Mammoth Lakes Wedding Venues
(and free public lands)
Do you love public lands and are looking for the most beautiful places to host your elopement or small wedding? The Mammoth Lakes region and the Eastern Sierras deliver with mountain views, scenic trails and laid back adventure for your Mammoth Lakes Wedding. From dispersed outdoor sites to charming mammoth lakes wedding venues, there’s a place here for every kind of couple. If you’re planning your wedding adventure in Mammoth, be sure to check out the Mammoth Lakes Wedding page.
There is something special about the Eastern Sierras and a Mammoth Lakes wedding. Beautiful scenery and no lack of outdoorsy things to do are a given, but what really gets me is the nostalgia and tradition in the making. Many of my couples who choose a Mammoth Lakes wedding do so because it’s “their place.” Either through family tradition or brand new adventures, many of my couples find themselves eager to return to make Mammoth Lakes the place they say their vows.
New to Mammoth Lakes and considering it for your elopement or small wedding? You’re in the right place.
Whether you want to relax by a lake, grab a beer at a local brewery, go hiking, paddle-boarding, or relax in some hot springs, your options in Mammoth Lakes are endless! A Mammoth Lakes wedding is perfect for couples who love nature, adventure, and laid-back mountain vibes. The year round beauty and incredible landscape don’t hurt either. Plus, if you’re exploring wedding venues in Mammoth Lakes CA, you’ll find that each option has a distinct personality and backdrop. Let’s talk about planning your perfect Mammoth Lakes wedding adventure.
Here’s why a Mammoth Lakes wedding may be perfect for you:
Mammoth Lakes has truly Incredible Views- and lots of them!
As your Mammoth Lakes elopement photographer, this one is a big deal for me! There is no shortage of views to choose from. If you want to have say your vows in total seclusion, possibly hidden in a grove of brightly colored aspens, there’s no shortage in fall. Or if you prefer the drama of jagged mountain peaks painted with a sunset sky, seriously, this is the place. If you’re into slightly weird geological phenomena and are totally captivated by hot spring steam at sunrise (I am), Mammoth has that too! If being beside water makes you feel peace and calm, there are too many alpine lakes to choose from.
I’m Joleen, your Mammoth Lakes wedding photographer.
I photography elopements for outdoorsy introverts who value presence over performance, feel most alive surrounded by mountains, and bring a little weird, a lot of heart, an adventure rig with a name, and maybe a dog in bowtie. I like to say, “I photograph elopements that feel like your best summer vacation.”
Public Lands Locations for a Mammoth Lakes Wedding
Public lands are the best of both worlds. You can pair one of these sites with a formal mammoth lakes wedding venue. Or you can keep the entire experience outdoors and wild.
Hot Creek
Hot Creek is such an epic view with otherworldly vibes. Imagine a winding river leading your eye to a snow capped mountain, but with the added mystery of hot spring steam misting from below. There is plenty of parking to access the paved ramp to se the hot spring up close. (Unfortunately it’s no longer bathe-able as the water temperature has actually shifted since the 80’s and it’s simply too hot). But the real scene setter and ceremony wow location is actually just a few more yards down the road, at Bree’s Lookout. This spot is especially awesome because it’s forest service land, and dispersed camping is allowed at the exact spot. It doesn’t get any better than this — you could stage your entire Mammoth Lakes wedding celebration, from your ceremony to a campfire dinner, with this unreal view.
Hot Creek photographs best at sunrise. It is the absolute best spot for a sunrise ceremony or a sunrise first look to kick off your day. Because the best view is partially blocked by a barbed wire fence (which is easily passable with only two people) it may not be the best location if you’re including guests.
It can be photographed in the afternoon for dusky, sunset vibes, but it may not be as private. As a photographer, I notice some of the dramatic detail in the mountains are lost at sunset, but this isn’t a deal breaker.
Can you see yourself setting up camp here the night before your wedding and waking up to a steamy sunrise to start your day?
I love elopements here all season long! While it can sometimes get a dusting of snow, the snow is usually concentrated on the mountains across the road. Those gorgeous Sierras make an incredible backdrop when they’re covered in snow and bright against the blue sky. The area is dog-friendly, so please bring your dog (I love, love, love it when couples include their dogs).
Minaret Vista
If you need a location that is super easy for your Mammoth Lakes wedding, check out Minaret Vista. You can drive right to it. Nothing says Mammoth like the minarets (aka rugged mountain peaks). It’s a viewpoint with parking spots and some informational placards. If you want a million dollar view, easy access, and don’t mind tourists being semi close, this is the one. This location is accessible until late October. The road closes at Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort once the snow hits, and opens again sometime around late June. You can check the current road conditions here.
Deadman Pass
Ok, not the name with the most romance, but this location makes up for it because it’s relatively unknown. If you’re looking for a big mountain view, easy access, and really want to escape the crowds, this spots for you. But it’s not for the faint of heart. Be ready for some 4×4 maneuvering, but nothing too intense. It’s rated “easy” and a 3/10 technical rating on OnX Offroad. You will be rewarded with awesome views and very little effort. Not to mention, who doesn’t love a little off road bonding experience on their wedding day?
This road is only passable a few months of the year- after the snow melts and before the first soaking rain, but the views and solitude can’t be beat. We were able to drive this route in a stock Jeep Cherokee, but please keep in mind that dirt road conditions change yearly.
As with many Mammoth Lakes wedding locations, this spot is subject to wind around sunset. It can get really cold and windy. The wind usually dies down for blue hour (right after the sun dips below the horizon).
Convict Lake
It’s popular, but it doesn’t get any better than this. This venue is frequently mentioned when couples search for wedding venues in Mammoth Lakes CA that can host onsite lodging and ceremony all in one place. You are up close and personal with the glacially formed basin that makes Convict Lake. After a short 2 mile drive from the highway, an epic, mountain vista with pristine Alpine lake lies before you. It’s like you’re wearing a zoom lens and the mountains are just right there. The sun does incredible things as it paints light rays across the ancient granite.
If you’re looking for a beautiful spot with easy-ish access for your guests, then Convict Lake might be perfect for you. The area has ample parking, bathrooms, and a hiking trail around the lake. While there is a small beach informally called “Shell Beach” at Convict Lake, this actually isn’t the best spot for your ceremony. I prefer taking my couples and their guests on a short walk up to the ridge overlooking the lake. From there, you get the best view and best light, making it an unforgettable spot for your Mammoth Lakes wedding. You also get away from anyone else who might be using the lake.
Convict Lake is ideal for a sunrise or sunset ceremony. And one of the best parts about this location is the added benefit of good light earlier than actual sunset. This means you can have your ceremony approximately an hour before sunset (depending on the season), take awesome photos, and get to your campfire early.
Convict Lake has a paid campground, which is an excellent way to secure your “reception” location. This is the perfect place to make a campfire and have your first dance under the moon. The campground has a grove of aspens that run through it, along Convict Creek. A few of the campsites have creek access. If you’re including guests, I often like to grab a few group photos in the aspens at the campground. As an added bonus, Convict Lake Restaurant is in walking distance, so you can get dinner to go with very little effort and have it while you watch the stars come out.
The Convict Lake Resort
Convict Lake Resort has lots of cabins, so you could host your elopement with ease. It’s also an incredibly nostalgic place to hang out, with a general store and restaurant. They do host big weddings here, so please be upfront when inquiring. And if you do want the help of an incredible planner, Meghan at Convict Lake Weddings is an excellent resource. While the lake and the resort are separate, I think it’s best to keep the guest list under 10 for folks that aren’t using the services provided by the resort. If you’d like to host a micro wedding with the resort, you can inquire here.
Convict Lake is a great ceremony location all season long.
If you are prepared for winter conditions and take a day to acclimate, this is an easy winter snow location. While the campground is closed late October through early May, the resort and cabin rentals remain open year round. Convict Lake usually freezes for a month or two in January and February and is a popular spot for free ice skating. The mountains make incredible reflections in the mirror like the surface of the ice.
For those wanting to include their pups in their elopement, please do —Convict Lake is dog-friendly!
Sherwin Trail
It doesn’t get any easier than this: a scenic and short walk hidden in town that takes you to aspens and mountain views. And I mean short, you’re there two minutes after you set foot on the trail. While this spot may not be as secluded as others (expect others taking a walk), it’s easily accessible and a great fit for those including guests in their Mammoth Lakes wedding. This location is located right in the town. The aspens put on a show in the fall, but this location is an easy one to include in your elopement whenever the snow melts. The downside, there’s very little street parking, only enough for two cars.
Obsidian Dome
If your mesmerized but weird stuff in nature (like me) and want a location that is truly interesting, the short hike to the obsidian dome is an easy way to experience a truly one of a kind ceremony. It reminds me of standing in the ruins of an old cathedral made entirely of “dragon glass” (as it’s called on Game of Thrones).
I could imagine any elopement here, but I think it would look extra special if you’re wearing black, or, conversely, lots of color. It’s a short drive down a dirt road. I accessed it via a 2wd van. Dogs are allowed here, but you may want to purchase booties for them. I had to carry my older dog on the way back because his paws hurt, but my younger dog did not seem bothered. I’ve not been able to talk anyone into this one yet, but I know for the right couple it would be such a rad experience.
Mack Lake
If you want to get off the beaten path but you’re not up for a huge hike, Mack Lake is an easy one. Accessed via the Gem Lakes Trailhead, Mack Lake is the first of a tour of alpine lakes. It’s easily accessible. We passed several young kids on the trail and lots of them were wearing crocs. If you’re worried about your fitness level, consider that? However, always take at least a day to acclimate to elevation before hiking. This parking lot is small and fills up fast, so it’s best to get here early. Mack Lake is not a location that may be suitable for all guests. Inyo National Forest roads also close depending on the time of year. You can check the current road conditions here.
McGee Creek Trailhead
McGee Creek Trailhead is located about 20 minutes South of Mammoth. I love this location for its solitude. Just a short walk down the trail and you’re treated to incredible mountain views. Plan it around sunset and watch the mountains turn pink. It’s the kind of quiet, magical setting that’s perfect for an intimate Mammoth Lakes wedding. This location is best suited after the snow melts (and the road opens, usually early July) until early October. It would make a perfect late summer spot. And in fall, the aspens are on display. I have yet to photograph an elopement at this location, but I’m just dying for someone to take me up on it!
Crowley Lake Columns
This location is in between Mammoth Lakes and Bishop and I promise you’ve never seen anything like it it. By a wonder of nature and erosion, one spot along Crowley Lake’s shore looks strikingly like it was crafted by an ancient civilization. This spot is a wonder to explore and is so interesting and unusual.
The sunsets here rival that of a tropical island and you can enjoy them while dispersed camping on public lands. This location is only accessible by 4×4 or boat, but my stock 4×4 late model 4runner did it with ease. But I’ll warn you, the first incline is terrifying. This location is best suited for a “just us” elopement. It’s an easy drive after the first scary part. Once arriving, it’s a short walk down (5-10) minutes to another planet (the formations).
Lake Sabrina
About an hour South of Mammoth Lakes is the town of Bishop and home to one of my favorite elopement photo locations ever: Lake Sabrina. This lake is a sister to its much more famous sibling, North Lake, which was featured as Mac’s High Sierra wallpaper.
Visiting North Lake is definitely worth it, if only for the bragging rights of driving the treacherous cliffside road. But it’s a tough location for photos, since there’s barely any visible shore.
Lake Sabrina, in fall, once the water levels have dropped, is nothing short of majestic. The window of opportunity here is short – the water is too high in the summer, and the road is only accessible by snowmobile in the winter, but this is my favorite lake. It is best photographed at sunrise when the sky paints the mountainside all shades of pink. But it’s also popular, even at sunrise. Twice I’ve run into landscape photography groups in the dark hours of the morning. These groups are never a problem, as they’re shooting the mountains beyond, and we’re not in their way. However, it’s not a private spot. Many of my couples who take photos here do it the morning following their wedding.
If you’re interested in camping near Lake Sabrina, the Lake Sabrina Campground offers sites along the scenic Bishop Creek and is just 3 miles from the lake. Nearby, North Lake Campground is tucked among tall Jeffrey and Lodgepole pines—just note that trailers and RVs aren’t allowed.
The Buttermilks
Who here gets excited about BLM land? I do- and The Buttermilks are public lands at it’s best (and they’re on the way to North Lake & Lake Sabrina). Imagine a mini Alabama Hills, at the end sage lined dirt road. The spot is popular with climbers but is open to all. The sun setting behind the Eastern Sierras creates a magical mountain backdrop. The best part, you can camp here for free.
Mammoth Wedding Venues Perfect for Small Weddings
Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort
This location is such a treat because of the experience. One of the most memorable mammoth lakes wedding venues, this offers a unique setting that guests will talk about for years. I love taking the scenic gondola to the top of Mammoth Mountain. The views are incredible and it’s so exciting to enjoy the ride on the way to your ceremony! If you’re planning a Mammoth Lakes wedding, this is a unique and memorable way to kick off the day. The scenic gondola is open nearly year round. It does close briefly from Sept-Oct for maintenance. Anyone is welcome to use it, but if you’d like a secluded, just us, ceremony at 11,000 feet, the fee is approximately $2000 and can be booked via Mammoth Mountain Weddings.
Couples do host their weddings here in winter, but keep in mind there will be way less privacy when it opens for snow sports. If you choose this as your ceremony location or not, the gondola is such a fun activity that’s easy to include. The ride up is fun, it makes for great photos, and you can have wedding day nachos and beer at the top in the enclosed facilities. Just don’t forget your sunglasses. Dogs are allowed!
Twin Lakes- Forest Chapel
Twin Lakes is so enchanting because it’s like it’s own little village. Not only is the lake incredibly scenic, but you’ll find a hotel (called Tamarack Lodge), campground, and general store. But the reason I love Twin Lakes is the Forest Chapel, tucked away in a far corner of the lake, in relative seclusion. What makes this location wonderful for eloping couples with guests, is everything you need is already there. The Forest Chapel has rustic wood planks cut into ceremony seating and a timber arch. You can dress it up or leave it as is. The location itself can be booked via Mammoth Mountain.
Now I’m going to break some hearts. Twin Lakes itself is a beautiful sight to see, but it is not my favorite photo location. Sure, I have a favorite spot (see below). I’ll snap a few photos with the lake, but the problem lies in that there is very little shore line. The best view points in my opinion are from the road (not exactly romantic), and above the lake looking down. The solution, enjoy the forest chapel, grab a few Twin Lakes photos, and then continue with photos at another scenic location.
Hayden Cabin
There’s something about this place that feels like stepping back in time. Tucked on the edge of town, the cabin overlooks a sweeping vista of the Sierra Nevada, evoking the spirit of pioneer days. When the sun sets, the surrounding sagebrush, pine trees, and scattered boulders glow in hues of pink and gold. It makes the perfect spot for romantic, golden-hour wedding photos. As one of the classic mammoth lakes wedding venues, Hayden Cabin blends historic charm with scenic views.
While it is a cabin, the interior houses the museum. So it’s unlikely you’ll use the interior for any part of your celebration. It’s all about the outdoors here, creating a laid-back yet unforgettable setting for an intimate Mammoth Lakes wedding celebration. As of 2025, the rental fee is $3100, making it a great option for couples planning a micro wedding in Mammoth Lakes. You can book the Hayden Cabin here.
One of the best parts? The Hayden Cabin is located right in town, making it ideal for guests with mobility concerns and those who appreciate easy walkability. Plus, it’s just steps away from the Mammoth Brasserie, a local favorite with a private dining room and panoramic views of the Sierras. The Brasseris is perfect for hosting your wedding dinner or post-ceremony celebration.
Sierra Meadows Ranch
Located right next door to Hayden Cabin is Sierra Meadows Ranch. With the same killer view, this place is awesome because you can stay right on the property. Wake up to the amazing Eastern Sierras, the same incredible view that you’ll your vows at. I love this location because there’s no fuss- you stay on site, your ceremony is at the same location, and you’re right on the edge of town. (But it looks like you’re not). One of the perks is that once you rent the space, it’s up to you how many more vendors you want to include. In other words, you’re not required to hire a caterer or a planner, which is perfect for a small guest list. Of course, there’s lots of amazing wedding vendors in Mammoth if you need them!
June Lakes Wedding Locations
For a broader search of mammoth lakes wedding venues and nearby settings, the June Lakes area is worth exploring too. Just 10 minutes North of Mammoth is the charming town of June Lakes. Named for the loop’s largest lake, this scenic 16-mile drive winds through aspens, pines, and alpine lakes. There are many places to choose your perfect ceremony spot.
For an easy DIY ceremony with guests, June Lake combined with Oh Ridge campground makes for the perfect ceremony and reception combo. But that’s just the first lake on the loop, there are many more to explore.
One of the most overlooked locations on the June Lake Loop is Grant Lake. To most, it probably seems pretty boring, unless you go to the outlet. You can drive right on the shore of this lake! This may make hosting a ceremony here less than ideal in the camping season. If you pass the campers and follow the outlet, you’ll find a stunning mountain view with fall colors. You also have the option of staying at the Grant Lake Resort or camping at the Grant Lake Marina.
Be sure to check out Double Eagle Resort near Silver Lake. They have elopement packages, but they also have the most perfect cabin rental, that opens up right onto a meadow. If you reach out to them and say the “cabin on the meadow,” they’ll know the one. You don’t have to book your wedding at Double Eagle Resort to stay here.
June Mountain hosts weddings at the top of the ski resort. A scenic chairlift ride brings you to a dramatic high mountain view. This may be a good solution for those hosting a micro wedding.
I recommend eloping in the June Lakes Area from May through November. The area is also dog-friendly, so please bring your pups! Keep in mind that the “loop” closes partially once the snow hits. However, the town of June Lakes, June Lake itself, Gull Lake and Silver Lake are still accesible in the winter. You can check the current road conditions here.
Let’s Bring Your Mammoth Lakes Wedding Adventure to Life
From wide-open public lands to thoughtfully chosen Mammoth Lakes wedding venues, there’s no single “right” way to get married here. Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet vow exchange beneath the aspens, a mountaintop ceremony above the clouds your journey to a perfect Mammoth Lakes wedding starts here. I’m Joleen, your Mammoth Lakes wedding photographer at Love Wildly. I’m passionate about crafting adventurous, heartfelt elopements that feel like your best summer (or winter) vacation. If you’re ready to explore one of the many incredible locations above (or want help imagining something entirely unique) I’d love to hear your vision. Let’s connect and bring your Mammoth Lakes wedding to life.
