The Ultimate Mammoth Lakes Skiing Guide: Slopes, Passes & Pro Tips
Let’s be real for a second: if skiing were a dating profile, Mammoth Lakes would be that ridiculously good-looking, outdoorsy, high-altitude catch with a long list of talents—and somehow still humble about it.
As someone who’s spent more than a few weekends rocketing down slopes, falling into powder like it’s a featherbed (but colder and wetter), and eating way too much après-ski pizza, I can confidently say: Mammoth Lakes is one of the best places to ski in California. Possibly the universe. No exaggeration. (Okay, maybe a little.)
But jokes aside, if you’re planning a snow trip and want the ultimate guide—from beginner tips to expert runs to where to find the best hot chocolate that isn’t secretly just whipped cream in a mug—you’ve come to the right mountain town.
Why Mammoth Lakes is Basically Ski Disneyland
So what makes Mammoth Lakes such a magical snow globe of a place?
For starters, it’s got more than 3,500 acres of skiable terrain, over 150 named trails, and a vertical drop so long your legs will file a complaint halfway down. Oh, and the season often lasts from November to July—because Mammoth doesn’t know when to stop being awesome.
You get the vibe: It’s big, it’s beautiful, and it’s got something for everyone. Whether you’re a nervous first-timer or a GoPro-toting adrenaline junkie with no fear and questionable judgment.
Mammoth Mountain – The Main Event, The Big Cheese, The Alpine Boss
If skiing in California had a superhero, it’d be Mammoth Mountain. Towering at 11,053 feet, this place doesn’t mess around. It’s the biggest ski resort in California and the heart of winter fun in Mammoth Lakes.
For Beginners (a.k.a. the Snowplow Society)
Start off gently with:
- Schoolyard Express (Chair 17)
- Discovery Chair (Chair 11)
These areas are your cozy introduction to skiing, where the slopes are forgiving, and the likelihood of being photobombed by a toddler in a ski suit is high.
Tip: Take a lesson. Yes, even if your cousin Steve says he can “totally teach you.” Trust me—Steve can’t.
For Intermediate Skiers (Progress Gang)
Welcome to the sweet spot!
- Cruise around Roller Coaster Express (Chair 4) or Stump Alley (Chair 2)
- Try Forest Trail for smooth carving and wide open views
You’ll find fun, flowy runs here that boost your confidence without making you scream (unless it’s a happy scream).
For Experts (You Brave, Glorious Lunatics)
Time to test your soul:
- Chair 23
- The Paranoids
- Drop Out Chutes
- The Hemlocks (for those who enjoy casually flying through trees)
These runs are steep, deep, and require both skill and bravery. And possibly a spare pair of pants.
Bonus: Terrain Parks
Mammoth’s terrain parks are so good, they could make a snowboard cry tears of joy. Main Park, South Park, and Forest Trail are packed with features for freestylers of all levels.
Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center – Skiing, but Chill AF
If the idea of hurtling down a mountain isn’t your jam, no judgment. Some of us prefer peace, quiet, and a lot less gravity.
Welcome to Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center, where you can glide like a graceful snow-elf through:
- 19 miles of groomed trails
- Stunning alpine forest scenery
- Quiet, magical winter vibes
It’s perfect for families, beginners, or anyone who wants their skiing with a side of serenity and maybe a few deer sightings.
Bonus: Tamarack Lodge nearby is adorable and smells like pine and dreams.
June Mountain – The Underrated Star of the Show
Just 20 minutes from Mammoth lies June Mountain, the resort locals whisper about lovingly, like a hidden secret.
Why go?
- Kids under 12 ski FREE (read that again)
- Zero crowds—seriously, sometimes it feels like your own private mountain
- Views of Mono Lake and the Eastern Sierra that’ll make your jaw drop (and freeze slightly)
The terrain? Surprisingly varied! From long cruisers to tree runs to some spicy steeps, June Mountain gives Mammoth a run for its snow money—but with shorter lift lines.
Lift Tickets & Passes (A Love-Hate Relationship)
Let’s talk dough.
- Mammoth Mountain day tickets range from around $120 to $180 (ouch, we know).
- Save money with:
- The IKON Pass (Mammoth is included!)
- Multi-day passes
- Buying in advance online
Moral of the story: Book early, ski longer, regret nothing.
entals & Lessons – Gear Up, Buttercup
No skis? No boots? No clue what a binding is? You’re in good hands.
Where to Rent:
- Mammoth Mountain Rental Shops (convenient)
- Black Tie Rentals (they deliver to you—yes, really)
- Kittredge Sports or Footloose Sports (awesome local vibes)
Lessons:
- Group and private options
- Snowboard, ski, kids, adults—you name it
- Taught by pros who are patient, encouraging, and immune to your dramatic flops
Honestly, lessons are a game-changer. I took one to learn how to carve properly. Turns out I’d been skidding like a caffeinated penguin for years.
Where to Stay – Sleepy in the Snow
Whether you’re ballin’ on a budget or ready to splurge, Mammoth’s got cozy spots for every type of snow lover.
- The Village Lodge – Ride the gondola straight from your bed (well, almost)
- Tamarack Lodge – Quaint, quiet, and cross-country adjacent
- Ski-in/Ski-out Condos – Around Canyon and Eagle Lodges
- Airbnbs & Cabins – Get one with a hot tub, you won’t regret it
Bonus if your place has a fireplace. You’ll feel like a snow movie protagonist.
Après-Ski: Eat, Drink, Be Frosty
You’ve shredded the slopes. Time to reward yourself.
- The Yodler – Bavarian-style fun with big pretzels and better views
- Mammoth Brewing Co. – Amazing beer and nachos the size of your helmet
- Giovanni’s – Pizza that will revive your ski-dead soul
- Toomey’s – Slightly upscale, incredibly tasty
Pro tip: Calories don’t count at altitude.
Ski Tips from a Fellow Slope Junkie
- Altitude = drink water or become a raisin
- Wear layers—weather changes faster than my mood at the top of a double black
- Sunscreen—Yes, even when it’s snowing. The sun reflects off snow like a flashlight in your face
- Arrive early for parking or prepare to do the “walk of shame” with your skis for 20 minutes
Quick FAQs for Frosty Folks
Q: What’s the best time to ski Mammoth?
A: Mid-February to early April. But honestly? I’ve skied in June in a t-shirt. Still counts.
Q: Is Mammoth good for beginners?
A: Heck yes. Tons of green runs and lessons that won’t make you cry.
Q: Can I bring the kids?
A: Please do. Mammoth LOVES kids. Just don’t challenge them to a race—they’re fearless.
Final Thoughts: Catch You on the Chairlift
If you’ve made it this far, congrats—you’re basically ready for your Mammoth ski adventure. Whether you’re carving like a pro, waddling like a penguin, or falling gracefully and laughing the whole way down (my specialty), Mammoth Lakes is where the magic happens.
Pack your thermals, charge your camera, and prepare to say things like, “Did you see that air?!” or “Let’s get fries and never ski again.”
Because skiing in Mammoth is more than a trip—it’s a snow-filled story waiting to happen.
