thenextmile

Skiing and snowboarding. Hiking, helicopter rides and mountain biking. Sure, these are all great activities and are excellent options for anyone visiting the Mammoth Lakes area. But the real way to see the town and everything it has to offer is one step at a time, on foot, running.

No matter how long you’ve been a runner, and no matter how many miles a week you average, if you’re not used to the altitude, a run in Mammoth Lakes can prove difficult. At 8,000 feet above sea level, running in Mammoth Lakes and the surrounding Sierra Nevadas can be challenging, but the higher altitude also allows for physical gains. After all, Mammoth Lakes is home to hundreds of runners, including 2004 Olympian Deena Kastor and 2008 Olympic qualifier Ryan Hall.

Mammoth Lakes is surrounded by both the John Muir Trail and the Ansel Adams Wilderness. The area offers miles of groomed trails, dirt roads and rugged paths that await your exploration. A number of trails and routes offer runners of all ability levels their choice of difficulty and length. One popular route is the Inyo Crater. It’s a long steady climb of just over 11 miles. The dirt roads offer runners not only a challenge, but some of the best scenery along the Mammoth Lakes Scenic Loop. And if you’re feeling up to it, take a short detour from the run to see the craters.

For a low-key, scenic excursion, check out the Lake Mary/Horseshoe Lake route. This dirt road will take you up to 9,000 feet as you make your way forests. The loop is a popular spot for not only fisherman, but Olympic Qualifier Ryan Hall. And be on the lookout, you might see a bear or two.

If you’re looking to get in some speed work, head out to the Shady Rest Park. It’s a 1k road that will take you to a baseball field. It’s a favorite route for local runners for getting in some interval training.

For those that prefer running with others who know the area, The High Sierra Striders, otherwise known as H.S.S., is a non-profit running club started in 2005. The club offers group runs throughout the week, including interval, speed work, and long runs. The club also sponsors some races throughout the year. For more information on the club, visit their website at www.highsierrastriders.org.

Each year, thousands visit Mammoth Lakes to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you ski, hike, bike or run, the area is full of amazing adventures just waiting for you to discover.

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