Mammoth Lakes California, USA Travel Guide
The Eastern Sierra Transit Authority (ESTA) operates the free public bus system in Mammoth Lakes. It covers main areas of town, including The Village, Main Lodge, Canyon Lodge, Eagle Lodge (seasonal), hotels, shopping centers, and residential areas. The system attempts to reduce traffic and parking congestion, especially during busy winter and summer months.
Travel is free of charge for all riders within Mammoth Lakes town limits. Regional routes, for example, to Bishop or June Lake, have a fare. This free service makes getting around town convenient and cost-effective. All ESTA buses are wheelchair accessible. They offer ramps and designated spaces for mobility needs.
Local taxi services (e.g., Mammoth Cab) exist. Hailing on the street is rare; call for dispatch. Uber and Lyft operate, though availability is inconsistent. Surge pricing occurs during busy periods.
Hertz and Enterprise have locations at MMH or in town. Minimum age 21-25. Valid driver's license and major credit card needed. Book well in advance, especially for 4WD/AWD vehicles in winter.
Standard U.S. Driving laws apply. Parking is ample in town, some paid. Ski area lots vary in cost/availability. Winter overnight parking restrictions apply on town streets for snow removal.
No hop-on-hop-off. Regional tours to Yosemite or Death Valley are sometimes available.
No boat taxis. Recreational boat rentals are available on some lakes.
Mammoth Mountain Gondola from The Village to Canyon Lodge and Main Lodge to summit are for ski access/scenic rides.
ESTA buses are accessible. Mammoth Mountain offers adaptive ski programs and facilities.
Local taxi services exist, although they are less prevalent than ride-sharing apps. Taxis typically display company names and meters. Hailing on the street is rare; you usually call for a dispatch or find them at designated stands.
Standard U.S. Driving laws apply: drive on the right side of the road, seatbelts are mandatory.
Roads are generally well-maintained. Winter brings snow and ice. Summer offers clear roads but potential for dust on unpaved roads.
Ample free and paid parking lots are throughout town. Some ski area lots require payment or reservations during peak times. Many trailheads have designated parking.
Mammoth Lakes is a great destination for pedestrians and cyclists, offering numerous paths and trails for exploration. However, awareness of certain areas is a good idea.
Avoid walking or cycling on US-395 due to high speeds and a lack of shoulders in many areas.
Prioritize designated paths.
Pedestrians are generally prohibited on active ski slopes during operating hours. This is for your safety and the safety of skiers.
Follow resort rules.
Some roads, e.g., Tioga Pass or Red's Meadow Road, are closed in winter. Do not attempt to access them by vehicle or foot unless specifically permitted and equipped (e.g., for cross-country skiing).
Check road status.
Mammoth Lakes makes navigating simple with its free public transportation, reducing the need for a personal vehicle within town. For wider regional exploration or specific outdoor adventures, a rental car provides needed flexibility.
