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The Musher yelled "Hike!" and our team of ten wildly barking, beautiful huskies moved forward in one unified motion of massive muscle and jerked our sled free from its snowy encasement. We were off! Destination: The Sierra Outback.

The sled's runners slid easily across across the crusty snow and we settled back, snug beneath the fur blankets and the bright, warm sunshine. It was a magical adventure. Tall, dark green conifers set against sparklng white snow, distant mountain peaks and a stillness that penetrated the soul.

Before we took our leave after our Musher and team had returned us to home base, we gave each dog a hug and thanked our Musher for a most wonderful experience. We drove about five miles along Route 395 and into Mammoth Lakes for lunch.

A vacation in Mammoth Lakes consists of many magical moments. And I do not ski. The dog sled ride and a snow mobile ride took place when the kids had a couple of days off. I was on my own the remainder of the time but never lacked for friendly company or activities.

Mammoth Lakes has miles of trails that are beautifully groomed and maintained by the town and are open and free to the public. There are local folks and folks from all over the world hiking, snow shoeing, and cross country skiing along these trails. I had many wonderful conversations with new acquaintances as I hiked or skied along through the stillness of the pine forests.

Historical, geological and scientific information and viewing telescopes await you at the top of the mountain after ascending on Mammoth Mountain's Gondola. Learn how one man developed the mountain into a ski resort. Lunch is served at the top of the mountain or at the halfway point, and both locations have delicious food and soul-stirring views. It is also great fun to watch the the trails of fluffy powder created by the skiers create as they descend the mountain.

Restaurants and retail stores in Mammoth Lakes are plentiful. The atmosphere is joyful and happy and Sierra Mountains provide a breath-taking backdrop for all activities.

Mammoth Lakes is the warm, friendly kind of place that you will want to return to again and again for superior outdoor activities of all varieties and for a rugged, natural beauty that is difficult to duplicate.

Learn more about this author, Gretchen Mccabe.
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