Santa Barbara, CA, USA to Mammoth Lakes, CA, USA from $62: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Santa Barbara to Mammoth Lakes: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$62 - OtherBest price

367 kmDistance

3h 14m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Barbara to Mammoth Lakes with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Traveling From Santa Barbara to Mammoth Lakes

Your journey from Santa Barbara to Mammoth Lakes offers a striking contrast between the sunny coastal charm of the beach city and the majestic alpine beauty of the Eastern Sierra.

Best Neighbourhoods in Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes features diverse neighborhoods catering to various preferences and activities.

The Village

• Vibrant dining and shopping scene.

• Close proximity to gondola access.

Old Mammoth

• Quaint, charming atmosphere.

• Easy access to hiking trails.

Mammoth Mountain

• Ski-in/ski-out accommodations available.

• Stunning mountain views year-round.

Best Times To Visit Mammoth Lakes's Attractions

Planning your visits to Mammoth Lakes attractions can elevate your experience significantly.

Mammoth Mountain Ski Area

Visit on weekdays during winter for shorter lift lines and less crowded slopes.

Devils Postpile National Monument

Early summer offers fewer visitors and blooming wildflowers for stunning views.

Lake Mary

Early mornings in fall provide serenity and breathtaking autumn colors.

Mammoth Lakes Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Mammoth Lakes experiences a high desert climate, with warm summers and snowy winters, making it a destination for both outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat. The best times to visit generally fall in late spring and early fall, when temperatures are mild, and the scenery is striking, ensuring you enjoy the area's beauty without major weather disruptions.

Dining Recommendation in Mammoth Lakes

A visit to Mammoth Lakes calls for a stop at The Mammoth Tavern, where you can savor their locally-sourced elk burger, offering a hearty contrast to Santa Barbara's fresh seafood options. The rustic ambiance, combined with rich, gamey flavors, creates a unique dining experience that reflects the mountain culture and local ingredients of the Eastern Sierra.

Santa Barbara - Mammoth Lakes operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Barbara and Mammoth Lakes, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus

Contact phone

+1 800-470-8818

Website

centralcoastshuttle.com

Bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles Airport, CA

Average Duration

2h 35m

Estimated price

$65-623

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Bus from Santa Barbara to Mojave Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration

5h 19m

Estimated price

$0-0

Bus from Santa Barbara to Bakersfield

Average Duration

3h 25m

Estimated price

$0-0

Bus from Santa Barbara to Chatsworth

Average Duration

2h 7m

Estimated price

$6811-2909

Contact phone

+1 760-872-1901

Website

estransit.com

Bus from Mojave - Carl's Jr., 44812 Sierra Highway to Bishop - Vons/Kmart, 1200 N. Main Street

Average Duration

3h 35m

Estimated price

$6814-6815

Bus from Bishop - Vons/Kmart, 1200 N. Main Street to Stop 108 - Park and Ride / Tavern Rd

Average Duration

50m

Estimated price

$625-626

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Santa Barbara to Chatsworth

Average Duration

2h 7m

Estimated price

$6811-2909

Plane

Website

united.com

Plane from Santa Barbara (SBA) to Bishop (BIH)

Average Duration

6h 56m

Estimated price

$2904-2905

Website

advancedaircharters.com

Plane from Hawthorne (HHR) to Mammoth Lakes (MMH)

Average Duration

1h 18m

Estimated price

$2909-6810

Taxi

Taxi from Bishop to Mammoth Lakes

Average Duration

54m

Estimated price

$68130-6290

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Barbara to Mammoth Lakes.

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The distance between Santa Barbara and Mammoth Lakes is approximately 228 miles by car. The typical travel time by car is about 6 hours and 23 minutes. However, if you prefer public transportation, it takes 12 hours and 38 minutes to reach Mammoth Lakes from Santa Barbara by taking a train and then a bus. Alternatively, it takes 11 hours and 49 minutes to reach Mammoth Lakes from Santa Barbara by bus.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Santa Barbara to Mammoth Lakes is to drive. It takes approximately 6 hours and 23 minutes to drive the distance of 359 miles. This option is also the quickest way to reach your destination. The cost of driving is estimated to be between $65 and $95, making it a more affordable option compared to taking a train or bus.

To travel from Santa Barbara to Mammoth Lakes without using public transportation, you can drive the approximately 359-mile distance. It takes around 6 hours and 23 minutes to drive from Santa Barbara to Mammoth Lakes. You can expect to pay for the costs of gas and tolls during the journey, which can vary from $65 to $95 depending on factors such as the vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices.

The best way to travel from Santa Barbara to Mammoth Lakes without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 11 hours and 49 minutes. This option allows you to sit back and relax while enjoying the scenery along the way. Additionally, it is a cost-effective mode of transportation compared to other options such as trains or flights.

No, there is no direct link between Santa Barbara and Mammoth Lakes. However, it is still possible to travel between the two cities using a combination of transportation modes. The journey typically involves taking a train and then transferring to a bus, which takes approximately 12 hours and 38 minutes. Another option is to drive, which covers a distance of around 359 miles and takes approximately 6 hours and 23 minutes. It is important to note that bus services operated by Amtrak and Eastern Sierra Transit Authority are available for this route.

The flight duration from Santa Barbara to Mammoth Lakes typically takes around 3 hours and 5 minutes, with one stopover. However, please note that there are no direct flights available from Santa Barbara Airport to Fresno Airport, which is the nearest airport to Mammoth Lakes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It is recommended to check with different airlines and travel websites for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

There are numerous accommodation options available near Mammoth Lakes, with over 873 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $99 per night. This provides travelers with a range of choices that can fit various budgets and preferences. Whether you are looking for a cozy lodge, a modern resort, or a budget-friendly motel, there is a wide variety of options available for your stay near Mammoth Lakes.

Santa Barbara, CA, USA to Mammoth Lakes, CA, USA from $62: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Santa Barbara to Mammoth Lakes: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Santa Barbara to Mammoth Lakes

Best Neighbourhoods in Mammoth Lakes

Best Times To Visit Mammoth Lakes's Attractions

Mammoth Lakes Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Mammoth Lakes

Santa Barbara - Mammoth Lakes operators

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Santa Barbara

Trips to Mammoth Lakes

Popular routes