Reno to Mammoth Lakes: A Road Trip through One of North America’s Most Beautiful Stretches of Highway

Located less than three hours from the city of Reno, Nevada, Mammoth Lakes is the gateway to outdoor recreation and adventure in the heart of eastern California’s legendary Sierra Nevada Mountains. The 160 miles of roadway separating the city of Reno from Mammoth Lakes is known as one of North America’s most beautiful stretches of highway. With its incredible views, diverse landscapes, and massive snow-capped peaks, U.S. Highway 395 connects western Nevada with the eastern California wonderland via a scenic stretch, ideal for a road trip with family, friends, or even solo. From river gorges to historic towns, the drive is just the beginning of an incredible adventure that awaits in Mammoth Lakes.

Driving to Mammoth Lakes from Reno

To get to Mammoth Lakes, take U.S. Highway 395 south through the Carson Valley and into California at Topaz Lake. The highway dissects the rolling hills along the steep eastern flanks of the massive Sierra Nevada Mountains and then emerges into the gorgeous high desert of the Walker River Canyon. After passing through Bridgeport, a small western ranching community, Highway 395 reaches its apex at Conway Summit. This is arguably one of the most scenic highway viewpoints of the trip and overlooks the vast Mono Lake Basin. Farther south, the highway passes the June Lakes Loop, and within minutes, travellers reach California State Route 203, which is the 2-mile stretch to downtown Mammoth Lakes and the gateway to Devils Postpile National Monument and other sights.

The road trip offers a ride through charming small towns, natural hot springs, and year-round lodging and fuel stops before arriving in Mammoth Lakes and its endless adventures and experiences. One particularly unique and fascinating stop from late spring to early fall is the preserved ghost town of Bodie State Historic Park located in Mono County and the dozens of homes and commercial buildings that remain as the only evidence of the once-thriving mining community that survived here until the mid-20th century.

Once in Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes offers a wide range of outdoor activities throughout the year, with experiences that change based on season. From winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing on Mammoth Mountain to hiking, biking, camping, and rock climbing, in warmer months, there is something for everyone.

From steaming geothermal features and ancient lava formations to glacier-carved lakes and dramatic mountain landscapes, this region is defined by some extraordinary terrain. Explore some of nature’s most incredible works at Hot Creek Geological Site, Earthquake Fault, Reds Meadow, Devils Postpile, and Inyo Craters, each offering a unique glimpse into Mammoth Lakes’ remarkable landscape.

The waters of Mammoth Lakes are a playground for various water activities. With access to an abundance of high alpine lakes, reservoirs, streams and creeks, Mammoth Lakes offers some of the best trout fishing in the world. Some of the top spots for fishing include Mammoth Lakes Basin and Convict Lakes. Moreover, other water activities, including paddleboarding on Horseshoe Lake, kayaking in Lake Mary, and paddleboarding in Mono Lake, are major draws. Also, make sure to go for a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Mammoth Lakes Basin to literally swim in the lap of nature.

Beyond its outdoor and adventure-led experiences, Mammoth Lakes is also home to a thriving dining and shopping scene. The Village serves as a vibrant hub for dining, shopping, events, and adventure, while families can enjoy a variety of experiences, from scenic gondola rides and Woolly’s Adventure Summit to ice skating at LA Kings Ice. Travellers can also unwind through Mammoth Lakes’ rejuvenating wellness culture, with a range of holistic spas and fitness centres. Ultimately, with accommodation options ranging from hotels and resorts to cabins and campgrounds, Mammoth Lakes truly offers something for everyone.