After months of sheltering at home in order to prevent the spread of COVID–19, Mammoth’s peaks, lakes, and trails are calling louder than ever before for most people. After all, what better way is there to social distance than by spending time in breathtaking wilderness?
If you know exactly what we’re talking about, you’re not alone. People from all over California and beyond are itching to travel to the mountains and with time away from work they have the perfect opportunity to visit Mammoth Lakes. However, it is of vital importance that anyone traveling to Mammoth Lakes does so responsibly. Not only can visitors potentially carry COVID–19 into the area, but with public campsites and services shut down they could also put themselves and the Mammoth Lakes community in danger.
To help out, the ASO Mammoth team has listed a few of the most important things to know about traveling to Mammoth Lakes and COVID–19 below. Check it out and stay safe!
Is it Safe to Travel to Mammoth Lakes?
At this time, the Mammoth Lakes community is asking for all non-essential visitors to refrain from visiting the Mammoth Lakes area. Although Mammoth Lakes loves its visitors and needs them now more than ever, a surge of visitors could result in overwhelmed local medical facilities.
This is a big ask and it’s disappointing for everyone, most of all the Mammoth Lakes locals. However, the purpose is to have Mammoth Lakes open safely as soon as possible. Fortunately, the situation is fluid and as conditions in the Eastern Sierra and California improve so do the chances of Mammoth Lakes welcoming back visitors. For example, private campgrounds and RV campgrounds recently opened on May 29th.
Keep up to date on what is happening in Mammoth Lakes by visiting Mammoth Lakes COVID–19 resources page or the Mammoth Lakes Facebook page.
Can You Visit the Area Outside of Mammoth Lakes?
If you’re heading into the Eastern Sierra wilderness, then you should do so responsibly and with the knowledge that there may not be as many services and options as you’re accustomed to.
For example, all U.S. Forest Service campgrounds are closed until June 30th, which means most camping will be dispersed and outside of Mammoth Lakes. If you’re camping away from developed or unregulated camping areas for the first time, please do so responsibly. It is vitally important that you camp safely by observing fire warnings, not illegally dumping septic systems, and leaving no trace.
If you do visit the town of Mammoth Lakes, please follow all local COVID–19 guidelines. At this time facemasks are required in many businesses and around town, and everyone is being asked to practice social distancing. Keep Mammoth Lakes safe by doing just that!
What Can You Do in Mammoth Lakes and the Surrounding Area?
For now, US forest service hiking trails are open but under the current stay-at-home order are to be used by locals only. Whether you’re hiking in Mammoth Lakes or elsewhere, remember to practice social distancing even on the trail. When resting or passing by other hikers, keep as much distance from others as you can while staying safely on the path.
Several recreational businesses are open in Mammoth Lakes and the surrounding area, however Mammoth Mountain and Mammoth Mountain Bike Park are currently closed. Also, many events have been canceled or postponed due to COVID–19. If you have questions about your specific event, reach out to the organizer or check the event’s website to see the status of the event.