Many people know Ridge’s home base of Mammoth Lakes, California for skiing in the winter and hiking and backpacking in the summer—including the nearby John Muir Trail and Pacific Crest Trail. But locals and some visitors know fall is an equally spectacular time in the Eastern Sierra.
When do the leaves change in California?
While California fall color tends to be more monochromatic than the infamous autumn colors of New England and the mountains of North Carolina and Virginia, it’s still a wonder to behold. And because the colors change based on elevation, you can usually find beautiful fall colors in one place or another in the state from early September to late November.
CaliforniaFallColor.com is the best resource for fall color updates. For Eastern Sierra fall colors, the peak is usually from late September to mid October depending on elevation and the current year’s temperatures. See the latest reports.
Eastern Sierra aspens; photo by Visit Mammoth
Eastern Sierra fall colors are about to peak
In Mammoth Lakes, fall has arrived. Temperatures have dropped and spots of yellow are visible around town. Here are some of our favorite fall color spots around Mammoth:
- Convict Lake: About 15 minutes south of Mammoth, you’ll find incredible fall color from the main entrance along looker’s left of the lake and along the back boardwalk. The 2.5 mile loop around the lake is a great walk.
- Bishop Creek Canyon: Drive west into the mountains from Mammoth’s neighboring town of Bishop and take a left toward South Lake. The whole canyon gets spots of fall colors, and as you approach the lake you’ll be within the aspens. Walk any of the dirt roads off this road or go on to South Lake at the end and enjoy the aspens on the first half mile or so of the trail. Add a drive up to North Lake for even more stunning aspen color.
- Silver Lake in the June Lake area: Head north from Mammoth to the June Lake Loop. After you go through town, you’ll find many roadside aspens by Silver Lake.
- Lundy Lake: This lake just north of Lee Vining is tucked back in a large aspen grove.
- Rock Creek Road up to Mosquito Flat: You’ll go in and out of aspen groves all the way up to Little Lakes Valley.
Rock Creek Road heading up to the Mosquito Flat Trailhead; photo by Visit Mammoth
What makes California fall colors so special
Once you’ve seen California’s fall colors, you probably understand the appeal. But California Fall Color’s editor answered this in a post from last year:
“One topic that seems to come up over and over again is why autumn is so special here. One of the most unique and special things about fall color in California is the way the patches of color stand out against dramatic landscapes. This is what sets it apart from east coast color that many argue is the best.”
- Lara Kaylor, Editor of California Fall Color
Often you’ll see bright, colorful fall leaves in the Eastern Sierra on mountainsides, along meandering streams or blue lakes, and set against granite cliffs or dark green pines that really make the color pop. Plus with the aspens being responsible for most of our fall color, their quaking or trembling leaves add another lovely element to fall here.
Fall colors around Convict Lake near Mammoth; photo by Visit Mammoth
How to make the most of a leaf peeping trip
Exploring on your own is half the fun of a fall trip to the Eastern Sierra, but if you want more of a plan, California Fall Color keeps a fall color map up to date, publishes posts frequently and has a guide to trip planning.
Bring layers
The weather in the Eastern Sierra is especially variable this time of year. It might be below freezing, it might be snowing or it might be warm and sunny.
Since fall color viewing often entails driving or hiking up roads or trails at high elevation, make sure you have the right layers to stay warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s warm. Since Merino wool breathes well, regulates temperature, wicks moisture and resists odor, Merino wool shirts and mid layers are great for long fall days outside.
Always throw a good puffy or winter jacket and a beanie in your car when leaf peeping. Packing waterproof boots or shoes can be a good idea too. If you’re trying to snag photos at dawn or dusk, you’ll want gloves and a neck warmer.
Layered up for a fall bouldering sesh in a Ridge beanie, Convict Canyon Hoodie and Crowley Compression Tights.
Stay flexible
When snow arrives, mountain passes often close temporarily or for the season. If wintry weather happens, check road conditions on the Caltrans website. If your car isn’t equipped for snow driving, it’s wise to carry chains.
Some businesses and restaurants in the Eastern Sierra take a fall break. Check their hours ahead of time, and be ready to try something new if any of your regular spots are closed.
Fall can bring crowds to otherwise quiet roads and trailheads—be willing to pivot if there isn’t parking or a location is too crowded to enjoy.
Leave no trace
Whether you’re trying to get the perfect shot or just want to soak in the feeling of fall under a bright tree, don’t forget to leave no trace. Taking good care of the land should be your top priority.
California Fall Color offers tips for leaf peepers to make sure you’re treading lightly:
- Plan ahead
- Travel on durable surfaces (roads and trails)
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate – don’t trespass, don’t fly drones where not permitted, and give other leaf peepers their own space and experience
Fall colors along a creek outside of Mammoth Lakes; photo by Visit Mammoth
Enjoy fall colors in the Eastern Sierra, and if you get some good shots, share them with California Fall Color to inspire other leaf peepers.
