Start at Mammoth Mountain Scenic Gondola when it opens—typically around 8:30–9:00 a.m. in late summer, though the September schedule and weather can change. Park at the Main Lodge and allow about two hours for the ride, summit viewpoints, and short walks around the interpretive area. The gondola generally costs around $50–70 for an adult round trip; bring a warm layer, as the summit is noticeably colder and windier than town. After descending, drive to the Reds Meadow Valley shuttle area. Private vehicles usually aren’t permitted during the busy summer season, so check the Forest Service shuttle schedule in advance and allow roughly 30–45 minutes for the ride.
Use the late morning for Devils Postpile National Monument, following the easy, mostly level path to the base of the extraordinary hexagonal basalt columns. Continue on foot along the trail to Rainbow Falls; the route is around 2.5 miles each way, so carry water and allow close to two hours including time at the waterfall. The trail is straightforward but can feel tiring at altitude, and September shuttle service may be reduced or ended—verify access before setting out. Pack snacks, since there are no reliable food services in the valley.
Return by shuttle and have lunch at Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge, where casual mountain dining usually runs about $20–35 per person. After lunch, drive the Mammoth Lakes Basin road for an unhurried loop through Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, and Lake Mamie. These stops are close together, with easy lakeside viewpoints and short walks; allow about two hours, and note that some basin roads or facilities may begin closing for the season in late September.
Finish at Hot Creek Geological Site, roughly a 20-minute drive southeast of town. The overlook is best in the late-afternoon light and takes about 45 minutes, but remain behind every barrier: the water is dangerously hot and unstable, and swimming is prohibited. There is no admission charge, though the access road and viewing arrangements can change with weather or maintenance, so check local conditions before leaving the basin.
Start early at Convict Lake, about a 15-minute drive south of Mammoth Lakes via US-395 and Convict Lake Road. The access road and shoreline parking are usually free, and the lake is especially peaceful before the afternoon wind arrives. Allow around 1½ hours for an easy shoreline walk beneath the sharp granite walls of the Sherwin Range; autumn color may be beginning in late September, though conditions vary by year. Bring layers and water—the lake sits at roughly 7,850 feet, and mornings can feel surprisingly cold.
Continue north on US-395 for about 20 minutes to McGee Creek Trailhead, just south of Crowley Lake. A short out-and-back hike into McGee Canyon gives you excellent views of aspen groves and the high country without committing to a full-day trek; allow roughly 1½ hours. There is typically no admission charge, but parking can fill on busy weekends, and a recreation pass may be required, so check the posted notices. Stay on the established trail and carry food and water, as there are no services at the trailhead.
Return to Mammoth Lakes for lunch at The Warming Hut, a relaxed local stop for coffee, sandwiches, and other casual fare. Budget about $15–30 per person and expect counter-service hours to be seasonal, generally concentrated around breakfast and lunch, so verify the September schedule before setting out. Afterward, take US-395 north toward June Lake Loop—roughly 25–30 minutes to the turnoff—and spend the afternoon driving the 16-mile scenic route past Silver Lake, Gull Lake, Grant Lake, and June Lake. Allow about 2½ hours with photo stops; the road is paved, but some viewpoints have limited shoulders, so use designated pullouts rather than stopping along the highway. Silver Lake is particularly good for a quiet shoreline pause, while June Lake offers the broadest late-day views.
Finish in June Lake Village at June Lake Brewing, where you can settle in for locally brewed beer and mountain views. Plan on about an hour and $15–25 per person, with food-truck or light-food availability varying by day. The brewery’s hours are seasonal and can change in September, so check before driving the loop. From there, Mammoth Lakes is about 25 minutes south on US-395; if you are returning after dark, watch for deer and elk along the highway.
Begin at the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center on Main Street, ideally around 8:30–9:00 a.m. Give yourself about 45 minutes to check current trail conditions, fire restrictions, wildlife notices, and road updates—the staff are particularly useful in late September, when temperatures can be mild in town but noticeably colder at elevation. From here, drive roughly 10 minutes along the Mammoth Scenic Loop to Earthquake Fault, where a short, signed path leads to the dramatic volcanic fissure. Continue a few minutes farther to Mammoth Rock Trail for an easy-to-moderate, roughly one-hour walk beneath the dark volcanic cliffs. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water; the trail can be dusty, and shade is intermittent. Both stops are free, with roadside parking, though spaces are limited later in the day.
Head back toward Old Mammoth for lunch at Mammoth Brewing Company, a relaxed local institution with a broad beer list, burgers, salads, tacos, and other hearty options. Plan on about $25–40 per person before drinks and allow an hour or so; arriving before the main lunch rush makes seating easier. Afterward, drive south toward the Sherwin Lakes Trailhead—about 10–15 minutes from the brewery—and set aside 2½–3 hours for the forest hike. The route climbs steadily through pine and fir forest toward granite scenery and alpine lakes, so pace yourself, carry at least a litre of water per person, and bring a warm layer for the return. Parking is free but limited; avoid leaving valuables in the car, and check the trailhead noticeboard before setting out.
Finish at Mammoth Creek Park in Old Mammoth, a short drive back from the trailhead. Its creekside paths are ideal for a gentle 45-minute wind-down after the hike, especially in the low evening light. The park is generally open from dawn to dusk and free to visit; bring a takeaway coffee or snack if you want to linger. September nights arrive quickly in the mountains, so aim to reach the park by about 5:00 p.m. and keep a jacket handy.