THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Ski Resort · CA

Mammoth Ski Area

Mammoth Ski Area is a premier year-round mountain resort in California, renowned for its expansive terrain and consistent snowfall, making it a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts and summer outdoor adventurers alike.

Ski ResortApprox. 3,500 skiable acres4+ Trails

Designation

Ski Resort

Total Wilderness Area

Approx. 3,500 skiable acres

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Mammoth Ski Area

Mammoth Ski Area is a premier year-round mountain resort in California, renowned for its expansive terrain and consistent snowfall, making it a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts and summer outdoor adventurers alike.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located on the eastern slope of California's Sierra Nevada in Mono County, Mammoth Ski Area sits near the town of Mammoth Lakes at elevations ranging from 7,953 to 11,053 feet. The resort is slated on the northern edge of the Long Valley Caldera and is surrounded by the Inyo National Forest. Known for receiving some of the most abundant snowfall in the state, Mammoth Ski Area boasts over 3,500 skiable acres, 150+ trails, and a vertical drop of more than 3,000 feet, making it one of California's largest and most diverse resorts. Its diverse terrain caters to beginners, intermediates, and expert skiers and snowboarders, with notable zones like the advanced terrain in the back bowls and extensive beginner slopes. Beyond winter activities, Mammoth Ski Area transforms into a summer playground with mountain biking, hiking, and scenic chairlift rides. The mountain’s setting offers spectacular views of the surrounding Sierra peaks, alpine lakes, and volcanic formations. The ski area originated in the 1950s and has grown steadily, becoming a year-round destination that supports vibrant local tourism and outdoor recreation economies. Its proximity to Yosemite National Park and Devils Postpile National Monument extends its appeal, allowing visitors to combine skiing or mountain biking with visits to iconic natural landmarks. Mammoth Ski Area offers comprehensive amenities including ski schools, rental shops, dining, lodging options, and events, making it accessible and appealing for families, professionals, and outdoor sports enthusiasts alike.

Field Guide · Ski Resort
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Mammoth Ski Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Lakeside Tranquility at Mammoth Lakes★ 8.5⌖ 3 miHiking
Mammoth Lakes

Lakeside Tranquility at Mammoth Lakes

Explore Mammoth Lakes, CA, for diverse outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and skiing. Enjoy the dramatic landscapes of Devils Postpile and pristine alpine lakes year-round. Ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Basalt Columns & Waterfalls at Devils Postpile National Monument★ 8.7⌖ 4 miHiking
Devils Postpile National Monument

Basalt Columns & Waterfalls at Devils Postpile National Monument

Explore the easy 1.5-mile hike to Devils Postpile’s striking basalt columns near Mammoth Lakes, CA. Visit Rainbow Falls 5.5 miles away for waterfall views and swimming in summer. Best from July to September, this family-friendly spot offers scenic hiking and natural beauty.

Scenic Hiking at TJ Lake Loop Trailhead Near Mammoth Lakes★ 7.2⌖ 4 miHiking
TJ Lake Loop Trailhead

Scenic Hiking at TJ Lake Loop Trailhead Near Mammoth Lakes

Explore the easy TJ Lake Loop Trailhead just north of Mammoth Lakes, CA. This drive-in spot offers peaceful hiking with scenic lake and mountain views, plus great wildlife and photography opportunities. Best visited late spring through early fall when trails are clear.

Mountain Lake Escape at T J Lake, California★ 7.8⌖ 4 miHiking
T J Lake

Mountain Lake Escape at T J Lake, California

T J Lake is a moderate 2-3 mile hike east of Mammoth Lakes, California. Known for its peaceful alpine waters and scenic mountain views, it offers hiking, fishing, and primitive camping opportunities. Visit in summer to early fall for clear trails and quiet nature escapes.

Waterfall Wonder: Rainbow Falls, California★ 8.8⌖ 4 miHiking
Rainbow Falls

Waterfall Wonder: Rainbow Falls, California

Explore Rainbow Falls, a stunning 101-foot waterfall in Ansel Adams Wilderness. Accessed via a moderate 5-mile round-trip hike from Devils Postpile National Monument, this site is great for photography and fishing in the nearby San Joaquin River. Visit late spring through summer.

Majestic Peaks and Scenic Trails: The Sierra Nevada Mountains★ 9.2⌖ 6 miHiking
Sierra Nevada Mountains

Majestic Peaks and Scenic Trails: The Sierra Nevada Mountains

Explore the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California, home to Mount Whitney and Yosemite National Park. Enjoy hiking, skiing, and fishing across diverse ecosystems. Perfect for adventure seekers, this area is busy in summer but offers stunning views year-round.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Panorama Gondola providing sweeping vistas of the Sierra Nevada✦ Extensive backcountry access for advanced skiers and snowboarders✦ Year-round mountain biking trails during summer months✦ Proximity to Devils Postpile National Monument and Mammoth Lakes Basin
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Mammoth Ski Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Mammoth Ski Area
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Mammoth Ski Area
Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Mammoth Ski Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Mammoth Ski Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Mammoth Ski Area
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Mammoth Ski Area
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Mammoth Ski Area
Park Recreation

Climbing

Available in Mammoth Ski Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Mammoth Ski Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Lift tickets or season passes required for skiing; public access to surrounding areas generally free with parking fees at some trailheads.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Mammoth Ski Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Lake Mary Campground

Located within Mammoth Lakes Basin near the ski area, offering lakeside camping with access to hiking and fishing.

Coldwater Campground

Situated close to the ski resort, providing forested campsites and proximity to hiking trails and mountain biking routes.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Mammoth Ski Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Mammoth Lakes
⌖ 3.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mammoth Lakes, California

A bustling alpine town renowned for world-class skiing, hiking trails, and outdoor adventure in the Eastern Sierra Nevada.

Summer and WinterExplore Town
Crowley Lake
⌖ 16.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Crowley Lake, California

A rugged alpine escape where high desert meets the Eastern Sierra, offering anglers, paddlers, and mountain adventurers a distinct blend of solitude and outdoor thrills.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Wawona
⌖ 21.01 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wawona, California

A serene gateway to Yosemite's wonders, offering classic California outdoor experiences with endless exploration opportunities.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Lee Vining
⌖ 21.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lee Vining, California

A gateway to outdoor exploration, offering easy access to unique landscapes and a range of activities in the Eastern Sierra region.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Yosemite National Park
⌖ 31.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Yosemite National Park, California

A magnificent natural treasure offering thrilling adventures in the heart of California's Sierra Nevada Mountains, renowned for its towering cliffs, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Yosemite Valley (Mariposa)
⌖ 31.33 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Yosemite Valley (Mariposa), California

A nature lover’s paradise offering epic adventures amid stunning granite vistas and dramatic waterfalls.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Mammoth Ski Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Flat Bottom Boat Adventure with Crowley Lake Fish Camp in Mammoth LakesMammoth Lakes, California · 3.75 mi away
On the Water· Crowley Lake Fish Camp

Flat Bottom Boat Adventure with Crowley Lake Fish Camp in Mammoth Lakes

Discover the thrill of gliding across Crowley Lake in a flat bottom boat from Crowley Lake Fish Camp. Perfect for beginners and families, this activity offers a peaceful yet adventurous way to enjoy the Sierra’s stunning waterscape. Read on to find out what makes this experience a standout in Mammoth Lakes.

1–3 hours

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Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.