EASTERN SIERRA FALL COLOR UPDATES
9/11/2024
Fall has unofficially begun, and the Eastern Sierra is already transforming with vibrant fall colors. Welcome to the kickoff of our seasonal newsletter that gives leaf-seekers like you, the best information for getting the most out of your autumn trip. As you explore during this spectacular time of year in our region, please share your favorite photos with us on social media at @visitmammoth // #VisitMammoth.
After an early season cold spike that brought a surprise dusting of snow to Mammoth Mountain in late August, nature seems to have a head start on autumn color in Mammoth Lakes and the surrounding areas. Stay on the pulse of where the fall hues are at their most brilliant by using the Color Guide we provide below each week.
Please remember to Recreate Responsibly and keep Mammoth Lakes unreal for future generations. We look forward to seeing you!
THE TOP FALL COLOR HIKES
To experience Mammoth Lakes fall in full force, hike some of the best trails for fall foliage. Along these paths you are sure to find aspen trees, one of the shining stars of the season, showing a combination of vivid yellow, orange and green. Wherever you hike, don’t forget to stop, take a deep breath, and enjoy the real benefits of recreating in such an unreal destination.
ACTIVITY AND ROAD UPDATES
Please note that U.S. 395 is currently CLOSED from just south of Burcham Flat Road to the south side of Sonora Junction to install wildlife crossings until September 19th at 6:00 am. Towns and communities near the project area, including Bridgeport, Walker, Coleville, Topaz, and Twin Lakes, will be accessible throughout the closure. Drivers will also be able to access Buckeye Road west of Bridgeport. Visit CalTrans for more details on the detour. Stay up-to-date on Mammoth Lakes road work, seasonal activities and more by clicking the button below.
COLOR GUIDE
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
10-50% Patchy
Patchy. Colors are beginning to spread across Sagehen in patches.
ROCK CREEK CANYON
10-50% Patchy
Patchy. Up until Rock Creek Lake, there are patchy sections of colors. However, continuing up towards Mosquito Flat there are patches of aspens that are near peak along the creek.
VIRGINIA LAKES
10-50% Patchy
Patchy. Along the road leading up to Virginia Lakes there are noticeable patches of trees changing colors. Around the lake, the colors are slowly changing, but are mostly green still.
CONVICT LAKE
0-10% Just Starting
Just Starting. There are minimal color changes in the trees along the lake. However, the bushes are starting to display hues of yellow and orange.
MCGEE CREEK CANYON
10-50% Patchy
Patchy. There is very little color change near the start of the trailhead, but farther back in the canyon, you will discover more patchy sections of color.
LAKES BASIN
10-50% Patchy
Patchy. Color change within this area is most noticeable throughout the bushes. However, changes to the aspens should be coming soon.
TIOGA PASS
10-50% Patchy
Patchy. The bushes near Ellery Lake are near peak, while the aspens have a blend of yellows and greens. Go here this weekend if you want to get the first taste of fall color for the 2024 season.
JUNE LAKE LOOP
0-10% Just Starting
Just Starting. There is no significant color change within this area, except for a few bushes starting to turn. The aspens are beginning to turn lime green, but still need extra time before any other colors appear.
LUNDY CANYON
0% Still Summer
Stay tuned for updates!
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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