Best Time of Year to Get Married in the Eastern Sierra

January 16, 2025

A married couple wearing bright backpacks and wedding summer season attire are hiking in the Eastern Sierra.

The Eastern Sierra, is one of the few places in California that experiences the extremes of all four seasons. Each season in Mammoth Lakes holds its own uniqueness! As you start dreaming about your elopement day, I’ll help you navigate the seasons and discover the ideal time to say ‘I do’ in Mammoth Lakes.

There is one very specific thing you need to take into consideration about Mammoth that happens throughout all seasons, and that is… wind. Mammoth is known for some of its extreme winds, especially right before storms. Some of our strongest windstorms happen just before or during big snow events, but we’ll get more into that shortly.

A couple wearing winter season wedding attire are snowshoeing in a snowy field with large snow covered peaks in the Eastern Sierra.

Winter Season in Mammoth

Winter can last anywhere from October to sometimes June (and rarely, August) depending on the amount of snow we receive. An average winter typically runs from November to April or May, with roughly 400 inches of snow. The 2022-2023 season, we experienced a record-breaking winter with over 900 inches of snow. I skied on August 4th! Wild times. Occasionally, we might see a little snow before October. Temperatures range from highs of 40°F to lows in the teens or single digits. And like I mentioned previously, the winds can be quite brutal making the wind chill into the negative temperatures.

Travel & Accessibility: Winter

The only way in and out of Mammoth is via Highway 395. During severe storms or high winds, officials often close Highway 395 for safety reasons, such as low visibility or excessive snow. Never attempt to drive up the highway when it’s closed. Navigation apps may suggest alternate routes near Benton, but these roads will also be inaccessible if Highway 395 is closed.

To stay safe, monitor the weather closely to time your travel around storm windows. Some helpful apps and weather sites include OpenSnow, Weather Underground, and NOAA. For road conditions, Caltrans provides up-to-date information on closures, chain requirements, and overall road safety. You can get this information from either their website or their app. 

Lodging: Winter

Winter is a peak season in Mammoth since it’s first and foremost a ski resort town! Lodging prices during this time are typically higher than in off-seasons (spring and fall), especially on weekends and holiday periods. Both hotels and Airbnbs can book up quickly, so it’s wise to plan at least three months in advance.

Trail/Location Accessibility: Winter

Mammoth offers some of the best views in the Eastern Sierra, and the winter landscape is incredibly captivating. The snow accentuates the grandness of the peaks, but it does limit access to many trails. There are three main groomed trails for walking or snowshoeing: the Lakes Basin, Shady Rest and Minaret Vista. These are popular spots for cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and snowmobilers (at Minaret Vista).

For the more adventurous, ungroomed trails provide opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or backcountry exploration. Backcountry skiing requires serious avalanche safety knowledge. Ensure you have experience in snowpack, rescue techniques, or have completed an avalanche safety course. The mountains here hold endless beauty for those ready to explore safely.

Spring Season in Mammoth

Spring in Mammoth typically spans from April to May or June, with temperatures ranging from highs in the 50s and 60s to lows in the 30s and 40s. However, snow can still make an appearance, as seen on May 4th this last year, when it was dumping snow outside! Mammoth’s weather can be unpredictable, but spring brings breathtaking wildflowers, creating a landscape that feels like another country!

Accessibility: Spring

Traveling to Mammoth in spring is less challenging than in winter, though occasional closures may occur during late-season snowstorms. These storms are less likely to result in long-term closures, and the snow tends to melt quickly once the weather clears. Roads like Tioga Pass and Rock Creek may still be snow-covered, but some may be open to biking or partially accessible.

Spring also marks the start of road-clearing efforts for Yosemite and Sonora Pass. Follow Caltrans and Yosemite National Park on social media or online for progress on these openings.

 Lodging: Spring

Spring in Mammoth is a time of transition. The snow is melting, making way for hiking and biking, but the season isn’t fully underway yet. You can still enjoy some skiing, but the conditions are changing daily. As a result, lodging is easier to book, and prices are lower than in peak seasons. You’ll have good luck finding last-minute reservations during this time.

Trail/Location Accessibility: Spring

By early to mid-May, lower-elevation trails like Convict Lake and McGee Creek begin to melt out, while higher-elevation trails start to become accessible later in the month. Some hikes may still have snowfields. Pack microspikes or even ice axes for added safety.

Creek and river crossings are an essential consideration during spring. Snowmelt causes water levels to rise rapidly, creating swift, icy currents that can be dangerous to cross. On the bright side, the wildflowers start blooming at different elevations throughout the season, creating a colorful, ever-changing landscape. Follow sites like Visit Mammoth and California State Parks to stay updated on where to find the best blooms.

A couple embraces each other on their wedding day while looking at the sunrise over Hot Creek in summer in Mammoth Lakes, CA.

Summer Season in Mammoth

Summer typically runs from June or July through September, with temperatures ranging from highs in the 70s and 80s to lows in the 40s. Keep in mind that Mammoth sits over 7,000 feet above sea level, so the sun feels much stronger. Always wear sunscreen, as 80°F at this elevation feels hotter than it would at sea level!

Accessibility: Summer

By summer, most roads are fully accessible. Tioga Pass, Sonora Pass, and the road to Red’s Meadow will likely begin to open soon, although construction on Red’s Meadow Road will continue throughout 2025. This may limit vehicle access, and you might need to take a bus to reach certain areas.

Lodging: Summer

Campgrounds in the Lakes Basin and surrounding areas open for the season. Sites in the Lakes Basin are reservation-only and book out quickly. Reserve through Recreation.gov as early as possible, each campground will release dates for when you can start booking in the late winter or early spring. Expect higher hotel and Airbnb prices during the summer months, especially around holidays. Booking 3-4 months in advance is highly recommended to secure the best deals and availability.

Trail/Location Accessibility: Summer

Summer is the time for all outdoor activities: hiking, biking, fishing, climbing, trail running, backpacking and many more! Most trails are accessible, though some higher-altitude trails may still have snowfields early in the season. These are generally passable without special equipment. Feel free to check out this McLeod Lake hiking elopement!

Special Notes:

Summer is a busy season, and with that comes larger crowds at popular spots, which may reduce the seclusion when choosing a well-known location to exchange your vows. These types of spots could include Convict Lake and Minaret VIsta or other popular hiking trails and viewpoints. Wildlife like deer, bears, and coyotes are active, so follow Leave No Trace (LNT) principles by keeping a respectful distance (at least 25 yards) and never feeding or approaching animals. Mosquitoes can also be quite pesky in early summer due to active snow melt, so bring repellent and mosquito nets if you plan to hike. Trust me, I know from experience! 

A couple in their wedding clothes walk through a forest of bright yellow aspen trees during the fall season at Mammoth Lakes, CA.

Fall Season in Mammoth

Fall is the shortest season, lasting from late September to klate-October, but it’s a magical time of year. Temperatures range from highs in the 60s to lows in the 20s, with occasional snowfalls. The highlight? The stunning fall colors that sweep across the Eastern Sierra!

Accessibility: Fall

Most roads remain open until the first major snowstorm. If only light snow falls and no further storms are predicted, roads may reopen temporarily. Red’s Meadow Road typically closes after the peak summer season. However, other major roads should remain accessible as long as significant snowfall doesn’t occur.

Lodging: Fall

Fall is considered the off-season, making lodging generally easier to book and more affordable. However, holidays and weekends can still bring crowds eager to see the fall colors. Most campgrounds close as they prepare for winter.

Trail/Location Accessibility: Fall

Backcountry trails, trailheads, and lakes remain accessible until snow begins to accumulate. If you plan to hike in October, prepare for colder conditions and potentially snowy trails. If we get enough snow, some desired locations may become inaccessible. 

Special Notes:

Fall colors in the Eastern Sierra are breathtaking but can be tricky to time. THIS interactive map tracks where the best colors are peaking. Keep an eye on updates, as the foliage can change overnight. Another special note is about wildfires, a common issue in California. This may also impact visibility and air quality. On the bright side, mosquitoes can be absent or very few during this chilly season, making for more enjoyable hikes.

Final Thoughts

The Eastern Sierra is a destination for all seasons, each offering its own unique beauty and opportunities for whatever adventure your wedding day may hold. From the snow-covered magic of winter to the vibrant blooms of spring, the endless activities of summer, and the stunning colors of fall, every time of year brings something special. Whether you’re chasing powder, wildflowers, alpine trails, or golden leaves, Mammoth invites you to immerse yourself in its ever-changing landscapes. With thoughtful planning and a sense of adventure, every season in Mammoth can provide an unforgettable backdrop to say your vows in! So overall, in my personal opinion, each season in Mammoth Lakes holds its own unique and amazing things, it’s up to you to decide now!

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