Mammoth Mountain is one of the premier mountain resorts in California. Sure, you think of California as a warm and sunny place to visit, not a “winter” destination, but Mammoth is sure to surprise. The resort defies the notion you have to freeze your tail off in order to get your snow groove on. If you like to ski or ride, you’ve got to try Mammoth in the Springtime.
The resort is the highest ski peak in California at 11,053 feet. Nestled on the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, it is blessed with an average annual snowfall of 400 inches per year and operates from November until June. On occasion, the resort stays open until July 4th. What you get is powder-light snow under clear blue skies!
The town of Mammoth Lakes boasts an array of hotels and resorts to host visitors no matter your budget. Spring is the best time of year to take advantage of a beautiful resort for cheap. The Westin and The Village accommodations typically cost $375 – $600 per night during winter peak-season. Come Spring, you can find rates for almost half that amount (www.mammothmountain.com or www.westin.com). If these options are still too pricey, stay on Main Street at the Quality Inn, Holiday Inn, or Motel 6. Free public transportation is provided throughout the entire town of Mammoth Lakes, as well as to all Ski Lodge locations on the mountain.
Getting there is easy too. There are daily flights from San Jose, Los Angeles, Reno, Portland and Seattle. If you prefer to drive, it’s approximately 5 hours from LA, 4 hours from the Bay Area and Las Vegas. Or, leave the driving to one of the several bus companies who provide shuttles to Mammoth. For more Mammoth info.
In addition to low resort rates, it’s easy to find your winter gear for cheap as well. If you’re going to tackle the mountain, then you’ve got to look good. Take advantage of equipment and skiwear sales at one of the many shops in town or on the mountain. You’re sure to find deals from 20% – 50% off at almost every retailer. Of course, you could always just wear your t-shirt and shorts on the mountain. Trust me, it is warm enough.
Happy skiing!
