This California Mountain Has One of the Longest Ski Seasons in the U.S.

California’s highest resort at 11,053 feet, Mammoth Mountain offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the state. The resort in Mammoth Lakes boasts 3,500 skiable acres and terrain for all levels, with the majority of the runs being ideal for intermediate and advanced skiers.

Mammoth got its start as a ski area in 1942, thanks to skiing pioneer Dave McCoy, who saw real potential in the 100,000-year-old geological wonder. McCoy built a small rope tow to help intrepid skiers make their way up the mountain, but it took more than a decade for him to gain a permit from the Forest Service to build a lodge. The mountain's first chairlift was erected in 1955. 

Though few records remain from its very early days, since the late 1960s, the mountain has held the honor of having one of the longest ski seasons in North America, typically opening in early November and staying open through June. Snowmaking efforts supplement its average snowfall of 350 inches per year.

Mammoth Lakes isn't just one of the most beautiful places in California, it's also home to several restaurants, bars, and boutiques. For outdoor enthusiasts, the area has miles of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling trails with incredible views of the Eastern Sierra region.

Ready to explore one of California's best ski resorts? Here's everything you need to know about planning a ski trip to Mammoth Mountain.

When to Go

Mammoth Mountain's ski season typically runs from November to June, but for your best chance of enjoying some fresh powder, aim to visit in January or February. Many runs stay open through late spring and early summer, so April and May are perfect for those looking to shred in balmy weather. Events take place year-round, but winter standouts include the Night of Lights in December, the Mammoth Mountain Film Festival at the end of February and beginning of March, and the Mammoth Invitational in April.

Where to Stay

Outbound Mammoth

Settle into one of the cozy fireplace suites, cabins, or resort chalets at Outbound Mammoth, located steps from downtown Mammoth Lakes, a town that exudes winter charm. The historic resort now sports a contemporary aesthetic, with western-inspired textiles, warm wood accents, and in-room ski racks made from reclaimed timber. Spend time with your fellow snow fans at the Americana-inspired lobby, which comes with leather chairs and rawhide stools for fireside cocktails. And if you need a quick bite, find it at Bar Sierra, the resort's modern American restaurant. Best of all, you're just minutes from the mountain, making first tracks a must.

Juniper Springs

Another longtime favorite in Mammoth is Juniper Springs Resort. The slopeside condos offer spectacular accommodations for those looking to stay a while in Mammoth. Find townhouses boasting oversized bedrooms with fireplaces, large living rooms and kitchens, and communal fire pits for toasting marshmallows after a day on the slopes.

The Village Lodge

With direct gondola access, The Village Lodge is a go-to for those seeking ski-in, ski-out convenience. The property offers well-appointed multibedroom condos and a slew of amenities including outdoor hot tubs, a heated pool, and ski and snowboard lockers.

Where to Eat 

Vulcania

Vulcania is an Italian-American restaurant from brothers and James Beard finalists Bryan and Michael Voltaggio. There was a lot of excitement when the Food Network stars, who also happen to be snow enthusiasts, opened this spot in February 2023. The great selection of pastas and pizzas has continued to make it a village favorite.

The Stove

This retro diner has been serving homestyle dishes since 1970. Skiers and snowboarders flock to The Stove for huevos rancheros, cinnamon swirl French toast, and breakfast burritos before hitting the slopes. Brunch is the main draw, but the restaurant also offers sandwiches, soups, and salads for lunch.

Roberto's Cafe

Head to Roberto’s Cafe, a village fixture since 1985, for some of the best Mexican food in Mammoth Lakes. There’s usually a wait to get a table, but once you bite into dishes like the shrimp-stuffed chile relleno or sizzling fajitas, you'll be glad you came. There are usually happy hour specials before 5 p.m., which is one more reason to get here early.

Where to Après-ski

Shelter Distilling

Located in Mammoth Village, Shelter Distilling delivers a high-end whiskey experience that's still casual enough for a post-ski drink. Get a dram or one of its signature cocktails. You can never go wrong with a classic hot toddy made with High Sierra Whiskey, lemon, ginger, cinnamon, and honey.

Lakanuki

No trip to Mammoth is complete without getting a drink at Lakanuki, a party-ready après destination that mixes its winter wonderland surroundings with tropical vibes that will keep the good times going until last call. 

Lincoln Bar

On a sunny day, you can't beat the lively slopeside atmosphere of Lincoln Bar. Located in Canyon Lodge, the second largest of Mammoth Mountain's three base lodges, this popular après spot boasts a large deck with mountain views. Take the Village Gondola up or ski in for a hot toddy or a cold beer.

Off-mountain Activities

There are many ways to enjoy the stunning Eastern Sierra region beyond the slopes. Explore nearly 20 miles of groomed cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails from the Tamarack Cross-Country Ski Center. If you prefer to soak up the mountain scenery without the legwork, head out on a snowmobile adventure or a snowcat tour featuring a winter picnic with views of the surrounding peaks. Families will want to visit Woolly's Adventure Summit, which has snow tubing lanes for all ages. The park also offers activities just for kids, including snowman-building, slides, and merry-go-round tubes.

How to Ride

Tickets

Pick up a single or multiday ticket or purchase an Ikon Pass, which includes access to Mammoth Mountain. Beginner lift tickets start at $89, with discounts for children, young adults under 23, and seniors. Kids under four and seniors over 80 can get free lift tickets and season passes.

Rentals

A number of base lodges and hotels in Mammoth Lakes offer winter gear rentals. The most convenient place to grab equipment is the Main Lodge, as it's across from the Panorama Gondola and within walking distance of three other chairlifts. The shop offers demo, performance, and children's skis and snowboards, as well as private lockers to store your gear.

Skiing and Snowboarding Info

Mammoth Mountain has 175 named trails accessible via 25 lifts, including nine express quads, three express six-packs, and two gondolas. Out of those trails, 13 percent are marked "easiest," 27 percent are "slightly difficult," 23 percent are "difficult," 24 percent are "very difficult," and 13 percent are "extremely difficult." There are also 10 parks with more than 100 jibs, 50-plus jumps, and two halfpipes.

Programming

Mammoth operates a ski and snowboard school at the base of each lodge (Main, Canyon, and Eagle). Group and private lessons are available to beginner, intermediate, and advanced skiers and riders ages three and up. Since time slots can fill up quickly, it's recommended to book your spot in advance online. Other programs include multi-day ski clinics and camps in January and March, adaptive ski lessons led by volunteers from Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra, and lesson and child care packages for families.