Family Tips for High Altitude in Mammoth Lakes

August 23, 2026

Mammoth Lakes is the perfect destination for a family vacation no matter what time of year you’re considering coming.

When researching the Eastern Sierras many visitors are enamored with the idea of a family trip to the mountains but might forget the elevation levels that accompany them. The town of Mammoth Lakes is 7,900ft above sea level. Mammoth Mountain’s base is 9,000ft and the very top of the mountain is 11,053ft. Elevations that high mean that some people may experience side effects from high altitude when in the Eastern Sierras.

Acclimatize the Whole Family

Understanding what happens to our bodies in high altitude locations is the first step to planning a successful trip for your whole family. At higher elevations, the atmosphere is thinner and has less oxygen. These conditions can lead to muscle fatigue, headaches, and shortness of breath for even very fit individuals. Give your body a day to acclimatize to the higher altitude before venturing out to more strenuous activities.

Dr. Sarah Sindell, an M.D. at Mammoth Hospital, offers advice for parents on altitude adjustment and kids. “There is no evidence that children are more susceptible than adults to altitude sickness. Several studies have shown children get altitude related illness at the same rate as adults. Children, however, can have difficulty expressing how they are feeling, so pay attention to their behavior.”

Hydration is Key

People get dehydrated quicker at altitude so hydration is key in avoiding negative side effects from high elevation. Dr. Sindell adds, “The importance of staying hydrated cannot be overstated, however, drinking too much water can also cause medical issues, so use your judgement. The color of your urine can be used as a good guide of how hydrated you are- aim for clear and copious.”

Along with hydrating, many people find it helpful to eat lightly and avoid alcohol in the first 24 hours at elevation.

In Both Summer & Winter, Remember the Sun

A common error is forgetting that a thinner atmosphere means the risk of sunburn is present year round. Make sure to use and reapply sunscreen no matter which month you visit, including when skiing, snowboarding, or playing in the snow in the winter. Another tip for sunscreen application is not to forget applying it on your lips and under your nose and chin. UV rays from the sun reflect off snow, which can lead to sunburns on your face in areas you might not expect.

UV rays can cause not only sunburn but also snowblindness. Wear sunglasses, especially when you are on the water in Mammoth Lakes and goggles or sunglasses when practicing winter sports. Layering is another great option for protecting from the sun. Getting overheated can lead to dehydration and dehydration can make people susceptible to altitude sickness. When it comes to the sun at high elevation, layer, stay hydrated, and wear sunscreen.

Know Your Family Member’s Capabilities

To have a successful trip at altitude, be aware of the general fitness level of all of the members of your family from young to old. Dr. Sindell explains, “Your aerobic exercise capabilities at altitude are generally less than what they are at sea level. This means slowing down and taking more breaks when cycling, hiking or skiing.”

For children, older family members, pregnant women, or anyone who is showing signs of fatigue, take breaks more frequently or as needed.

Even Pets Can Feel the Effects

Pets are not immune to the thinner atmosphere at higher elevations. Pay attention to their hydration levels, let them acclimatize before beginning strenuous activities, and include them in rest breaks as their bodies adjust to altitude.

If you follow these tips and pay attention to everyone in your group, your family will be set to enjoy the high altitude and all that Mammoth Lakes and the Eastern Sierra has to offer.

For more altitude tips backed by Mammoth Hospital, see our full high altitude guide.

Plan Your Family Trip to Mammoth Lakes

A little preparation for altitude goes a long way toward a great family trip. Browse lodging options in Mammoth Lakes and get ready for an adventure the whole family can enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How high is Mammoth Lakes?

The town sits at 7,900 feet. Mammoth Mountain's base is at 9,000 feet, and the summit reaches 11,053 feet.

Are kids more susceptible to altitude sickness than adults?

No. Studies show children experience altitude-related illness at the same rate as adults. However, kids may have difficulty expressing how they feel, so parents should watch behavior closely.

How long does it take to acclimatize to altitude in Mammoth Lakes?

Most people benefit from giving their body at least a day to adjust before attempting strenuous activities.

Can pets get altitude sickness?

Yes. Pets can also be affected by thinner air at elevation. Watch their hydration and let them acclimatize gradually, just as you would for a person.

Author
Charlotte Kaufman
Charlotte Kaufman grew up in Alaska and started traveling internationally at the age of 16. A sailor since 2005, she and her family were part of a dramatic at-sea rescue in the spring of 2014 while en route to the South Pacific. She has just completed a memoir about the experience and is seeking to publish. Charlotte is the founder of Women Who Sail, a group of over 15,000 female sailors. After losing their sailboat, she and her husband moved their family to Mammoth Lakes, California, swapping adventures at sea for the mountains. In 2017 she founded Mammoth Women Writers, a writing group dedicated to building a community of women and non-binary writers in the Eastern Sierras. Charlotte's work has appeared multiple times in San Diego Magazine.
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