Things to Do
Snowshoeing
The snowshoeing options in the Eastern Sierra are quite literally endless. Mono County covers more than 3,132 square miles of primarily public lands that are usually covered in snow all winter long. Numerous local sporting goods shops rent out snowshoes. So long as you’re dressed for the weather and have plenty of water, just about anyone can enjoy a walk in the snow.
Popular places to make tracks include:
- Obsidian Dome: a free area off of Highway 395 with three groomed loops from easy (2.6 miles or less) to moderate (6 miles), it's the perfect spot for a winter walk (or x-c ski).
- Rock Creek Road (SNO-Park pass required): the snow-covered road is groomed, perfect for a beautiful trek up to Rock Creek Lake and beyond.
- Mammoth Lakes Basin: there are two options for enjoying this snowy playground - stick to the free, groomed public access "lane" up Lake Mary Road or purchase a trail pass to explore the many groomed trails of the Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center.
- Shady Rest Park: groomed snow-covered roads and trails weave through the beautiful Jeffery Pine forest. Pick up a map from the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center.
- Mono Lake: when enough snow accumulates, the trails around Mono Lake are available for those who like an easier walk with incredible views. Stop in the Mono Lake Committee's information store for tips and directions.
- Bridgeport Winter Trail System: The Bridgeport Winter Trail System includes two groomed winter trails offering opportunities for Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, and over-snow travel. Maintained through partnerships between the U.S. Forest Service, Mono County, and local volunteers, the trails showcase scenic views of Bridgeport Valley, Twin Lakes, and surrounding public lands.
Maps:
- Eastern Sierra Winter Recreation Map for the Mono and Mammoth Ranger Districts, Inyo National Forest
- Bridgeport Winter Trail System Map
Scroll below for more resources and trails.
