Going analog is a trend now. And the idea is simple: set down the phone, step away from the screens, and get back into the physical world.
The wonderful thing about Mammoth Lakes is that we’ve always been a little bit analog. It’s hard to scroll when you’re casting a fishing line, and watching a campfire is more entertaining than any reel we’ve ever seen.
That being said, it’s not so easy to go cold turkey! So, we’ve put together a list of ways that you can make it a little easier to go analog during your next summer trip to Mammoth Lakes.
How can you make your summer trip to Mammoth Lakes more analog?
Take a day to meander around town
Mammoth Lakes is pretty easy to navigate without having to check your GPS every few minutes. Not only is our town nice and small, but there are only a handful of major roads that you need to know: Main Street, Old Mammoth Road, Meridian Blvd, Minaret Road, and Lake Mary Road. If you can orient yourself with these major streets, you’ll get a good lay of the land without having to rely on your cellphone.
One simple way to get more familiar with the town layout is to take the free trolley. You could also hop on a bike or an e-bike and cruise around on the Mammoth Lakes Town Loop. Either way, you’ll be able to see the entirety of Mammoth in just a couple of hours and feel more comfortable navigating without technology.
And in the case that you do get lost, just look for the nearest free trolley stop, which will show you exactly where you are. You can also, of course, ask a local; we’re always happy to give you directions!
Capture the moment without the camera app
There’s no denying it: Mammoth Lakes is a place that basically begs to be photographed. And, when you’re here with friends and family, there’s even more of an urge to pull out your phone and capture the moment. Luckily, there are alternatives for those who want to make their trip to Mammoth lakes more analog.
For one thing, you could bring an analog camera, aka a film camera, although that can feel intimidating for anyone who hasn’t used one before. Or, for a more beginner-friendly option, consider a disposable camera or an old-school polaroid camera.
Sure, this can feel more complicated than simply using your phone’s camera. But, proponents of traditional film photography will tell you that the finished product usually looks more nostalgic and sentimental. And there’s a benefit to having a limited number of photos that you can take. After all, it can feel liberating to finish a film roll and realize that there’s nothing left to do but simply enjoy yourself.
Other ideas for capturing the moment without a phone could include bringing a sketchbook, notebook, or scrapbook for postcards and stickers from local businesses.
Hike the back country
One of the most popular activities in Mammoth Lakes in the summertime is hiking. And we’ve got one of the most extensive and well-maintained trail systems in California (thanks Mammoth Lakes Trails & Public Access Foundation!) That means that our trailheads are easy to find and the trails themselves are clearly marked and simple to follow. For many years, having clear trails was an essential safety measure, as cell service was spotty at best in the back country. But nowadays, it’s an invitation to put your phone on airplane mode (always best to bring it along in case of emergencies) and disconnect from the world for a few hours.
Get in the water!
Not only is swimming a great workout and instant mood-booster, but it’s also a pretty simple way to get off your phone. And luckily, our area is filled with countless alpine lakes, creeks, hot springs, and reservoirs that are prime swimming locations. Plus, most of our Mammoth Mountain Reservation properties have a pool and hot tub on site!
Bring a book
To be sure, there’s nothing wrong with listening to audiobooks or reading on a kindle. But if you really want to make your trip more analog, stick with an old-school, physical, paper-and-ink book. We would recommend something light and paperback so that you can carry it comfortably in your backpack.
Our favorite places to read? At one of our local coffee shops, like Looney Bean or Stellar Brew. Or, you might pack a picnic and head down to Mammoth Creek or Shady Rest Park for some reading out in nature. Really, anywhere you decide to plop down and read is going to be a good option.
This looks like a great place to get lost in a book
If you didn’t bring a book of your own, don’t fret! Stop in at our locally-owned bookstore, the Booky Joint or the Mini Book Chalet located within the Mammoth Lakes Branch Library.
Bring your dog
Exploring the great outdoors with your four-legged friend basically forces you to live in the present moment with them. Truly, how could you get distracted by social media when your dog is experiencing swimming in a mountain lake for the very first time? And of course, you may need to be a bit more focused on making sure that your dog is safe in their new environment.
You’ll be amazed at how dog-friendly the Eastern Sierra is, especially during the summer months! We’ve got plenty of dog-friendly establishments, and you can even ride the free trolley with your pup as long as they’re muzzled or in a carrier. We’ve also got plenty of dog-friendly condos available for your summer trip to Mammoth Lakes!
Wherever you go with your dog, be prepared to chat with other dog-loving folks who want to say hi!
Attend a local event
Here in Mammoth, we locals know the importance of in-person community-building. So, there’s no shortage of analog events that encourage you to strike up a conversation with a stranger and enjoy that small town feel. From open-mic nights to pool tournaments to competitive trivia to community clean-ups, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest!
Take a look at the Mammoth Lakes Chamber of Commerce Event Calendar to see what’s on the schedule during your next trip!
At the end of the day, you don’t have to plan an analog trip to Mammoth Lakes. You’ll live in the moment anyway!
Even though it’s a good idea to make a conscious effort to be less connected to your phone while in Mammoth Lakes, the truth is, you don’t have to overthink it. Our area will naturally invite you to be more present, put your phone down, and enjoy yourself.
Ready to book your summer trip to Mammoth Lakes? Take a look at the condos we have available for your analog vacation in the mountains!