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Autumn Colors in Majestic Mammoth Lakes

Autumn Colors in Majestic Mammoth Lakes

Journey with us to one of California’s most scenic regions on this spectacular autumn refresher to Majestic Mammoth Lakes in the Sierra Nevada Mountains

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Discover the Majestic Wonders of California’s High Sierra

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to one of California’s most awe-inspiring alpine regions. Settle in for a 4-night stay at the Empeiria High Sierra Hotel in the charming town of Mammoth Lakes — the perfect base to explore a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers and volcanic activity.

 

Each day unveils new natural marvels. Marvel at the jagged spires of the Minarets, a dramatic skyline of peaks in the Ansel Adams Wilderness that seem to pierce the sky. Soak in the breathtaking beauty of the Mammoth Lakes Basin, dotted with crystal-clear alpine lakes surrounded by towering pines. At Twin Falls Overlook, capture panoramic views of tumbling waterfalls and lush valleys, and take in the serenity of Convict Lake, a glacial gem steeped in Wild West lore.

 

Join an expert local guide to delve deeper into the region’s legends and natural history as we visit the June Lake Loop, featuring shimmering Silver Lake and tranquil June Lake, set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada. Witness the otherworldly formations at Mono Lake’s South Tufa area, where surreal limestone towers rise from the salty waters — a photographer’s dream and a geological wonder.

 

A powerful historical experience awaits at the Manzanar National Historic Site, where you’ll gain meaningful insight into the lives of Japanese-Americans who were interned there during World War II. Film buffs will enjoy a visit to the Museum of Western Film History in Lone Pine, where hundreds of classic Westerns were filmed amid the stark beauty of the nearby Alabama Hills.

 

Cap off your journey with a visit to the Mammoth Lakes Earthquake Fault, a dramatic reminder of the region’s dynamic geology.

This enriching tour includes 10 delicious meals, expert commentary, and plenty of time to relax, reflect, and immerse yourself in the grandeur of the High Sierra.

 

 

 Note: This tour visits a sustained elevation of 7,900 feet and may not be suitable for persons affected by high elevations or mobility challenges.

 

Tour Fare:

$1495 per person double occupancy

$1795 per person single occupancy

 

Cancellatin Protection (CPP):

Make your booking fully refundable with our add-on CPP, which allows you to cancel at any time for any reason and receive a full refund!

$125 per person, double or triple occupancy

$135 per person, single occupancy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5-day Excursion

All times and routing are approximate and subject to change without notice.

DAY ONE

Embark on a picturesque journey from San Diego to Mammoth Lakes amidst the vibrant hues of fall foliage. Our adventure begins with an early morning departure from San Diego as we traverse northward towards the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains. Along the way, we'll pause for a delightful lunch at Applebee's in the high desert community of Victorville. In the afternoon, we'll make a scenic stop at Coso Junction, providing the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and marvel at the distant peaks painting the horizon. Continuing our northeastward route, we'll arrive at the captivating Mammoth Lakes by early evening. Upon arrival, settle in for a cozy 4-night stay at the Empeiria High Sierra Hotel, where comfort and tranquility await. Tonight, indulge in an exquisite all-inclusive welcome dinner at The Brasserie locally sourced French restaurant, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey amidst nature's breathtaking autumnal beauty.

L, D

DAY TWO

Your Mammoth Lakes adventure kicks off this morning with an in included buffet breakfast at the hotel, preparing you for a day filled with exploration and discovery. Joined by a knowledgeable local expert, we embark on a narrated tour of the region's renowned lakes, including the picturesque June Lake, tranquil Silver Lake, and the captivating Mono Lake Park. As we traverse these stunning landscapes, you'll savor a boxed lunch along the serene shores of Mono Lake, an ancient marvel dating back over 1 million years and spanning approximately 65 square miles. Next, we venture to South Tufa, where you'll marvel at the remarkable tufa towers-calcium-carbonate spires and knobs sculpted by the intricate interplay of freshwater springs and alkaline lake water. Upon our return to the hotel, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy some well-deserved free time

B, L

DAY THREE

Begin your day with a satisfying breakfast at the hotel before heading out to the California Welcome Center, a friendly gateway to the Eastern Sierra region. Here, you can browse interactive exhibits that shed light on the area's rich cultural and natural heritage, pick up maps and travel tips, and even shop for souvenirs that capture the spirit of this stunning destination. From there, you'll venture to the remarkable Mammoth Lakes Earthquake Fault-an impressive natural fissure carved into dense volcanic rock. Stretching several hundred feet and reaching depths of up to 60 feet, this geological marvel was formed by centuries of seismic activity, giving you a fascinating firsthand look at the forces that have shaped the rugged landscape. After an included lunch, you'll join your knowledgeable local guide once again for an afternoon of sightseeing and trivia at two of the region's most picturesque spots: Convict Lake and Rock Creek Lake. Convict Lake, known for its striking turquoise waters and dramatic peaks, holds a colorful history behind its unusual name, adding a dash of local lore to your visit. Rock Creek Lake, set against a backdrop of pine forests and granite cliffs, provides a tranquil escape from the bustling resort areas. Your tour caps off at the family-owned Rock Creek Lake Resort, where you can savor a steaming beverage and a warm slice of their famous cobbler while soaking in panoramic views and fall colors of the Sierra countryside. As the day winds down, return to the hotel in the early evening, with the rest of your night free to relax or enjoy dinner on your own.

B, L

DAY FOUR

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel followed by a morning of natural beauty and relaxed exploration. We'll set out on a short, picturesque drive to discover some of the Eastern Sierra's most breathtaking sights including tranquil Lake Mary, the dramatic views at Twin Falls Overlook, and the shimmering waters of Horseshoe Lake, surrounded by soaring pines and rugged peaks. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to unwind at your own pace. Stroll through the charming Mammoth Lakes Village, where you can browse unique boutiques, savor a treat from a local café, or simply soak up the alpine atmosphere. As the sun begins to set, we'll come together for a festive farewell dinner at one of Mammoth's favorite local hotspots; an evening of good food, laughter, and shared memories to toast the adventures we've enjoyed together.

B, D

DAY FIVE

On our final day of the Mammoth Lakes journey, we begin with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, bidding farewell to the stunning landscapes that have become familiar over the past days. As we set our sights southward towards San Diego, our first stop is at the poignant Manzanar National Historic Site, a testament to resilience and remembrance. This site holds significance as the first of ten camps established by the U.S. government during World War II to confine Japanese immigrants ineligible for citizenship and Japanese-American citizens. Our journey back in time continues with a stop at the Museum of Western Film History, where immersive exhibits showcase memorabilia and insights into the evolution of Westerns from the silent screen era to modern times. As the afternoon unfolds, you'll relish an open-air picnic lunch amidst the serene beauty of a Lone Pine park, cherishing the final moments of camaraderie and connection forged on this remarkable voyage. With hearts full of cherished memories and newfound friendships, we conclude our journey, arriving back in San Diego early evening, each carrying with us the indelible imprint of this unforgettable experience amidst the natural wonders of Mammoth Lakes.

B, L

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

Tour Manager: * Christina Koohmarey

 

Activity Level: High

Considerable walking and/or numerous steps involved at several locations during this tour, many on uneven surfaces and inclines. The tour visits high elevation regions up to 10,000 feet, with prolonged periods at 7,900 feet. Guests should be in good physical condition to participate in the full tour experience. If you have concerns about the health effects of being at high altitudes and engaging in the physical aspects as described above, we recommend you consult with your physician prior to booking a reservation.

 

What's Included in the Tour Fare

  • Round-trip luxury motor coach transportation from pickup locations throughout San Diego County

  • Professional Driver

  • Professional Tour Manager onboard throughout the tour

  • Complimentary bottled water and snacks on the coach

  • Manzanar Historic Center

  • Four-night accommodations at the Empeiria Hotel in Mammoth

  • June Lake and Silver Lake

  • 10 Meals, including 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 2 dinners

  • Twin Falls Overlook

  • Mammoth Lakes Basin, Convict Lake and Rock Creek Lake

  • Devil's Postpile National Monument or alternate activity**

  • Mammoth Lakes earthquake fault

  • Museum of Western Film History

 

What's Not Included in the Tour Fare

  • Meals not listed on the itinerary

  • Travel insurance

  • Room incidentals

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Gratuities for the Tour Manager and driver

 

How to Book Your Reservation

Making your reservation is easy. Simply click the Book Now button above to select your date and confirm your space online, 24/7. You can also call the DayTripper Tours reservations department at (619) 334-3394 during business hours of M-F, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

 

Deposit and final Payment

A deposit of $150 per person is required to secure your booking, with the final balance due 45 days prior to departure.

 

Smartphones

Although not necessary to fully enjoy your trip, a personal smartphone and personal ear buds can greatly enhance your tour experience. Take high-quality photos, share your experience on social media in real time, search for nearby restaurants and topics of interest, set reminders, and more.

 

45-Day Cancellation deadline without CPP

  • If you purchased the optional Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP) before the cancellation deadline, your tour is fully refundable at any time (see below). If you did not purchase the CPP you may cancel your booking forty-five (45) or more days prior to the tour’s departure date to receive a refund less a $100 per person cancellation fee. Alternatively, when you cancel your booking forty-five (45) or more days prior to the departure date, we can waive the cancellation fee and transfer the full amount to another tour or a non-refundable voucher, which can be applied to any future excursion booked within one year of the original tour date. Cancellations within 45 days of departure are nonrefundable and nontransferrable for any reason if you did not purchase the optional CPP.

  • Passenger name changes, deviations, or other changes made by the passenger after the final payment deadline has passed will be assessed a $50 per person change fee plus any fees incurred by the service providers. No refunds, transfers or credits can be issued for any reason on bookings canceled after the cancellation deadline. Travel insurance is available through Travelex during the booking process.

 

Optional Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP) - Cancel for any reason and receive a full refund

  • DayTripper Tours offers an optional Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP) for this tour. The CPP allows you to cancel your reservation for any reason at least two or more hours prior to your scheduled departure time for a full refund (less the cost of the CPP). The CPP may be purchased prior to the tour’s stated cancellation deadline. To cancel your reservation please call (619) 334-3394 during business hours to notify a reservations agent, or leave a time-stamped voice message after hours at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time, and your refund will be processed. The CPP cost for multi-day motor coach tours is $5 for each $50 increment of the full, non-discounted tour fare plus any add-on options. CPP does not cover the single supplement of the remaining traveler when a traveling companion cancels from a double occupancy reservation. The CPP is not insurance, but rather an agreed-upon cancellation fee paid in advance for the right to cancel a reservation according to the terms stated in this clause. Protect yourself even further with Travel Insurance (see below). CPP is not offered on tours that include air, rail, or cruise line transportation.

 

Protect Your Investment with Travel Insurance

  • If you would like more comprehensive protection that covers you prior to and  during your trip, we recommend you purchase travel insurance to help protect against unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss, or even sudden sickness or injury prior to and during your trip, all of which could impact you financially. In today’s ever-changing travel environment, you can relax and enjoy your trip with the security of knowing those unexpected circumstances are covered by a travel protection plan. You can purchase travel insurance from any company you choose; however, for your convenience we offer travel protection through Travelex Insurance Services (CA Agency License #0D10209). For more information and to receive a quote, click here. Please note: Your policy must be purchased on or before the date you submit your final payment for the tour in order to be eligible for the pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver.

 

*Tour Manager is subject to change without notice.

** Due to the federal government's mass purge of US parks management staff, Devil's Postpile may not be available on this tour, in which case an alternate activity will be provided

Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.

Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.

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Name Address Times
Escondido Escondido Transit Center
700 W. Valley Parkway 92025. Wait near Dock #4
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La Mesa Park & Ride #22 lot - 8703 Murray Dr, 91942
Narrow Park & Ride Across from Wells Fargo Bank
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Mission Valley 2005 Camino Del Este
San Diego, CA 92108; Street parking only
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Rancho Bernardo Rancho Bernardo Transit Center
16785 West Bernardo Dr. 92127 white passenger curb
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From Price Book Now Call Back Telephone Favorites
Wed 10/08/25 $1,495.00 Book Now Contact
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