EASTERN SIERRA FALL COLOR UPDATES
9/21/2023
That time of year is finally here: fall colors are trickling in to Mammoth Lakes! Share your favorite photos with us on social media at @visitmammoth // #VisitMammoth.
We will have three straight days of below-average temperatures starting tomorrow through Saturday evening. We may see some significant color changes by the next report, so start planning now!
Looking for the perfect photo op or scenic hike? Check out the links below for planning your fall adventure in the Eastern Sierra.
Please remember to abide by Leave No Trace principles, no matter where you recreate. We look forward to seeing you!
FALL SPECIALS IN MAMMOTH LAKES
Come check out some of the best deals in our region this fall! Find specials on lodging, great discounts for dining, and even score on retail deals. Make Mammoth Lakes the base camp for all your Eastern Sierra, leaf-peeping adventures.
THE TOP FALL COLOR HIKES
To experience fall in Mammoth Lakes, set out on foot and hike some of the top trails for fall colors. Aspen trees, one of our top color changing trees, grow freely along these trails. Wherever you hike, don’t forget to stop, take a deep breath, and enjoy the autumn air.
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
This is traditionally the first location in California to have peak color. Sagehen may flourish by the next report. There are no bathroom facilities at this location. Please do not park on the side of the road blocking access.
ROCK CREEK
0-10% Just Starting
At Rock Creek, you will find a few small patches of yellow aspen leaves, but the sierra willows are certainly showing more color.
VIRGINIA LAKES
0-10% Just Starting
Only a few trees with a few leaves, but we anticipate colors to accelerate by the weekend.
CONVICT CANYON/MCGEE CREEK
0-10% Just Starting
The trees along McGee Creek are turning lime green and the tops are starting to show yellow leaves.
These trees at Convict Lakes seem to have a mind of their own this year. Many trees near the parking area are a mix of yellow and lime green. Towards the back of the lake, a few trees are already orange.
LAKES BASIN
0-10% Just Starting
One of the standout features of this year’s fall season is the early onset of color change in the area’s bushes. Overall fall color progression is still in its early stages; the aspen trees are mostly lime in color with a few yellow patches.
TIOGA PASS
0-10% Just Starting
Surrounding grasses near the Tioga Pass area have undergone a magical transformation, with blades of grass turning into golden strands. Around the area, you’ll notice the start of vibrant foliage on bushes and shrubs.
JUNE LAKE LOOP
0% Still Summer
Stay tuned for updates!
LUNDY CANYON
0% Still Summer
Stay tuned for updates!
Discover more from Eastern Sierra Now | Local News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
