Fall usually causes a rush of enthusiasm since it signals the end of summer, the approach of winter, and the transformation of summer’s greens into vivid hues of gold, orange, and red for a precious few weeks. Because of the colder temperatures and higher elevations, mountain communities like Mammoth Lakes in California are sometimes the first to embrace fall colors.
The Perfect Fall Trip
The Mammoth Lakes tourist team is so eager for fall to arrive that they recently published a collection of images highlighting the season’s first hues, which are accentuated by a little dusting of snow. In Mammoth Lakes, the fall foliage season has already started, but it has not yet come to an end. There is still plenty of time to arrange a fall vacation as just 10% of the leaves, according to Visit Mammoth, have turned thus far.
Go to the June Lake Loop if you’re interested in viewing the leaves from the comfort of your car (Route 158). The 15-mile path travels by the impressive Sierra peaks, a string of stunning lakes, and some of California’s greatest fall foliage. The Oh! Ridge Campground, where you can see high alpine lakes surrounded by vibrant trees and look up toward Carson Peak, is one of the highlights.
Where People Should Stay
The spacious one- and two-bedroom suites at the all-suite Westin Monache Resort have complete kitchens. You may use the heated outdoor pool or your private balcony to take in the fall hues. When you schedule a stay for three or more nights, you may save 25% at the nearby Mammoth Mountain Inn, which keeps things straightforward with regular hotel rooms and fantastic seasonal bargains.
Where to Eat
Visit Skadi for the alluring combination of vistas and fine dining, which expertly captures the upscale ski lodge vibe. Although Toomey’s is notably more informal, it is as popular and is Mammoth’s go-to spot for traditional Southern dishes like jambalaya. After leaf-peeping, stop by Shelter Distilling for a delicious drink made with Mammoth’s mountain-fresh water, which they claim is their secret ingredient.
How to Get There
For a place that sometimes seems so far away, Mammoth Lakes is surprisingly reachable. Take Route 395, which passes via Death Valley, Mt. Whitney, and the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, from Southern California. Routes 120 and 108, which are both beautiful in the fall, are available for travelers coming from the north to reach Mammoth Lakes. The routes travel across mountain passes and pass Yosemite National Park and Mono Lake on their way to their destinations.
United Airlines offers flights to Eastern Sierra Regional Airport for those arriving by air (45 minutes from Mammoth Lakes). Advanced Air, a scheduled commuter and private charter airline with flights from Southern California, provides service to the smaller Mammoth Yosemite Airport, which is located 10 minutes from the city.