Most people know Mammoth Lakes for epic snowfall and the world class ski mountain that attracts snowboarders and skiers from all over the world, but when the snow melts and the sun shines the local lakes are the perfect way to cool off.
Whether you’re a kayaker, sportsman, paddleboarder, or just want to sit on the lake shore with your feet in the water, the ASO Mammoth team’s guide to water sports in Mammoth Lakes has everything you need to find your own Mammoth Lakes slice of paradise. Get your feet wet by checking it out below!
Boating
Whether you have your own boat or want to rent one, Mammoth Lakes has several places that will get you on the water. While every lake in the area isn’t open to boating, there are more than enough options for fishing and pontoon boats.
One of the closest and most popular lakes for boating is Convict Lake, located just south of Mammoth Lakes off Highway 395. After you turn off the highway and onto Convict Lake Road, you’ll need to drive 2.5 miles towards the mountains. After you do, you’ll see the jaw-dropping views of Laurel Mountain, Mount Morrison, and the surrounding mountains. Find Convict Lake Marina and choose from pontoon and drive boats available for rent. You can also launch your boat for free from the public ramp. Lake Mary Marina is also a great option for boaters within the Lakes Basin along with Lake George!
If want to explore further outside of Mammoth Lakes, then you can head further south towards the largest lake in the area at Lake Crowley. You can also drive north along Highway 395 to June Lake where you can rent a boat or launch your own from the local marinas.
Paddle boarding and Kayaking
If you don’t mind being your own motor, then paddle boarding and kayaking is a relaxing way to enjoy the water in Mammoth Lakes. If you’re unfamiliar with paddle boarding or board sports in general it may take a few tries until you’re able to get your feet under you, but once you do, you’ll be rewarded with a peaceful ride across the water.
Many marinas in the area offer paddleboard and Kayak rentals, but if you’re heading to a lake without a marina then you can find several sports shops within town or near the water that offer boards as well as a little advice on the best way to use them. If you want to paddle away from motorized boats in the Lakes Basin, you’ll have several options. One of our favorites places is Horseshoe Lake thanks to the beautiful scenery, calm water, and excellent facilities that make it easy to spend an entire day on the water.
Beaches
For some people, the best way to enjoy the water is by just being near it on the shore. If that sounds like you, then you should know that you don’t have to settle for dirt or rock shores thanks to a few sandy beaches in the area.
One of the most popular beaches in Mammoth Lakes is the beach at Horseshoe Lake. The water is calm at Horseshoe Lake thanks to the lack of motorized boats on the water and there are bathroom and parking facilities nearby that make enjoying the beauty of the Eastern Sierra’s easy.
You can also drive north to June Lake where you’ll find another sandy beach perfect to launch your Kayak, paddle board, or set up for a sunny picnic.