5-Day Mammoth Lakes Adventure from San Diego | July 2025

Day 1: Travel & Settle In

San Diego, USA to Mammoth Lakes, USA on July 3, 2025

7:00am

Departure from San Diego

Start your road trip north from San Diego to Mammoth Lakes. The drive is approximately 6.5 to 7 hours, so leaving early helps avoid traffic and maximizes your afternoon in Mammoth.
USD0, 7h0m

12:00pm

Lunch Stop in Bishop

Stop in Bishop, a charming mountain town, for lunch at The Great Basin Bakery, known for fresh sandwiches and pastries.
USD15-25, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Mammoth Brewing Company

Upon arrival in Mammoth Lakes, enjoy dinner at Mammoth Brewing Company, offering craft beers and hearty American fare in a welcoming environment.
USD20-35, 1h30m

8:00pm

Check into Accommodation

Relax and settle into your chosen lodging in Mammoth Lakes, preparing for an active itinerary ahead.
USD varies, Overnight
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Day 2: Explore Lakes & Trails

Mammoth Lakes, USA on July 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Stellar Brew & Natural Cafe

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast featuring locally roasted coffee and fresh organic dishes to start your day right.
USD10-20, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Convict Lake

Explore the beautiful Convict Lake, famous for crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountain views. Perfect for hiking, fishing, and photography. Open all day.
USD0, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Lakefront Restaurant

Dine lakeside with views of Mammoth Lakes while enjoying fresh salads, sandwiches, and seafood specialties.
USD20-30, 1h0m

2:30pm

Hike the Mammoth Lakes Basin Trails

Spend the afternoon hiking some of the scenic trails in Mammoth Lakes Basin, including Crystal Lake and the Twin Lakes loop trails. Enjoy alpine views and wildflowers. Trails open daylight hours.
USD0, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gomez’s Mexican Restaurant & Cantina

Indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine with festive ambiance, a perfect way to end a day of outdoor adventure.
USD20-35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Mountain Adventures

Mammoth Lakes, USA on July 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Toomey’s

Fuel up with hearty breakfast options including omelets, pancakes, and locally roasted coffee.
USD12-22, 1h0m

9:00am

Mammoth Mountain Gondola Ride

Take the gondola from the Village to the summit of Mammoth Mountain for spectacular panoramic views. Open 9am to 5pm in summer. Great for photography, hiking, and sometimes summer activities at summit.
USD30, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Eatery at Mammoth Mountain

Casual dining with views, offering burgers, sandwiches, and salads with quick service.
USD15-25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Devil’s Postpile National Monument

Visit the unique basalt column formations and enjoy a gentle hike to Rainbow Falls. Open daily 8am to 6pm in summer. The area provides breathtaking geology and natural scenery.
USD10 parking fee, 3h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Campo Mammoth

Enjoy upscale Italian cuisine with locally sourced ingredients, perfect for a relaxing and delicious meal after a full day.
USD35-50, 1h30m
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Day 4: Relax & Explore Town

Mammoth Lakes, USA on July 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Black Velvet Coffee

Start your day with excellent coffee and fresh pastries in a cozy local café.
USD8-15, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Mammoth Lakes Farmers Market (if available)

Browse local produce, crafts, and artisan goods. Typically open Saturdays, so check for special holiday hours or nearby markets.
USD0, 1h30m

11:00am

Relaxation at Twin Lakes Beach

Spend the late morning at Twin Lakes, swimming, kayaking, or just relaxing by the water. Boat rentals available nearby. Open sunrise to sunset.
USD0, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Giovanni’s Pizzeria

Enjoy delicious hand-tossed pizzas and salads at this local favorite, great for a casual midday meal.
USD15-25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore Mammoth Lakes Town Center

Walk around the town center, visiting shops, art galleries, and local boutiques. Great for souvenir shopping and soaking in the local culture.
USD0, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Skadi

Dine at Skadi, a modern space with Nordic-inspired dishes using local ingredients for a unique culinary experience.
USD35-50, 1h30m
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Day 5: Return Trip

Mammoth Lakes, USA to San Diego, USA on July 7, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Erik’s Bakery & Deli

Grab some fresh baked goods, sandwiches, and coffee before starting your drive back south to San Diego.
USD10-15, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive back to San Diego

Embark on the approximately 7-hour drive back to San Diego, with options for stopping along the way for breaks and meals.
USD0, 7h0m

12:00pm

Lunch in Bishop

Stop again in Bishop for a quick lunch or snack. Recommend Erick Schat’s Bakkery for fresh breads and pastries.
USD10-20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Continue Drive to San Diego

Continue southbound, aiming to arrive back home safely by the early evening.
USD0, 4h0m
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