Mammoth Mountain
Overview
Mammoth Mountain is on a volcano, which explains everything. The 3,500-acre ski area sprawls over the flanks of an ancient volcanic peak, creating terrain variety you do not find at mountains shaped by simple erosion. The summit at 11,053 feet means Mammoth has the longest ski se...
Ski Resort
Golf Course
Highlights
- 3,500 acres
- Long season
- 400" snowfall
- Sierra golf
Weather & Seasons
Plan your visit to Mammoth Mountain with our seasonal guide. Best months to visit: Nov - Jun
Winter
Dec - Mar
15-30°F
Peak powder season with consistent snowfall
Spring
Apr - May
30-50°F
Spring skiing with softer snow and longer days
Summer
Jun - Aug
60-80°F
Golf season with perfect weather conditions
Fall
Sep - Nov
40-60°F
Shoulder season with early snow and fall golf
Local Weather Reality
Mammoth Mountain sits directly in the path of Pacific storms approaching from the southwest. In strong El Nino years it can receive 700 inches. In drought years it struggles to 200. Check the snowpack before booking.
What Locals Actually Know
Insights from someone who has spent a decade calling Mammoth Mountain home. The things the resort brochures never tell you.
Local Perspective
Mammoth Mountain is on a volcano, which explains everything. The 3,500-acre ski area sprawls over the flanks of an ancient volcanic peak, creating terrain variety you do not find at mountains shaped by simple erosion. The summit at 11,053 feet means Mammoth has the longest ski season in California - snow in June and sometimes July is normal. When the rest of California's ski areas have closed, Mammoth is still running.
The town of Mammoth Lakes (at the base) has evolved from a simple ski community into a genuine four-season destination - fishing the Sierra trout streams in summer, hiking the John Muir Trail, mountain biking Mammoth Mountain in autumn. The community is close-knit despite the tourist influx. Longtime locals know the difference between the real mountain and the one that marketing presents.
Insider Tips
- 1Chair 23 on the backside accesses Solitude Canyon - a completely different mountain atmosphere from the main runs.
- 2Mammoth's free ski shuttle system connects all the lodging areas to multiple base areas - use it instead of driving.
- 3June Lake Loop (20 minutes from Mammoth) is where locals go for quiet summer evenings and exceptional fishing.
- 4The June Mountain ski area is Mammoth's smaller sibling - on your lift pass, far less crowded, excellent for families.
- 5Main Lodge base area is the least convenient to park but the most convenient for access to the best terrain.
Local Secrets
- Lincoln Mountain (accessed from the top of Chair 22) is the best kept secret at Mammoth - expert terrain that the crowds never reach.
- The Huevos Grande at Breakfast Club restaurant in town has kept ski patrollers fed for 20 years.
What to Avoid
- Avoid Mammoth on the first big storm of the season - the entire Los Angeles basin drives up and the road becomes a parking lot.
- Do not sleep on the altitude - Mammoth is at 7,880 feet in town and 11,053 at the summit. Drink water.
Weather Reality
Mammoth Mountain sits directly in the path of Pacific storms approaching from the southwest. In strong El Nino years it can receive 700 inches. In drought years it struggles to 200. Check the snowpack before booking.
Hidden Gem
Convict Lake, 8 miles south of Mammoth, is a glacial lake backed by 12,000-foot peaks. In summer it is the most beautiful accessible lake in the Eastern Sierra. In winter the resort road is closed but snowshoeing to it is magical.
Ski Like a Local
- Cloud Nine, Lincoln, and the South Face area accessed from Chair 22 has the most technical in-bounds lines at Mammoth.
- After a January storm, ski Cornice Bowl before 11am - the cornices drop into 6-foot untracked powder bowls.
Golf Like a Local
- Sierra Star Golf Course plays through a glacially-carved valley with Mammoth Mountain visible on every hole.
- Book before 9am in late July for the coolest temperatures - Mammoth afternoons can be warm.
Where Locals Eat
Apres-Ski Picks
Local Lodging Picks
Getting There
Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) has service from Los Angeles and San Francisco seasonally. Los Angeles is 5 hours via US 395. The drive through the Owens Valley with the Sierra Nevada on one side is one of the great California drives.
Skiing
Mammoth Mountain
Difficulty Level
All Levels
Terrain Variety
From gentle groomed runs to challenging black diamonds and powder bowls
Snow Quality
Consistent snowfall with excellent powder conditions throughout the season
Local Ski Tips
- Cloud Nine, Lincoln, and the South Face area accessed from Chair 22 has the most technical in-bounds lines at Mammoth.
- After a January storm, ski Cornice Bowl before 11am - the cornices drop into 6-foot untracked powder bowls.
Golf
Sierra Star Golf Course
Course Design
Championship layout with strategic bunkers and water features
Scenic Views
Breathtaking mountain vistas from every hole on the course
Course Condition
Meticulously maintained greens and fairways year-round
Local Golf Tips
- Sierra Star Golf Course plays through a glacially-carved valley with Mammoth Mountain visible on every hole.
- Book before 9am in late July for the coolest temperatures - Mammoth afternoons can be warm.
Gallery
Skiing
Golf
Village
Dining
What to Expect
Accommodations
Mammoth Mountain offers a wide range of lodging options from luxury resorts to cozy mountain lodges, all with convenient access to slopes and golf courses.
Dining
Experience world-class dining with mountain views, from casual après-ski spots to fine dining restaurants featuring local and international cuisine.
Shopping
Browse premium ski and golf equipment, local artisan goods, and luxury boutiques in charming village settings.
Activities
Beyond skiing and golf, enjoy snowshoeing, spa treatments, mountain biking, hiking trails, and vibrant nightlife.
Where to Stay
Mammoth Mountain offers diverse accommodation options to suit every budget and preference
Local Recommendations
Westin Monache Resort
Walking distance to the Village Gondola, pool, best hotel amenities at Mammoth
Tamarack Lodge
On Twin Lakes, cross-country skiing from the door, the most atmospheric lodging in the Sierra
Luxury Resorts
$$$$ - $400-800/night
- Ski-in/ski-out access
- Full-service spa and wellness center
- Multiple on-site restaurants
- Concierge services
- Premium amenities and room service
Mountain Lodges
$$$ - $200-400/night
- Cozy alpine atmosphere
- Close proximity to slopes
- Complimentary breakfast
- Fireplaces and mountain views
- Family-friendly amenities
Condos & Rentals
$$ - $150-300/night
- Full kitchen facilities
- Multiple bedrooms for groups
- Washer and dryer
- Living space and privacy
- Cost-effective for longer stays
Booking Tips
Book Early
Reserve 3-6 months ahead for peak season (December-March) to secure best rates
Package Deals
Look for packages combining lodging with lift tickets and golf rounds for significant savings
Shoulder Season
Visit in early December or late March for lower rates and fewer crowds
Location Matters
Ski-in/ski-out properties cost more but save time and transportation expenses
Nearby Attractions & Activities
Beyond skiing and golf, Mammoth Mountain offers countless ways to enjoy your mountain getaway
Apres-Ski Picks
Local Eats
Hidden Gem
Convict Lake, 8 miles south of Mammoth, is a glacial lake backed by 12,000-foot peaks. In summer it is the most beautiful accessible lake in the Eastern Sierra. In winter the resort road is closed but snowshoeing to it is magical.
Village Shopping
Browse boutique shops, ski equipment stores, and local artisan galleries in the charming mountain village.
Fine Dining
Experience world-class cuisine from casual mountain bistros to award-winning restaurants.
Spa & Wellness
Relax and rejuvenate at luxury spas offering massages, hot tubs, and wellness treatments.
Mountain Biking
Explore extensive trail networks for all skill levels during summer months.
Hiking Trails
Discover scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Nightlife & Events
Enjoy après-ski entertainment, live music venues, and seasonal festivals throughout the year.
Wellness & Relaxation
Unwind after a day on the slopes
Apres-Ski & Nightlife
Experience the vibrant mountain culture
Travel Tips & Planning
Everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Mammoth Mountain
Getting There
Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) has service from Los Angeles and San Francisco seasonally. Los Angeles is 5 hours via US 395. The drive through the Owens Valley with the Sierra Nevada on one side is one of the great California drives.
Best Time to Book
Book accommodations 3-6 months in advance for peak season. Early booking ensures better rates and availability.
What to Pack
Layer clothing for varying temperatures. Bring ski gear or rent on-site. Golf clubs can be rented at the course.
Budget Planning
Lift tickets range from $80-200/day. Golf rounds $100-300. Budget $150-400/night for lodging depending on season.
Dining Options
From casual mountain cafes to fine dining restaurants. Reservations recommended for upscale venues during peak season.
Safety & Insurance
Purchase travel insurance covering skiing accidents. Check weather conditions daily and follow resort safety guidelines.
Local Planning Tips
Chair 23 on the backside accesses Solitude Canyon - a completely different mountain atmosphere from the main runs.
Mammoth's free ski shuttle system connects all the lodging areas to multiple base areas - use it instead of driving.
June Lake Loop (20 minutes from Mammoth) is where locals go for quiet summer evenings and exceptional fishing.
The June Mountain ski area is Mammoth's smaller sibling - on your lift pass, far less crowded, excellent for families.
Main Lodge base area is the least convenient to park but the most convenient for access to the best terrain.