Winter in Mammoth Lakes is all about getting outside.
It's about having fun in the snow—whether you’re tubing with the kids, wandering quiet trails on snowshoes, or carving turns on Mammoth Mountain Resort. And when the day winds down? That’s when the real reward begins. From cozy cafés to hearty alpine comfort food, there’s always something tasty waiting to warm you up.
We’ve pulled together four easygoing snow adventures with equally satisfying eats—so grab your gear, enjoy the day, and treat yourself after.
Leave No Trace—bonus points if you pick up extra litter along the way.
Beginner
Snow Tubing at Woolly’s Adventure Summit at Mammoth Mountain Resort – Soaring Pines Café
Trail Notes
Best Seasons to Visit: Winter (There are summer tubing options here too!)
Distance from Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center: 8 minutes
Parking: Yes
Restrooms: Yes
The Adventure – Woolly’s Adventure Summit
Looking for thrills that the whole family can enjoy? Woolly’s Adventure Summit at Mammoth Mountain Resort has you covered. Grab a tube and send it down groomed snow lanes as fast—or as leisurely—as you dare. With dedicated tubing tracks, snow play areas, and plenty of laughter echoing through the pines, it’s a beginner-friendly way to soak up Mammoth’s winter magic.
The Reward – Soaring Pines Café
When the runs are done, step inside Soaring Pines Café. Settle in by the glowing fireplace with a steaming hot cocoa for the kids or try a signature cocktail to warm up après-style. Their menu highlights fresh, flavorful dishes served in a welcoming lodge atmosphere—making it the perfect place to recharge before your next round of snowy fun.
Pro-tip: Add on a grilled cheese, fries, fruit, and a Coca-Cola beverage for just $10 with the purchase of a Full-Day Adventure Pass or a Coaster & Tubing Pass.
Beginner
Snowshoeing – Doorstep Deliveries
Trail Notes
Hike Length: 2.5 miles
Best Seasons to Visit: Winter
Distance from Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center: 10 minutes
Parking: Yes
Restrooms: Yes
The Adventure – Snowshoeing Minaret Vista
Starting at Main Lodge at Mammoth Mountain Resort, the snowshoe route to Minaret Vista climbs steadily along a groomed path that you’ll share with cross-country skiers and occasionally snowmobiles. After leaving the bustle of the downhill slopes behind, the trail winds into a quiet forest before opening back up at the foot of San Joaquin Ridge. From this point, sweeping views stretch across the Ritter Range and the Ansel Adams Wilderness—a payoff that makes the climb more than worthwhile. On mild days, the overlook is a perfect picnic spot. Feeling energized? Continue tracing the exposed ridgeline or simply retrace your steps back down for an easy finish.
The Reward – Doorstep Deliveries
Back in town, let the adventure come to you. With Doorstep Deliveries you can have Mammoth’s favorite restaurants brought straight to your cabin, condo, or hotel. From piping-hot pizza to nourishing bowls of ramen or fresh California cuisine, you’ll be warm, cozy, and satisfied without ever needing to venture back into the cold.
Moderate
Nordic Skiing at Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center – Noodle-ly
Trail Notes
Hike Length: Various trails from easy to difficult
Best Seasons to Visit: Winter
Distance from Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center: 9 minutes
Parking: Yes
Restrooms: Yes
The Adventure – Tamarack Cross Country Center
For a little more challenge, glide into Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center where over 19 miles of groomed trails wind through fragrant pine forests, frozen lakes, and breathtaking alpine scenery. Rentals, lessons, and guided tours make it easy for skiers of all levels to explore this snowy paradise. Whether you’re in it for the workout or tranquility, Tamarack Cross County Center delivers pure winter experience.
The Reward – Noodle-ly
After working up an appetite, trade your ski poles for chopsticks at Noodle-ly. This cozy spot is all about steaming bowls of flavorful noodles that hit the spot on a cold winter afternoon. From rich broths that simmer for days to fresh stir-fries made each morning, everything here is crafted with care. You’ll find hearty favorites alongside vegan options; all made with a commitment to quality and the environment. In fact, if there’s a “green” version of an ingredient or product, they choose it.
Pro tip: Noodle-ly is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays so the team can focus on preparing their signature beef broth, which is always worth the wait.
Difficult
Skiing & Snowboarding Mammoth Mountain – The Mill + Yodler Restaurant & Bar
Distance from Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center: 9 minutes
Parking: Yes
Restrooms: Yes
The Adventure – Mammoth Mountain
When it comes to legendary skiing and snowboarding, Mammoth Mountain sets the standard. With an elevation of 11,053 feet and more than 3,500 acres of skiable terrain, it offers some of the best conditions you’ll find anywhere. Our long winter season and incredible snow keep you carving fresh powder from the first snowfall of winter all the way into late spring—and sometimes even into summer. From steep bowls and playful tree runs to endless California sunshine, Mammoth Mountain is the ultimate winter playground.
The Reward – The Mill followed by the Yodler Restaurant & Bar
Après-ski in Mammoth isn’t complete without a stop at The Mill. Sip one of the best Bloody Mary's in town or kick back in an Adirondack chair with a locally brewed beer while you soak up the mountain views.
From there, head to the Yodler Restaurant & Bar at Main Lodge. Designed in the style of a Bavarian alpine hut, Yodler is a longtime favorite for its festive après vibe, ice-cold brews, and hearty German classics—think giant pretzels, crispy schnitzel, and sizzling bratwursts. Whether you’re trading stories by the fire or basking on the sundeck, this is the kind of après that makes Mammoth unforgettable.
Whether your day is spent snowshoeing quiet trails or enjoying fresh powder cruising down the mountain, Mammoth Lakes delivers the ultimate reward: cozy meals and après delights that warm you from the inside out. From marshmallow-filled mugs of hot cocoa to hearty alpine plates and craft brews by the fire, refueling here isn’t just an afterthought—it’s a core part of the winter experience.