Cross-Country & Nordic Skiing

There is no better way to get away from it all and reset your perspective than to glide on cross-country skis into the winter wonderland that surrounds the town of Mammoth Lakes. Feel the crisp mountain air in your lungs, take in views of ice-covered lakes and snow-clad peaks, and immerse yourself in the deep, timeless silence of the forest.

Surrounded by seemingly endless acres of public lands and a number of roads that transform into trails for the winter, Mammoth Lakes makes it easy to get out and explore on skinny skis. The three best places to start are the groomed trails at Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center in the Lakes Basin, the free public trails at Shady Rest Park in town, and the route from Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge to Minaret Vista. Bring your own gear or rent a setup in town.

Where to Cross-Country Ski in Mammoth Lakes

Each area offers a different experience, from groomed skate and classic tracks to quiet forest routes with big mountain views.

Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center

Tucked into the Mammoth Lakes Basin, Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center grooms miles of classic and skate skiing trails past frozen lakes and forested groves. Trail access requires a pass. If you'd rather ski for free, the Lakes Basin Winter Access Corridor runs alongside the groomed tracks from the Lake Mary Road winter closure all the way to Horseshoe Lake.

Shady Rest Park

Right at the entrance to town, the groomed Shady Rest Winter Trails are free, open to the public and the best place for an introduction to Nordic skiing. Start from the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center and try the easy 1.8-mile loop.

Main Lodge to Minaret Vista

For a classic high-altitude tour, ski from Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge to Minaret Vista. The wide, groomed route climbs gently to one of the best views of the Minarets and the Ansel Adams Wilderness, then rewards you with an easy glide back down.

Rentals and Lessons

Rent cross-country skis in town or at Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center, where you can also sign up for a lesson if you're new to the sport. First-timers should start on the flatter trails at Shady Rest Park before heading up to the Lakes Basin.

For more trailheads and winter routes, see our guide to enjoying the Mammoth Lakes Trail System in winter. Prefer to explore on foot? Find the best routes in our guide to snowshoeing in Mammoth Lakes.

Plan Your Nordic Ski Getaway

With groomed tracks in the Lakes Basin, free trails in town and backcountry routes beyond, you'll want more than one day on skinny skis. Give yourself a few nights to ski a different area each morning, and plan a midweek trip to take advantage of weekday warrior perks. For more ways to spend a winter day, check out our top 10 alternative winter adventures.

FAQ

Where can you cross-country ski in Mammoth Lakes?

The main areas are Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center in the Lakes Basin, the free groomed trails at Shady Rest Park, and the route from Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge to Minaret Vista.

Is there free cross-country skiing in Mammoth Lakes?

Yes. The groomed trails at Shady Rest Park are free and open to the public, and the Lakes Basin Winter Access Corridor is free for non-motorized travel.

Where can I rent cross-country skis in Mammoth Lakes?

You can rent cross-country skis at shops in town and at Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center.

Is cross-country skiing in Mammoth Lakes good for beginners?

Yes. The trails at Shady Rest Park offer an easy 1.8-mile loop that's ideal for first-timers, and lessons are available at Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center.

When is cross-country ski season in Mammoth Lakes?

The season typically starts after the first major snowstorm and runs through spring, depending on snow conditions.

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