springs, natural geothermal pools near Mammoth Lakes.

Rejuvenate in the Hot Springs


Photo by James St. John on Flickr under CC-BY-2.0

Travertine, in Bridgeport, offers scenic tubs with mountain views, while Wild Willy’s, off Benton Crossing Road, features rustic pools accessible via a short walk. These primitive springs are free and open year-round, with winter adding a magical snowy contrast.

Level Up Your Mammoth Lakes’ Experience With Floats

Make your things to do in Mammoth Lakes, CA, unforgettable with our premium inflatable water hammocks and modular floats, designed for ultimate relaxation and fun.

At iROCKER, we craft lightweight, durable floats using drop-stitch PVC and welded seams, ensuring stability for you, your friends, and even pets.

Level Up Your Mammoth Lakes’ Experience With Floats


Our iLAND® 8' and 10' Hammocks offer spacious lounging, supporting up to 1,400 lbs on lakes like Twin Lakes or Lake Mary.

The iLAND® Adjustable Chair allows you to sit upright or recline low, connecting seamlessly with our modular system for a custom setup. Add the iLAND® Floating Bar to keep drinks and snacks handy, perfect for lakeside sunsets or sandbar parties.

Level Up Your Mammoth Lakes’ Experience With Floats


Easy to inflate (6–8 PSI) and pack, our floats are ideal for any adventure. Mix and match to create your floating paradise, enhanced by MAGTITE™ accessories for drinks and speakers.

Dive into comfort and style with iROCKER, and turn every lake day into an extraordinary escape.

Escape Into Nature In Mammoth Lakes with iROCKER

There are endless things to do in Mammoth Lakes, from kayaking in serene waters to soaking in hot springs. With our durable, versatile iROCKER Canada floats, we enhance every adventure, ensuring comfort and fun. Embrace the Sierra’s beauty and make unforgettable memories with gear built for exploration.

Escape Into Nature In Mammoth Lakes with iROCKER


Gear up for your Mammoth Lakes escape! Shop our premium outdoor gear at iROCKER, designed for durability and adventure. Visit us today and elevate your water experiences.

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