Fall is Arriving to the Eastern Sierra
FALL IS ARRIVING TO THE EASTERN SIERRA
9/18/2025
The Eastern Sierra is on the edge of transformation, and we’re already starting to see first golden leaves appear. Crisp mornings and shifting light hint at autumn’s arrival, though many mountainsides still cling to their late-summer greens. Hang tight—soon the high passes, canyons, and valleys will blaze with yellows and fiery oranges, drawing leaf peepers from near and far. Until then, it’s all about anticipation and preparation—so keep an eye on our weekly fall color report for insider tips on where and when to catch the season’s best.
As you adventure this autumn, please remember to Recreate Responsibly and keep Mammoth Lakes unreal for future generations. Share your favorite fall pictures with us on social media at @visitmammoth // #VisitMammoth. Happy travels leaf enthusiasts!
WEATHER UPDATES
Weather in the Eastern Sierra can be variable. Last week, a much-needed rainstorm passed through Mammoth Lakes, clearing Garnet Fire smoke that had blown in from the west side of the Sierra.
Recreating responsibly starts with knowing the forecast and being prepared. Since mountain weather can change quickly, here are some tips to help you stay safe while enjoying your time outdoors:
- Check out airnow.gov to stay up-to-date on air quality readings for the Mammoth Lakes region. Understanding the index legend is important; especially for sensitive groups.
- Use the live webcams to check current visibility.
- Always have extra layers, hats and sunscreen on hand. It can go from hot to cold in a matter of hours!
Make sure to check out these resources linked below for a full update on all things weather and air.
PLAN OUT YOUR LOCATIONS
Who doesn’t love a good road trip? You don’t need to hike in 10+ miles to see stunning foliage in the Eastern Sierra; you can view it right from your vehicle or motorcycle! Grab some coffee, your favorite sweater and your camera—it’s time to plan your trip itinerary for these top locations.
ACTIVITY AND ROAD UPDATES
As you start preparing for your fall adventure, stay current on Mammoth Lakes road work, seasonal activities and more by clicking the button below.
Current Closures:
- Sherwin Lakes Trail, closed Sept. 4 – 28
- Heart Lake/Mammoth Pack Station Trail, closed Sept. 5 – Nov. 15
0-10% – Just Starting
10-50% – Patchy
50-75% – Near Peak (Go Now!)
75-100% – Peaking (GO NOW!)
Past Peak – (You Missed It)
SAGEHEN SUMMIT
50-75%-Near Peak (Go Now!)
As of today, Sagehen has officially crossed the threshold into 50–75% change, making it the first “Go Now” spot of the season! Brilliant yellows and oranges are spreading across the hillside, with more color still to come. If you can’t make it this weekend, definitely plan for next—this area will only get better.
TIOGA PASS
0-10% – Just Starting
Rabbitbrush around Ellery Lake is warming to yellows and oranges, with patches of yellow in the aspen groves lining the waterfall area.
ROCK CREEK CANYON
10-50% Patchy
Upper canyons and meadows have significant color, but the aspens and bushes near the highway and streams are still hanging onto lime green hues.
VIRGINIA LAKES
10-50% Patchy
Just starting, except for one section that’s basically peaking!
MCGEE CREEK CANYON
0-10% Just Starting
Campground has very little color. Some fully yellow trees near the creek, and aspen groves along the upper creek and hiking trail have yellow tips.
MAMMOTH LAKES BASIN
0-10% Just Starting
No significant change to this area yet, but there are a few aspens and bushes with yellowing leaves.
CONVICT LAKE
10-50% Patchy
Trees along the pathway are starting to turn, as well as cascading down the mountainside with yellow hues. The aspen grove in the back has not shown significant color as of yet but will soon.
JUNE LAKE LOOP
0-10% Just Starting
Rabbitbrush is still hanging onto late summer yellows, with small yellow patches forming at the top of a few aspen trees and some color happening in the center of town.
SOUTH LAKE
10-50% Patchy
The area surrounding the lake itself has patches of color, however the area above the lake is at 50% near peak so GO NOW!
LAKE SABRINA
10-50% Patchy
There are patches that have already peaked above the lake and plenty of yellows around the lake, so closer to 50%.
PRE-ARRIVAL GUIDE
Preserve Mammoth Lakes’ unreal alpine beauty for future adventurers. Check out our Pre-Arrival Guide for tips on how to be an eco-conscious traveler. Everyone has a role to play in maintaining this picturesque destination for future generations.
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