Juniper Springs Lodge is hosting a Pre-race dinner on Saturday, June 22, 2013 from 6PM-9PM. The menu, which was developed in partnership with Deena Kastor, the Olympic Bronze Medalist, Athens, 2004 .
To reserve your spot, call 760-924-1102, or stop by the lodge.
The inaugural Mammoth Half Marathon kicks off this weekend with high altitude half marathon and 5K races. This is a premier race event and the 2nd leg of the San Diego-Mammoth Challenge. Local Olympian Deena Kastor, who took the Bronze in the Women's Marathon, during the Athens Olympics 2004, along with her husband Andrew have been instrumental in bringing this event to Mammoth Lakes.
We caught up with Deena to talk shop about the vision behind the race, her favorite runs in Mammoth Lakes, and her personal tips for preparing for a race at altitude.
What was the vision behind the High Altitude Half?
DK: I love the sport of running and cherish the town I live. Andrew and I want to share running and this community with as many people possible. Bringing a track and field facility to Mammoth Lakes not only shares running with the community, but also brings runners to our community. The same is true for the Mammoth Half Marathon. We wanted to bring a quality event to the people of our mammoth Lakes at the same time sharing our amazing town with visitors.
What's your favorite run in or near Mammoth Lakes and why?
DK: It is difficult to define a favorite run in Mammoth because we have a lot to choose from. I really enjoy the Lakes basin and also the ten mile loop around Inyo Craters. Both host amazing views and awesome geological history.
Where can you find the best vistas?
DK: Runners of the Mammoth Half will be treated with some great views as they come out of the Lakes basin area. I'll encourage everyone to slow down and take in the views.
What's the best way for athletes to prepare for their first race at altitude?
DK: Whether you are racing or simply visiting Mammoth, I always encourage people to drink a lot of water and sport drinks and wear sunscreen. When running, I recommend slowing the pace slightly. These are three simple ways to make your experience at altitude a good one.
What should athletes expect when running at altitude?
DK: You can expect the most scenic half marathon you've ever run! The weekend will be packed with fun things to do as we celebrate running, health and fitness in our Eastern Sierra town.
Are there any special considerations for staying hydrated at altitude?
DK: Water consumption is important whether at sea level or altitude. It is also important to have electrolytes, so I recommend sipping on a sports drink or increasing the amount of fruits and vegetables you are consuming. My rule is to always have a bottle of water or juice with me and sip on it all day.
What's your favorite thing about living in Mammoth Lakes?
I have been traveling the world for running and racing since I was 13 years old. I haven't found a place I like better than home in Mammoth Lakes, California. I'm a runner in an athletic minded town. My focus is narrow, but there are some serious athletes that live here. Rock climbers, mountain bikers, triathletes, runners, skiers, snowboarders just to name a few. No matter the time of year, there is always a festival, competition or event to be a part of. I also love the fact that town is a compact, 4 square miles surrounded by some of the best trail running in the world. As a runner, this is my paradise.
Can't Miss Mammoth Half Marathon Events
- Pre-race dinner this Friday, June 21 at Juniper Springs from 6pm-9pm. This menu features Grilled Alpers Eastern Sierra Trout and was developed in collaboration with Deena Kastor, Bronze Medalist Women's Marathon, Athens Olympics 2004. For more information, please call 1-800-MAMMOTH.
- Mammoth Half Marathon Expo: Saturday, June 22 from 12pm to 8pm at The Village at Mammoth.
- Finish Line Block Party: Sunday June 23, 8:00am to 1:00pm on Old Mammoth Road.
- Saturday, June 22: Join your friends and neighbors for a relaxing stroll on Old Mammoth Road for the Old Mammoth Mammoth Wine Walk & Craft Beer, featuring wine, beer and food provided by local restaurants, live music, and free trolley rides. Cost is $20/wristband for tastings at all locations along the way. For more information, please call 760-914-3122
The following campground availability report is offered as a courtesy for Mammoth Lakes visitors and does not constitute a guarantee of availability. Availability is always subject to change.
Currently there are plenty of camp sites available. Campgrounds opening today include:
- Sawmill Walk-in Campground
- Saddlebag Campground
- Trailhead Group Camp
- Pumice Flat Campground
- Pumice Flat Group Camp
- Minaret Falls Campground
Reds Meadow Campground Upper Soda Springs in Reds Meadow won’t be opening today as originally planned. This is due to some renovation and improvements being done to the camp sites. Currently, we’re now planning on it opening by next weekend (6/21). This is the only remaining campground not yet opened for the season.
Campground Status as of 6/14/2013 @ 0800 hours
Mammoth Lakes:
|
|
|
|
| Campground |
Total # Sites |
#Reserved/Occupied |
# Available for First-Come |
| Old Shady Rest Campground |
48 |
12 |
36 |
| New Shady Rest Campground |
91 |
17 |
74 |
| Twin Lakes Campground |
92 |
77 |
15 |
| Pine City Campground |
10 |
3 |
7 |
| Pine Glen Group Camp |
8 |
2 |
6 |
| Pine Glen Family Campground |
9 |
4 |
5 |
| Lake Mary Campground |
50 |
24 |
26 |
| Lake George Campground |
16 |
4 |
12 |
| Coldwater Campground |
76 |
58 |
18 |
| Sherwin Creek Campground |
85 |
10 |
75 |
| |
|
|
|
Reds Meadow:
|
|
|
|
| Agnew Meadows Group Camp |
CLOSED |
|
CLOSED FOR THE SEASON |
| Agnew Meadows Horse Camp |
CLOSED |
|
CLOSED FOR THE SEASON |
| Upper Soda Springs Campground |
CLOSED |
|
CLOSED - Opening June 21th |
| Pumice Flats Family Campground |
21 |
0 |
21 |
| Pumice Flats Group Camp |
4 |
1 |
3 |
| Minaret Falls Campground |
27 |
0 |
27 |
| Reds Meadows Campground |
52 |
0 |
52 |
| |
|
|
|
June Lake:
|
|
|
|
| Oh Ridge Campground |
143 |
20 |
123 |
| June Lake Campground |
27 |
15 |
12 |
| Gull Lake Campground |
11 |
5 |
6 |
| Reversed Creek Campground |
17 |
12 |
5 |
| Silver Lake Campground |
61 |
42 |
19 |
| |
|
|
|
Lee Vining (Tioga Pass):
|
|
|
|
| Big Bend Campground |
17 |
5 |
12 |
| Ellery Lake Campground |
12 |
8 |
4 |
| Junction Campground |
13 |
7 |
6 |
| Sawmill Walk-in Campground |
12 |
0 |
12 |
| Saddlebag Lake Campground |
21 |
0 |
21 |
| Tioga Lake Campground |
13 |
9 |
4 |
This report is brought to you by the Inyo Recreation, a division of California Land Management – Inyo Recreation
We caught up with event coordinator Lloyd Cearley to talk about the upcoming Mammoth2Bishop Fun Bike Ride and Finish Line Music Festival.
What is the Mammoth2Bishop Fun Bike Ride and Finish Line Music Festival?
It's a fun bike ride that starts off at Mammoth Creek Park with opening ceremonies from 8am-10am. The Ride Starts at 10am. Halfway to Benton will be playing during registration when you pick up your bib.
You can also pick up your bib and pre-register the night before at the Kickoff party Friday night at Rafters from 5pm-10pm
There will be a couple of pit stops along the way. The First pit stop is at McGee Creek Lodge at the Eastside Bake Shop. There will be a Clean Canteen Hydration Station. There will also be samples of baked goods and coffee and baked goods for sale.
The second stop will be at Tom's Place where we'll have live music from local's favorite Lava Moon. This is time for you to take a little break, get a bite to eat, and have a beverage. They will be playing from 11am-1pm.
As you move on, there will be a third pits top--which is a sample pit stop, and is more of a Hydration Station, at the Round Valley School. Don't miss this pit stop because it will be warm and you want to make sure you stay hydrated before you make the last leg to Mill Pond.
What is a Fun Ride and How Is It Different From Other Races?
A fun ride is fun. You take your time on this 43 mile run. It's not a race. The point is to enjoy the scenery, and enjoy the comradierie among fellow riders. You can take your time at the pitstops. Enjoy the music; grab a bite to eat; hang out and listen to the band.
Do You Have to Wear a Cosume?
You're welcome too. In fact, we have awards for best costume and best group costume. We will also have trophies for the best wheelie across the finish line. We have awards for folks who do the ride on rollerblade, and on a beach cruiser.
Who Will Play at the Finish Line Festival?
Nathan Maxwell of Flogging Molly will be headlining with the Original Bunny Gang. Nathan, who is the bassist in Flogging Molly is the singer and frontman for the Original Bunny Gang. He has written some of the lyrics for Flogging Molly songs.
With our five additional bands and a DJ area, there is something for every musical taste:
- Howling Dogma
- The Rocks Blues
- The Northstar Session
- Rads Music
- Delphina
- DJ Loxy, who is on VH1's Master of the Mix and is going for the title: #1 DJ of the Nation
- DJ G-Roy, who is the same caliber DJ as Loxy, and from Sandiego
What Else Will Be at the Festival?
- A performance artist will be painting to the music, capturing the monment as each band plays.
- Local, gourmet, and organic food vendors, including Bleu Handcrafted Foods, Toomys, Karma Indian Food, Mad Dog Hotdogs from Bishop.
Where are people supposed to Park?
Official parking is at Mammoth High School parking lot. You can walk or ride down Old Mammoth Road to th event.
How Should People Get Back to Mammoth from Bishop?
There is morning shuttle service from Bishop at 8AM, leaving from Mill Pond for those folks who want to park at the finish line. There are only a few seats left on that.
There is also an evening shuttle bringing riders back to Mammoth from the Finish Line Festival.
Any Insider Tips for Cyclists on This Ride?
- Be safe! Remember, you're sharing the road with automobiles, so you have to follow all California State laws, including stopping at stop signs.
- Stay hydrated. Drink more water than you think you need to, especially if you decide to have a few beers.
- Watch out for our "SAG vehicle," or Support and Gear vehicle. It can help you if you can't finish the ride, or if you have a bike problem like if you have a flat but no tube, teh SAG staff can help.
- EMTs wll be available along the course for medical emergencies.
Wildflower season is off to an AMAZING start and we have the scoop on what's blooming now, as well as where the wildflower hot spots are.
Right now look for:
- Bitterbush
- Lupine
- Lavender Shooting Star
- Wild Iris
- Baby Blue Eyes
- Giant Red Paintbrush
- Stansbury Phlox
Pick up a copy of Wildflower Hot Spots of the Eastern Sierra for $2 at the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center, or the more comprehensive Wildflowers of the Eastern Sierra and Adjoining Mojave Desert and Great Basin for around $20.
Consider a family hike on your next trip to Mammoth Lakes. Hiking with your kids is a great way to instill a love of nature and the outdoors in them and spend quality time together as a family.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks,
- pack extra sunblock,
- keep kids entertained,
- start small,
- go at your child's pace.
Other Great High Altitude Tips
REI has a great article on hiking with kids. The number one tip that you should take to heart is:
“If you can’t think like a child, then don’t invite one on your hike.”
Other hot tips include, give kids something to look forward to at the end of a hike like a swim in a swimming hole. Keep in mind that kids need to make frequent stops to fuel up on snacks. In fact you do too! Hiking at altitude takes more energy than hiking at sea-level, so make sure you fuel up too! But children especially need plenty of nutrition. They are growing everyday and need those snacks to keep up their metabolism if you want them to keep up with you.
Also, if you’re just starting out the hiking season, be sure to start them off with short hikes to get them used to the terrain and different elevation climbs. Include them in the trip planning process, but once on the hike, opt for a no agenda approach, which can also be a great tool for getting your kids exciting for hiking. Go at their pace, explore the area with them and perhaps even let me lead the group and make it about them so their experience is fun and they want to do it more.
For more great tips on hiking with kids visit http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/kids-hiking.html
Campground Availability for Mammoth Lakes
(and the Surrounding Area)
The following campground availability report is offered as a courtesy for Mammoth Lakes visitors and does not constitute a guarantee of availability. Availability is always subject to change.
Campground Status as of 6/7/2013 @ 0815 hours
Mammoth Lakes:
|
|
|
|
| Campground |
Total # Sites |
# Reserved/Occupied |
# Available for First-Come |
| Old Shady Rest Campground |
48 |
12 |
36 |
| New Shady Rest Campground |
91 |
20 |
71 |
| Twin Lakes Campground |
92 |
68 |
24 |
| Pine City Campground |
10 |
1 |
9 |
| Pine Glen Group Camp |
8 |
6 |
2 |
| Pine Glen Family Campground |
9 |
2 |
7 |
| Lake Mary Campground |
50 |
18 |
32 |
| Lake George Campground |
16 |
2 |
14 |
| Coldwater Campground |
76 |
19 |
57 |
| Sherwin Creek Campground |
85 |
28 |
57 |
| |
|
|
|
Reds Meadow:
|
|
|
|
| Agnew Meadows Group Camp |
CLOSED |
|
CLOSED FOR THE SEASON |
| Agnew Meadows Horse Camp |
CLOSED |
|
CLOSED FOR THE SEASON |
| Upper Soda Springs Campground |
CLOSED |
|
CLOSED - Opening June 14th |
| Pumice Flats Family Campground |
CLOSED |
|
CLOSED - Opening June 14th |
| Pumice Flats Group Camp |
CLOSED |
|
CLOSED - Opening June 14th |
| Minaret Falls Campground |
CLOSED |
|
CLOSED - Opening June 14th |
| Reds Meadows Campground |
CLOSED |
|
CLOSED - Opening June 14th |
| |
|
|
|
June Lake:
|
|
|
|
| Oh Ridge Campground |
143 |
18 |
125 |
| June Lake Campground |
27 |
16 |
11 |
| Gull Lake Campground |
11 |
4 |
7 |
| Reversed Creek Campground |
17 |
7 |
10 |
| Silver Lake Campground |
61 |
43 |
18 |
| |
|
|
|
Lee Vining (Tioga Pass):
|
|
|
|
| Big Bend Campground |
17 |
4 |
13 |
| Ellery Lake Campground |
12 |
8 |
4 |
| Junction Campground |
13 |
6 |
7 |
| Sawmill Walk-in Campground |
CLOSED |
|
CLOSED - Opening June 14th |
| Saddlebag Lake Campground |
CLOSED |
|
CLOSED - Opening June 14th |
| Tioga Lake Campground |
13 |
9 |
4 |
This report is brought to you by the California Land Management – Inyo Recreation
Welcome to the “unofficial” start to summer! While we may be a couple of weeks away from the official solstice, our summer event lineup kicks off this week with KidApolooza. A family festival full of games, interactive exhibits, educational live music and fun!!!
We caught up with "Sandra D." from Green Fox Events to find out what KidApolooza is really about.
What is Kidapolooza?
Kidapolooza is a one-day celebration of all things kids and family in the Eastern Sierra. It includes interactive booths, a line up of live entertainment, family-friendly activities, educational opportunities, and roving entertainers.
What do you mean "Interactive Booths?”
Inyo and Mono County non-profit organizations that support out underlying themes of wellness, family togetherness, literacy, social and environmental responsibility are invited to participate. In order to participate at they have to do something either experiential or interactive at their booth, which means they need to do something that enhances the guest experience. So it's not just about handing out a flier or brochure. It maybe doing some sort of game or skill testing activity so that the child or parent or grandparent learns something. And they might walk away with a chap stick or a bookmark or something else utilitarian.
What types of interactive booths have you hosted in the past?
- Family Photo Booth: The Inyo Mono Advocates for Community Action (IMACA} has hosted a booth that housed a Photo Shack photo booth. The pictures are printed on the spot and the families got to keep them (for free!)
- Live Falcon: The Eastern Sierra Wildlife CARE is an organization that rescues animals and they’ll come with a falcon that they rescued and rehabilitated. The kids can touch and learn about the falcon and rescued animals. They also bring an assortment of reptiles the kids can interact with.
- Badge Crafts: The Girl Scouts will be there selling popcorn to raise funds but at the same time they’ll also be doing a craft activity that is related to the Girl Scouts badging system and mission.
- Smokey the Bear: The Forest Service will be there, and so may Smokey the Bear, educating people about fire safety. They’ll likely have coloring books. So every booth will host something different to enjoy and to learn by.
What are some insider tips for having a great time at KidApolooza?
Try out everything! In addition to the entertainment and the expo, there are self-play giant lawn games and an obstacle course. There might be a hair braider; there might be face painting; there will be a balloon twister. And then, of course, there are all of these interactive booths that are teaching and giving things away. Everyone should try as much of everything that they can: touch, feel, enjoy, look, and see.
What can people expect when they come to Kidapolooza?
- Arrival: They arrive to the welcome booth and they get a bag with a passport attached to it.
- Passport to family fun! With that passport families visit all the booths with their children and they get their passport "punched" for each booth they visit.
- FREE new books! Once their passport is full, families can redeem it for a brand new book. Each child in the family receives a new book, so if there are three children in the family, they’ll can choose three books. The children get to choose from hundreds of new books. There are a variety of books for different age ranges. We also have books in Spanish and English.
- Live Entertainment: The Alphabet Rockers are headlining the event and we’ll also have a Latino band called El Groupo Virus there.
What about getting to the event and parking.
On-street parking is limited, so we encourage families to walk or ride their bikes on the paved Town Path, or to take the free trolley. There is a trolley stop right in front of the park. However, if families must drive to the event, there is a parking lot that is reserved for overflow parking at Sierra Meadows Ranch.
As a Mom with three kids, what is your favorite part of KidApolooza?
I have this great picture of my husband Michael sitting on the lawn with my youngest son, Gabriel, and they are watching a performer together. Watching parents and kids spending the day and the time together is my favorite part. It reminds me of a Canadian national holiday called "Family Day." The banks are closed. The schools are closed. Everything is closed. The day is meant for families to spend time together, going out to lunch, going to the park, or doing "whatever". The point is that families are together. So our goal and inspiration for KidApolooza is to create that time and space for families here in Mammoth Lakes and in the Eastern Sierra.
What's New For this Year?
This year we have added a Fun Run. It starts at 9am and is a one-mile fun run, starting in Mammoth Creek Park. "Runners" (or walkers) stay on the path for 0.5 miles out and come 0.5 miles back. And there are many categories including a stroller category and a family category. All of the entry fees go to North Star Counseling Centers, which provide free and low-cost counseling to families that need it. Entry fees range form $10-$15 based on age group, or $35 for families.
Pre-register at KidApolooza.com or register onsite at Mammoth Creek Park from 8:00-8:45
Event Details
- June 08, 2013 - June 08, 2013
- Times: 9:00am - 3:00pm
- Admission: Free
- Mammoth Creek Park
- 664 Old Mammoth Road, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
- Visit KidApolooza.com
For a full list of summer events in Mammoth Lakes, check out our Events Page
*Photos by Minaret Photography | Copyright Green Fox Events
That's right, one of our VistMammoth facebook fans claimed that the 2013 Mono County fishing opener was the best in 15 years! We agree!
This Year's Highlights included:
- Lake Mary Road to the Mammoth Lakes Basin opened in time for opening day;
- Over 10,000 of fish were stocked in area lakes by the Eastern Sierra Fishing Coalition;
- The second annual "Merry Fishmas" festival was held in the Village at Mammoth and included live music from the Jeffery James and the Wanted Gang, two-for-one fish tacos, and local Golden Trout beer by Mammoth Brewing Company.
Did you miss out on the action? Check out some of this year's highlights:
Anglers weren't the only ones enjoying the fine weather and abundant recreational opportunities on opening weekend. Here cyclists ride up Lake Mary Road in the Mammoth Lakes Basin.
Anglers of all ages woke up early on opening day to fish Convict Lake. Area lakes all benefitted from Eastern Sierra Fishing Coalition stocking efforts this year!
Lake Mary Road was open all the way to Lake Mamie for opener this year. While only Twin Lakes was clear for fishing, the snow is melting fast and in the three days since fishing opener, Lake Mary is already fishable at the far side by the marina. With the weather forecasted to stay warm, Lakes Mamie and George aren’t far behind.
Jeffery James and the Wanted Gang played a free concert at the Village at Mammoth for the second annual "Merry Fishmas" festival, sponsored by the Eastern Sierra Fishing Coalition. Anglers, families here to sightsee, and skiers and snowboarders just getting off the Mountain enjoyed the free concert and activities. That's one of the things that makes spring in Mammoth Lakes awesome; there's so much to do!
Families with childern are always welcome in the village where patio games like Giant Jenga and bean bag tosses line the pominade. Parents can relax and watch free concerts in outdoor seating while kids play.
The Eastern Sierra Fishing coalition sold raffle tickets for a 14’ Klamath boat, an 8hp Honda Marine Motor and an EZ Loader Trailer. Proceeds from last year's raffle went to stocking 10,000 pounds of Alpers Trout in area lakes this year.
Win This Boat!
This year the Eastern Sierra Fishing Coalition has anoth boat for raffle. Click to buy your tickets online now!
Fishing Opener Events
Make your 2013 Fishmas weekend unforgettable with Fishmas Weekend Events. Looking for a campground? No problem, scroll down for a list of campgrounds that will be open this weekend! And don't forget to check out our new App, your on-the-go guide to dining, lodging, sightseeing and adventure in Mammoth Lakes!
Thursday, April 25
Mammoth Lakes Sunrise Rotary Fishmas Dinner from 6:00pm- 9:00pm: Hosted by CJ's Grill on Old Mammoth Road and full of fun, auction items and raffles you will wonder how you ever started fishing season in the Eastern Sierra without it! Buy tickets now. http://bit.ly/ZmLvrN
Saturday, April 27th
Annual Fishmas Festival from from 4:00pm-7:00pm: Celebrate with friends and family at the Village at Mammoth with live music from Jeffrey James and The Wanted Gang, dine on Gomez’s 2-for-1 fish tacos and toast with a Mammoth Brewing Co. beer. There will also be balloons, face painting and a chance for the kids to have their picture taken with Woolly who will be sporting his fishing vest.
Crowley Lake Resort Opening Day Big Fish Contest Win the Fred Hall Memorial Trophy, plus cash, tackle, boat rentals, fish mountings and more!
Fishmas Day at Tom's Place: Fishing Derby and Raffle Contests.
For more information on Fishing in the Eastern Sierra, visit EasternSierraFishing.org
Open Campgrounds
Opening Day of Fishing Season in Mono County is April 27, 2013. Looking for a campground? No problem. Here is a list of campgrounds that are opening April 24, 2013:
Mammoth Lakes Area Campgrounds:
- New Shady Rest Campground
- Old Shady Rest Campground
- Sherwin Creek Campground
- Convict Lake Campground
June Lake Area Campgrounds:
- Oh Ridge Campground
- June Lake Campground
- Gull Lake Campground
- Silver Lake Campground
Download the New App
This FREE VisitMammoth app is your on-the-go guide to dining, lodging, sightseeing + adventure in Mammoth Lakes—California’s Gateway to Natural Wonders!
Find things to do, places to eat and stay, tap-to-call phone numbers, turn-by-turn directions, and social sharing features.
More than just a directory app, the VisitMammoth app is your guide to everything Mammoth Lakes!