One of the best things about summer in Mammoth Lakes is that you don’t need to spend your vacation sitting in traffic or searching for parking.
Thanks to the free transportation options provided by Eastern Sierra Transit Authority, visitors can easily explore Mammoth’s lakes, trails, restaurants, shopping areas, and scenic summer stops without ever getting behind the wheel.
Free Transportation Around Town
ESTA operates free summer shuttle routes throughout Mammoth Lakes, connecting many of the area’s most popular destinations. The shuttle system makes it easy to get where you want to go, whether you’re heading to a trailhead, grabbing dinner, or spending the day exploring town.
Popular stops and service areas include:
- The Village at Mammoth
- Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center
- Old Mammoth Road shopping and dining areas
- Main Street
- Canyon Lodge
- The Lakes Basin
- Mammoth Mountain lodges
For guests staying at Alpenhof Lodge, the shuttle system is an easy way to explore Mammoth while leaving your car parked for the day.
Take the Trolley to the Lakes Basin
The Lakes Basin Trolley is one of the easiest ways to enjoy Mammoth’s summer scenery. This free seasonal route travels up Lake Mary Road with stops near Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, and Horseshoe Lake, giving visitors a convenient way to access some of the area’s most popular lakes, picnic spots, and trailheads.
Instead of worrying about parking near the lakes, you can hop on the trolley, spend the day outside, and ride back into town when you’re ready.
Explore More With Less Hassle
Free summer transit makes it easier to experience more of Mammoth Lakes in a relaxed, low-stress way. Ride into town for dinner, head toward the mountains for a hike, visit The Village, or spend the afternoon near the water without planning your day around parking.
Before heading out, check the current ESTA routes and schedules, as seasonal service dates and times may vary throughout the summer.
Planning to Visit Reds Meadow, Devils Postpile, or Rainbow Falls?
While Mammoth Lakes offers several free transportation options around town, the Reds Meadow Shuttle is separate from the free in-town routes.
During operating months, the shuttle provides access to Reds Meadow Valley, including Devils Postpile, Rainbow Falls, Reds Meadow, and nearby trailheads. This shuttle is required for most visitors during peak season because the road into the valley cannot accommodate heavy personal vehicle traffic.
The Reds Meadow Shuttle departs from the Mammoth Adventure Center and does require a paid ticket, so be sure to check current fares, schedules, and operating dates before you go.