Planning a trip to Mammoth Lakes from Southern California? Whether you’re coming from Los Angeles, Orange County, or San Diego, there are several scenic and efficient routes to choose from. Below, we break down the best options by region, complete with estimated drive times and worthy stops along the way to help you make the most of your road trip.
🚗 From Los Angeles to Mammoth Lakes
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Estimated Drive Time: 5.5 to 6 hours
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Main Route: I-5 N → CA-14 N → US-395 N
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Distance: ~310 miles
Overview:
This is the most direct and popular route for travelers from Los Angeles. Once you get through the metro traffic, you’ll enjoy a scenic climb through the Mojave Desert before merging onto US-395 North—a highway known for wide-open views and dramatic landscapes.
Scenic Stops:
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Red Rock Canyon State Park – Stunning rock formations and quick hiking trails.
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Jawbone Canyon Store – A quirky pit stop for snacks and off-roaders.
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Lone Pine – Great for lunch and views of Mt. Whitney, the tallest peak in the Lower 48.
🚙 From Orange County to Mammoth Lakes
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Estimated Drive Time: 6 to 6.5 hours
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Main Route: I-5 N or CA-91 E → I-15 N → US-395 N
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Distance: ~340 miles
Overview:
Leaving from Orange County typically involves skirting through Riverside or San Bernardino before linking up with US-395. While traffic can build around the Inland Empire, once you’re past that stretch, the drive becomes more peaceful and picturesque.
Scenic Stops:
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Adelanto or Victorville – Ideal for fuel and grabbing coffee before hitting open road.
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Olancha Dunes – A quick detour for desert photos or stretching your legs.
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Manzanar National Historic Site – A meaningful and educational stop just before Independence.
🚘 From San Diego to Mammoth Lakes
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Estimated Drive Time: 7 to 8 hours
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Main Route: I-15 N → US-395 N
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Distance: ~400 miles
Overview:
The longest route of the three, but a rewarding one. The US-395 stretch makes up the majority of the trip and offers sweeping views of the Eastern Sierra Mountains, ancient volcanoes, and glacial lakes.
Scenic Stops:
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Mojave National Preserve – A slight detour, but worth it for desert views and Joshua trees.
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Bishop – A popular final stop before reaching Mammoth with excellent bakeries and fly fishing spots.
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Convict Lake – Just off the highway before Mammoth, perfect for photos and a quick walk.
🏞️ Final Tips for the Drive
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Winter Travel: Always check Caltrans road conditions for chain requirements or closures, especially on US-395.
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Fuel Up Early: Services can be sparse along certain desert stretches. Fill up in Adelanto, Bishop, or Lone Pine.
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Enjoy the Views: US-395 is more than just a road—it’s a gateway to some of California’s most striking natural beauty.
✈️ Flying into Mammoth Lakes: Airport Routes & Tips
For travelers short on time or looking to skip the long drive, Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) offers seasonal air service with convenient access to town—just 10 minutes from most vacation rentals.
Major Airports That Connect to Mammoth Lakes
✈️ From LAX to Bishop (BIH)
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Flight Time: ~1 hour
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Airline: United Airlines (seasonal service)
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Notes: Flights are typically offered during peak winter months. Check United’s schedule for current availability.
✈️ Ground Transportation from Bishop to Mammoth
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Drive Time: ~45 minutes via US-395 N
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Car Rentals: Available at BIH (advance reservations recommended)
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Shuttle Service: Seasonal shuttles may run between Bishop and Mammoth—check local providers for current schedules.
🔹 Carlsbad (CLD) to Mammoth Lakes (MMH)
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Flight Time: ~1 hour
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Airline: Advanced Air (seasonal)
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Notes: Perfect for travelers in North San Diego County. Carlsbad’s McClellan-Palomar Airport is low-key and easy to navigate.
🔹 Hawthorne (HHR) to Mammoth Lakes (MMH)
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Flight Time: ~1 hour
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Airline: Advanced Air (seasonal)
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Notes: Located just south of LAX, Hawthorne is a favorite for travelers who prefer private or boutique terminals.
🚐 Ground Transportation from Mammoth Yosemite Airport
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Rental Cars: Available through Enterprise (advance reservations highly recommended).
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Shuttle Services: Many properties offer connections via Mammoth Shuttle or Eastern Sierra Transit.
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Ride Shares: Limited service—Uber and Lyft are available but not guaranteed at all hours.
✈️ Bonus: Bishop Airport (BIH) Option
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Located just 45 minutes south of Mammoth Lakes, Bishop Airport began seasonal service in recent years and may offer more flexibility during peak winter months. Check availability from San Francisco (SFO), Denver (DEN), and other hubs.
Pro Tip: If you’re flying in, book your rental car or shuttle ahead of time—winter travel dates fill quickly, especially around holidays and ski weekends.
