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!”
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.
Last rays of light hitting the peaks behind Lake George, just outside of Mammoth Lakes, California.
Lake George.
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).
Minaret Vista, near Mammoth Mountain. Elevation: 9,265 feet.
The start of ridiculously pink skies, at Minaret Vista. No filter on any of theses shots.
PINK.
Stark trees provide a great contrast to the colorful skies.
18 Reasons to See the Sunset in Mammoth
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
Fire in the sky…
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!
Read Next: Best Scenic Stops to Take on Drive Around Lake Tahoe!
Great collection of shots here! Our family really loves Mammoth, it’s a great spot. Did you use a filter on any of these shots? Just curious.
Hey Mark! Thanks for your feedback & question. Back when I took those shots (a few years ago), I was REALLY into the HDR filter! Ha so yes, some of the shots have a slight HDR (not full), & the color vibrancy has been adjusted slightly on some photos (not all). But the sunset was TRULY the most glorious pink & purple I have ever seen in my life! I wanted the photos to match as closely as possible to what my eyes could see.