From snow to sun, Mammoth Lakes in California, offer the best of both worlds during springtime. Here, the seasons collide for a brief but magical, awe-inspiring, snowy, yet warm season full of sunshine and adventures, during spring. Spend your mornings on the slopes and your afternoons on the lake; from skiing to fishing and much more in between, spring in Mammoth Lakes has it all!

1. Spring Skiing

Spring skiing at Mammoth Mountain is an experience to remember for a lifetime. Chilly nights maintain the snow’s firmness, while the sun’s warmth creates the perfect texture of snow called corn snow which is renowned at Mammoth Mountain. Start by skiing on the east side near The Mill, then head to Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge for the gondola ride to the mountain’s peak and ski down the backside runs. With the sun melting the snow, ski from east to west for the best spring skiing experience.

2. Spring Mountain Biking

Spring is the perfect season for mountain biking at lower elevations, especially on Mammoth Lakes’ Lower Rock Creek Trail. Start at the top near US 395, ride down the first section, then cross the road to begin the second. After reaching the road at the second section’s bottom, riders often shuttle back to the top for a downhill ride. Some opt for a longer 16-mile round trip, while others choose a simpler 6-mile loop by pedalling up the paved road along the top two sections.

3. Spring Fishing

Enjoy year-round catch-and-release fishing with barbless hooks in some of the best streams and rivers in Mammoth Lakes during spring. Mono County’s fishing season starts on the last Saturday of April every year, but spring in the Eastern Sierra provides an ideal time for fishing before the season fully opens. Bring your fly rod to the Upper and Lower Owens, Hot Creek, or East Walker River. To check fishing regulations, head to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

4. Hot Creek in Springtime

Located around 15 minutes south of Mammoth Lakes, the geothermal vents in Hot Creek offer spectacular sights and are perfect for a leisurely stroll amidst nature with stunning mountains in the backdrop. View the creek from atop the outlook or go down the trail for a closer look at it.

5. Spring Snowshoeing

With longer days in spring, there is ample time to plan for activities around late afternoon or evening, making it an ideal time for post-skiing snowshoeing. One of the best places for late-season snowshoeing is Minaret Vista located close to Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge. Alternatively, explore the Lakes Basin for more adventures.

6. Spring Hiking

As spring brings warmer weather, the snow on the lakes as well as on the trails begins to thaw and melt. Convict Lake offers prime spring hiking, especially on its south-facing side, which receives abundant sunshine. Begin your hike by parking near the marina and taking the Convict Lake Loop along the right side, heading towards the lake’s back. If you find snow on the shaded south shore, take the same trail for a two-mile round hike. Otherwise, complete the full loop if the snow and ice have melted. Watch your footing, as the icy and steep south side often faces avalanches from the above mountain.

7. Embracing the Outdoors

As spring arrives, outdoor seating becomes abundant at restaurants, offering the perfect après-ski experience. Enjoy slopeside dining at the Mill Café or the Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge Sun Deck. Additionally, numerous spots in town, such as Shelter Distilling, Lakanuki, Gomez’s, and Smokeyard in The Village offer seasonal outdoor seating. If you are looking for outdoor lunch options and après-ski, Good Life Café, Roberto’s, and The Warming Hut are great spots.