If you think California is all palm trees and sandy beaches, think again! The Eastern Sierras are an absolute winter wonderland during the colder months, filled with hidden gems that are just waiting to be explored. Here are 5 scenic spots to visit in Mammoth during winter!
CONVICT LAKE
Description: A visit to Convict Lake during winter will certainly leave you breathless! The water is so still, it captures the reflection of the snowy mountains in the background flawlessly. A mere 15 minutes south of Mammoth Lakes Village, Convict Lake is an easy stop on the way to or from Mammoth.
Directions: Heading north on Highway 395, turn left on Convict Lake Road, which is right across from the Mammoth Yosemite Airport. At the end of the road, you’ll reach Convict Lake after passing Convict Lake Campground and Convict Lake Resort.
Tips: The best viewpoint is located at Convict Lake Brook Trout Lookout. Park at the main parking lot and cross the bridge before heading down to the shoreline.
Optional Hike: Convict Lake Trail is a 2.5 mile round trip hike that offers unparalleled views of the lake. Start at the northern end of the lake at the main parking lot. I recommend that you wear snow shoes, as the snow can be quite deep in certain areas along the trail.
HOT CREEK GEOLOGIC SITE
Description: Hot Creek Geologic Site features dozens of steaming natural hot springs against a stunning backdrop of the Eastern Sierras. A quick stop along Highway 395 allows you to get up close to these bubbling creek beds. Be sure to heed the warning signs, as the water reaches scalding temperatures!
Directions: Heading north on Highway 395, make a right onto Hot Creek Hatchery Road, just past the Mammoth Yosemite Airport. After driving for 2 miles on paved road, you will then travel an additional 3 miles on gravel road. This lookout point is located past the main parking lot on the left.
Tips: You may need snow tires since the roads are not plowed past the paved section. If the snow seems too deep, you can also hike into the area by parking on the side of the road.
Optional Hike: A short hiking trail can be accessed to the right of the main parking lot. This 1.6 mile out-and-back trail grants you a closer look of the hot springs and is generally considered an easy trek. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed.
MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS
Description: Did you know there are multiple hot springs near Mammoth Lakes? Taking a dip when its 20ºF outside may not be for everyone, but it was certainly a surreal experience! I chose to visit Crab Cooker Hot Springs since it has exquisite mountain views and is supposedly the warmest springs in the area. Be aware that clothing is optional so you may want to think twice about bringing children!
Directions: Heading north on Highway 395, turn right onto Benton Crossing Road. After passing 3 cattle gates, take a left onto the dirt road. The parking area lies at the end of this road, with the hot springs on the right side.
Tips: You may need snow tires since the roads are not plowed past the paved section. You can also hike into the area by parking on the side of the road. To experience the hot springs when it is least crowded, I recommend that you visit on a weekday.
BENTON CROSSING ROAD
Description: If you’ve always wanted a picture-perfect shot with snowy mountains in the backdrop, look no further! Just a few minutes away from the Mammoth Hot Springs, this view along Benton Crossing Road is frequented by both travelers and photographers alike.
Directions: Heading north on Highway 395, turn right onto Benton Crossing Road. This epic view will be behind you as you drive down the road.
Tips: Try visiting earlier in the day, as the light tends to be against the sun during the afternoon.
LAKE CROWLEY
Description: The Lake Crowley Stone Columns are truly an otherworldly sight to behold. Believed to have been formed by a volcanic explosion some 700,000 years ago, these ancient geological formations lie at the edge of a lake, just waiting to be explored. This unique place is even more stunning when its shores are dusted with snow!
Directions: Heading north on Highway 395, turn right onto Owens Gorge Road until you reach the turnoff for the Crowley Lake Stone Columns trailhead. You will need snow tires or chains to continue further since these dirt roads aren’t plowed when it snows. There is also a steep section that will require a high clearance 4×4 vehicle. Once you reach the end of the dirt road, there is a clearing where you can park your car. From there, it’s a short but steep trek down to the stone columns.
Tips: Keep an eye out for the numerous caves you can explore when the lake is frozen over!
Optional Hike: You can also hike to the stone columns by parking at the Crowley Lake Stone Columns trailhead if you don’t have a 4×4 vehicle. The trail is approximately 3 miles round trip.