by Amelia Bines

Created on: May 13, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

Mammoth Lakes, California could definitely be called a nature lover's paradise. With outdoor activities ranging from dog-sledding to canoeing, there is something for everyone here. Adrenaline junkies and children alike can find fun in abundance in this gorgeous city. If the idea of taking your SUV off roading on some fantastic, mountainous terrain gets your heart pumping, you can be equally as excited as the guy taking his girlfriend up in a hot air balloon ride, so he can pop the question in style. Young and old alike will love Mammoth Lakes.

Summer in Mammoth Lakes brings out the adventurous side of many. If simply fishing the trout stocked lakes, rivers, and streams, surrounded by simply enticing views, isn't quite enough thrill for you, you can hop in a kayak and paddle by the oh-so-relaxed fishermen. Not feeling the rush enough, still? How about scaling the walls of Yosemite on a rock climbing adventure! They even have schools to teach you all about it before you simply grab a piece of earth and take off. For even more fun, try an ice climbing trip in the winter or spring... those classes would probably come in handy for that climb.

With skaters and bikers being all the rage, Mammoth Lakes hasn't left them out. They have a 40,000 square foot skate-park with real rocks to skate. Make sure you pack your helmet and pads to scale the concrete walls and to go over all of the lumps and humps the Volcom Brothers Skate-park has to offer. If you're looking for even more skateboarding dream-lands, visit Shady Rest Skate-park. It's a street-scene skate-park that is nestled in the pines at 7,800 feet and is designed for all ability levels. Keep that helmet handy. Safety gear must be worn here or you can risk getting a ticket... not to mention a concussion. If you enjoy sitting on your wheels, rather than standing on them, hop on your bike and pick from your choice of terrain of mountain or road biking. In the summer Mammoth Mountain's ski slopes transform into a beautiful place to mountain bike. Whether you want a ride full of ups and downs and twists and turns, or a peaceful way to view the town, biking is a great way to get it.

If tucking your shaggy hair under a baseball cap and riding a board isn't your idea of a good time, rest assure that there are plenty of relaxing things to do outdoors as well. There are more than 800 campsites available in the Mammoth Lakes area. What better way to relax and enjoy nature than setting up a tent, grabbing your fishing gear, and hitting a trout stream? How about taking a horseback ride to view Mammoth's back-country? You can experience all of the beauty of the High Sierra by kicking back aboard a Hot Air Balloon or by taking a once in lifetime flight over the stunning Mammoth Lakes and the Eastern Sierra. If even more relaxation is called for after a day of fun and sun, take advantage of Mammoth Lake's fabulous spa's and then head out for a night of fine dining. Rest up, because once winter comes it just begins even more thrills and chills for adventure seekers. Dog-sledding, snowboarding, downhill skiing, snowmobiling, and ice skating are just a few of the sports that the cold and snow bring in.

Mammoth Lakes is the perfect vacation spot for singles, newlyweds, families, and retirees alike. With all it has to offer to the outdoors man, shopper, and sports lover in your life, why go anywhere else?

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