Winter can provide ample chilling effects while you sip (easternsierrabrewerytours.com)
For all the natural wonders present in the Eastern Sierra, there are almost as many breweries in which to enjoy a libation after your hike, ski, climb or (insert adventure here). From June Lake Brewing in Mono County to Mountain Rambler Brewery in Bishop, the odds of hitting a brewery close to your destination are in your favor.
June Lake Brewing is a locals’ favorite, with a big industrial building, exposed wood tables and, more often than not, heavy metal blasting through the speakers. Ohana’s 395 is an amazing Hawaiian food truck that will blow your mind—if you catch them before they run out of food. Try JLB’s Rock ’n Dirt Milk Stout on Nitro, and don’t leave without some badass schwag. 131 S. Crawford Ave in June Lake. 858.668.6340 or junelakebrewing.com.
The flavors are plentiful at Black Doubt Brewing
Mammoth Brewing Company is the ubiquitous stop for cerveza in Mammoth Lakes, though you’ll find more tourists there than locals. The beer is decent—there’s a rotating cast of seasonal beers and you can sample them all for under $20. The Eatery is kind of like a food truck without the wheels—it’s a separate business, so you do have to stand in two lines. But the food is great. 18 Lake Mary Rd. Mammoth Lakes. 760.934.7141 or mammothbrewingco.com.
Black Doubt Brewing Company is a “nano brewery” located in the Sierra Center Mall in Mammoth. It’s an up-and-coming spot, with a little bit of a weird ambience due to the funky blue walls, but made cooler by open mic nights on Mondays and Phil Coconis’ “Some Assembly Required” Sunday residency from 7-9. Music is always free. 452 Old Mammoth Road #104 in Mammoth. 760.484.7845 or blackdoubtbrewing.com.
Let Eastern Sierra Brewery Tours do the driving on your beer tasting adventure (easternsierrabrewerytours.com)
Mountain Rambler Brewery is Joe Lane’s brainchild, and his perfectionist influence is visible from the decor to the pretty gourmet food coming out of the kitchen (then homemade empanadas, thai meatballs and local bratwurst). Beers rotate, but old standbys include the Picture Puzzle Session IPA and Peaklet Porter. 186 S. Main St. in Bishop. 760.258.1348 or mountainramblerbrewery.com.
Also, this goes without saying, but don’t drink and drive. Instead, leave the driving to Eastern Sierra Brewery tours, who will drive you up and down Highway 395 from June Lake to Mammoth and give you the inside scoop on all the suds. 844-395-BEER (2337) or easternsierrabrewerytours.com for more info or to book a tour.
Sarah Rea is a freelance dirtbag-turned-journalist who has been living in the Sierra on and off for twenty years, with eight spent in Yosemite National Park and five in Mammoth Lakes. She likes dogs, rocks, good food and jumping into cold water.