The Best Waterfalls Near Mammoth Lakes

The Eastern Sierras are full of beautiful views and summits, but there’s nothing quite like hiking to a waterfall.

Mammoth Bound is built to help people explore our home of Mammoth Lakes, and there’s nothing we’re prouder of than our home’s spectacular waterfalls. That’s why we’ve list 5 of the best waterfalls near Mammoth Lakes below! Read all about it and then find the best deals on lodging and rentals in Mammoth Lakes with Mammoth Bound! 

Rainbow Falls

Rainbow falls is the most popular waterfall in the Mammoth Lakes area thanks to its size and the spectacular area that surrounds it.

Rainbow Falls is within Devil’s Postpile National Monument, which is spectacular on its own. However, thanks to the fact that Rainbow Falls is only a 1.7-mile hike along a wide path, this waterfall is just as popular. Water falls more than 100 feet to create the rainbow the falls are named after, and no trip to Mammoth is complete without seeing it!

Lower Rainbow Falls

If you feel like hiking a little further past Rainbow Falls, then you can enjoy the tranquil lower falls further on!

Lower Rainbow Falls are nowhere near as tall as the main falls, but the tranquil setting and cool water make for an incredible experience. Plus, Rainbow Falls is one of the most popular attractions in the area, so there will likely be a crowd on the trail. The Lower Falls attract fewer people though which makes them a great option on crowded days!

Twin Falls

You don’t have to look far to find beautiful falls in Mammoth Lakes, and Twin Falls is proof.

Twin Falls Overlook is in the heart of the Lakes Basin, which is located only a few minutes from downtown Mammoth Lakes itself. If that weren’t enough, there’s also a paved walking and biking path that leads into the area and past Twin Falls. Whether you view the lake below from the overlook or walk down to see them from the water, you’re sure to love Twin Falls!

Horsetail Falls

Looking for a little adventure to go with your waterfall? Visit Horsetail Falls!

Horsetail Falls is a beautiful waterfall that can be accessed by a challenging 4-mile trail. Although the trail’s exposure can make it difficult to walk on during rain or snow, the beautiful waterfall is certain to stun since Horsetail Falls is one of the most unique waterfalls in the area!

Minaret Falls

Minaret Falls is a quick and easy hike through Devils Postpile National Monument with a beautiful set of falls at the end.

Like other trails on this list, Minaret Falls is a very popular hike so be prepared to share the trail leading to it with other hikers. Since it is in Devils Postpile National Monument though, you must follow all restrictions for the area. Accessing the national monument can require a few extra steps, so check out the information here to make sure you can make it to the falls!

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