Written by: Helen Wells
Helen writes for Mammoth Mountain Reservations, sharing insights and local expertise on what makes Mammoth Lakes a standout mountain destination, from seasonal activities to unforgettable alpine experiences.
Winter is a particularly exciting time to visit Mammoth Lakes, since the Eastern Sierra becomes a snowy playground with all sorts of activities, including excellent skiing and snowboarding, snowmobiling, tubing, hot springs, and entertainment for the whole family.
Mammoth Mountain is a major attraction, but during the winter season, Mammoth Lakes offers more than just skiing. You have the opportunity to hike on the snow-covered trails, take the scenic gondola ride, soak in the natural hot springs, or visit local restaurants and après-ski establishments. If you're here to ski or simply want a break in the mountains, there's plenty to do in Mammoth in the winter.
A highlight of a visit to Mammoth Lakes in the winter is the range of activities available. You might begin your day by skiing, have lunch in The Village, snowmobile in the afternoon, and finish off with a hot spring bath under the stars. If you need more suggestions, check out all the winter activities Mammoth Lakes has to offer before making your plans.
In This Piece:
- Why Visit Mammoth Lakes in Winter?
- Skiing and Snowboarding at Mammoth Mountain
- Winter Activities Beyond Skiing
- Why Mammoth Is Great for Non-Skiers
- Things to Do in Mammoth Lakes With Kids in Winter
- Après-Ski, Dining, and Nightlife
- Driving to Mammoth Lakes in Winter
- Adjusting to Mammoth's Elevation
- Where to Stay in Mammoth Lakes
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Visit Mammoth Lakes in Winter?
There is no other place in California that, in the winter, combines as well the beautiful scenery, reliable snowfall, outdoor pursuits, and the atmosphere of a mountain town as Mammoth Lakes. The winter season there usually extends from late fall through to spring because of its high altitude and consistent snowfall.
You could spend several days exploring the mountain, having a go at winter sports, or just enjoying the snowy peaks and forests. Unlike destinations with only one main attraction, Mammoth offers enough variety to keep everyone in your group happy.
For this reason, Mammoth Lakes attracts families, couples, groups of friends, and individual travelers. If you want to ski or wish to take part in other winter activities, you'll find a wide range of ways to spend your days in this area.
Skiing and Snowboarding at Mammoth Mountain
For most travelers, when asked what the best things to do at Mammoth Lakes in winter are, their answer starts with skiing and snowboarding at Mammoth Mountain.
Mammoth Mountain offers over 3,500 skiable acres, ample lift service, and terrain suitable for skiers and snowboarders ranging from beginners to experts. Because of its high elevation, the snow remains in good condition for most of the season, and the numerous runs ensure there is something to appeal to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
People who are new to skiing can take lessons and practice in designated areas to build confidence, while more advanced skiers have access to a wide range of runs and can push themselves by skiing on steep slopes, in tree runs, and in the terrain parks.
As Mammoth draws in visitors from all over, it's a good idea to plan in advance. So, before you go, you should research all the available skiing and snowboarding opportunities so that you can get the most out of your time on the mountain.
Even if your main reason for being here is skiing, you should make sure to see the area's other attractions, since one of the best aspects of a winter visit to Mammoth is that it's easy to combine outdoor adventure with relaxation and sightseeing.
Winter Activities Beyond Skiing
People don't all come to Mammoth to ski, and even those who usually ski may wish for a break. Fortunately, there are a great many other things to do here in the winter.
Snowmobiling
One of the best winter activities to do beyond skiing is snowmobiling!
People who wish to go further into the Eastern Sierra can take guided adventures or go on self-guided snowmobile trips, with snowmobile rentals and tours available in Mammoth Lakes. Such journeys take visitors through forests, meadows, and scenic viewpoints that many tourists would not otherwise see in winter.
The trails and tours in the area are suitable for all skill levels, whether you are just starting with snowmobiling or are an experienced rider.
Snow Tubing
One of the best ways to have fun in the winter is snow tubing.
Families who want a relaxed way to enjoy the snow often spend an afternoon snow tubing in Mammoth Lakes. Groomed lanes and lift-assisted rides make it easy for all ages. Unlike skiing and snowboarding, tubing needs almost no instruction, so it’s one of the easiest winter activities here.
It is particularly popular among families with young children or people who wish to enjoy the snow without buying special equipment.
Snowshoeing
If you want to enjoy a more peaceful winter pastime, snowshoeing offers an alternative way to view Mammoth's landscape.
Rather than taking busy ski slopes, you have the option of wandering through tranquil alpine forests and snowy meadows. If you're looking for a more leisurely adventure away from the crowds, snowshoeing in Mammoth Lakes will allow you to view some of the region's most beautiful winter landscapes.
Snowshoeing requires only a little experience, which is why it is one of the easiest activities for people who don't ski to enjoy themselves in the outdoors.
Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is highly regarded at Mammoth in the winter season.
The well-kept Nordic trails in the area allow you to glide through the forests and over the snowy meadows at a more relaxed pace than usual in the Eastern Sierra; furthermore, they offer an excellent workout and are a good option for people who want to stay active without skiing downhill.
Ice Skating
Another classic winter activity is ice skating.
Whether or not people are good at skiing, families, couples, and groups can have an afternoon or an evening on the ice. Another option suitable for families is ice skating in Mammoth Lakes, which offers a traditional snow-season experience for all ages.
Scenic Gondola Rides
You do not need skis to enjoy the great views at Mammoth Mountain.
You can enjoy spectacular views of the Sierra Nevada without having to ski, thanks to a scenic gondola ride. On clear days, the sightseeing extends for miles over the mountains and valleys, which is why it is popular with both photographers and tourists.
Hot Springs
One of the most unique things to do in Mammoth is to explore a natural hot spring after having been in the snow.
The combination of warm water and the snowy landscape creates an unforgettable winter experience, and many visitors consider the hot springs a highlight of their trip, particularly after skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling.
Why Mammoth Is Great for Non-Skiers
It is a common misconception that Mammoth attracts only skiers and snowboarders.
In fact, a great many people go to Mammoth Lakes every winter without purchasing a lift ticket, since the town offers a variety of snow activities, good dining options, sightseeing opportunities, and beautiful scenery, making it an excellent place for anyone wishing to enjoy winter in the mountains.
People who don't ski can spend their days tubing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, soaking in the hot springs, taking the gondola, shopping, or sampling the local restaurants. Winter photography is also popular, particularly when fresh snow produces dramatic landscapes.
Mammoth is an excellent option for groups made up of people with different interests, since while some of them ski, others take part in other activities, and thus nobody feels left out.
If you’re wondering if a Mammoth Lakes winter trip is worth it without skiing, the answer is definitely yes.
Things to Do in Mammoth Lakes With Kids in Winter
There are plenty of things for families to do in Mammoth Lakes in the winter.
Skiing lessons are popular, but a great many children are just as pleased at playing in the snow, and activities such as tubing, sledding, building snowmen, having snowball fights, and ice skating usually end up being the highlights of a family getaway.
Younger children can enjoy the mountain scenery without using ski equipment by taking the scenic gondola rides. Throughout the winter season, families can visit local restaurants, see what's happening in the village, and take part in seasonal activities.
A big advantage of Mammoth is its flexibility; parents need not plan each day around skiing, since there are numerous other attractions for both children and adults.
Après-Ski, Dining, and Nightlife
After being out all day, the dining establishments and après-ski venues in Mammoth are an excellent way to relax and recharge.
You have the choice of visiting casual cafés, pizza places, craft breweries, sports bars, or upscale restaurants. It is common for people to include après-ski in their daily routine by getting drinks and snacks before returning to their accommodation that evening.
The Village is popular as a place to spend the winter, offering dining options, shopping facilities, entertainment, and a lively atmosphere. If you'd like to have a special dinner after having fun in the snow or simply want a hot meal after you've been exploring, Mammoth has a variety of choices.
Even if you don't spend a great deal of time on the mountain, you could still discover that the dining options in Mammoth are a highlight of your journey.
Driving to Mammoth Lakes in Winter
It's important to take winter driving conditions into account when you're planning your trip.
The fact that Mammoth is situated in the Eastern Sierra means winter storms can rapidly change road conditions. Chain use may be required on the highways leading into town, depending on the weather conditions. Since California's regulations differ by vehicle type and road conditions, it is important to be prepared before driving in mountain areas.
In the Eastern Sierra, the winter weather can change quickly, so if you are a first-time visitor, you should look at the advice regarding driving in Mammoth snow before your trip.
It is sensible to allow extra travel time, check the weather forecasts frequently, and keep emergency supplies in your car; a bit of preparation can make winter travel not only safer but also less stressful.
Adjusting to Mammoth's Elevation
What also confuses some visitors is the height of the Mammoth.
The town lies at an altitude of 7,800 feet, and some areas of Mammoth Mountain rise above 11,000 feet; if you're starting from a lower elevation, you may experience headaches, tiredness, shortness of breath, or dehydration during your first day or two.
The best approach is to stay hydrated, rest when necessary, and ease into strenuous activities. Because Mammoth sits at a much higher elevation than many California destinations, it's helpful to understand how to acclimate to its altitude before arriving.
Taking elevation seriously will lead you to spending your vacation outdoors rather than recovering indoors.
Where to Stay in Mammoth Lakes
Featured Rental: MountainBack #100
Staying in the right place can really improve your winter vacation.
Whether you plan to ski, snowmobile, snowshoe, go tubing, visit hot springs, or just play in the snow, staying in a Mammoth vacation rental puts you close to the area’s top attractions and winter activities.
Vacation homes provide the room and comfort that many tourists are looking for after a day spent outdoors, and features such as full kitchens, fireplaces, additional bedrooms, private balconies, garage parking, and easy access to shuttles make winter trips simpler and more pleasant.
Mammoth Reservations offers a variety of accommodations, no matter what type of trip you are planning—whether that be a ski trip, a family vacation, or a romantic getaway to the mountains. Arrange your stay and discover what makes the winter season in Mammoth Lakes so remarkable.
Planning a winter trip to Mammoth? Check out our Mammoth Lakes vacation rentals for easy access to skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, tubing, dining, and other popular winter activities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do in Mammoth Lakes in winter besides skiing?
Among the popular activities that do not involve skiing are snowmobiling, snow tubing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, scenic gondola rides, hot springs, shopping, dining, and sightseeing.
Is Mammoth Lakes worth visiting in winter if you do not ski?
Yes, a great number of visitors enjoy their time at Mammoth Lakes without skiing by snowmobiling, tubing, visiting the hot springs, dining at restaurants, enjoying the winter scenery, and participating in family-friendly activities.
When does the winter season start in Mammoth Lakes?
Winter conditions generally begin in November, though the amount of snow varies from year to year. The ski season usually begins in the fall and often extends into spring.
Do you need snow chains to drive to Mammoth Lakes?
Chain use is often necessary during winter storms and may be legally required in certain cases, depending on road conditions and vehicle type. It is always advisable for visitors to check the road reports before setting off.
What is there to do in Mammoth Lakes with kids in winter?
Families can enjoy tubing, sledding, snow play, ice skating, scenic gondola rides, beginner ski lessons, family-friendly dining, and seasonal winter events around Mammoth Lakes.