At Mammoth Mountain you never know what you may run into. Long and wide groomers, steep vertical terrain, or maybe even their mascot “Woolly” who roams the mountains runs and interacts within the visitors.
Located about 3 hours from Reno and 5 hours from Los Angeles, Mammoth Mountain calls Mono County, California home and is one of the most popular ski destinations in all of North America.
Founded in 1953 by Dave McCoy, Mammoth Mountain contains four, quality base lodges that all can keep the party going after your final laps as well with its spectacular après ski scene.
Mammoth Ski Guide
Mammoth is such a unique place in more ways than one.
To start off Mammoth spans over 3500 acres in terms of skiable terrain.
The snowfall average comes in at about 400 inches per year, yet they still average around 300 days of sun per year. These statistics all combine into a ski resort that has the potential to stay open for months on end. Some years they have stayed open till August after opening in November, but the usual duration expectancy of Mammoth is early-middle November to sometime during June.
Throughout these many months Mammoth will also hold a plethora of different ski and snowboard events. Some that have gone down in the past are the Toyota Grand Prix, Revolution Tour, different FIS events, and even Master’s Races. There's always something going on the mountain, you just have to find it.
What has turned into just a beautiful lake and mountain landscaped area, Mammoth Lakes and its story as a town is also a unique one. Founders came and found silver and gold in 1877 which sparked a goldrush. And if you're wondering about the origin of the name, fossils of real Columbian Mammoth were found at the base of different ranges.
Gear Needed to Ski in Mammoth
To ski in Mammoth, is much like skiing anywhere else in California, and similar to a Palisades Tahoe or other Lake Tahoe ski resort. The conditions are diverse, whether that be brutal storms where you could be dumped on all weekend to three straight days of spring like conditions.
Standard outerwear and base layers would be recommended along with your favorite pair of all mountain skis. Mammoth has great options for just about any skill leveled skier. Big and wide groomer with nice corduroy that can be ripped, cheekier and more difficult vertical chutes, a couple different sized terrain parks and bunny hills for the beginners.
While goggles and helmets are a staple at any ski resort, also bring a hat and sunglasses for chilling on the outdoor patios that Mammoth has to offer either during a lunch break or after your day on the mountain is over.
Where to Stay in Mammoth
Motel 6 in Mammoth Lakes: This pick may not be the flashiest but it is most likely your cheapest option for budgeters. The Motel 6 is just about 4 miles away and an 8 minute drive to the mountain. Wifi and coffee are provided as well as being pet friendly. There are also restaurants right nearby which are walking distance.
The Village Lodge Mammoth Lakes: If you were looking for more of a luxury then here you go. All the amenities you could ask for are at your fingertips. Gondola access, hot tub and heated pool, fitness center, restaurant and bar on-site, what else could you possibly need. The Village Lodge is equipped for different party sizes and styles as well to lock down your preferred bed setup.
The Best Ski Runs in Mammoth
Phillippe's Run
Philippe’s Run is a double black diamond grade and arguably the most difficult run at Mammoth Mountain. It is located off Chair 23 to the skiers left. For an advanced skier this is a fun one, super steep but very attainable to put a few great turns together.
The sun will hit it and since it is not skied as much, it can sometimes stay good all day.
Upper Road Runner
For the more intermediate or scenic skier, Upper Road Runner is the perfect run. Although your legs will be tired at the end, it will be worth it. About three miles of groomed all the way down to the main lodge this run has wide turn potential and incredible views.
Discovery Chair
hair 11, also known as Discovery Chair, has great runs for any beginning skier and snowboarder. This chair takes off from the main lodge area and is open longer than other easier chair lifts. Super gentle and wide, these runs have no harm, just beneficial learning opportunities.
The Bottom Line: Mammoth Ski Guide
Whether you're in for the top tier ski runs, the après ski or the opportunity to meet Woolly the Mammoth, make sure to get out and visit Mammoth Mountain and Mammoth Lakes as a whole.
You wont regret it!
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