While picnics are often considered a spring-summer activity, a snowy winter picnic in Mammoth
Lakes is an exceptional experience. Fill the picnic basket with good food and hot beverages, bring
some warm clothes, a small shovel to clear your picnic table, and something waterproof to sit on.
Mammoth Lakes provides the cosy areas, breathtaking views, and a touch of nature, perfect for
adventurous outings with friends or sunny romantic afternoons. Discover top picks for unforgettable
winter picnic spots in the vast outdoors of Mammoth Lakes.
Minaret Vista
Minaret Vista’s picnic area offers one of the best views in all of Mammoth Lakes. Trek 2.5 miles
along the Minaret Vista Loop to reach the popular lookout point for a fun picnic day. For the
ultimate winter adventure, take the summer road on snowshoes or cross-country skis, and work up
your appetite to feast on top of 9,200 feet in the backdrop of sweeping views of Ritter Range and
the Minarets. Alternately, Mammoth Mountain also offers guided tours to Minaret Vista in heated
snowcats complete with all kinds of picnic fixings such as hot chocolate, wine, and charcuterie
board.
Shady Rest
Shady Rest offers a sheltered picnic area and thus, an unhindered experience even during a
snowstorm, a common concern in Mammoth Lakes. During winter, the grassy fields are covered in
snow and the pine trees surrounding the area provide a picture-perfect setting for a picnic. Plan the
ultimate outdoor picnic with your favourite snacks while enjoying winter activities like snowball
fights and building a snowman in a safe space.
Mammoth Creek Park
Mammoth Creek Park, located a few steps from town offers a tranquil escape into nature along the
shore of the creek. Enjoy panoramic views of the Sherwin Range and Mammoth Mountain from both
sides of the park. Enjoy a tailgate picnic from the car or enjoy a picnic on a creek-side table with
incredible views.
Sherwin Creek
Getting to Sherwin Creek is an adventure in itself but this day-use area is a must-visit point in
Mammoth Lakes. To reach, one has to drive down Sherwin Creek Road from Old Mammoth Road.
However, in winter, one may have to hike to reach the picnic area which is located in an aspen grove
along Sherwin Creek across the road from the Sherwin Creek Campground.
Convict Lake
Convict Lake is a popular sightseeing spot in Mammoth Lakes and its picnic area is a prime
destination all year round. To reach the picnic area, take the left after reaching the lake to the end of
the road to find a short footpath leading you to the shoreside picnic spot. Enjoy the beautiful views
of Laurel Mountain and Mountain Morrison as you enjoy a fun afternoon over food and fun.
Hot Creek
Hot Creek’s geothermal vents create spectacular steam during wintertime which can be spotted
from the parking area overlook, also an ideal spot for a leisurely picnic against sweeping views. The
parking spot is accessible during winter as well but sometimes remains blocked due to high levels of
snow. In that case, walk down Hot Creek Trail’s paved path to reach the creek and work up an
appetite for all the picnic goodies.
Picture credit: Mammoth Lakes Tourism
