Scenic Loop Snowplay

Mammoth

child sliding on tube in the snow
child sliding on tube in the snow

Scenic Loop Snowplay

Mammoth






Carson City, NV -
  135 miles
Sacramento -
  244 miles
Los Angeles -
  309 miles

Scenic Loop Snowplay

Mammoth Scenic Loop is a 6-mile-long road connecting Minaret Road just outside Mammoth Lakes to Highway 395, about 5½ miles north of the main Mammoth Lakes junction (Highway 203).

two people on snow sled

Those looking for informal spots to pull over and play in the snow, might drive out the Mammoth Scenic Loop. Along the road are several turnouts which can be used for parking. Be sure not to park on the roadway itself. Visitors can find a variety of places to enjoy. Some can be crafted into steep slides among the Jeffrey Pines, while other spots offer milder terrain. There are no facilities along the road, but the town of Mammoth Lakes is nearby.


Elevation

8,500 feet

Directions

From Highway 395 take the Highway 203 exit west to Mammoth Lakes. Then turn right on Minaret Road for 1 mile then right on Mammoth Scenic Loop.
An alternative, from Highway 395, take the Mammoth Scenic Loop, 5½ miles north of the main Mammoth Lakes exit (Highway 203).


Things to Know

  1. Parking may be limited along the road during busy times. Avoid parking on the highway.
  2. There are no facilities along the Scenic Loop.

Nearby Services

  • Visitors will find everything they need in Mammoth Lakes Village - lodging, restaurants, shops, and much more.


Nearby Sno-Park

One of California's Sno-Parks is located on Rock Creek Road on the west side of Highway 395, about 15 miles south of the Mammoth Lakes junction (Highway 203). Travel 6½ miles up Rock Creek Road and watch for the Sno-Park on your left. A permit is required to park at the Sno-Park from November 1 through May 30. Day permits are $15, season permits are $40.

The Rock Creek Sno-Park is popular with cross-country skiers and dog sled mushers. The area is also designated for snow play. No snowmobiles are allowed. A restroom is available there. The Rock Creek Sno-Park is operated by the White Mountain Ranger District (760) 873-2500.

Sno-Park Permits can be purchased at the Eastern Sierra Interpretive Center at 798 N. Main Street in Bishop. Or permits may be purchased from other Sno-Park Permit Vendors.

Sno-Park permits can also be purchased online with an additional $1.95 added to the price: Sno-Park Permits.




Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center Contact Information


Current Conditions and Weather Forecast

Snow and Weather Report
Mammoth Webcams (click on Cams at the top of the page.)



Snow Apparel Shops Along the Road