10 Winter Adventures Beyond the Slopes
Whether you want a peaceful morning in the forest or a thrill ride down the mountain, these are the best ways to spend a winter day in Mammoth Lakes without skis or a snowboard.
1. Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is good for fitness and one of the easiest winter sports to learn. Just about anyone who enjoys being outdoors will love snowshoeing through pine forests, around frozen lakes and to mountain vistas on the trails around Mammoth Lakes. Find the best routes in our guide to snowshoeing in Mammoth Lakes.
2. Cross-Country Skiing
Fitness enthusiasts will find that cross-country skiing is great aerobic exercise, so there's no need to give up your routine on a winter vacation. Maybe it's the elevation or the cold air, but sliding uphill and along trails on cross-country skis is likely to get your heart pumping. Beginners can sign up for lessons and rent equipment at Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center, or try the free trails in town. See our guide to cross-country and Nordic skiing in Mammoth Lakes for where to go.
3. Scenic Gondola Ride
You can still experience the amazing views from Mammoth Mountain even if you don't ski or snowboard by taking the Panorama Gondola to the top of the mountain at 11,053 feet. At the top, snap a photo with the summit sign, enjoy lunch at Eleven53 Café, and discover the history and wonder of the Sierra at the interpretive center. Buy Panorama Gondola tickets from Mammoth Mountain.
6. Mountain Coaster
Head up to Woolly's Adventure Summit to ride the Mountain Coaster. Get ready for a thrilling ride as you zoom through the scenic mountain terrain at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour.
7. Ice Skating
Lace up your skates and hit the ice at the local ice skating rink. Ice skating is a classic winter activity everyone can enjoy. Visit LA Kings Ice at Mammoth Lakes at 686 Old Mammoth Road to take a lesson or join a pick-up game of ice hockey.
8. Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling has a long history as the main way to get around remote regions in winter, but today it's a favorite way to explore the backcountry for fun. We recommend a guided snowmobile tour with Mammoth Snowmobile Adventures. If you're bringing your own snowmobile, check mammothtrails.org for recommended routes.
9. Snow Tubing
The slopes aren't just for skiing anymore. The lift-accessed, groomed lanes at the Tube Park at Woolly's Adventure Summit are fun for the entire family. If you have your own tube or sled, head to an established snowplay area like the Sherwin Meadows Trailhead, and choose a gentle slope free of trees, rocks and roads.
10. Snowplay
PSA: no one is too old to enjoy a little snowplay on a vacation to Mammoth Lakes. What's snowplay? Anything that involves playing in the snow is fair game (think: building a snowman, snowball fights and sledding).
FAQ
What is there to do in Mammoth Lakes in winter besides skiing?
Popular non-ski winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, the Panorama Gondola, winter fishing, winter hiking, the Mountain Coaster, ice skating, snowmobiling, snow tubing and snowplay.
Can you ride the gondola at Mammoth Mountain without skiing?
Yes. The Panorama Gondola takes non-skiers to the summit of Mammoth Mountain at 11,053 feet, where you can visit the interpretive center and eat at Eleven53 Café.
Where can you go snow tubing in Mammoth Lakes?
The Tube Park at Woolly's Adventure Summit offers lift-accessed, groomed tubing lanes. For free sledding, try an established snowplay area like the Sherwin Meadows Trailhead.
Can you fish in Mammoth Lakes in winter?
Yes. Catch-and-release fishing is open year-round in parts of Mono County, including the Upper Owens River, Lower Owens River and Hot Creek. Check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for current regulations.
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