Everything I now know to be important, I learned in five days at Mammoth Lakes
California...
I didn't want to go. I didn't ski, couldn't snowboard, but there I
was, in the Eastern Sierras, and 3 to 6 hours or so from any big city in
California. Moaning and grumbling during the 3.5 hour drive from Reno, knowing
we were heading to the last uncivilized spot in the Sierras, I hoped my
'friends' would put me out on the side of the road,- then I'd be able to
hitch-hike back to a town with running water and indoor toilets! But nooo, here
we were, Mammoth Lakes California. (Just the name conjures up prehistoric beings
dragging foot through the hills!)
Oh. My. Gosh! Was I mistaken! Mammoth Lakes is a gem tucked into the middle of
California, an escape from the real world! From the moment I stepped out of the
SUV I was in love. The ambiance is a pleasant mix of small town quaint and big
city life! How can that be you ask? Just go to Mammoth Lakes and see!
During my 5 days I tried skiing, snowboarding, and fishing - (didn't bait
that hook myself, nope, not me!) I observed families enjoying a weekend holiday,
couples sharing romantic moments, seniors walking hand in hand turning back the
time, and others just enjoying the clear, crisp air.
For those that like to shop there are special one-of-a-kind finds in all of
the many shops throughout town. In the evening the dining choices are wonderful,
you can supp at restaurants offering anything from sushi and steak, or follow
Fido/Fifi into to dog-friendly eateries! (I am still not sure about eating in a restaurant with Suzie-q-poodle
under the next table watching my fork move from my plate to my mouth, but hey,
if they one day have a guinea-pig friendly restaurant, I'm already there!)
Being able to walk through town at any time, day or night, with a free
feeling, without the fears that city life can carry, in itself is worth the
trip.
All I can say is, just go! Pack up your family or go by yourself and be
reborn!
Fuel to get there from Reno: worth every drop. Self rejuvenation: worth
every minute. Spa experience: better than any I've every had. Skiing and
snowboarding: required second spa trip. Chance to go back by myself, at my own
pace: already arranged!
This Mammoth Lakes experience was recounted for you by Mazy Keller.
Hold up! Snowboarding, Skiing, AND Fishing at the same time? Yes, during the Fall and Spring in Mammoth Lakes you can do all three! Just a short drive brings you down the mountain to the lakes and streams, and you can cast your hook. Then drive back up and sled or shred to your heart's desire! And then head back to your luxurious Mammoth Lakes condo and soak in the tub because you have had a FULL day.