Adrenaline Rush! Best Skydiving Experience Near Mammoth Lakes, California
Let me just say it straight: if you’re going to throw yourself out of a plane strapped to a stranger, you might as well do it over the jaw-dropping beauty of Mammoth Lakes. There are few things in life that will make your heart race like skydiving—and fewer places that make you want to open your eyes mid-fall and actually enjoy the view. This is one of them.
As someone who has literally taken the leap (and screamed like a very brave, totally-in-control warrior bird on the way down), I’m here to give you the full scoop. From where to go, what to wear, what you’ll see (if you don’t pass out), and why this might just be the most fun you’ve ever had while free-falling.
Ready? Let’s do this—no parachute required (until the end, obviously).
Why Mammoth Lakes Is the Place to Skydive
Mammoth Lakes isn’t just for skiing, snowboarding, and Instagramming your coffee with a mountain backdrop. It’s a paradise for thrill-seekers, especially the “I-want-to-hurtle-toward-Earth-at-terminal-velocity” kind.
Here’s what makes it extra special:
- You’re already at altitude. Mammoth sits at about 7,800 feet above sea level, so your plane doesn’t have to climb as far. Translation? More time falling, less time flying in a loud tin can.
- The views are stupidly beautiful. We’re talking the Sierra Nevada, Mono Lake, volcanic craters, and jagged peaks so dramatic they look fake.
- The air is clean. Like, “I can smell the pine trees from 13,000 feet” clean.
Basically, if you’re going to do something outrageous, this is the place to do it.
Where to Go Skydiving Near Mammoth Lakes
Here’s the catch: Mammoth Lakes doesn’t have its own full-time skydiving center (I know, rude). But don’t pack your parachute just yet. There’s a fantastic option just a couple of hours away.
Skydive Yosemite – Mariposa, CA (~2.5 hours away)
I went with these guys, and spoiler alert: they’re awesome. Friendly instructors, gorgeous scenery, and you get to say, “Yeah, I saw Yosemite from above. No big deal.”
What to expect:
- Tandem jumps only (ideal for first-timers)
- Around 13,000 feet jump altitude
- Views of Yosemite, Sierra Nevada, and your life flashing before your eyes (in the best way)
- Photo and video options so you can prove to your friends you did it
Bonus tip: Book in advance. These spots fill up faster than your adrenaline meter once that plane door opens.
Best Time to Jump Without Freezing Your Eyebrows Off
May–October is prime skydiving season.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Spring = Green valleys + snowcapped mountains = WOW
- Summer = Clear skies, great views (and the perfect excuse to sweat)
- Fall = Crisp air + golden aspens = Insta-worthy
- Winter = Don’t. It’s freezing, and your fingers might go on strike
Trust me, you want a sunny day with minimal wind, good visibility, and no snowstorms sneaking up mid-jump.
What to Expect (Besides a Whole Lot of Screaming)
I’ll walk you through it, step by trembling step.
1. Arrival & “Yes, You’re Really Doing This”
You’ll sign a waiver that basically says, “If I freak out mid-air, that’s on me.” Then you’ll get a stylish jumpsuit, a harness that hugs you like your mom after a scary movie, and a pep talk from your instructor.
2. The Plane Ride Up
This is the quiet-before-the-storm moment. It’s like being in a flying Uber—except you’re about to jump out of it.
3. The Jump
Door opens. Wind slaps you in the face. You scream. You fall. You fly. You feel things you didn’t know your body could feel.
Freefall is around 45–60 seconds of pure adrenaline. Then—pop!—the parachute opens, and suddenly everything slows down. You glide peacefully over the landscape like a leaf on the wind… if leaves could scream with joy.
4. The Landing
You float down like a majestic flying potato and land (hopefully upright) with the biggest grin on your face. You’ll feel like a superhero for the rest of the week.
What to Wear So You Don’t Regret It Mid-Fall
Yes, wear:
- Comfortable athletic clothes
- Sneakers that won’t fly off
- Layers if it’s chilly
No, don’t wear:
- Flip-flops (unless you want to donate them to the sky)
- Scarves, jewelry, or anything flappy
- Your favorite hat (it will be gone in 3 seconds)
Tie your hair back, remove gum, and if you’re worried about “sky-face” in photos—just lean into it. You’re going 120mph. Everyone looks like a flying squirrel.
How Much Does Skydiving Cost?
Here’s what to expect:
- Tandem jump: $250–$300
- Photos/video: $80–$150 (worth it, unless your memory is as bad as mine)
- Group discounts: Usually available
- Tips: Optional, but if your instructor saved your life and made you laugh, throw them a few bucks!
It’s not cheap, but come on—you’re jumping from the sky! That’s priceless.
Tandem vs Solo Jumping: Which One for You?
Tandem Skydiving (aka: “Strapped to a Pro”)
- Great for beginners
- Instructor does all the work
- You just smile, scream, and wave
Solo Skydiving (aka: “You’re Crazy, But I Respect It”)
- Requires certification and training
- You pack your own chute (gulp)
- Not recommended for first-timers unless you’re secretly a superhero
Say Cheese (While Falling at Terminal Velocity)
- Go for the video/photo package. You will want to relive it.
- Camera flyers are pros—they’ll catch your wildest expressions mid-fall.
- If you’re worried about looking goofy, don’t. You will. That’s part of the fun.
Pro move: Smile the whole way down. Or try to. Your face might betray you.
Planning Your Skydiving Trip
Getting to Mammoth Lakes:
- From LA: ~5–6 hours
- From Reno: ~3 hours
- From Mariposa/Yosemite (Skydive Yosemite): ~2.5 hours
Where to Stay:
- The Village Lodge: Cozy, central, hot tubs
- Tamarack Lodge: Lakeside, woodsy charm
- Camping: Tons of spots in Inyo National Forest
After-Jump Celebrations:
- Grab a burger or burrito the size of your parachute at Burgers Restaurant
- Toast your bravery with craft beer at Distant Brewing
- Or just sit and stare at the mountains, wondering if that really happened (yes, it did)
Final Tips From a Very Relieved Skydiver
- Do it scared. Everyone’s nervous. That’s normal.
- Don’t overthink it. The scariest part is the ride up.
- Trust your instructor. They’ve done this thousands of times.
- Open your eyes. The view is the best part. (Well, second best—surviving is #1.)
Skydiving in Mammoth Lakes isn’t just a bucket list item. It’s a life-altering, adrenaline-fueled, awe-inspiring moment that you’ll replay in your head over and over.
And honestly? It’s the most fun you can have with your feet nowhere near the ground.
