Mammoth Lakes: Ski, Explore, And Indulge In California’s Winter Wonderland | Travel News

Three days in Mammoth Lakes is all it takes to experience California’s ultimate winter wonderland.

Mammoth Lakes, known for one of the longest snow seasons in California, isn’t just a ski destination, it is a world-class training ground where Olympic dreams were developed. With scenic ski runs, Mammoth Mountain draws elite athletes from around the globe, but you don’t need to be an Olympian to experience it. With everything from gentle beginner slopes to steep expert chutes, the mountain welcomes skiers and riders of all levels. Moreover, the breathtaking Eastern Sierra landscape transforms into a winter wonderland, making Mammoth Lakes as much a stunning winter escape as it is a place to find your rhythm on the snow.

Day 1 – Ski or Snowboard Lesson

Start your winter adventure at the world-famous Mammoth Mountain Ski Area that truly lives up to its ‘Mammoth’ name, with 28 chairlifts and two gondolas accessing nearly 3,500 acres of skiable terrain. Boasting a summit elevation of 11,053 feet, Mammoth Mountain is the highest resort in California. From easy learning terrain to wide-open bowls and expert chutes, 150 distinct runs offer something for everyone. Sharing a chairlift ride with an Olympian or seeing a gold medalist soaring high above a massive terrain park is not unusual here.

Mammoth Mountain is an official training mountain of the U.S. Olympic Team, annually hosting numerous events featuring both professional and up-and-coming athletes.

Book a lesson to get your feet on the ground. Instructors fluent in several languages are available to get you started with the fundamentals or take your skiing skills to the next level. If a lesson is not for you, get acquainted with Mammoth Mountain’s vast terrain by taking a morning tour of the mountain during peak season led by a friendly Mammoth Mountain host.

Tours depart from both the Main Lodge and the Canyon Lodge in the morning. Then cruise perfectly groomed runs between Canyon and Eagle lodges, bash bumps, or seek out powder stashes off Chair 22 or the Cloud Nine Express.

After a full morning of skiing, take the Village Gondola or the Ski Back Trail to The Village at Mammoth for après ski drinks at one of the many restaurants there.

Day 2 – Sightseeing and Snowplay

Venture to the top of the Sierra with a visit to the Eleven53 Interpretive Center at the top of Mammoth Mountain. From Main Lodge, ride the gondola to the summit; the 360-degree views will take your breath away. Inside the interpretive centre, explore the exhibits detailing the region’s unique landscape. Descend on your choice of intermediate or expert above-treeline terrain or ride the gondola back down.

Next, an afternoon of snowplay should be on your agenda. Whether you are building a snowman or gliding down a snowy slope, playing outside in Mammoth Lakes will surely be a memorable family activity.

Check out Woolly’s Tube Park and Snow Play, which offers all the fun and excitement of sledging with the convenience of a rope tow to pull you to the top of the hill.

End your day with a luxury snowcat tour. Ride in heated comfort to take in stunning, expansive views from Minaret Vista. Indulge in champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries or a hot cocoa bar for the kids while observing a spectacular alpine sunset.

Day 3 – Cross Country Skiing or Snowmobiling

Mammoth Lakes is surrounded by seemingly endless acres of public lands, and a number of roads are transformed into trails for the winter, so it is easy to get out and explore on foot or via snowmobile.

Take a break from downhill skiing or snowboarding and join a morning naturalist tour on cross-country skis or snowshoes at Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center. The tours are a perfect way to learn about local wildlife, plants and history, and the guides are an excellent local resource.

After the guided tour, continue to explore Lakes Basin’s meticulously groomed trails at your own pace.

Pick up the speed with an afternoon snowmobile ride. Local vendors offer guided trips, or simply rent a snowmobile to venture out on your own. Mammoth Lakes has over 100 miles of groomed trails available as well as thousands of acres of expansive, open terrain.

At the end of the day, enjoy an evening ice skating session at the Mammoth Ice Rink before treating yourself to a fine-dining meal to complete your stay.

For another convenient option for accommodation, Limelight Mammoth Hotel & Residences, will open in late 2025 located just steps from The Village gondola and Mammoth Ski Area. It will offer luxury amenities as well as après ski experiences in its social hub, The Lounge. The Lounge is designed as a lively spot for drinks, meals, and live music. The lobby bar patio is a great outdoor place to unwind with a drink in hand after a long day on the slopes.