Summary

Summit Elevation 11,053 ft / 3,369 m

Base Elevation 7,953 ft / 2,424 m

Skiable Terrain 3,500+ ac / 1,400+ ha

Vertical Rise 3,100 ft / 945 m

Number of Named Trails 180

Number of Lifts 25 (includes 8 express quads, 4 express six-packs, 2 gondolas)

Snowmaking 81 trails

Parks & Pipes 10 parks with 100+ jibs and 50+ jumps; 2 halfpipes

Days of Sunshine Per Year 300 average

Average Snowfall Per Year 350 inches / 890 cm

Season Length Typically Nov–June

Terrain Breakdown

13% Easiest

28% Slightly Difficult

20% Difficult

24% Very Difficult

15% Extremely Difficult

Located in California’s Eastern Sierra, Mammoth Mountain has been a go-to destination for snowboarders for decades. Thanks to its impressive snowfall record — including a huge 900 inches at the summit and just over 700 inches at the Main Lodge, which was plenty to keep us shredding into summer.  During the 2022/2023 season- (TheNowboarder's Journal), the riding season often stretches well into May. Spring laps under bluebird skies are part of the experience here.

The Village sits on the edge of town and acts as the main tourist hub, with restaurants, bars, and shops all within easy reach. From there, a high-speed gondola whisks you straight up to Canyon Lodge, one of three main base areas accessing the mountain. It’s an easy, stress-free way to start your day on the hill.

Weekends can get busy, especially when riders escape from California’s major cities, but don’t let that put you off. By U.S. standards, Mammoth is massive. With over 3,500 acres and more than 150 trails spread across the slopes of a long-extinct volcano, there’s room to explore. Whether you’re lapping groomers, hunting powder stashes, or dipping into the trees, there’s terrain to match every style and ability.

The terrain parks are where Mammoth really shines. Mammoth Unbound has earned legendary status in the snowboard world, offering more than a dozen park zones designed for everyone from first-timers to seasoned freestyle riders. It’s one of the best places in the country to build confidence and progress your park game.

Beyond the parks, the mountain delivers solid variety — open bowls, playful side hits, tree runs, and a fast, efficient lift system with no drag lifts to slow you down. One minor downside is that piste markings can sometimes be limited, but once you get your bearings, the layout is fairly intuitive and easy to navigate.

Overall, Mammoth is a standout resort for snowboarders — long seasons, serious park credentials, and enough terrain to keep you coming back for more.

Freestyle at Mammoth Mountain

For freestyle snowboarders, Mammoth Mountain is a dream playground. Whether you love natural hits or purpose-built jumps, the resort has you covered. In recent years, Mammoth “Unbound” has evolved into more than a dozen integrated parks spread across the mountain, offering freestyle terrain at multiple points for all skill levels.

Each base lodge features its own “fun zone,” designed for learning and progression. Gentle rollers, small snow spines, and mini boxes let beginners build confidence before stepping up. The “Unbound Playgrounds” offer a mellow introduction to park features, with jumps and boxes that grow taller and longer as you progress.

Intermediate riders can test themselves on areas like the Forest Trail, Rhythm Ride, Jibs Galore, and South Park — home to an 18’ halfpipe. The Main Park is where advanced riders find super-sized jumps, technical features, and a 22’ superpipe. A dedicated 30-strong park team maintains the terrain throughout the season, even after Mammoth’s heavy annual snowfall.

Runs

If you enjoy carving fresh tracks and seeing your lines unfold, Mammoth won’t disappoint. The runs are meticulously groomed, offering everything from fast, open slopes to more relaxed rides. Saddle Bowl, for example, is a long, smooth blue run perfect for a cruise or practicing carving techniques. With over 150 trails across the mountain, there’s plenty of variety for all riding styles.

Beginners

Beginners will feel right at home at Mammoth. The lower sections are full of green and easy blue runs, ideal for learning and progressing at your own pace. The Sesame Street run off Chair 11 at Main Lodge is especially beginner-friendly — it’s isolated from busier trails, letting new riders focus without distraction.

Mammoth also offers excellent snowboard lessons and special beginner packages that include lifts and gear, making it simple to get started. The local snowboard school has a solid reputation, ensuring your first days on the board are both safe and fun.

Living & Playing in Mammoth Lakes

While each base area offers ski-in/ski-out accommodation and basic facilities, the best value is often staying in the town of Mammoth Lakes, about 4 miles from the mountain.

Town Amenities

Mammoth Lakes has a wide selection of local services, from supermarkets to gear shops. While the area isn’t known for being cheap, budget-conscious riders can still manage with low-cost dorms, affordable supermarkets, and deals at local eateries. For snowboard needs, the town has several shops, slopeside rentals, and demo centers where you can leave your gear overnight.

Food Options

Dining is diverse, though often pricey. Happy hour deals can help stretch your budget. For casual eats, spots like Slocums serve burgers and fries for around $8, and a large supermarket (Vons) makes self-catering easy. The Main Lodge area has fewer dining options and higher prices, so plan accordingly if staying slopeside.

Accommodation

Mammoth Lakes offers plenty of accommodation, including condos, B&Bs, and a hostel, though prices can be high. The Village, at the edge of town, has apartments that provide near ski-in/ski-out access but come at a premium.

For slopeside convenience, the Mammoth Mountain Inn at Main Lodge provides good room and lift deals. It’s located at the end of the road up the mountain, offering early access to the slopes, though nightlife is limited. A free bus shuttle connects you to the rest of the resort.

Nightlife

Nightlife in Mammoth Lakes is more relaxed than in Europe but still lively. The town and Village are the main hubs. For a local vibe, check out Slocums (next to Wave Rave snowboard shop) or Outlaws — both accessible via the free bus. In the Village, Smoke Yard and Lakanuki’s (open late) are popular spots. The Clock Tower Cellar and Yodlers at Main Lodge are great for a post-ride beer. Most bars offer happy hours in the late afternoon, often with beers under $5.

Getting to Mammoth Mountain

By Bus: 

CREST offers service from Reno/Tahoe three days a week. The ride from Reno takes roughly 3½ hours. For schedules and reservations, call (800) 922-1930.

By Train: There’s no direct train service to Mammoth Mountain.

By Car:

• From Los Angeles: Take US 395 north to Highway 203 at Mammoth Lakes Junction — approximately 307 miles.
  
  

• From Reno: US 395 south to Highway 203 — about 168 miles.
  
  

• From the San Francisco area: Interstate 80 or Interstate 50 to US 395 south, then Highway 203 — roughly 320 miles.
  
  

By Air:

• The nearest major airports are Reno International, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Transfer time from these airports to the resort is roughly 4 hours.
  
  

• Mammoth Lakes Airport is the closest local airport, just 20 minutes from the resort.
  
  

Contact & Address:
P.O. Box 24, #1 Minaret Road, Mammoth Lakes, California 93546
Tel: 800-626-6684

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