Shady Rest Park

Shady Rest Park is a peaceful, family-friendly recreation area located just off Sawmill Road, only minutes from the center of Mammoth Lakes. With easy access, tall pine forests, and gently rolling terrain, it’s a great spot for walking, picnicking, biking, or simply soaking in the beauty of the Eastern Sierra. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to read under the trees, play with the kids, or stretch your legs before or after a drive, Shady Rest offers an easygoing escape close to town.

The park features a mix of paved and dirt trails that weave through shaded pine groves, making it perfect for a relaxed stroll, a casual bike ride, or walking the dog. You’ll also find picnic tables and open grassy areas for lounging or lunch, as well as a playground and restrooms nearby. It’s an ideal spot for both locals and visitors looking to unwind outdoors without venturing too far into the backcountry.

Visiting in Winter? Bring Your Snowshoes

When the snow falls, Shady Rest Park transforms into a quiet, snow-covered retreat ideal for snowshoeing. The large open field at the north end of the parking lot is perfect for getting comfortable with snowshoes or trying out new gear. From there, adventurous visitors can head into the surrounding woods, where the flat terrain makes for a gentle and scenic winter outing.

For a cozy winter picnic, bring along a thermos of something hot—or even a small camp stove to warm up soup and drinks among the trees. It’s also a great spot to test and fine-tune your gear before tackling more challenging snowshoeing trails in the area.

Need snowshoes? Mammoth Mountaineering Supply offers rentals for $15 per day, including poles.

If you’re looking for something more challenging in winter, consider exploring the Obsidian Dome Trail network, about 15 miles north of Mammoth along Highway 395.