Discover Wildlife in California’s Eastern Sierra

California is the most biodiverse state in the nation, home to more than 700 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. One of the best regions to spot wildlife in California is the Eastern Sierra, characterized by massive peaks, sprawling valleys, geothermal activity, and unique flora and fauna. Book your getaway with Snowcreek Resort and start wildlife-watching steps from your vacation rental on our 355-acre property. Then, visit the wildlife-watching areas throughout Mono County to see marmots, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and migratory birds.                 

Wildlife of the Eastern Sierra

Please read through the 7 Ways to Safely Watch Wildlife to learn how to treat our wildlife carefully and respectfully during your travels. Here are a few of the most common wildlife species in the Eastern Sierra:

• Bears

• Hawks

• Eagles

• Coyotes

• Mountain Lions

• Marmot

• Tule Elk

• Mule Deer

• Big Horn Sheep

• Birds

Wildlife Watching Areas in Mono County

Drive through Mono County and find the best wildlife-watching sites near Mammoth Lakes. Look for brown and white roadside “binocular” Wildlife Viewing Area signs. 

• East Walker River Wildlife Area is located along Hwy. 182 near the north end of the Bridgeport Reservoir. Follow the seven-mile stretch and look for waterfowl, eagles, beavers, river otters, mink, and black bears. 

• Lee Vining Canyon is located along the way to the Tioga Pass entrance to Yosemite, home to wildlife like nutcrackers, rock wrens, an occasional bobcat, red-tailed hawks, and marmots. 

• Mono Lake is located east of US 395 and is one of the best birdwatching spots in the state. The lake provides a habitat for more than 80 species of migratory birds!

• Hot Creek Wetlands and Fish Hatchery are just 10 minutes down the road from Mammoth Lakes, near the Mammoth Yosemite Airport. Visit the hub for trout production and look for mallard ducks, cinnamon teal, and bald eagles. 

• Laurel Ponds at Convict Lake is located just south of Mammoth Lakes and offers great wildlife viewing for mallards, cinnamon teal, Canada geese, killdeer, eagles, hawks, and mule deer.

Mammoth Lakes Vacation Rentals in Snowcreek Meadow Preserve

View wildlife in California during your Mammoth Lakes getaway without leaving the property of Snowcreek Resort. Stroll along 355 acres of meadows, trees, streams, and ponds while keeping your eyes peeled for local wildlife. We offer the perfect wilderness sanctuary with more of everything you love in resort mountain living. Browse our Mammoth Lakes vacation rentals and find the perfect property for your summer vacation in the great outdoors!