California Adventure: Mammoth Lakes

Earlier this month we ventured out of our little LA "nest" for the first time and left the beach in the rearview, opting for a weekend in the mountains to celebrate B's 26th birthday!  Words can't truly describe how beautiful Mammoth Lakes and the entire Eastern Sierra mountain range are... even after a long 5-hour drive, we were stunned over and over with the beautiful scenery, fresh mountain air and cozy spots all over town to grab a bite to eat or relax.  We spent the better part of the day on Saturday hiking a few recommended trails in the mountains and they did not disappoint... fall colors, crystal clear mountain lakes and even some snow on the ground indulged every last bit of the "seasonality" we have been missing from the East Coast!  Between the outdoor adventures we completely indulged ourselves with chocolates and treats from the local chocolate shop, California wines and sitting in the hot tub to rest our sore muscles... just writing this makes me want to go back!

I think the pictures do a better job of showing the beauty of the area so hope you enjoy :)  All of our recommendations are at the bottom of the post for anyone who finds themselves in the Mammoth area!


Out of work early and hitting the road!

Mandatory Taco Bell stop...

Getting into the Sierras...

So happy to be back in one of his favorite places...

Serenity... was pretty hard to leave this place!

A delicious hole-in-the-wall dinner for our first night :)

Mammoth Lakes Village by night...

Getting ready to hit the trails...

Admiring the views heading up the trail...

Getting into some snow!

Probably laughing at my poor hiking skills :)

Getting higher... views for miles!

Almost to Crystal Lake!

Arrived at the lake... and oh so worth it!  Probably my favorite picture from the trip :)

In heaven...

Potential location for the Brown Family Campout 2014?  We think yes!

Back in town after a long day of hiking...

...then out to June Lake to catch some real fall colors!

Trout fishermen on the lake...

Couldn't get enough of the birch trees... reminds me of home!

We were obviously meant to hike this trail... found a K+B from '84, made our day :)

My favorite guy...

Leading the way back home for some wine, dinner and chocolates!

Our view driving home... we miss you already Mammoth!

Our Recommendations for the Mammoth Lakes / Village Area:

• Stay:  Westin Monache Resort 
• Eat:  Burgers Restaurant for dinner (Mammoth Lakes Village), Good Life Cafe for breakfast
• Hike:  Mammoth Lakes Basin Crystal Lake Trail, June Lake