5 Mammoth Lakes California Day Trips from Your Vacation Rental

Mammoth Lakes California day trip destination, bodie state historic park

While there are plenty of things to keep you busy in Mammoth Lakes, we are also just a short drive away from several popular attractions. Plan a day trip from your Mammoth Lakes, California, vacation rental with 1849 Mountain Rentals and explore everything the Eastern Sierra has to offer during your visit. Whether you want to explore the natural attractions of Yosemite, walk through historic sites, or see some of the oldest trees in the world, there is something for everyone’s interest just a day trip away!

1. Mono Lake

Mono Lake is only 30 miles from Mammoth Lakes, but it feels like another planet. Drive up the 395 Highway and spend a day exploring this ancient saline lake covering over 70 square miles. The tufa towers jutting from the water provide a unique backdrop for exceptional bird watching, hiking, photography, and boating. 

2. Yosemite National Park 

During the summer and fall months, Yosemite is easily accessible from Mammoth Lakes along  Tioga Pass State Highway 120. Drive approximately 45 minutes along Tioga Pass to the park’s Eastern Gate, or take the Yosemite Regional Transit Bus and let someone else drive you to the park. You can access Tuolumne Meadows, Lembert Dome, Cathedral Lakes, and Tenaya Lake from this location.

3. Bodie State Historic Park

If you are interested in California’s gold rush history, a day trip to Bodie State Historic Park is a must. Located 60 miles south along Highway 395, you will find this genuine California gold-mining ghost town. Once home to a population of over 8,000 people and 2,000 structures, today you can walk down the deserted streets and see the buildings that still stand in a state of arrested decay. 

4. Laws Railroad Museum & Historical Site

If you want to learn more history about the Eastern Sierra Region, drive to Laws Railroad Museum & Historical Site. Just 45 miles from Mammoth Lakes, this site highlights the history of the community of Laws, a village that sprung up due to the Southern Pacific Railroad. Today, you can explore the 11-acre site and ride a historic train!

5. Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest

Approximately 80 miles from Mammoth Lakes, you can see the oldest trees in the world at Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. These trees in the White Mountains exceed 4,000 years of age and can be seen on several hiking trails. Stop at the Schulman Grove Visitor Center to learn more about these ancient trees. 

Return to Your Mammoth Lakes Condo Rental

1849 Mountain Rentals provides the perfect base camp for adventures throughout the Eastern Sierra Region. Hop in your vehicle and access several day trips from Mammoth Lakes, California. Reserve one of our Mammoth Lakes condo rentals and stay near the slopes of Mammoth Mountain. Easily access skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing in winter and biking, golfing, and hiking in summer. After a day of adventures, our condos offer a wonderful place to unwind and spend quality time with your family. Book your condo with us today!