Car rental in Mammoth Lakes

The region provides an array of memorable adventures of a lifetime to suit every taste. Embark on a self-guided tour with your rental car to discover the area's best spots to see.

• Devils Postpile National Monument: Witness a rare sight of the columnar basalt formations.
• Minaret Vista: Spot the minarets soaring high into the sky from this viewpoint, only a short drive away.
• Lake Mary: The largest and most reachable of the Mammoth Lakes sheer natural beauty.

Diving Routes and Speed Limits

Mammoth Lakes boasts well-maintained roads, which makes driving around easy. The primary route through town, the 395 Scenic Byway, offers stunning views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains all year round. Speed limits across town generally stick to 25 mph, while the nearby highways are generally 65-70 mph. Just remember to remain aware of wildlife, particularly deer who may dart across the road unexpectedly!

Parking and Mobility

Discovering Mammoth Lakes with a rental car is convenient. Free parking is plentiful, but it fills up quickly during peak periods, especially near the more popular recreation areas. In summer and fall, for example, you may need to park at the Mammoth Mountain Inn and take a shuttle to reach Devils Postpile.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Mammoth Lakes experiences a high alpine climate, meaning you can expect to encounter all four seasons. Winter is ideal for lovers of skiing, and summer provides excellent hiking conditions. Meanwhile, fall offers a gorgeous autumnal display, and spring welcomes the wildflower bloom. Overall, any season is a good one when visiting Mammoth Lakes.

Getting There

You can fly directly into Mammoth Yosemite Airport from various destinations, rent a car from there and you are good to go. Alternatively, it's an approximately six-hour drive from places such as Los Angeles, the San Francisco Bay Area and Las Vegas.

Recommended Car Class

To get the most out of your road tripping in Mammoth Lakes, renting a SUV is recommended for its higher ground clearance, especially if you're planning any off-road adventures or driving in winter conditions. But if you mainly stay in town and on paved roads, a smaller car class could also be a good choice to save on fuel costs.