Summer in the Eastern Sierra is winding down, but fall is just getting started! Book your fall getaway to Mammoth Lakes to enjoy fewer crowds, cooler weather, and vibrant fall colors. Because the elevations in the Eastern Sierra range between 5,000 – 10,000 feet, fall colors appear most vibrant at different times in different locations. The earliest display of color begins at the highest elevations. As fall progresses, the colors on aspens, alders, willows, and cottonwoods spread downward to lower elevations (Visit Mammoth). According to BLM botanist Anne Halford, “The intensity of color is determined by the plant’s response to complex gradients of temperature and moisture. Conditions favoring formation of brilliant autumn color are warm, sunny days followed by cool nights with temperatures below 45º F.” (Mammoth Lakes Trail System).
We’ve compiled a list from Mono County and Mammoth Lakes Trail System of the best places to see fall colors in and around Mammoth Lakes.
- Fall Color Drives:
- Head to Rock Creek Canyon for early season colors. According to Mono County, “carved deep into the landscape by glaciers, this paved, two-lane canyon route is lined with dense aspen groves for nine miles that are often the first of the season to turn orange and yellow.” (Mono County)
- June lake Loop
- Lundy Canyon
- Conway Summit and Virginia Lakes Road
- Summers Meadow and Green Creek Road
- West Walker River and Sonora Pass
- Fall Color Bike Ride: Town Loop (6 miles): “From Mammoth Creek Park, cross over Mammoth Creek and follow the path west along the willows, alders and golden aspen groves along Old Mammoth Road. From the end of the path, continue to Sherwin Street and turn left. At the end of the street, cross back over Mammoth Creek and rejoin the path as it climbs to Eagle Lodge, affording good views across the valley to the Sherwins. Continue on the Town Loop to the Lodestar Connector and ride out and back along the west side of the golf course. Ride back down the way you came.” (Mammoth Lakes Trail System)
- Fall Color Hike: Heart Lake trail (1-2 miles): “The Heart Lake Trail is a popular easy/moderate out-and-back hike—up on the way out, down on the way back—through several dense patches of colorful aspen trees and terrific views stretching across the Mammoth Lakes Basin to the Mammoth Crest and the Minarets. From the east side of the Coldwater Parking Area, follow the wide trail across the creek and stay right toward Heart Lake. The trail becomes tunnel-like in places through the trees and then climbs above for excellent perspective. Continue up to Heart Lake if you have energy. Visit the Mammoth Consolidated Mine site on your way in or out.” (Mammoth Lakes Trail System)
Ready to leaf the city behind and head to Mammoth Lakes this September? You can reliably find peak fall color at Sagehen Summit, Upper Rock Creek, and the Virginia Lakes. Farther south, Bishop Creek Canyon provides excellent fall color viewing in late September and early October. (Mono County). Use this handy Fall Color Map by Mono County to plan your excursion. Don’t wait to book – stay at the Alpenhof Lodge now through October 31 and use promo code SUMMER24 to receive 10% off a 2 night stay or 20% off a 3 or more night stay!