When people think of the eastern sierra mountains, they don’t often think about June Lake. But this small town in the mountains has a lot to offer at any time of the year.
I highly recommend visiting between the summer/fall rush and the winter ski season. Things are extremely quiet and though amenities, such as a lot of dining options, will close for this period, the lack of tourists and the peacefulness of the area is well worth it. And if you are lucky, you will get there before the snow closes down many of the roads and yet Mammoth Mountain ski resort, who is excellent at snowmaking, will be open for business. That cusp opens up chances for hiking, skiing and riding, and visiting the many hot springs in the area.
Getting there
Best nearby airport option is the Reno Tahoe international airport (though be prepared for some serious turbulence, which this airport is well known for). From there you will drive south along route 395 until you reach the June Lake Loop and your final destination. You will need to rent a car as there is not good public transportation and be aware that in June Lakes there is only one gas station.
These are the top things to do in June Lake in winter
Drive the June Lake Loop
One of the highlights of the trip is driving the June Lake Loop and stopping at all the lakes in the area. My favorite spot along the loop was Silver Lake. With the mountains rising in the background, every lake you stop at is the perfect photo opportunity.
Hike to Fern Lake
Nestled within the Ansel Adams Wilderness, the hike to Fern Lake is a 3.2-mile round trip, challenging climb but worth the effort. There is a small parking lot located off the June Lake Loop, a short 5–10-minute ride from downtown June Lake.
In early December there can be some snow on the ground and can get a bit icy in spots, so make sure you have appropriate footwear.
Visit Yosemite National Park (early season only before the Tioga pass closes)
When the Tioga Pass is open, Yosemite National Park is just a 12-mile drive away! However, any snow causes the pass to close for the winter, as they do not maintain the pass at all. So, if you are lucky, you will catch it while it’s open, if you’re not, the drive will take you over 5 hours and may be best saved for another time. Or maybe consider visiting June Lake in early October, to ensure the pass will be open.
Ski and ride at the June Mountain ski area
If the area has seen enough snow, June Mountain ski area will be open. Smaller than Mammoth, this more intimate mountain is also on the Ikon pass (just like Mammoth) and is worth checking out if you are in the area. Typical opening day tends to be in mid-December (unlike Mammoth who often opens mid-November), so plan accordingly.
June Mountain has 7 lifts and 41 trails and 1,500 acres of skiable terrain with a summit elevation of 10,090 feet. Average snowfall here in a season is 250 inches. Depending on your ability the mountain has 45% advanced, 40% intermediate and 15% beginner terrain.
Take a drive to soak in some hot springs
This area is alive with activity! An hour drive north in Bridgeport will take you to Travertine Hot Springs and Buckeye Hot Springs or head to the Mammoth Lakes area and explore Hot Tub Hot Springs, Hilltop Hot Springs and Wild Willy’s Hot Springs.
No matter your choice you will not be disappointed (though if I recommend one in particular, it would be Buckeye Hot Springs).
Hike the ridge trail
Just across from the fire station is the trailhead for a ridge trail that will give you views of the entire June Lake area. This was highly recommended by the locals in the area to get a bird’s eye view of the town and surrounding lakes and mountains.
Best places to eat and drink
In the shoulder season (between Thanksgiving and Christmas many things are closed as residents take a break between the summer rush and the winter ski season) so don’t expect to have access to a lot of dining options in June Lake. However, just a short 20-minute drive away is Mammoth Lakes where there are lots of options.
Tiger Bar
This place is unique and also the only place open to get food between the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. However, it’s also fun and the food isn’t bad. Mostly bar food and what you would expect for bar food, I was impressed by their veggie burger and breaded cheese curds.
June Lake Brewing company
Of all the breweries in the area (including Mammoth Brewing and Distant Brewing), June Lake brewing was my favorite. The beer is good, and the people are amazing. Though they do not serve food there, you can bring food in and in the busier months you can also find a couple of food trucks parked outside.
There is also a general store that is open year-round that has a lot of your grocery needs, so if you are staying at a place with a kitchen, you can easily stock up here.
Concluding Thoughts
Visiting June Lake in the shoulder of ski season was one of the most relaxing vacations I have ever had. The quiet of the area and the friendliness of the people who live there made it all worthwhile.
But even if you can’t make it at this time or want to see the area in full wildflower bloom, any season is the perfect season to visit June Lake.
If you want powder during the shoulder season though you might want to check out either Mount Bachelor or Crystal Mountain Ski Resort in the Pacific Northwest.
