Twin Lakes: Mammoth's Gem
Discover Twin Lakes in Mammoth Lakes: A stunning alpine escape offering year-round recreation, breathtaking scenery, and a rich history in the heart of the Sierra Nevada.
Twin Lakes, nestled in the Mammoth Lakes Basin, offers stunning alpine scenery and a plethora of outdoor activities. Formed by glacial activity, these interconnected lakes, Upper and Lower Twin, are a haven for fishing, hiking, and camping. The iconic Twin Falls cascade between the lakes, adding to the picturesque landscape. Visitors can explore numerous trails leading to panoramic viewpoints like Panorama Dome, or simply relax by the shore and soak in the breathtaking views of Mammoth Mountain and the surrounding Sierra Nevada. With its accessible location and diverse recreational opportunities, Twin Lakes is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable alpine experience.
A brief summary to Twin Lakes
- Mammoth Lakes, California, US
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds, especially during peak season.
- Bring layers of clothing, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly.
- Purchase a fishing license if you plan to fish in the lakes.
- Make campground reservations well in advance, especially during summer.
- Be bear aware and store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife.
Getting There
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Driving
From the town of Mammoth Lakes, head west on CA-203/Main Street. Continue as it becomes Lake Mary Road. Follow Lake Mary Road for approximately 7 miles. Look for signs for Twin Lakes and turn onto Twin Lakes Road. The lakes and parking areas will be a short drive ahead. Parking is available at various points around the lakes, but can be limited during peak season. Consider arriving early to secure a spot.
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Public Transport
During the summer, the Lakes Basin Trolley provides free transportation from various points in Mammoth Lakes to Twin Lakes. Check the Eastern Sierra Transit Authority (ESTA) website for the current schedule and stops. The trolley is a convenient option to avoid parking hassles. The trolley drops you off near the Twin Lakes General Store.
Discover more about Twin Lakes
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Shelter Distilling
4.2 km
Discover Shelter Distilling in Mammoth Lakes - a unique blend of handcrafted spirits and delicious tapas in a breathtaking mountain setting.
Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
4.3 km
Explore Mammoth Lakes, CA - a year-round adventure destination with stunning mountains, pristine lakes, and endless outdoor activities.
Mammoth Mountain Statue
4.5 km
Discover the historic Mammoth Mountain Statue, a stunning landmark surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and adventure opportunities in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Ansel Adams Wilderness
27.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Ansel Adams Wilderness in California's Sierra Nevada, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Sierra National Forest
36.0 km
Discover breathtaking mountain scenery and abundant natural resources in the Sierra National Forest, a year-round outdoor paradise in the heart of California's Sierra Nevada.
Vernal Falls Footbridge
49.3 km
Experience the majesty of Yosemite's Vernal Fall from the iconic footbridge, a moderate hike offering breathtaking views and a taste of the park's natural splendor along the famed Mist Trail.
Curry Village
51.3 km
Experience Yosemite's rustic charm at Curry Village, offering tent cabins, hotel rooms, and stunning views of Half Dome and Glacier Point in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
The Ahwahnee
51.8 km
Experience timeless elegance and natural beauty at The Ahwahnee, a National Historic Landmark in Yosemite Valley, offering stunning views, rich history, and luxurious accommodations.
Sentinel Dome
52.0 km
Hike to Yosemite's Sentinel Dome for unmatched 360° views of Half Dome, El Capitan, and the Sierra Nevada; an unforgettable panorama awaits atop this iconic granite peak.
Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center
52.1 km
Discover the Sierra Club's legacy in Yosemite at this historic landmark, offering exhibits, a library, and programs dedicated to conservation and the park's natural wonders.
Housekeeping Camp
52.1 km
Experience Yosemite's beauty with a touch of comfort at Housekeeping Camp, offering rustic lodging along the Merced River and easy access to iconic park attractions for an unforgettable adventure.
Yosemite Valley Welcome Center
52.7 km
Your Yosemite adventure starts here! Get expert advice, maps, and resources at the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center, the perfect gateway to exploring this iconic national park.
Mono Lake Vista Point
52.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mono Lake from this easily accessible vista point, offering panoramic views of tufa towers, the Mono Basin, and the Sierra Nevada.
Yosemite Wilderness Center
52.9 km
Your gateway to Yosemite's backcountry: permits, bear canisters, expert advice, and essential resources for unforgettable wilderness adventures.
The Ansel Adams Gallery
52.9 km
Explore the timeless beauty of Yosemite through the lens of Ansel Adams, discover original photographs, and immerse yourself in the art and history of the American West at this iconic gallery.
Unmissable attractions to see
Twin Lakes Campground
0.2 km
Escape to Twin Lakes Campground in Mammoth Lakes: Lakeside camping, breathtaking scenery, and endless outdoor adventures await in the heart of the Eastern Sierra Nevada.
Hole in the Wall
0.3 km
Discover Hole in the Wall near Mammoth Lakes: a geological wonder and backcountry ski adventure offering thrilling descents and stunning Sierra Nevada views for experienced adventurers.
Twin Lakes Vista
0.7 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Twin Lakes Vista, a scenic spot in Mammoth Lakes, CA, offering breathtaking views and outdoor adventures in nature's paradise.
Twin Falls Overlook
0.8 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Twin Falls, Mammoth Mountain, and the Lakes Basin from this easily accessible overlook, a perfect starting point for exploring the Sierra Nevada's natural beauty.
Lakes Basin Path / Horseshoe Lake Trailhead
1.2 km
Discover Horseshoe Lake in Mammoth Lakes: An accessible alpine paradise with stunning views, easy trails, and a unique geological story, perfect for hiking, biking, and family fun.
Horseshoe Lake
1.4 km
Discover Horseshoe Lake in Mammoth Lakes: a stunning alpine escape with hiking, swimming, and unique geological features, perfect for outdoor adventures and serene relaxation.
Mammoth Rock
1.6 km
Explore the ancient geological marvel and historical mining remnants of Mammoth Rock, a captivating destination offering panoramic views and a connection to the Eastern Sierra's rich heritage.
Crystal Lake Trailhead
1.6 km
Hike to Crystal Lake Trailhead in Mammoth Lakes for breathtaking views of Crystal Crag, pristine alpine scenery, and unforgettable outdoor adventures in the Eastern Sierra.
Mammoth Mountain
2.6 km
Experience the majesty of the Sierra Nevada at Mammoth Mountain, a year-round destination for outdoor adventure, stunning scenery, and unforgettable memories in the heart of California.
Upper Panorama Gondola Building
2.6 km
Ascend to the summit of Mammoth Mountain via the Upper Panorama Gondola for breathtaking views, mountaintop dining, and a unique high-altitude experience in the Sierra Nevada.
Camp High Sierra
2.7 km
Discover a historic family campground in Mammoth Lakes, offering rustic cabins, tent & RV sites, and a central location for exploring the Eastern Sierra's outdoor adventures.
Mammoth Mountain Ski Area
2.8 km
Experience the thrill of Mammoth Mountain, California's premier year-round alpine destination, offering world-class skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and breathtaking scenery in the Eastern Sierra Nevada.
St. Joseph Church
3.0 km
Find serenity and spiritual connection at St. Joseph Church in Mammoth Lakes, a welcoming mountain sanctuary serving Mono County with diverse services and community outreach.
Mammoth Consolidated Mine
3.1 km
Explore the preserved ruins of the Mammoth Consolidated Mine in Mammoth Lakes, offering a glimpse into the region's gold mining history and the lives of early 20th-century miners.
Knight Wheel (Historical Landmark)
3.4 km
Discover the Knight Wheel in Mammoth Lakes, a captivating historical landmark showcasing the rich heritage of California's scenic beauty.
Essential places to dine
The Lakefront Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Lakefront Restaurant in Mammoth Lakes.
Fowl Language
2.6 km
Experience American comfort food at Fowl Language in Mammoth Lakes—a cozy bar and grill perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
McCoy Station
3.4 km
Discover McCoy Station: An American Restaurant Offering Delicious Cuisine Amidst Breathtaking Mountain Views in Mammoth Lakes.
Austria Hof Restaurant
3.4 km
Experience authentic Austrian flavors at Austria Hof Restaurant in Mammoth Lakes—where delightful cuisine meets stunning mountain views.
Whitebark Restaurant & Lounge In The Westin Hotel
4.0 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Whitebark Restaurant & Lounge in Mammoth Lakes with stunning mountain views and seasonal culinary delights.
The Mill
4.0 km
Experience delicious American cuisine and barbecue at The Mill in Mammoth Lakes – where great food meets breathtaking mountain views.
The Eatery at Mammoth Brewing Company
4.1 km
Discover culinary delights and craft brews at The Eatery at Mammoth Brewing Company in scenic Mammoth Lakes.
Toomey's
4.1 km
Experience the flavors of America at Toomey's in Mammoth Lakes - where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Petra's Bistro & Wine Bar
4.2 km
Discover exquisite dining and fine wines at Petra's Bistro & Wine Bar in beautiful Mammoth Lakes - where every meal is a celebration.
Burgers Restaurant
4.2 km
Discover gourmet hamburgers amidst stunning mountain views at Burgers Restaurant in Mammoth Lakes.
Dos Alas CubaRican Café & Lounge
4.2 km
Experience authentic Cuban and Puerto Rican flavors at Dos Alas CubaRican Café & Lounge in beautiful Mammoth Lakes.
Smokeyard BBQ and Chop Shop
4.2 km
Discover delicious barbecue delights at Smokeyard BBQ and Chop Shop in Mammoth Lakes - where flavor meets adventure in every bite.
The Stove
4.2 km
Discover The Stove in Mammoth Lakes - where hearty American breakfasts meet cozy mountain charm.
Lakanuki
4.2 km
Discover Lakanuki in Mammoth Lakes: A vibrant grill and pub offering delicious food and drinks amidst breathtaking mountain scenery.
Mammoth Pizza Co & Slice Bar
4.3 km
Indulge in gourmet pizzas at Mammoth Pizza Co & Slice Bar in The Village at Mammoth - perfect for adventurers seeking delicious flavors.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Twin Lakes General Store
0.3 km
Discover Twin Lakes General Store: Your gateway to local charm and outdoor adventures in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Mammoth Memories
4.1 km
Explore Mammoth Memories: Your ultimate gift shop for unique souvenirs and local treasures in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Mammoth Shirt Co.
4.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and apparel at Mammoth Shirt Co., the perfect gift shop in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, California.
Mammoth Sports - The Village
4.2 km
Explore Mammoth Sports - The Village for top-notch ski and snowboard gear, stylish clothing, and expert advice in the heart of Mammoth Lakes.
The Village At Mammoth
4.2 km
Discover The Village At Mammoth: A charming shopping destination in the heart of California's breathtaking Mammoth Lakes, perfect for all adventurers.
Busy Beez General Store
4.2 km
Discover the charm of Busy Beez General Store, your go-to spot for groceries, candies, and local beers in Mammoth Lakes, California.
CHATO boutique
4.2 km
Explore unique mountain-inspired fashion at CHATO Boutique, a must-visit clothing store in Mammoth Lakes, perfect for stylish travelers.
McCoy's
4.2 km
Discover stylish clothing for men and women at McCoy's in Mammoth Lakes, the perfect blend of fashion and outdoor adventure.
Alpine Approach
4.2 km
Explore the great outdoors with top-notch gear and expert advice at Alpine Approach in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Mammoth Lakes Music
4.3 km
Discover the vibrant musical spirit of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Lakes Music, where shopping meets the rhythm of the Sierra Nevada.
Hole in the Wall Brands
4.4 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at Hole in the Wall Brands, your local boutique in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, California.
Cast-Off
4.4 km
Explore the charm of Cast-Off, Mammoth Lakes' beloved thrift store, filled with unique finds and sustainable shopping experiences.
Tonik
4.4 km
Explore Tonik in Mammoth Lakes for fashionable clothing and outdoor gear that perfectly blend style and functionality.
Minaret Village Shopping Center
4.5 km
Discover unique shopping and dining in the heart of Mammoth Lakes at Minaret Village Shopping Center, your go-to destination for all things local.
Tailwaggers Pet Store
4.5 km
Explore Tailwaggers Pet Store in Mammoth Lakes for all your pet needs, from high-quality supplies to community events in a friendly atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Basin Bar
2.3 km
Unwind at Basin Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where friendly vibes and local brews blend seamlessly for an unforgettable après-adventure experience.
Grizzly Bar
3.0 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Grizzly Bar, a cozy destination in Mammoth Lakes offering delicious American cuisine and refreshing drinks.
Steeps Bar
3.4 km
Discover Steeps Bar in Mammoth Lakes for a cozy atmosphere, delicious American cuisine, and stunning mountain views, perfect for any traveler.
Mammoth Brewing Company
4.1 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe
4.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
4.2 km
Discover the charm of Clocktower Cellar, a cozy bar and restaurant in Mammoth Lakes, offering fine wines, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere.
Salsa's
4.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Salsa's in Mammoth Lakes, offering a fantastic drink selection and lively atmosphere amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Distant Brewing
4.3 km
Discover the best of craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Distant Brewing in Mammoth Lakes, the perfect spot for beer lovers.
Bevi Bene
4.3 km
Discover Bevi Bene in Mammoth Lakes, where exquisite wines and a cozy atmosphere create the perfect destination for wine lovers.
Mammoth Rock 'N' Bowl
4.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and family entertainment at Mammoth Rock 'N' Bowl in Mammoth Lakes.
Tusks Bar
4.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tusks Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where live music and sports create an unforgettable experience.
Liberty Sports Bar and Grill
4.6 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and lively sports atmosphere at Liberty Sports Bar and Grill in Mammoth Lakes.
Dry Creek Bar
4.6 km
Discover unique cocktails and cozy lodging at Dry Creek Bar, a must-visit cocktail haven in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, California.
Black Velvet Coffee Roaster | Espresso & Wine Bar
4.6 km
Discover Black Velvet Coffee Roaster, a delightful espresso bar in Mammoth Lakes offering artisanal coffees and exquisite wines in a cozy atmosphere.
The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie
4.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
