Mammoth Rock
A striking volcanic plug at the base of the Sherwins, offering stunning views and hiking opportunities in the Eastern Sierra.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
Mammoth Rock
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A striking volcanic plug at the base of the Sherwins, offering stunning views and hiking opportunities in the Eastern Sierra.
"An old volcanic plug on the rim of the Long Valley caldera, made up of limestone and marble."
🥾 Hike with Sturdy Shoes
Wear good hiking boots for the Mammoth Rock Trail. The terrain can be uneven and rocky.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. High altitude can dehydrate you quickly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mammoth Rock Itself
Base of the Sherwins, Mammoth Creek Meadow
An ancient volcanic plug of limestone and marble, glowing in the morning light. A truly unique geological formation.
Mammoth Rock Trail
Starts near Old Mammoth Road
Hike this trail for sweeping views of Mammoth Lakes and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. Perfect for moderate hikers.
Crowley Lake Stone Columns
Near Crowley Lake
Otherworldly volcanic columns rising from the water's edge. Feels like stepping onto another planet.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Mammoth Rock Visit
Essential Gear for Mammoth Rock
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Hike with Sturdy Shoes
Wear good hiking boots for the Mammoth Rock Trail. The terrain can be uneven and rocky.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. High altitude can dehydrate you quickly.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun is intense at this elevation. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
📸 Capture the Views
The morning light on Mammoth Rock is spectacular. Don't forget your camera!
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Hike with Sturdy Shoes
Wear good hiking boots for the Mammoth Rock Trail. The terrain can be uneven and rocky.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. High altitude can dehydrate you quickly.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun is intense at this elevation. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
📸 Capture the Views
The morning light on Mammoth Rock is spectacular. Don't forget your camera!
🚗 Explore Nearby Gems
Consider visiting Convict Lake and June Lake for more breathtaking scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by Mammoth Rock's striking geological presence and the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape. The Mammoth Rock Trail offers rewarding views, making it a popular spot for hikers. While generally free and accessible, some visitors note the need for proper preparation for high-altitude conditions.
"Mammoth Rock sits at the base of the Sherwins, and it commands your attention as soon as you leave town on Old Mammoth Road and enter the Mammoth Creek meadow area. It's an old volcanic plug on the rim of the Long Valley caldera, and is made up of limestone and marble. The Rock is lighter than the backdrop of the Sherwins, and it is especially radiant in morning light."
Vern Hallgren
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Alex Daemyar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mammoth Rock is located at the base of the Sherwins, accessible from Old Mammoth Road. It's a prominent landmark as you leave town towards the Mammoth Creek meadow area.
Parking is generally available along Old Mammoth Road or in designated pull-offs near the trailhead for the Mammoth Rock Trail.
You can drive to the vicinity of Mammoth Rock. The Mammoth Rock Trail starts from a parking area off Old Mammoth Road.
The most common access point for the Mammoth Rock Trail is from the parking area off Old Mammoth Road.
While there isn't direct public transport to Mammoth Rock itself, the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center can provide information on local shuttle services that might get you close to trailheads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mammoth Rock and the surrounding trails are generally accessible without an entrance fee. It's part of the natural landscape.
The Mammoth Rock Trail is free to access. However, if you plan to visit nearby attractions like Devils Postpile National Monument, separate fees may apply.
Mammoth Rock is an outdoor natural landmark and is accessible year-round during daylight hours.
While accessible, winter conditions can make trails challenging. Snow may cover the area, and access might be limited depending on snowfall.
Guided tours are not typically offered specifically for Mammoth Rock, but local tour operators in Mammoth Lakes may include it as part of broader geological or hiking tours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can hike the Mammoth Rock Trail for scenic views, admire the unique geological formation of Mammoth Rock itself, and explore the surrounding meadows.
The duration of the Mammoth Rock Trail hike can vary depending on your pace and how far you go, but many find it to be a moderate hike suitable for a few hours.
Restroom facilities are not typically available directly at Mammoth Rock. You may find them at nearby trailheads or visitor centers.
Yes, the Mammoth Rock Trail can be suitable for families, especially those with older children who can handle moderate hiking. The views are rewarding.
You might encounter local wildlife such as birds, small mammals, and potentially deer. Always maintain a safe distance and do not feed the animals. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Morning light is ideal for photographing Mammoth Rock, as it illuminates the rock face beautifully. Golden hour in the evening can also offer stunning shots.
The rock formation itself, the panoramic views from the Mammoth Rock Trail, and the surrounding meadows offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially within national forests or monuments. Always check local regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Don't miss the chance to capture the unique texture and color of Mammoth Rock, especially with the Sherwin mountains as a backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the warmer months when the weather is more predictable. Nearby attractions like the Devils Postpile National Monument (accessible via shuttle in summer) or the unique Crowley Lake Stone Columns can also be exciting for kids, offering a sense of wonder and discovery.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the unique geological formations, including Mammoth Rock itself and the nearby Crowley Lake Stone Columns. The diverse landscapes, from meadows to volcanic features, offer ample opportunities for exploration and photography. Don't miss the chance to explore Rock Creek for its beauty, especially during the fall.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Geology of Mammoth Rock
This unique geological history contributes to the otherworldly feel of the region. Nearby, the Crowley Lake Stone Columns offer another example of dramatic volcanic and erosional processes at play, creating formations that feel almost alien. Understanding the volcanic past of the Eastern Sierra provides a deeper appreciation for the dramatic landscapes surrounding Mammoth Rock.
For those interested in geology, Mammoth Rock and its surroundings offer a tangible connection to the powerful forces that shaped California's landscape. The Earthquake Fault, another nearby geological wonder, further highlights the dynamic nature of this region.
Hiking the Mammoth Rock Trail
Hikers often describe the experience as rewarding, with the payoff being the expansive panoramas. The trail winds through meadows and offers varied perspectives of the landscape. It's advisable to wear sturdy hiking boots due to the rocky and uneven terrain. Bringing plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat is crucial, as the high-altitude sun can be intense.
While the trail itself is a highlight, it also serves as a gateway to exploring other natural wonders in the area. Many visitors combine a hike on the Mammoth Rock Trail with visits to nearby geological sites or other scenic spots like Rock Creek.
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