Mammoth Mountain

As the highest ski resort in California with 32 feet-plus (10 m) average snowfall and a top elevation of 11,030 feet (3362m), Mammoth Mountain is easily one of the most impressive resorts in the US, let alone its home state. It offers 3,607 acres (1,460 hectares) of skiable terrain nestled within the High Sierras, the tallest mountain range in the US outside of Alaska, and ranks California’s third largest ski area after Heavenly and Squaw Valley.

Mammoth’s craggy peaks, serious steeps, vast intermediate terrain, 300+ sunny days per year on average, and lively well-established town complemented by a modern purpose-built village with quality accommodation combine to make it a firm favorite with families and groups. Being six hours from Los Angeles it is also a favorite for weekend warriors.

Thanks to its elevation Mammoth Mountain is renowned for reliable quality snow, and ski seasons that can run from November to July. It is also spectacular, with stunning views from the high peaks across the Sierras to the plains below.

Mammoth was borne from the enthusiasm and vision of former California ski champion Dave McCoy. In his 20s McCoy noticed the mountainous region received more snow than any of its neighbors. He persevered in the face of financial adversity to establish a ski lift and later a ski lodge. The first lift was built in 1955 and the rest, as they say, is history.

Mammoth Mountain Resort is part of the IKON family of ski resorts and can be skied on a regular lift pass as well as the IKON Pass.

Photo Credit: © PHOTO COURTESY OF MAMMOTH MOUNTAIN SKI AREA