by Seven 🐾
For my family, summer is the season for one of our favorite traditions: our annual road trip to Mammoth Lakes, California. Each year, Mom loads up the car, and I, along with my little sister Paige Turner, get cozy in the backseat, dreaming of the mountain air and wide-open trails that lie ahead.
The moment we arrive, the Sierra Nevada mountains greet us with snow-kissed peaks and crisp mountain air. Mammoth Lakes is more than just a summer escape — it’s a paradise for dogs like me who love swimming, hiking, and exploring alongside their humans.
Swimming & Hiking Adventures
Our first stop is always Horseshoe Lake, one of the most dog-friendly lakes in Mammoth. Its calm waters are perfect for swimming, and the surrounding 1.7-mile Horseshoe Lake Loop Trail makes a gentle walk for pups of all ages. Even when certain trails are closed due to snowmelt, Horseshoe Lake is worth the trip for its breathtaking scenery and peaceful vibes.
On this trip, we also visited Grant Lake in the nearby June Lake Loop, where dogs are welcome to splash and play off-leash. For pups who prefer land adventures, the Mammoth Lakes Town Loop Trail offers nearly eight miles of paved pathways with access to local parks, shopping, and dining — perfect for stretching four legs and two.
Cozy Stays & Special Celebrations
We stayed at a pet-friendly cozy mountain-view condo, booked through Nomadness Rentals. From our door, we had direct access to the Town Loop Trail, making it easy to head out for daily walks. One highlight of the trip was celebrating my ninth birthday with homemade dog treats at a friend’s cabin overlooking Gull Lake. Nothing beats birthday snacks and belly rubs surrounded by people (and pups) you love.
Dog-Friendly Dining & Shopping
Mammoth Lakes is packed with places that welcome dogs. Some of our favorites include:
- Roberto’s Café – for a dog-friendly patio meal.
- Stellar Brew – where Mom grabbed healthy bites and smoothies while we lounged outside.
- Old New York Deli & Bakery Company – great bagels, and yes, water bowls for pups.
We also popped into local pet shops: Tailwaggers Pet Store & Bakery, famous for daily baked dog cookies, and Mammoth Pet Shop, which even has a self-serve dog wash — perfect after a lake swim.
Other Dog-Friendly Activities in Mammoth
- Shady Rest Park – shaded trails and open areas for leashed walks.
- Convict Lake Trail – a 2.5-mile loop with spectacular mountain views and lake access (dogs allowed on leash).
- Devils Postpile National Monument – leashed dogs are allowed on trails here, making it a great family hike with unique geology.
A Summer Escape Worth Repeating
This trip was more than just a vacation — it was a chance to relax, swim, and explore in a place where dogs are truly welcome. Mammoth Lakes gave us cool mountain breezes, sparkling lakes, and dog-friendly fun around every corner.
As we head back home, my sister Paige Turner and I already dream about next summer’s adventures. Until then, we’ll hold tight to the memories of swims, trails, treats, and all the love that made this trip so special. 🐶❤️
Paws up until next time — Seven 🐾
If you love swapping stories and tips about life with dogs, I’d love to have you join me over on my Substack, BlissDog, where I share heart-centered essays, dog-inspired rituals, and behind-the-scenes stories from life with Seven and Paige Turner. Come sit, stay, and read with us — your dog-loving heart will be in good company.
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