Take 400 inches of powder plus 275 days of sunshine. Add in larger-than-life majestic natural beauty and you have an alpine destination that’s almost too good to be true. As unreal as it seems, this is the remarkable reality of Mammoth Lakes, California. Surrounded by 2.2 million acres of breathtaking national forest, encompassing one of the biggest skiing and snowboarding resorts in California, Mammoth Lakes is truly a west coast winter wonderland. Here are a few of the reasons why Mammoth Lakes should be the next place your visit this winter season.
Some of the Best Snow in the World
If you’re skeptical of perfect snow-packed peaks just hours from sunny southern California beaches, Mammoth Lakes will make you a believer. The plentiful and near-perfect snow conditions are a result of the unique placement in the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, a prime location that catches big storms rolling in from the Pacific and collects prolific heaps of snow. No “Sierra Cement” here. It’s not a problem at 11,053 feet in the sky. Up that high, you’ve entered the Legendary.
You Can’t Feel Blue Here
If the Northeast’s gray clouded canopy is starting to wear you thin, try cruising down magical runs under a bluebird sky. Let the laid-back atmosphere and panoramic mountain views lift your spirits this ski season. If you’re still not convinced, California’s highest lifts should get the job done. At this elevation, the sky really does feel like the limit.
Living Up to Its Name
Sporting a giant 3,100-foot vertical drop from the summit to the base lodge, this isn’t anywhere near your average bunny slope. Mammoth Mountain really lives up to its gargantuan name. With 28 lifts, 151 trails and 3,500 skiable acres of unique terrain, this immense snowscape is a required bucket list destination for any east coast skier or snowboarder. Rip down a few runs while soaking up those sweet rays and you’ll get it. And you’ll want more. (Pro tip: Grab an Ikon Pass and you can get unlimited seasonal access to this unbelievable mountain paradise.)
More Than Just Skiing
Looking for some off-mountain excursions? Explore 3 million acres of wide-open wilderness in this expansive outdoor playground. Embark on a guided snowmobile adventure. Slip on snowshoes and trek up to Minaret Vista for unreal views of the Mammoth Lakes signature skyline. Glide across over 140 miles of cross-country trails. Or just hold on tight for family-friendly tubing and sledding escapades. Whatever you’re into, a multitude of winter activities ensure there’s enough fun for everyone.
Visit the Village
When it’s time to take a break from snow-filled escapades, head to The Village at Mammoth, where relaxation and après-ski vibes are at their best. Sip a glass of wine at a local restaurant. Grab a margarita and settle in by the fire. Search for the perfect souvenir at one of the shops or enjoy live music as you sample the thriving bar scene with friends. There’s so much to love in this mountain town — and thanks to the free shuttle service, it’s super easy to take it all in. Just hop on the trolley and head to one of the local breweries or distilleries. Stop in at a cafe or coffee shop. Soak in the warm hues of a California sunset. A trip around town is definitely worth leaving the comfort of your hot tub (if only temporarily) and it’s a perfectly casual way to end a thrilling and exciting day.
A Never-ending Season
From the laid-back California vibe of the surrounding town to the countless snow-filled adventures, Mammoth Lakes is undeniably a wintery west coast wonderland that you don’t want to miss. This ski season, experience the unreal majesty of Mammoth Lakes. When it comes to massive snowfalls coupled with magical bluebird days, this alpine destination really does serve up the best of both worlds. Plus the High Sierra climate gives Mammoth Mountain one of the longest seasons in the country. Some years, you can ski and snowboard from early November all the way to the middle of summer. Giving you a huge window of opportunity to check this hidden mountain gem off your bucket list. Time to pack your sunscreen, head out west, and discover the unreal wonder.
Midweek Visits Have Their Perks
Mammoth Lakes has a lot to offer any day of the week, but on a weekday, everything’s a little sweeter. Consider booking your trip for more than Friday to Sunday and discover a whole other side of Mammoth Lakes. Weekday getaways mean you practically have the place to yourself. We’re talking multiple runs and little or no wait times. Take laps on your favorite lift. However, you slice it, shorter lines mean more time for skiing and riding. Better yet, you’re paying less for lift tickets with demand-based pricing. The perks don’t stop there, midweek ski days come with midweek après-ski specials, on and off the mountain. Expect to get in on some good food and drink discounts at some of your favorite local hangouts. With the exception of holidays, accommodations are also more affordable midweek. From comfy chalets with mountain views to boutique hotel rooms in the heart of town, you have the best options available at the best rates.
Book Your Flight Now
The best part? Traveling to Mammoth Lakes from New York, Boston, or D.C. is easier than you might think. Flight options from United Airlines get you to Bishop, CA with just one connection, or nonstop service from San Francisco and Denver. Plus, you can fly nonstop on Advanced Airlines from Carlsbad and Los Angeles in under an hour. Just grab a flight and you’ll be knee-deep in powder in no time. Find more info about flying to the area, as well as insider info on the best sights to see, places to eat and things to do once you arrive at visitmammoth.com. #KeepMammothUnreal
