Conquering Crystal Lake in Mammoth Lakes with a Toddler!
We were really excited to hike to Crystal Lake in September. It's set in the beautiful Mammoth Lakes area and promised amazing views and a refreshing experience. After a fun morning Kayaking at Lake Mary Marina, we were all set to hit the trail and enjoy nature. Let’s go!
Juniper Springs Resort has been the perfect place for us to stay while exploring Mammoth Lakes. We were able to easily access all the sights we wanted to see thanks to its central location.
The resort's amenities are top-notch, including a well-equipped kitchen, beautiful mountain views from the balcony, and the added relaxation of hot tubs and a heated pool.
The cherry on top of our stay was the room upgrade! Our room was absolutely stunning and even more spacious than what we originally booked. It truly made our trip to Mammoth Lakes an unforgettable experience. Juniper Springs Resort felt like a home away from home, and we cherished every moment of our stay there.
We started our day with a Kayaking adventure at Lake Mary Marina. After having lunch at Lake Mary, we drove to Crystal Lake Trailhead.
Starting point
Crystal Lake Trailhead
Here Are Some Tips For Hiking This Trail:
1. Start Early
.jpg "Hiking Crystal Lake in Mammoth Lakes with a Toddler")
.jpg "Hiking Crystal Lake in Mammoth Lakes with a Toddler")
.jpg "Hiking Crystal Lake in Mammoth Lakes with a Toddler")
Check the weather and websites for updates. We had to cancel our hike to Rainbow Falls because it was closed on weekends. We also couldn’t visit Death Valley National Park due to severe flood damage.
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Travel Tips
- For flights, Skyscanner is excellent for comparing the best airline deals.
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- Organize your trips easily with a Travel Planner.
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Full Itinerary: Road Trip Details
September 21-23
- Mammoth Lakes: Explore 5 amazing Lakes, kayaking and more
- June Lake: Dubbed the "Switzerland of California"
- Mono Lake: One of the oldest lakes in North America
- Ancient Bristlecone Forest: Home of the World's Oldest Living Tree
September 24-25
- Inyo County: Desert Sightings and Iconic Hollywood Location
- Desert Hike in Alabama Hills: Discover Stunning Rock Formations
- Make sure to Prepare Your Car for an Epic Adventure!
Where To Stay in Mammoth Lakes
Juniper Springs Resort: Memorable Stay and Ideal Location
- Check-in: Juniper Springs Resort
- Address: 4000 Meridian Blvd, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
- 3 days 2 nights: 350 USD
Juniper Springs Resort: Memorable Stay and Ideal Location
Juniper Springs Resort has been the perfect place for us to stay while exploring Mammoth Lakes. We were able to easily access all the sights we wanted to see thanks to its central location.
The resort's amenities are top-notch, including a well-equipped kitchen, beautiful mountain views from the balcony, and the added relaxation of hot tubs and a heated pool.
The cherry on top of our stay was the room upgrade! Our room was absolutely stunning and even more spacious than what we originally booked. It truly made our trip to Mammoth Lakes an unforgettable experience. Juniper Springs Resort felt like a home away from home, and we cherished every moment of our stay there.
Spacious parking lot
We started our day with a Kayaking adventure at Lake Mary Marina. After having lunch at Lake Mary, we drove to Crystal Lake Trailhead.
- Lake Mary Marina to Crystal Lake Trailhead
- 5-minute drive
How To Get There
- Location: Crystal Lake Trailhead, Inyo National Forest, Lk George Rd, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
- Entrance fee: Free
- Parking: Free Trailhead Parking
- Route: Crystal Lake Trailhead
- Distance: 3.2 miles (out and back)
- Duration: 1 hour and 48 minutes
- Elevation: 839 ft
- Highlights: As you ascend, enjoy stunning views of Lake George and Lake Mary. But the true gem is Crystal Lake, boasting a picturesque backdrop of snow-capped mountains that will take your breath away.
- Alltrails Link: Crystal Lake Trailhead
1. Start Early
Begin your hike in the morning to avoid crowds and the afternoon heat. We saw a few hikers, which was nice because they helped us know we were on the right path. Don’t hesitate to ask for directions; getting lost in the mountains is not an option.
2. Bring Plenty of Water
2. Bring Plenty of Water
The hike can be tough due to the elevation, so staying hydrated is important.
3. Pack Snacks
Bring along high-energy snacks such as nuts, trail mix, or energy bars, especially if you're traveling with a toddler. Don’t forget to pack snacks for your little one, too!
4. Layer Up
4. Layer Up
Dress in layers to adjust to quick weather changes.
5. Wear Sturdy Shoes
5. Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is rocky and uneven, so good hiking shoes are a must.
6. Use a Baby Carrier
A baby carrier is great for hiking with a toddler. It keeps your hands free while your child enjoys the ride.
7. Watch for Wildlife
7. Watch for Wildlife
Look out for wildlife but keep a safe distance.
8. Rest Stops
8. Rest Stops
Take breaks to enjoy the views — it’s part of the fun!
9. Carry a Map or GPS
Even on marked trails, having a map or GPS ensures you stay on track.
10. Check Weather Conditions
10. Check Weather Conditions
Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so check forecasts before you go and be ready for any sudden changes.
Get ready for beautiful views as you go up, but it might be tough with a toddler, especially around nap time. Plan your hike for the mornings, either before or after your child's nap. We carried our little one in a baby carrier all the way to the top and back. He walked a little, but we're not sure if we want to do this again, ahahaa - maybe when he's older!
Hiking with a Toddler
Get ready for beautiful views as you go up, but it might be tough with a toddler, especially around nap time. Plan your hike for the mornings, either before or after your child's nap. We carried our little one in a baby carrier all the way to the top and back. He walked a little, but we're not sure if we want to do this again, ahahaa - maybe when he's older!
Lake George
One of the best things about hiking to Crystal Lake is the amazing view of Lake George from above. The stunning scenery makes the climb up the mountain worth it.
.jpg "Hiking Crystal Lake in Mammoth Lakes with a Toddler")
We wouldn’t advice doing a kayak activity and a strenuous hike on the same day. We did survive, but try to take it slow; we underestimated the elevation, and I had a challenging climb to the summit.
.jpg "Hiking Crystal Lake in Mammoth Lakes with a Toddler")
Because of the elevation, I found it hard to hike without stopping and needed breaks to catch my breath and have snacks. It's surprising how much having a baby can change your body—what used to be easy now takes more effort.
.jpg "Hiking Crystal Lake in Mammoth Lakes with a Toddler")
When we finally reached Crystal Lake, the view was breathtaking, especially with the snow-capped mountains in the background. The scenery was so stunning that every push to reach the top was worth it.
Mammoth Lake, with its stunning natural beauty, has far exceeded my expectations.
Afternoon Hike in Crystal Lake: A Challenging yet Rewarding Adventure
The picture at the top of this post was the gorgeous Crystal Lake, and it was truly special. Even though it was a bit challenging, the stunning scenery made it all worth it. Hiking with a toddler wasn't easy, but the journey was full of joy and amazing views. We had to change our plans a bit along the way. Still, the adventure was unforgettable, giving us wonderful memories and a great appreciation for the natural beauty of Mammoth Lakes.
- Cancelled Hike Plans: Rainbow Falls and Death Valley National Park
Check the weather and websites for updates. We had to cancel our hike to Rainbow Falls because it was closed on weekends. We also couldn’t visit Death Valley National Park due to severe flood damage.
Must-Try Ice Cream at The Village
- Hugs Ice Cream
- Address: 6201 Minaret Rd Suite #224, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
After a long hike to Crystal Lake, we went to the village for dinner and found some delicious strawberry ice cream. Even though it was a cold night, this treat was something you shouldn't miss in Mammoth. It made us think of another family-owned creamery we found in Tulare, called Rosa Brothers Creamery. If you're visiting Sequoia National Park, be sure to stop by. You can try fresh milk products and enjoy free samples of their unique, refreshing flavors.
Next stop: Mono Lake
After an adventurous trip in Mammoth Lakes, we decided to venture a little further to see Mono Lake, and I must say, it was truly worth our time. The drive from Mammoth Lakes to Mono Lake takes about 25 to 30 minutes, but the sights along the way make it an enjoyable journey. As we approached the lake, the unique landscape unfolded before us, unlike anything I had ever seen.
- Juniper Springs Resort to Mono Lake: 48-minute drive
After an adventurous trip in Mammoth Lakes, we decided to venture a little further to see Mono Lake, and I must say, it was truly worth our time. The drive from Mammoth Lakes to Mono Lake takes about 25 to 30 minutes, but the sights along the way make it an enjoyable journey. As we approached the lake, the unique landscape unfolded before us, unlike anything I had ever seen.
Bonus Tip: Use a Travel Packing Checklist
This is my ultimate secret to making travel hassle-free: I use a Travel Packing Checklist. This ensures I don’t forget essential items and prevents those frantic last-minute shopping trips for things I already own but left behind. I didn’t realize how much I needed this notebook; it truly keeps my journeys organized and stress-free. Check out Flying Starfish Studios for unique journals, notebooks, and planners.
Here's another special Packing checklist designed for families. It includes packing lists for babies and kids to ensure nothing is overlooked!
Have fun and be safe ^__^
Do you want more adventure?
- If you’re driving back to Los Angeles: Visit Old Pasadena for a Day! Famous for its Victorian and Art Deco Buildings.
Where am I going next?
- For my next adventure, we’ll be exploring Singapore’s Flower Dome - a Guinness World Record Holder for the Largest Glass Greenhouse!
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