Mammoth Lakes Town Loop

The Town Loop is a 7 mile paved pathway that loops around the town of Mammoth Lakes. This pathway is perfect for hiking, jogging or biking. Much of the loop is cleared of snow during the winter months, making it a great option for those looking to get out without needing snowshoes. The loop can also be broken into smaller segments for those looking for a shorter hike.

There are a handful of places where the Town Loop can be accessed. In this guide we’ll start from Mammoth Creek Park. From here, if hiking clockwise, the loop parallels Old Mammoth Road. Although it stays close to the road, there are some nice stretches of trail here - including a section of aspen trees. You’ll also see the Historic Knight Wheel, a massive water wheel that was used in local mining operations starting in the 1870s.

Continuing on you’ll turn right onto Waterford Ave. Continue straight until you cross over a footbridge. The trail then veers left and follows Mammoth Creek, a lovely stretch of trail. Note that during winter months this section of trail may not be clear of snow.

The Town Loop then passes by some apartment buildings until coming to the Eagle Lodge base at Mammoth Mountain Resort. The trail then follows Meridian Boulevard for a while until turning left.

Continue along until you come out to Main Street. Turn right as the Town Loop parallels Main Street for a while. You’ll pass Mammoth Mountain RV Park and then come to the best section of the trail.

The path wanders through the Inyo National Forest and some nice forested terrain. You’ll come to a viewpoint (Sherwin’s Vista) that offers incredible views across the Long Valley Caldera and of the White Mountains in the distance.

Continue along with great views of Mammoth Mountain and the Sherwins (Sierra Nevada). You’ll pass near Mammoth Creek and Hayden Cabin and finally reach the end of the loop where you first began at Mammoth Creek Park.