Find a Ski Resort in North America & Worldwide
# 3Expert Terrain in California
All Reviews

Overview

Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort Overview

With the highest lift-served terrain in the state of California at 11,053 feet and more than 3,500 acres of skiable terrain, Mammoth Mountain lives up to its name.

Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort lies on the eastern edge of California’s Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. It’s 330 miles east of San Francisco and 310 miles north of Los Angeles, making for a five-to seven-hour drive.

Situated within hours of Yosemite National Park, Lake Tahoe, and June Mountain, the resort provides a great starting point to explore the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Most visitors stay in the town of Mammoth Lakes, which offers up restaurants, bars and plenty to do for those seeking a nightlife scene.

Mammoth Mountain was founded in 1953 by Dave McCoy. It averages an impressive 400 inches of annual snowfall, allowing it to have one of the longest ski seasons in the country. In the winter of 2017, the resort was open from November to early August! The mountain is great for all levels, with options ranging from expansive bowls, tree skiing, wide groomers, steep chutes, halfpipes, and the world-class Unbound Terrain Parks.

Inside Scoop

Things to Do in Mammoth Lakes

► Mammoth Mountain Essentials

Take in the views of the jagged peaks of the Minarets, part of the Ritter Range and known as Mammoth Lakes’ signature skyline.

Take a selfie in front of the 19-foot Mammoth Mountain summit sign.

Ski the expert terrain of Huevos Grande or Climax.

Enjoy cocktails, wine, beer, and Bavarian fare at The Yodler Restaurant & Bar.

► Non-skiing Activities

Non-skiers can enjoy snowmobile adventures, scenic gondola rides, snowcat tours, mountain and naturalist tours, and shopping and dining at The Village and Old Mammoth.

Looking for attractions indoors? Add bowling and indoor golf to your itinerary, or check out the Mammoth Alpine Trampoline Club at Snowcreek Athletic Club. Catch a movie at Minaret Cinemas, indulge in some self-care at several spas, yoga studios, and fitness centers in the area, or work remotely at The Fort Coworking Offices. 

► Top Winter Events at Mammoth Mountain

Top annual events in Mammoth Lakes include Elevation: Mammoth Gay Ski Week, the Mammoth Winter Biathlon, and Easter festivities. Don’t miss the pond skim at Canyon Lodge, where crowds fill up the slopes to witness the craziest skills and snowboarders straight-line across a 100-foot long ice-cold pond.

► Ski School

Mammoth Mountain offers ski and snowboard school for those just starting out up to more experienced skiers and riders looking to take their skills to the next level. They’re located from the Main Lodge, Canyon Lodge, and Eagle Lodge.

► Child Care

Mammoth Mountain has two convenient state-licensed child care locations from infants up to 6-year-olds. They offer daily, hourly, and evening care, as well as ski lesson/childcare packages.

Restaurants

Best Restaurants and Bars at Mammoth Mountain

► For Breakfast

The Stove has been a Mammoth Tradition for 40 years, where you can enjoy all the breakfast classics plus some new healthier options. Located off Old Mammoth Road, it is in the heart of Mammoth Lakes and a short drive from the base of the resort.

Base Camp Cafe serves American-style food with vegetarian-friendly options. It’s located right off Main St at the base of the mountain. 

► For Lunch

Located on the Summit, Eleven53 Cafe offers a delicious and speedy option. There is a food court offering Asian-inspired noodle bowls, Indian wraps, and classic kid favorites. But arguably better than the food is the view!

Toomey’s is a fun and unique joint located in the heart of the village. While the menu offers a wide range of options, they are known for their seafood dishes and love for the Kansas City Royals. If you are in the mood for lobster taquitos or seafood jambalaya, this is the place for you. 

► For Dinner

Campo Mammoth is a rustic Italian gathering place in the heart of the village. Their handcrafted, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas are a great way to enjoy date night or a family dinner. Other options are available that feature local and seasonal ingredients.

With a daily Happy Hour from 5 pm to 6 pm, Mountainside Bar & Grill is a family-friendly place to eat once your day on the mountain is done. The grand mountain views and high ceiling will give you a rustic cabin feel while you chow down on their variety of burgers.

Best Time for Snow

Average Snowfall

89"
56"
37"
19"
0.2"
29"
Nov
69"
Dec
74"
Jan
71"
Feb
61"
Mar
27"
Apr
11"
May
0.2"
Jun
Beginners Runs
15%
Intermediate Runs
48%
Advanced Runs
24%
Expert Runs
13%
Runs in Total
173
Longest Run
3 mi
Skiable Terrain
3500 ac
Snow Making
700 ac

Total Lifts: 25

Gondolas & Trams
3
High Speed Sixes
2
High Speed Quads
9
Quad Chairs
1
Triple Chairs
6
Double Chairs
4

Elevation

Base
7953'
Summit
11053'
Vertical Drop
3100'

Important Dates

November 10, 20232023/11/10
Projected Opening
August 04, 20242024/08/04
Projected Closing
N.A.
Projected Days Open
260
Days Open Last Year
71
Years Open
400"
Average Snowfall
Copyright © 1995-2024 Mountain News LLC. All rights reserved.