Scenic 395 - The Official Guide 2025

2025 Scenic 395 43 June Lake Loop June Lake is the ‘Switzerland of California’ By Ashley Beebe For Scenic 395 Often referred to as the “Switzerland of California” due to its breathtaking views and natural beauty, June Lake Loop offers year-round recreational activities for any outdoor enthusiast. Located in the Eastern Sierra, June Lake is home to four lakes, multiple trailheads and mountain vis- tas, which makes it the perfect location for fishing, hiking, skiing, camping and much more. With a growing number of people visiting June Lake each year, Connie Lear, June Lake Loop Chamber of Commerce treasurer, said she’s seen the area transform. “We’re getting to be known,” she said. “We used to be a little sleepy town, but we’re not the sleepy town anymore and that’s OK. We need to support the business- es, so they’ll stay.” In the winter months, visi- tors flock to June Mountain to ski, snowboard and stay at the winter resort. Dubbed Cali- fornia’s family mountain, June Mountain offers 1,500 acres of slopes and beginner-friendly terrain that any member of the family can enjoy. After a long day on the slopes, visitors can grab a drink at June Lake Brewing, a pizza at June Pie Pizza Co., or visit any of the other local businesses in town. Although ski and snowboard lessons are available, more experienced adventurers can visit backcountry areas to ice climb, snowboard, ski and go on snowmobile excursions. In the warmer months, visitors immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty at one of the area’s four lakes, including June Lake, Gull Lake, Silver Lake and Grant Lake. The lakes offer visitors the opportunity to swim, boat, paddleboard, waterski and jet ski. June Lake, a 320-acre spring-fed lake, is known for its trout fishing opportunities, including rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout. There’s also a sandy beach on the east side of the lake for those looking to relax. Local trailheads, including the Rush Creek Trailhead, leads visitors through the Ansel Adams Wilderness, Yosemite National Park and crosses paths with well- known trails, like the John Muir Trail. Bouldering and sport climbing is available just outside of June Lake, giving visitors the chance to see the area from a different point of view. If camping is on the agenda, there are multiple options for visitors. June Lake Camp- ground has 28 campsites. The Oh Ridge Campground has 143 campsites located on an open area above June Lake’s An aerial view of June Lake. Photo courtesy June Lake Chamber of Commerce Continued on Page 44