Do you have yet to view Northern California’s extraordinary fall colors this year? If you haven’t, you’ll want to plan something soon. These stunning landscapes last for only a short time. If you’re looking for a quick way to see some of our region’s most beautiful fall foliage, look no further than this lovely 2-hour drive. Honestly, there’s no better way to spend an autumn afternoon than by driving through this colorful setting! Don’t miss out on these stunning autumn scenes. Keep scrolling to learn all that this drive has to offer.
This magnificent 2-hour drive begins on the Mammoth Scenic Loop in the town of Mammoth Lakes, California. This scenic road is a pleasure to drive all year long and it's considered a great introduction into the breathtaking eastern Sierra forests. However, fall is arguably the best time to complete this drive and you're about to understand why.
You'll find the Mammoth Scenic Loop Road right off of Highway 203 near the north end of downtown. From here you'll turn right onto the Mammoth Scenic Loop and embark on a beautiful journey that seems too good to be true. Be sure to bring your camera because you're definitely going to need it.
As you set off on the loop, you'll be led into a gorgeous landscapes of Jeffrey and Lodgepole pines. The paved roadway is completely surrounded by brilliant fall colors that look especially vibrant against the cool mountain scenery.
The scenic loop is just 10 miles long so you'll turn right when you reach U.S. 395 in order to head south. Along this part of the route you'll again be led into an autumnal wonderland of deciduous trees and shrubs with views of landmarks like Bloody Mountain and Laurel Mountain in the background.
After approximately five miles you'll turn onto State Route 203 which leads back to Mammoth Lakes. Here you can make a left turn onto Sherwin Creek Road for even more awe-inspiring fall landscapes. As the road turns into gravel it will begin to follow Mammoth Creek and eventually pass Sherwin Creek Campground. Meanwhile, vistas of radiant aspens and willows will grab your attention from thickets of towering ponderosa pine trees.
Driving this route takes up only a couple of hours. However, you'll want to plan an extra hour or two to get out, stretch your legs, and take in the scenery. After all, you can't really appreciate the fall colors from inside of your car!
Northern California is home to some truly stunning vistas during the fall season but the eastern Sierras are really where it's at. This scenery doesn't last very long so be sure to set off on this short but delightful adventure soon!
Have you had the pleasure of traversing this road while it’s surrounded by fall colors? These landscapes are downright dreamy and we can’t get enough of them. Looking for something to do on-foot? Check out this Fall Foliage Tour Through A Victorian Village In Northern California.
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