Stunning Lake in 'California's Switzerland' Offers Picturesque Beaches and Breathtaking Mountain Landscapes
Nestled within the heart of Inyo National Forest, California, lies the picturesque town of June Lake – often referred to as the "Switzerland of California." This enchanting destination boasts alpine forests, rugged granite landscapes, and peaceful trails, making it an idyllic retreat for outdoor enthusiasts.
June Lake, spanning approximately 320 acres, is a gem among west coast lakes, offering a sandy beach on its east side, perfect for swimming. For those seeking a less-hectic skiing experience, the June Mountain Ski Area is a must-visit, providing a tranquil alternative to nearby Mammoth Mountain, one of America's most popular ski resorts.
June Lake is a year-round destination, offering a plethora of activities. In early spring, visitors can enjoy skiing and hiking, while the summer months bring opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, trout fishing, and exploring hot springs. Autumn offers the chance to discover Devil's Postpile National Monument, and winter transforms June Lake into a ski destination with the June Mountain Ski Area offering 1,500 acres of terrain.
The town's infrastructure is small, with limited gas stations and grocery options outside the village, so it's recommended to stock up before settling in. However, accommodations are plentiful, including cabin rentals, boutique lodges, hotels, and campgrounds such as Oh! Ridge Campground and June Lake Motel.
The Rush Creek Trail connects to the Ansel Adams Wilderness and long-distance trails like the John Muir and Pacific Crest Trails, offering alpine scenery, rushing streams, and rugged granite on every hike. Trout fishing is popular at June Lake from April to November, with abundant populations of rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout.
The June Lake Loop, a scenic 16-mile drive past four pristine lakes – June, Gull, Silver, and Grant – serves as a starting point for hikers. The Gull Lake Loop trail is a popular 2-mile hike featuring a famous rope swing for adventurous lake swimming. Longer, more challenging hikes connect to the Ansel Adams Wilderness and major trails like the John Muir and Pacific Crest Trails.
Water activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, lounging on the beach, trout fishing, and scenic hikes abound at June Lake and Gull Lake. Two marinas, June Lake Marina and Big Rock Resort, allow visitors to launch their own watercraft or rent equipment during their stay.
Aside from the natural beauty, June Lake offers a charming village atmosphere with a few permanent residents, providing a peaceful energy and locally-owned shops and restaurants such as T-Bar Social Club, Tiger Bar & Cafe, and June Lake Brewing.
Visitors can reach June Lake by driving, with the town located off US-395 about five hours north of Los Angeles, or by flying into Mammoth Yosemite Airport. June Lake is situated at an elevation of 7,600 feet and is framed by impressive summits like Carson Peak (10,908 feet).
In summary, June Lake is a year-round paradise for outdoor lovers offering hiking, lake activities, skiing, camping, and spectacular natural beauty in the Eastern Sierra Nevada. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a touch of the Swiss Alps in California, June Lake promises an unforgettable experience.
[1] Inyo National Forest [2] June Lake [3] June Lake Loop [4] Oh! Ridge Campground [5] June Mountain Ski Area
[1] For outdoor enthusiasts, June Lake in Inyo National Forest is a must-visit, offering tranquil skiing at June Mountain Ski Area and scenic hikes on the Rush Creek Trail, which connects to the Ansel Adams Wilderness and long-distance trails like the John Muir and Pacific Crest Trails.
[2] June Lake is an ideal destination for lifestyle enthusiasts, with a variety of activities to enjoy throughout the year, such as swimming at its sandy beach, kayaking, paddleboarding, trout fishing, and exploring hot springs in summer, and skiing in winter.
[3] The June Lake Loop, a 16-mile drive, is a starting point for hikers, featuring the Gull Lake Loop trail with a famous rope swing and connecting to longer hikes that lead to the Ansel Adams Wilderness and major trails like the John Muin and Pacific Crest Trails.
[4] Those seeking budget-travel options can opt for camping at Oh! Ridge Campground, while accommodations such as cabin rentals, boutique lodges, hotels, and campgrounds like June Lake Motel cater to a wider range of budgets and preferences.
[5] Adventure-travelers can explore cultural experiences in June Lake's charming village atmosphere, with locally-owned shops and restaurants like T-Bar Social Club, Tiger Bar & Cafe, and June Lake Brewing, as well as numerous opportunities for outdoor exploration.
