Sledding & Snow Play in Mammoth Lakes

February 12, 2024

A family trip to Mammoth Lakes isn’t complete without some good, old-fashioned snow play.

Snow play is any type of fun you can imagine in or on the snow (think: sledding, tubing, making snow angels or building a snowman).

There are plenty of places in town to explore and enjoy the snow. Bundle up and make sure everybody’s cozy, warm and comfortable day of fun will be more enjoyable. Then head out to enjoy the beauty of Mammoth Lakes in winter.

Need to purchase sleds for your outing? Check the Mammoth Fun Shop, Rite Aid, Vons and a few sporting good stores in town.

Sledding & Snow Play On The Mammoth Scenic Loop

Mammoth Scenic Loop is a popular spot for sledding and snow play in Mammoth Lakes. While there is no dedicated sledding area, the forested areas off the scenic loop are open to the public for sledding and snow play.

This outdoor spot features plenty of downhill sledding opportunities in the spacious Jeffrey pine forest. After some heart-pumping sledding, make your way to the Inyo Craters, where one-of-kind geological phenomena await.

Getting There

You can access this cutoff from Hwy. 203 on the way to Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge. Be sure to pull your vehicle fully out of the way of traffic, and set up your sledding hill a safe distance from the road.

A family sledding downhill at the Mammoth Scenic Loop.

Sledding & Snow Play At Shady Rest Park

Shady Rest is the perfect place for young children to spend time enjoying the snow. With gentle slopes and quiet, wooded areas, families can allow little ones to get a taste for sledding or building snowmen. Hours of operation run from dawn to dusk, with a seasonal schedule beginning in May and ending on November 1.

Getting There

To access sledding and snow play areas at Shady Rest Park, take Sawmill Cutoff to the parking area at Shady Rest Park.

A couple traversing across the forested area of Shady Rest with cross country skis.

Sledding & Snow Play In The Mammoth Lakes Basin

The Mammoth Lakes Basin has plenty of space for sledding and snow play. Head up along the Lake Mary Public Access Corridor (to the left of the groomed cross-country ski trails) keeping an eye out for snow play opportunities along the way. The wooded areas and the shores of Horseshoe Lake are great options for families to explore and have a fun-filled day in the snow.

NOTE: Sledding and snow play on the groomed Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center trails is prohibited. Be sure to stay off all groomed cross-country ski trails in the Mammoth Lakes Basin to avoid collisions with skiers and disturbing the groomed tracks.

Getting There

To get to the Lake Mary Public Access Corridor, take Lake Mary Road to the winter road closure and park in the area by Twin Lakes.

A woman skiing at Mammoth Lakes Basin.

Sledding & Snow Play at Woolly's Adventure Summit

Embark on a snow-covered journey at Woolly's Adventure Summit. Whether you're looking for enthralling excitement or kid-friendly activities, this popular spot offers unforgettable fun for all ages. Travel through groomed lanes in the Tube Park, where downhill tubing evokes family-centered thrills. Bring your little adventurers to the snow play area, exploring merry-go-round tubes, snowman-building, surf sleds, and a chance to meet Mammoth Mountain's fuzzy mascot, Woolly.

Getting There

From The Village, turn west onto Minaret Road. Woolly's Adventure Summit is just after the Earthquake Fault. You can also take the Red Line towards Main Lodge directly from the center of town to the Adventure Summit.

Frequently Ask Questions

1. Where can I sled in Mammoth Lakes for free?

Mammoth Lakes is home to a variety of budget-friendly sledding locations. Create an affordable itinerary by sledding at a local-favorite spot like the Mammoth Scenic Loop. For more recommendations, look through our guide on skiing and snowboarding around the area.

2. What should I pack for a skiing trip in Mammoth Lakes?

It's recommended to wear goggles, a helmet, ski pants, and thermal base layers for a skiing adventure. Additional gear include a few waterproof jackets, snowsuits, fleece or wool sweaters, and insulated gloves. Don't forget to don your warmest hat, gloves, and neck gaiter before hitting the snow-covered trails.

3. Are there beginner-friendly runs in Mammoth Lakes?

Fortunately, there are various ways to enjoy easy skiing runs in Mammoth Lakes. Whether you're embarking on a snowy excursion for the first time or skiing with your little ones, we've got you covered with the top tips for beginners. Take a class at June Mountain or Mammoth Mountain before skiing through a run.

Cross Country Skiing Lessons in Mammoth Lakes
Catch the Winter Wave: California Skiing & Snowboarding
A person skis down a steep vertical drop kicking up snow behind them. Snow-covered mountain ranges are visible in the distance
Holiday Gifts for Skiers and Snowboarders
Guided Backcountry Skiing in Mammoth Lakes
Family-Friendly Skiing and Snowboarding at June Mountain

More Ideas For Winter Activities

Family-Friendly Skiing and Snowboarding at Mammoth Mountain
Cross Country Skiing in the Mammoth Lakes Basin
Tips for Spring Skiing and Riding in Mammoth Lakes
Everything You Need to Know About Family-Friendly Ski Trips to Mammoth Lakes

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Author
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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