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Explore one of California’s top ski resorts with my comprehensive guide to Mammoth Mountain’s chairlift and gondola system. From chairlift tips to the best times to ski, I’ve got everything you need to navigate Mammoth Mountain.
Mammoth Mountain stands tall at 11,053 feet, making it California’s highest ski resort. Founded in 1953 by avid skier Dave McCoy, the resort has grown into one of the largest and most popular ski areas in North America. With over 3,500 skiable acres, 25 lifts, and 178 trails, it offers something for everyone—from wide-open groomers to challenging bowls and tree runs.
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The resort’s location in the Sierra Nevada ensures some of the best snow conditions on the West Coast, with an average snowfall of 350 inches per year. Mammoth also boasts one of the longest ski seasons in the country, often running from November through April.
The long snow season gives way to so many fun things to do in Mammoth Lakes in the winter.
Additional Mammoth Mountain Ski Area Facts:
- Vertical Rise: 3,100 feet / 945 meters
- Base Elevation: 7,953 feet / 2,424 meters
- Mammoth Mountain Elevation: 11,053 feet / 3,369 meters
- Average Sunny Days: 300 per year
- Snowmaking: 81 trails
- Terrain Breakdown:
- 13% easiest
- 28% slightly difficult
- 19% difficult
- 25% very difficult
Mammoth Mountain Trail Map
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Getting to Mammoth Mountain
Mammoth Mountain is conveniently located about 310 miles from Los Angeles, making it roughly a 5-hour drive. The scenic route takes you through the Mojave Desert and into the heart of the Eastern Sierra, offering breathtaking views along the way.
If you prefer to fly, the closest airport to Mammoth Mountain is Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH), followed by the Eastern Sierra Regional Airport (BIH) in Bishop.
Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH)
Located just 12 minutes from the resort, this airport offers seasonal flights via Advanced Air, connecting Mammoth from Hawthorne-LA (HHR) or Carlsbad (CLD).
Eastern Sierra Regional Airport (BIH)
This airport is about 45 minutes south of Mammoth. United Airlines services it with flights from Denver and San Francisco.
Once you land, car rentals and shuttle services make it easy to reach Mammoth Mountain.
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Where should I stay in Mammoth Lakes?
Mammoth Mountain is in Mammoth Lakes, California. There are a variety of lodging options, from ski-in and ski-out hotels to cozy cabins, condos, and vacation rentals. Popular choices include:
- The Village Lodge – Best for convenience, dining, and nightlife
- Mammoth Mountain Inn – The closest hotel to the slopes at Main Lodge
- Westin Monache Resort in Mammoth Lakes – across the street from The Village
- Tamarack Lodge (Cabins) – five to ten-minute drive to Eagle Lodge
- Juniper Springs Resort – next to Eagle Lodge and Eagle Express (Chair 15)
- Airbnb & VRBO – Great for Mammoth Lakes cabin rentals and luxury vacation homes, some of which are ski-in ski-out.
Book early, especially during peak ski season and holiday weekends, to secure the best accommodations.
Lodging can be extremely pricey for the accommodations compared to what you are getting for the money. None of these places are fancy, but the prices can be.
As a side note, there is also an RV park in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Fun Mammoth Mountain Chairlift Facts
- Beginning in 1947, with the Forest Service’s permission, Dave McCoy and friends cleared the skiing area by hand using axes and chainsaws.
- The first lifts at Mammoth Mountain were rope tows.
- The numbering system of the chairlifts correlates to the order in which the chairlifts were installed.
- Dave McCoy and his wife Roma have runs named after them.
- Chairlift 1 opened on Thanksgiving, November 25, 1955 to a crowd of about 2,000 skiers.
- Lift tickets initially cost $4.00 each.
- You can use the Ikon app to track the number of trails, miles, and vertical feet skied/snowboarded. So far, I’ve skied at Mammoth Mountain 25+ days, over 265 miles, and over 230,000 vertical feet in one season.
The Mammoth Mountain ski resort lift system is designed to efficiently transport skiers and riders to every corner of the resort. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each chairlift.
Chair 1 (Broadway Express)
The first chair at Mammoth Mountain is Chair 1 Broadway Express. From Main Lodge, Chair 1 connects skiers and snowboarders to mid-mountain terrain, the Main Park with a halfpipe (conditions permitting) and upper mountain chairlifts like 23, 12, Facelift Express (Chair 3), and the Upper Gondola. Chair 1 can also be used to access McCoy Station for food and alcoholic beverages.
- Ride Time: 4:04
- Passenger Capacity: 6
- Pro Tip:
- The loading procedure includes a magic carpet that moves riders from one area to another. Canyon Express (Chair 16) uses the same loading procedure.
- Fun Facts:
- Chair 1 is the first chairlift at Mammoth Mountain.There is a WWII howitzer to skier’s right used for avalanche control.It is one of the best places to spot the Mammoth Mountain mascot – Wolly.
- Can you spot the GI Joes guarding the mountain?
Chair 2 (Stump Alley Express)
Stump Alley offers access to wide runs perfect for intermediates. In my experience, Stump Alley is one of the most crowded runs at Mammoth Mountain. This high-speed quad is often best mid-morning when the crowds haven’t skied out the terrain yet.
Stump Alley Express can be used to access Chair 23, McCoy Station, and the Upper Gondola.
- Ride Time: 5:50
- Passenger Capacity: 4
- Pro Tips: My favorite way to get back to Mill is to take Mambo (Intermediate run) to Patrolman’s (black diamond) to avoid the crowds that litter Stump Alley.
- If you prefer to ski or snowboard Stump Alley, stay to skier’s left, which often has the best snow since it’s often not skied.
- Fun Fact: The area around Chairs 1 (Broadway Express) and 2 (Stump Alley Express) is referred to as Time Square because the area gets so busy.
Chair 3 (Face Lift Express)
Centrally located above McCoy Station, this lift provides access to advanced terrain like Center Bowl, West Bowl (moguls), and St. Anton (backside).
I prefer to ski Face Lift Express in the morning before the top third is skied out, making the entrance more difficult. The face of Chair 3 is thrilling but requires confidence and skill.
I skied it for the first time during the Women’s Ski Camp, with a group of supportive women cheering me on as I made my way down the mountain. I have skied this run over 10 times this season, but I am still trying to get comfortable making the first couple of turns on the steep terrain.
Chairlift 3 can be used to reach Chair 23, the Mill, Main Lodge, McCoy Station, or ski St. Anton to Gremlin’s Gulch to reach Chair 12.
- Ride Time: 2:33
- Passenger Capacity: 4
- Pro Tip: Chair 3 at Mammoth Mountain comes around a corner before you unload. It can get windy, so be ready to protect your face from a blast of wind before exiting the chairlift.
- Fun Fact: The backside of Chair 3 to Gremlin’s Gulch down to Chair 12 is a fun intermediate run.
Chair 4 (Roller Coaster Express)
Located near Canyon Lodge, this lift services wide-open groomers with intermediate (blues and blue blacks) and scenic runs. It’s ideal in the early morning for a relaxed warm-up.
Chair 4 can be used to access South Park and Jibs & More terrain parks and fun intermediate groomers like Lost in the Woods and Downhill.
South Park is the longest terrain park in Mammoth Mountain while Jibs & More offers rails, boxes and jump features.
- Ride Time: 4:02
- Passenger Capacity: 4
- Pro Tip: When the line at Canyon Express is long, opt to take Chair 17 (Schoolyard Express) to Chair 4 to reach several of the same runs available from Canyon Express.
- Fun Facts: Follow the signs to access the Village Ski Back Trail that takes you to, you guessed it, back to the Village instead of taking the Gondola. I suggest taking the Ski Back Trail later in the season when it is covered in snow. I did it in early January when there was hardly enough snow to cover the trail.
- Warning: The area between Chair 16 (Canyon Express) and Chair 4 (Roller Coaster) is often called Lookout because several trails merge, crisscrossing one another, creating a chaotic maze of skiers and snowboarders.
Chair 5 (High Five Express)
Centrally located in the middle of the mountain, Chair 5 (High Five Express) at Mammoth Mountain takes you to advanced terrain like Solitude (blue), Sanctuary and Dry Creek (both black diamonds), and Coyote (blue-black run). Dry Creek is known for being great on powder days for expert skiers.
Solitude is best in the morning before the crowds track out the run, and it turns into a human obstacle course. The run is so busy that it’s been referred to as Multitude instead of Solitude due to the sheer volume of skiers and snowboarders on this run. Solitude is one of my least favorite runs on the mountain due to overcrowding.
Lower Dry Creek (a black diamond run) opposite Chair 5. It is an extremely narrow mogul run popular with kids and teens. There is a small cave halfway down the mountain that is a popular teenage hangout. The terrain on this run is not great, and I avoid it like the plague.
My favorite way to access Chair 5 is from Chair 22. Chair 5 is also accessible from Canyon Express (Chair 16) and Roller Coaster (Chair 4).
- Ride Time: 3:43
- Passenger Capacity: 4
- Pro Tip: You can use Chair 5 to access Mill, Canyon, and Eagle Lodges.
- Fun Fact: One of my favorite runs at Mammoth Mountain is Coyote, which is visible (skier’s right) from the base of Chair 5. With no signage, it can be difficult to find.
To find Coyote, take skier’s right off the chairlift and ski along the catwalk until it banks left. Continue to ski down the remaining catwalk (which can get busy and tracked out). Once you are clear, head to skier’s right where the mountain levels off. Just below the plateau is Coyote. Look for the vent emanating a rotten egg sulfur smell, and you’ll know you are in the right place.
Warning: Stay far away from the volcanic vent. In 2006, three ski patrolmen died when one person fell in, and the others tried to save him. A memorial was erected at the top of Mammoth Mountain to honor the fallen Ski Patrolmen.
Chair 6 (Unbound Express)
Freestyle enthusiasts will love Chair 6 (Unbound Express). From Main Lodge, take Chair 6 to access the Main Park with the largest advanced to pro-level features like a 22-foot halfpipe and large and extra large jumps. Stay current on the status of the Unbound terrain parks using Mammoth Mountain’s website.
It’s fun to see others taking these jumps, but they are far outside my wheelhouse.
- Ride Time: 2:40
- Passenger Capacity: 4
- Pro Tip: You can still ski or snowboard in the park without taking the jumps. But keep moving. It’s dangerous to stop below any of the jumps.
- Fun Fact: Mammoth Mountain has hosted the Toyota U.S. Grand Prix twelve-plus times, where famous athletes like Shaun White, Chloe Kim, and others have competed at the Main Park.
Chair 7
Found near Canyon Lodge, this beginner-friendly lift offers gentle slopes and wide groomers. It’s a perfect spot for beginners to practice or first-timers.
- Ride Time: 6:12
- Passenger Capacity: 3
- Pro Tip: Skiers and snowboarders can access the Village Ski Back Trail from Chair 7, which is ideal when the Village Gondola is closed or the line is too long.
- Fun Fact: The Wonderland Playground is accessible from Chair 7. The beginner terrain park is ideal for those looking to explore small jumps.
Chair 8
From Canyon Lodge, you can take Chair 8 to access Eagle Lodge or intermediate and expert terrain. The fun quick runs that take you back to Canyon Lodge.
The chair runs through the trees that often keep skiers and snowboarders out of the cold and windy conditions that can be present at Mammoth Mountain.
- Ride Time: 6:48
- Passenger Capacity: 3
- Pro Tip: When the line at Canyon Express is long, opt to take Chair 8 to Chair 22 for more advanced runs.
- Fun Fact: Chair 8 often stays open when Canyon Express closes at the end of the day or in bad weather.
Chair 9 (Cloud Nine Express)
Positioned on the mountain’s southeast side, this lift offers a mix of intermediate and advanced terrain, including Dragon’s Back – double black diamond inbound chutes.
The views from the top of Chair 9 are stunning, and you can look down at Mammoth Mountain and see Convict Lake.
Cloud 9 Express offers long and challenging fun intermediate runs that run from the top of the mountain down to Eagle Lodge or Canyon Lodge.
You can access Chair 9 from Eagle Express (Chair 15), Chair 22, and 25.
- Ride Time: 6:00
- Passenger Capacity: 6
- Pro Tip: The runs off Cloud 9 Express are often better in the morning when the snow is softened by the sun unless it is a powder day. On powder days, the avalanche risk has to be cleared before Chair 9 and Dragon’s Back open.
- Fun Fact: Chair 9 was the first six-person chairlift at Mammoth Mountain. It has been referred to as the six-pack.
Chair 10 (Gold Rush Express)
Leaving from the Mill, Chair 10 (Gold Rush Express) provides access to the mid-mountain and Canyon and Eagle Lodges. From the top of the chair, head to the skier’s left for a black diamond run (Sunset, formally Spook), the skier’s right for Solitude (intermediate run), or straight off the back to access Eagle Lodge (intermediate and advanced runs). Beginner runs cannot be accessed until lower down on the mountain.
- Ride Time: 5:40
- Passenger Capacity: 4
- Pro Tip: The quickest way to get from Mill Lodge to Canyon Lodge is to take Chair 10 (Gold Rush Express). The only other way to get from the Mill back to Canyon Lodge is to hike up to Chair 21 and then ski down to Chair 4, which will take you up to runs that give you access to Canyon Lodge.
- Fun Fact: The Mill is a great place for lunch. The pork nachos are massive and delicious.
Chair 11 (Discovery Chair)
Beginners flock to Chair 11 (Discovery Chair) for easier green runs and Disco Playground, a beginner terrain park. You can also access Wolly’s Woods, which offers an introduction to tree skiing with a minimal slope. The express quad is a short ride allowing skiers and snowboarders to take run and after run here.
Ski instructors often bring students here to practice drills and skills. It’s easier to hone more advanced skills here before trying them on steep terrain.
During the Women’s ski camp, we used this area to practice our stork turns to help us lean forward and control our inside ski with more accuracy before heading off to conquer challenging terrain like the face of Chair 3 and, for some, Cornius.
- Ride Time: 2:40
- Passenger Capacity: 4
- Pro Tip: If you are working on a skill, give it a try on the runs off Chair 11. You won’t be the only one trying to perfect a new maneuver.
- Fun Fact: Little kids are known to frequent Disco Playground before advancing to Wonderland Playground off Chair 7 near Canyon Lodge.
Chair 12
The 2-person old school chairlift is sheltered by trees, providing refuge on windy days. The sheltered terrain here is best skied during inclement weather but is usually good throughout the ski season. The runs are intermediate-friendly and less trafficked.
One of my favorite runs at Mammoth Mountain is Secret Spot because it is a fun, moderately steep, fast run that brings you back to Chair 12 or back down to Main Lodge.
Chair 12 is accessible from Chair 1 (Broadway Express) and Chair 2 (Stump Alley Express) at Main Lodge or from the top of the mountain.
Chair 13
Another old school double chair, just below the Hemlocks area, is Chair 13. This chairlift services intermediate and expert terrain.
Chair 13 is on the backside of the mountain near the Outpost Lodge, and it takes you to the same place where Chair 12 unloads. From here, you can ski Secret Spot to get back to main Main Lodge. To reach Chair 13, take Chair 23 down to 13 or ski down from Chair 12 to Chair 13.
- Ride Time: 4:45
- Passenger Capacity: 2
- Pro Tip: If you are using Chair 13 to get back to Main Lodge, you need to keep your speed toward the end of the run. There is a significant part of the trail right after you come down the last hill, which is flat. If you don’t keep your speed up, you will find yourself huffing it Chair 12 or Main Lodge.
- Fun Fact: The Outpost Lodge is a great place for lunch. The outdoor lodge is known for its grilled cheese at the Melt House.
Chair 14
Found on the far side of the mountain, Chair 14 is a stone’s throw from Outpost Lodge and Chair 13.
This area offers longer, steeper runs. While Chair 14 takes some effort to reach, it’s worth it. The area is often less crowded than the rest of the mountain.
To access these runs off Chair 14, head down the cat track, known as Road Runner. The cat track can get crowded, but the area opens up to intermediate to advanced skiers if you head straight toward Santigo.
Alternatively, follow Road Runner around the next bend to skier’s right to reach another set of trails. One of my favorite runs on Mammoth Mountain is Arriba – a blue-black run shaped somewhat like a natural half-pipe with high sides. It’s a fun, steep run where you can fly down the mountain.
I didn’t know the run was there until recently, when I was introduced to it during Mammoth Mountain’s Women’s Ski Camp.
- Ride Time: 7:18
- Passenger Capacity: 2
- Pro Tip: Use Chair 14 to access the Hemlocks – an inbound double black diamond area with steeps, chutes, and trees. The Hemlocks are a favorite for advanced skiers and snowboarders in fresh powder after significant snow accumulation.
- Fun Fact: Can you spot the alien and the transformer hidden in the rocks as you get closer to the unload spot?
Chair 15 – Eagle Express
From the base of Eagle Lodge, Chair 15 (Eagle Express) gives skiers and snowboarders access to varied terrain and difficulty. The Eagle Express area is popular because the chairlift is so close to Juniper Lodge, making it easy for a family to get to the slopes without much hassle.
Eagle Express is popular with Mammoth Mountain’s ski and snowboard schools because of the concentrated beginner runs and intermediate runs in the area.
From Chair 15, you can also play in the Eagle Playground terrain park – a beginner terrain park that little kids love.
From Eagle Express, you can also ski down to Chairs 22 or 25 to access terrain higher up the mountain or make your way over to Canyon Lodge.
Eagle Express is known for the ski-in and ski-out condos that are right on the slope.
- Ride Time: 5:27
- Passenger Capacity: 6
- Pro Tip: The lift lines are generally longer when the lift first opens and then tend to lessen as the day goes on.
- Fun Fact: You might see people skinning up the mountain in this area to go backcountry skiing.
Chair 16 – Canyon Express
Just outside Canyon Lodge is Chair 16 – Canyon Express. The high-speed six-person lift moves 3,000 people up the mountain per hour.
The Canyon Express lift is used to gain access to a significant amount of terrain at Mammoth Mountain. You can take the Canyon Express lift to access chairlifts that take you further up the mountain, down to Eagle Lodge, or across the mountain toward Mill and Main Lodges.
The Canyon Express lift loading can be tricky the first time you do it. Skiers and snowboarders line up against six designated spots. You lean forward against the gate. Once the gate opens, you automatically move forward onto a moving carpet, which then moves you to a flat surface. Once you are on the flat surface, a slow-moving chairlift comes up from behind. Once you are loaded, the chairlift moves faster up the mountain. Check out the video below to learn the loading process.
Canyon Express is known for being one of the more wind-prone chairlifts.
- Ride Time: 5:36
- Passenger Capacity: 6
- Pro Tip: If Canyon Express is closed, you can still access some of the same terrain by taking Chair 17 (Schoolyard Express) down to Chair 4 (Roller Coaster). Also, on Saturdays, the lift lines can be long, so pack your patience while you wait to load the chairlift.
- Fun Fact: You never know who you are going to meet on a chairlift. We recently met Steve, a Mammoth Mountain host who was gracious enough to talk to me on camera about the wide range of duties of a Mammoth Mountain host while we rode the chairlift.
Chair 17 (Schoolyard Express)
Chair 17 (Schoolyard Express) offers several runs ideal for beginners. The runs off Chair 17 are extremely wide with a slight slope. These runs are a little more challenging than Chair 11 (Discovery Chair) and are longer, too.
From this chair, you can also play in Huck’s Drop, one of the adventure zones for beginners at Mammoth Mountain.
- Ride Time: 3:51
- Passenger Capacity: 4
- Pro Tip: When Canyon Express has a huge line, opt to access some of the same terrain by taking Chair 17 down to Chair 4.
Chair 20
Chair 20 is in the middle of the Mammoth Mountain, near the top of Chair 21. Whether this chair is running is hit or miss. Chair 20 is often closed.
- Ride Time: 6:00
- Passenger Capacity: 4
- Pro Tip: If you want to ski in the same area as Chair 20, take Chair 21 instead.
Chair 21
Chair 21 gives you access to fun intermediate runs, like Lost in the Woods, where you can easily find yourself alone on the trail.
For adventurers, head down to terrain parks like Transition Park, Jibs & More, Snake Run, and South Park. These intermediate to advanced parks have jumps, rails, and medium to large features.
- Ride Time: 6:24
- Passenger Capacity: 3
- Pro Tip: If Gold Rush Express (Chair 10) is not running, hike up to Chair 21, which will give you access to trails that will take you back to Canyon Lodge.
Chair 22
After a snowstorm, one of my favorite places to ski is off Chair 22. When the sun is shining, the long runs off Chair 22 are a fun way to start the day. The sun hits this area first, softening up the snow to create long, fun groomers like Haven’t the Foggiest and Quicksilver.
Alternatively, you can use Chair 22 to reach chairs 5, 9, and 25 or head to Canyon or Eagle Lodges.
Lincoln Mountain, which runs under Chair 22, is popular on powder days. The Sunshine Glades and Avalanche Chutes offer varied terrain, tree skiing, moguls, and steeps. My husband Gary, who is an excellent skier and was a ski instructor, loves this area when the conditions are good. He could spend all day here. I, on the other hand, prefer the groomed runs.
- Ride Time: 7:24
- Passenger Capacity: 3
- Pro Tip: I like to take Chair 22 to reach Chair 5 in the morning.
- Fun Fact: Can you spot Superman on the way up Chair 22?
Chair 23
Located on the upper central part of Mammoth Mountain, this three-person chair offers access to the steepest and the most hardcore terrain. Advanced skiers love the Dropouts and Wipeouts Chutes, Cornice Bowl, and Scotty’s. By taking Chair 23, you can also access the backside of Mammoth Mountain and Chairs 13 and 14.
Chair 23 is one of the steepest and highest lifts in Mammoth Mountain, climbing 1,121 feet in under 6 minutes, moving 1,500 people per hour. As you come up to the top of the lift, you enter an enclosed structure at an extremely steep angle as the chairlift climbs over rocky terrain. I was surprised by how unnerved I felt as the lift became extremely steep right before we entered the structure.
A word of caution to those heading up Chair 23. The top is exposed to the elements. The wind often picks up as you unload from Chair 23. As you head to skier’s right, the wind can be intense and extremely unpleasant, forcing skiers and snowboarders to move quickly off the top of the mountain.
However, on a nice day, the views are stunning.
- Ride Time: 5:28
- Passenger Capacity: 3
- Pro Tip: I like to ski Skyline (black diamond) down to the terrain accessible from Chair 14.
- Fun Fact: On your way up the lift, just before you unload, look to your right and see if you can spot the incredible Hulk.
Chair 25
Some of the best terrain for intermediate skiers is accessible from Chair 25. There are so many blue-black runs that you can enjoy all day. These runs are long and steep.
Chair 25 can be hard to find. To access it, take Chair 9 (Cloud Nine Express) to Back for More or Chair 15 (Eagle Express) to Manzanita.
One of the most important things to know about Chair 25 is it is the only chairlift at Mammoth Mountain without a safety bar.
- Ride Time: 9:24
- Passenger Capacity: 4
- Pro Tip: The best time to take Chair 25 is in the morning when the sun is the strongest.
- Fun Fact: If you look close enough, just below the unloading point, you can see the World War II howitzer in the trees that is used by Mammoth Mountain as part of its avalanche control program.
Panorama Gondola
Starting at Main Lodge, this gondola takes you to the summit for breathtaking views and advanced terrain. Best ridden early for photography or during the afternoon to avoid crowds. The gondola stops at McCoy Station, where you can stop for lunch or keep going to the top of the mountain to access runs like Cornice, Climax, and Dave’s Run.
If you are an intermediate skier or snowboarder, you can take Upper Road Runner from the top of the mountain down the backside of the mountain. Upper Road Runner is a cat track that has a drop-off on the left side. So, if fear of heights is a problem for you, you might want to avoid this run.
- Ride Time: 3:08 to McCoy Station and from McCoy Station to The Summit is 3:48
- Passenger Capacity: 8
- Pro Tip: The best time to take the Gondola is in the morning. The afternoon wind on the top of the mountain can be unbearable.
- Fun Fact: You don’t have to be a skier or snowboarder to take a roundtrip ride on the Gondola.
Village Gondola
Connecting The Village at Mammoth to Canyon Lodge, this gondola is a convenient way to reach the slopes, especially for après-ski enthusiasts.
- Ride Time: 4:45
- Passenger Capacity: 15
- Pro Tip: Pay attention to the gondola lines at Canyon Lodge on a Saturday afternoon. Due to the Saturday parties, the lines can get extremely long. Once it hits closing time, the Gondola gets turned off for the day, regardless if you are still in line and you don’t want to have to wait for a tram. If it’s early enough, head to Chair 7 and take The Village Ski Back Trail.
- Fun Fact: The Village Gondola gives you a bird’s eye view of the neighborhood below.
My Favorite Mammoth Mountain Route
We often ski the following route, conquering a significant portion of the mountain together. According to my IKON app, this route covers about 8,500 vertical feet and approximately 10 miles.
- Canyon Express (Chair 16) to Chair 22
- Chair 22 to Chair 5 (High-Five Express)
- Chair 5 (High-Five Express) to Chair 2 (Stump Alley Express)
- Chair 2 (Stump Alley Express) to Chair 1 (Broadway Express)
- Chair 1 (Broadway Express) to Chair 12
- Chair 12 to Chair 1 (Broadway Express)
- Chair 1 (Broadway Express) to Chair 10 (Gold Rush Express)
- Chair 10 (Gold Rush Express) takes you back to Canyon Lodge
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the weather like at Mammoth Mountain during ski season?
Mammoth Mountain weather conditions can vary throughout the ski season. You may experience everything from bluebird days with spring-like conditions to powder days with fresh snowfall. Winter temperatures typically range from the low teens to the 30s (°F), with colder conditions at higher elevations. Be sure to check the Mammoth Mountain weather forecast before heading up to ensure you’re prepared for the latest conditions. A good resource for Mammoth Mountain weather Mammoth Mountain Snowman.
Where can I find the Mammoth Mountain snow report?
You can check the Mammoth Mountain snow report on the official Mammoth website, where they update base depth, snowfall totals, and real-time ski conditions.
Is there a webcam at Mammoth Mountain?
Yes! Mammoth Mountain has multiple live webcams offering real-time views of the slopes. You can check the Mammoth Mountain ski cams on their official website to see the current snow coverage, weather conditions, and lift activity. Popular webcams include views from Main Lodge, McCoy Station, and the summit.
Can I buy Mammoth Mountain lift tickets in advance?
Yes! It’s highly recommended to purchase Mammoth Mountain lift tickets in advance to secure the best rates and guarantee availability, especially on busy weekends and holidays. You can buy Ikon Pass lift tickets, single-day, and multi-day passes directly from the Mammoth Mountain website.
Is there only one Mammoth Lakes Ski Resort?
Yes, in Mammoth, California, there is one ski resort – Mammoth Mountain. About 20-30 minutes away is June Mountain, which is another terrific option where kids under 12 ski for free.
Does my Ikon pass work at Mammoth Mountain?
Yes, at the time of writing, Mammoth Mountain is part of the Ikon Pass.
Final Thoughts
Mammoth Mountain offers an unforgettable skiing and snowboarding experience with its diverse terrain, efficient lift system, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re carving down wide groomers or tackling expert runs, Mammoth has something for every skier and rider. So, pack your gear, hit the road (or the skies), and get ready for an epic adventure at one of California’s top ski destinations.
Have you skied at Mammoth Mountain? Share your favorite chairs, runs, and tips in the comments below!
Come back in the summer to explore the best summer activities in Mammoth Lakes.
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P.S. Thank you to my friends who helped me film all of these videos. I appreciate their patience and support while we explored Mammoth Mountain.
There’s a lot of ground to explore on Mammoth Mountain. I don’t ski, however I love the snow and go snowshoe walking or regular walking in a snowy landscape. So the Panoramo Gondola would be my lift to take.
I have never been to California, and I didn’t know I could find beautiful ski resorts like this one. I’ll save it for future trips. The videos were also very useful.
A comprehensive guide that is a must read for all ski lovers looking to holiday in Mammoth Mountain.
I can see why Mammoth Mountain draws lots of skiers. Your chairlift tips will certainly help people to make the most of their visit. Some fun chairlift tips too! Thanks for sharing your favourite ski routes.
You’ve got so much detail for all the chairlifts for the different runs at Mammoth Mountain… This is exactly what I need for planning my ski vacation! Thank you!