18 Reasons to See the Sunset in Mammoth

I was in Mammoth a few weeks ago & happened to catch one of the most epic sunsets I’ve ever SEEN!!  It was truly glorious, & was a great reminder that my home state of California is filled with just as much wonder as any of the international destinations I’ve been to this year.  All photos in this post were captured in ONE night ~ starting at Lake George, just north of Mammoth, & culminating at Minaret Vista, where the vast majority of these shots were taken.  So without further ado, let’s check out “18 Reasons to See the Sunset in Mammoth!”19 Reasons to See the Sunset in Mammoth, Girl Who Travels the World

Map of Great Mammoth Sunset Spots!

Minaret Vista

Lake George

Twin Falls

Downtown Mammoth

Sunset in Mammoth ~ at Lake George

My first glimpses of this epic sunset in Mammoth began while I was at Lake George & Twin Falls, both of which can be found on the map above, & just a short drive outside of Mammoth’s downtown.

19 Reasons to See the Sunset in Mammoth, Girl Who Travels the World

Last rays of light hitting the peaks behind Lake George, just outside of Mammoth Lakes, California.

19 Reasons to See the Sunset in Mammoth, Girl Who Travels the World

Lake George.

19 Reasons to See the Sunset in Mammoth, Girl Who Travels the World

Twin Falls.

Sunset in Mammoth ~ at Minaret Vista

The majority of my epics sunset in Mammoth shots were taken at the top of Minaret Vista ~ which provides a 360 degree view of the surrounding area, making it the most spectacular place for capturing sunset shots.  To reach Minaret Vista, head towards Mammoth Mountain Ski Area, go through the parking lot, & then follow a small hill up towards the right (following signs toward Minaret Vista).

19 Reasons to Watch the Sunset in Mammoth, Girl WHo Travels the World, Minaret Vista

Minaret Vista, near Mammoth Mountain. Elevation: 9,265 feet.

19 Reasons to See the Sunset in Mammoth, Girl Who Travels the World, Minaret Vista, Mammoth Lakes

The start of ridiculously pink skies, at Minaret Vista. No filter on any of theses shots.

19 Reasons to See the Sunset in Mammoth, Girl Who Travels the World, Minaret Vista, Mammoth Lakes, California

PINK.

19 Reasons to See the Sunset in Mammoth, Girl Who Travels the World, Minaret Vista, Mammoth Lakes, California

Stark trees provide a great contrast to the colorful skies.

18 Reasons to See the Sunset in Mammoth

19 Reasons to See the Sunset in Mammoth, Girl Who Travels the World, Minaret Vista, Mammoth Lakes, California

Probably my favorite shot of all, as the skies turned a deeper pinkish-purple shade ~one that I’ve never seen replicated, still to this day.

18 Reasons to See the Sunset in Mammoth

19 Reasons to See the Sunset in Mammoth, Girl Who Travels the World, Minaret Vista, Mammoth Lakes, California

Fire in the sky…

19 Reasons to See the Sunset in Mammoth, Girl Who Travels the World, Minaret Vista, Mammoth Lakes, California

If you look carefully, you can begin to see the moon rising over Mammoth Mountain.

Where to Stay in Mammoth!

If you’re staying in Mammoth, the ideal place to stay is in a lodge, to truly capture the mountain feel of this area.  Some great ski-in/ski-out options (located right at the base of the mountain) are: 1) The Village Lodge ($269+/night), & 2) Juniper Springs Resort ($246+/night).  For more budget accommodations, try: 1) Tamarack Lodge & Resort ($129+/night).

18 Reasons to See the Sunset in Mammoth

From Mammoth, you’ve got all kinds of amazing destinations within just a few hours: places like Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, & nearby June Lake.  This is a great part of California to indulge in a classic road trip, along legendary Highway 395.  Have you ever been to Mammoth?  Let me know in the comments below!

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