5 Beautiful Lakes Near Mammoth Mountain You Need To Explore This Spring
One of the best ways to spend a spring day in the Mammoth Mountain area is chillin’ lakeside. Whether you want to earn it with a tough trek, take a relaxing hike, or park your car right near the water and unpack your picnic, you’ll find something on this list that will fit the bill. Set up your basecamp at Mammoth Mountain and spend your spring days by the water.
1. Hike to Pika Lake
You could very well find yourself with your very own beach to chill on at Pika Lake. With few crowds and amazing views of Mammoth Mountain and the Minarets, it’s an easy choice for this list. Learn more.
2. Hike to Heart Lake
At just 3.2 miles round trip and 500 feet of elevation gain, this is a super easy day hike. One the best parts of the Mammoth Mountain area is that you don’t have to work too hard to find beautiful destinations like Heart Lake. Learn more.
3. June Lake
June Lake is a great spot to take in the first warm days of the season. Stop in the neighboring town of the same name to pick up some food and beer and you've got a recipe for the perfect day. Learn more.
4. Hike to Arrowhead Lake
Another short hike will lead you to Arrowhead Lake, where you’ll find several beach areas to set up and hang out for the day. If you visit later in the spring or in the summer, you can swim or walk around to the eastern edge of the lake for some cliff jumping. Learn more.
5. Hike to Sherwin Lake
Make the quick climb up a few switchbacks, gaining amazing views of Mammoth Mountain, the Owens Valley, and the 395 Highway along the way to Sherwin Lake. This hike is dog friendly so feel free to bring your best friend along on the trail. Learn more.
Cover photo: Gregg Boydston
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