California Summer Road Trip
Hit the Road this Summer
Discover Legendary Destinations, Festivals, and Endless Adventure in the Sierra Nevada
Summer in California is truly something special, offering the ultimate blend of sun-soaked beach escapes and exhilarating mountain adventures. Right now is the perfect time to dive into the breathtaking landscapes and endless thrills that the Sierra Nevada has to offer.
Both Lake Tahoe and Mammoth Lakes deliver one-of-a-kind, legendary experiences you won’t want to miss. From lively festivals to heart-pumping outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy all season long.
So rally your crew, pack the car, and hit the road. The scenic drive between Lake Tahoe and Mammoth Lakes is an adventure in itself—and it’s less than 4 hours away!
Mammoth Mountain
From free concerts to competitions – Mammoth Mountain has summer festivities for everyone. Check out the events calendar for the full list of upcoming events.
| Dates | Event |
|---|---|
| August 10 | Summit Sunset Party |
| August 15-18 | Wine Weekend |
| August 17 | PedalPalooza 50K |
| September 1 | Summit Sunset Party |
| September 7 | Mammoth Gran Fondo |
| September 19-22 | Mammoth Trail Fest |
| September 28-29 | High Sierra Showdown |
| October 4-6 | OCR World Championships |
Palisades Tahoe has a stacked lineup of events to make the most of the last bit of summer. Choose your own adventure with local’s favorites, new experiences, and upcoming festivals.
| Dates | Event |
|---|---|
| August 17 | Brews, Jazz, & Funk Fest |
| September 1 | Alpen Wine Fest |
| September 6 | Guitar Strings vs Chicken Wings |
| September 14-15 | Adventure Van Expo |
| September 28 | Oktoberfest |
| October 12-13 | Made in Tahoe Festival |
Free Weekly Events at Palisades Tahoe
No matter when you visit, enjoy locals favorites that bring excitement to every week.
| Event | Dates |
|---|---|
| Bluesdays Live Music Series | Tuesdays through August 27 |
| First Street Yoga | Wednesdays through August 28 |
| The Great Bingo Revival | Thursdays through August 22 |
| SunSets Live Music Series | Saturdays through August 23 |
With the 24/25 Ikon Pass, you can enjoy the best access this summer alongside discounts and free benefits at both Palisades Tahoe and Mammoth Mountain.
| Featured at Palisades Tahoe |
Exclusively at Mammoth |
|
|---|---|---|
| Sightseeing | Free Aerial Tram Rides, plus 25% off for Friends & Family | Free Scenic Gondola Rides |
| Lodging | Save up to 25% on select nights | Save up to 20% off midweek stays & up to 15% off weekends |
| Bike Park | – | Ikon Pass holders get one FREE Mammoth Bike Park Ticket plus 20% off additional days |
| Via Ferrata | Save 10% on Tahoe Via Ferrata Tours | Save 10% on Mammoth Via Ferrata Tours |
| Bike Rentals | Save 10% on Bike Rentals | Save 20% on Mammoth Bike Rentals |
| Retail & Shopping | Up to 15% off at select store locations | Up to 15% off at select locations |
| Golf | NEW Mini Golf in The Village | Save 20% on select Golf Rounds |
| Dining | Up to 15% off at select dining locations | Up to 15% off at select locations |
When you’re visiting areas that have abundant wildlife and fragile ecosystems like the Eastern Sierras and surrounding mountain towns, there are a few things we ask of you, as visitors. Please be respectful and responsible, and adhere to the following:
This includes in State Parks and Campgrounds. We have had a dry winter, and with fire season upon us, it is too dangerous to have open flames. Even if you have a California campfire permit, please refrain from building fires or using charcoal grills.
Any trash you create while out and about, please pack it out with you. Throw it out in an appropriate spot. Please know that trailhead trash cans get overloaded very easily, and it is expensive to haul this away. Consider waiting until you enter a town to dispose of your garbage.
