Skiing and Snowboarding at Mammoth Mountain

Oct 14, 2022

With over 300 days of sunshine per year, Mammoth Mountain promises a true California experience on the snow. Whether you’re an expert skier looking for a challenge on some of California’s most unique terrain or a beginner who wants to learn the sport in a beautiful setting, Mammoth Mountain offers something for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.

What to Expect at Mammoth Mountain

Not only does the word “mammoth” describe the size of this mountain resort, but the name is also a nod to the length of the snow season. At 11,053 feet (3,369 m), Mammoth Mountain is the highest chairlift-accessible ski resort in California. Plus, an average snowfall of 400 inches (1,0156 cm) a season means lifts are usually transporting happy visitors to the slopes from early November well into June.

Four base lodges, 150 named trails, 11 terrain parks and 3,500 acres (15% expert; 20% advanced; 40% intermediate; 25% beginner) of skiable terrain make Mammoth Mountain a source of endless winter fun. 

Mammoth Mountain offers equipment rentals, skiing and snowboarding lessons, on-mountain dining options and slopeside accommodations. Check the Mammoth Mountain website for information about hours of operation for the ticket office, chair lifts and on-mountain services.

Mammoth Mountain Lift Tickets

NOTE: Advance purchase of lift tickets is strongly suggested for the 2022/23 season. At this time, season pass holders are not required to have reservations.

Mammoth Mountain has lift ticket offices at all four base lodges — Main Lodge, Canyon Lodge, Eagle Lodge and The Mill (by Chairs 2 and 10)— the Mountain Center in The Village at Mammoth.

Save on Mammoth Mountain lift tickets by purchasing at least seven days in advance or buying multi-day lift tickets.

Pricing is based on seasonality. Mammoth Mountain lift tickets can be used at June Mountain, however June Mountain lift tickets cannot be used at Mammoth Mountain. 

Mammoth Mountain Rentals

NOTE: Plan ahead to avoid busy times as rental shop capacity can be limited.

The rental and demo shops at Mammoth Mountain offer a variety of equipment for all skiing and snowboarding skill levels (helmets also available). To reserve your rental equipment, go to the Mammoth Mountain website, call 800-626-6684 or stop by the rental shops located in Main Lodge, Canyon Lodge and Eagle Lodge as well as two locations in The Village at Mammoth and for hotel guests at Juniper Springs Resort, Mammoth Mountain Inn and the Westin Monache Resort.

This year, Mammoth Mountain is working hard to keep guests safe on the mountain with new safety protocols:

Getting to Mammoth Mountain

By Shuttle

Eastern Sierra Transit Authority (ESTA) provides free roundtrip shuttle service to all three of Mammoth Mountain’s lodges. The shuttle is the recommended mode of transportation to Mammoth Mountain, as traffic by car can be heavy during holidays and weekends.

The Red Line bus runs to Main Lodge. The Blue Line bus serves Canyon Lodge, and the Yellow Line provides transportation to Eagle Lodge. Access all three shuttles from The Village at Mammoth or designated stops along the routes. A gondola also runs from The Village at Mammoth to Canyon Lodge. Learn more about the free shuttles on the Mammoth Mountain website.

By Car

Mammoth Mountain lodges are also easily accessible by car. Parking at all Mammoth Mountain lodges is free, although paid premium parking options are available. A number of Mammoth Lakes taxi and shuttle services also provide transportation to Mammoth Mountain. Parking may be limited on weekends and holidays.

Mammoth Mountain Restaurants

NOTE: Mobile food ordering, grab-and-go options and outdoor seating are the local go-to to make the most of your day on the slopes.

Main Lodge

You’ll find a variety of dining options and bars at Main Lodge. From classic grab-and-go options at the Broadway Marketplace to vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options at Green V, there’s something to fuel your day on the slopes no matter your taste. On the weekends, the Sundeck BBQ is also fired up.

For a relaxing afternoon or après, hang out at Tusks Bar. Or make a reservation at The Yodler Restaurant & Bar or Mountainside Bar & Grill for seated dining service.

Canyon Lodge

A food court, two bars and a coffee shop provide plenty of dining options and social space at Canyon Lodge. The Canyon BBQ is also open on the weekend, weather permitting. 

Eagle Lodge

At Talons Restaurant and Bar, enjoy a casual breakfast, or lunch featuring a creative menu and premium drinks inspired by 53 Kitchen & Cocktails, with live music and après specials on Saturdays.

The Mill

Famous for its house-made pulled pork, smoked tri-tip, California BBQ favorites, fun slopeside bar and extensive sundeck. This casual hangout features an outdoor fire pit perfect for an al fresco après at day’s end. Conveniently located at the base of Stump Alley Express (Chair 2).

McCoy Station

Take a mid-day break mid-mountain at McCoy Station to enjoy a variety of lunch options, including pizza, Mexican, Asian noodle dishes, warm chili, soups, and stews, as well as a fresh salad bar. Plus, grab a drink and hang out on the Sundeck at Steeps Bar before heading out again for afternoon runs.

The Summit and On-Mountain

Enjoy a scenic lunch spot at the summit and fill up on a classic sandwiches, fresh salads and soups.

Or check out our newest dining option — the Melt House & Boundary Bar at The Outpost — located on the back side of the mountain near the base of Chairs 13 and 14. The menu offers a variety of delicious grilled cheese sandwiches, hearty soups, and a huge array of local and regional craft beers. You can also enjoy the Sierra views from the expansive sundeck or hang out in the fireplace lounges that are built inside shipping containers.

Meghan Miranda

Meghan has been living and playing in Mammoth Lakes since 2016. She enjoys any outdoor activities that her dogs can tag along for. See more of Meghan's adventures on her blog Meg Moves Mountains.

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