Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort was the heart of my childhood winter breaks. My brother and I practically lived on the slopes, and let’s just say—I spent more time falling than snowboarding in those early days.
We were fearless (or maybe just reckless), tackling trails way beyond our skill level. Getting lost became a regular occurrence, and we even braved whiteout conditions a few times (our Mom paid for those tickets so we’d better get our moneys worth)—though we only got stuck in the trees once. But that was the magic of it all—discovering hidden trails and incredible views that made us feel like we had the entire mountain to ourselves.
Now, life’s a bit more complicated. Packed schedules and endless responsibilities make it harder to carve out time for trips like those. But this year, we decided to press pause, embrace a little nostalgia, and take a midweek getaway back to Mammoth.
It felt like coming home -the slopes during the week? Absolute magic. No lift lines, plenty of space to carve, and a peaceful vibe that’s hard to beat.
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Visiting Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort
Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort: A World-Class Terrain
Mammoth Mountain is one of the best ski resorts in California offering incredible terrain for all skill levels. Here’s a quick rundown of what the mountain has to offer:
- Vertical Drop: 3,100 feet
- Summit Elevation: 11,053 feet
- Skiable Terrain: 3,500 acres
- Trails: 150+ (25% beginner, 40% intermediate, 35% advanced)
- Lifts: 28 (including high-speed quads, gondolas, and a six-pack lift)
- Link to the Mammoth Mountain Trail Map
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Mammoth has something for everyone. It’s no wonder this resort is used for Olympic trials and training—the mountain truly delivers a world-class experience.
Mammoth Mountain Lift Tickets Price
Planning your visit? Here’s what you need to know about lift tickets at Mammoth Mountain:
- Online Prices: Save big by purchasing your tickets online in advance. Prices typically start at around $120 for adults, $99 for teens, and $60 for children, depending on the day and demand.
- Day-of Window Prices: Be prepared to pay more if you buy tickets on-site—these can range from $150 to $180 for adults.
- Ikon Pass: If you’re a frequent skier, investing in an Ikon Pass is a great option. It not only grants unlimited access to Mammoth and June Mountain but also includes access to many other resorts around the world.
Booking your tickets ahead of time is the way to go if you want to save money and avoid the hassle of long lines. Plus, it gives you more time to focus on enjoying the mountain!
Insider Tips for a Better Experience
- Eagle and Canyon Lodges: These are our favorite starting points. They’re less crowded than the Main Lodge, but still offer easy access to the rest of the mountain.
- Apres-Ski Fun: If you’re visiting on a Friday or Saturday, don’t miss the Weekend Après Party at Canyon Lodge. From 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, the Canyon Lodge Sundeck comes alive with DJs spinning from a converted gondola car for a fun party vibe.
- The Lincoln Bar serves up hot and cold drinks to keep the energy going, and the indoor-outdoor options makes it a favorite spot to kick back after a day on the slopes.
Nearby Ski Resorts Worth Checking Out
If you’re looking for more variety, there are other mountain resorts nearby, such as:
- June Mountain: A family-friendly option with stunning views and great beginner terrain. It’s less crowded and perfect for those who want a more laid-back experience.
- Snow Summit and Bear Mountain: Located a few hours south, these are great for a day trip if you’re heading back toward Southern California.
Where We Stayed in Mammoth: Pet-Friendly Comfort
Traveling with our family dog meant we needed pet-friendly accommodations, and Nomad Rentals delivered! Their affordable condos allowed us to bring our dog along without breaking the bank. If you’re planning a trip, try calling them directly to see if they have any unlisted deals or discounts—they were super helpful over the phone!
For those with varying budgets, here are some additional booking options:
Hotels near Mammoth Mountain:
- Budget – Mid Range:
- Cinnamon Bear Inn – A charming, affordable inn with cozy rooms and complimentary breakfast. Great for budget-conscious travelers.
- Alpenhof Lodge – A rustic yet modern lodge located near The Village, offering comfortable rooms and an on-site restaurant.
- Mammoth Creek Inn – Known for its friendly service and comfortable amenities, this inn offers a great balance of value and convenience.
- Luxury:
- Tamarack Lodge – A lakeside retreat offering historic charm, luxurious cabins, and easy access to cross-country skiing trails.
- The Westin Monache Resort – A high-end option offering spacious suites, excellent service, and proximity to The Village at Mammoth. Perfect for those wanting a little extra pampering.
- The Village Lodge – Conveniently located with great amenities like an outdoor pool and hot tubs. It’s close to the shuttle stops, making it a solid choice for families.
Getting Around Mammoth Mountain Ski Area:
Skip the struggle of parking and let Mammoth’s surprisingly good public transit take the stress out of your trip!
Its easy to get around Mammoth Lakes thanks to the town’s convenient and free mountain shuttle system. The shuttles run regularly and can take you to all the main lodges, including Eagle Lodge, Canyon Lodge, and the Main Lodge. There’s even a night service available if you want to get drinks after a day at the slopes.
Explore Mammoth with the Gondolas
The free Village Gondola is a must-try—it takes you from The Village straight to Canyon Lodge, making it easy to access the slopes especially if you’re staying at the nearby hotels.
For the adventurers, the Scenic Gondola at the Main Lodge offers breathtaking views as it takes you all the way to the summit at 11,053 feet. While there is a fee for the Scenic Gondola (around $35-50 per adult) , Ikon Pass holders can enjoy both gondolas for free!
Why Weekdays Are Worth It
Weekday trips to Mammoth Mountain are a dream come true. The slopes are almost empty, allowing you to enjoy the entire mountain without dodging crowds. Plus, it’s easier to snag a table at the lodges or get a prime spot at Canyon Lodge’s apres ski events on select Fridays of the season.
Day Trips From Mammoth Lakes California
Need a break from the slopes? The Mammoth area is rich with natural beauty and unique experiences:
- June Lake Scenic Loop: This scenic loop offers stunning views of four crystal-clear alpine lakes: June Lake, Gull Lake, Silver Lake, and Grant Lake.
- Enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing on the shores of these picturesque lakes. It’s especially stunning during sunrise or sunset.
- Mono Lake: This ancient lake, over 1 million years old, is a true hidden gem of the Eastern Sierra. Its tufa towers, those surreal spires you see in the water, are formed by a unique interaction between freshwater springs and the lake’s salty, alkaline water—2.5 times saltier than the ocean!
- Check it out for sunset and if you’re lucky you’ll catch some amazing reflections on the water!
- There are several viewpoints around the lake, we went to Mono Lake Navy Beach Viewpoint
- Natural Hot Springs: Soak in a warm, natural pool while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding snow-covered peaks. It’s the perfect way to relax after a day of snowboarding. Popular options include Crowley Hot Springs and Keeler Hot Springs.
- Convict Lake: This stunning alpine lake is surrounded by towering granite cliffs and offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, and camping. Convict Lake Campground provides a peaceful retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
How to Get to Mammoth
Getting to Mammoth is part of the adventure. If you’re driving from Southern California, take U.S. Highway 395 north—it’s a scenic route with breathtaking mountain views. The drive takes about 5-6 hours from Los Angeles, depending on traffic and road conditions. You can also drive down from Reno on Highway 395 South (around 3 hours). Be sure to check for chain requirements during winter months and keep an eye on the weather.
If you prefer flying, Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) is just 10 minutes from town. There are seasonal flights available from major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Denver, making it a convenient but more expensive option for those traveling from further away.
My Review of Mammoth Mountain
Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort is more than just a snowboarding destination—it’s a place where families can connect, explore, and create lasting memories. With its world-class terrain, convenient amenities, and stunning surroundings, Mammoth truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, relaxing in a hot spring, or taking a scenic drive, your time here is bound to be unforgettable.
So, pack your snow gear and get ready for an adventure you won’t soon forget. Mammoth Mountain awaits!
