Mammoth Mountain is one of the premier ski resorts in California, attracting skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. However, one of the biggest concerns for visitors is finding parking at the resort, particularly during peak season. Below, the team from ASO Mammoth, your one-stop shop for high-quality ski rental and gear as well as premier Mammoth snowboard rentals and repair, explore your options for parking at Mammoth and provide guidance on how early you should arrive to secure a spot.

The Parking Situation at Mammoth

Mammoth Mountain has a total of nine parking lots, including three reserved for season pass holders. The main parking lots are located at the base of the mountain and include Main Lodge, Canyon Lodge, Eagle Lodge, and the Village Gondola. Each of these lots has its own unique features, such as proximity to lifts, shuttle stops, and restaurants, but they all fill up quickly during peak season.

At each base lodge (Main, Canyon, and Eagle), you can find parking areas that don’t cost anything. Additional free parking lots are available at Chair 4 and Chair 2 (The Mill).

Paid preferred parking is also available at all lodges on a first come, first served basis. With this option, you’ll have easy access to your car throughout the day, but if you leave, your parking spot won’t be reserved.

How Early You Should Arrive

How early you should get to the mountain depends on several factors, such as the day of the week, the time of year, and the parking lot you want to use. Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:

Weekdays – On weekdays, especially non-holiday weekdays, you can typically arrive at the parking lots as late as 9 or 10 a.m. and still find a spot. However, if you want to park in a specific lot, such as Main Lodge or Canyon Lodge, it’s best to arrive earlier (around 8 a.m.) to ensure a spot.
Weekends and holidays – On weekends and holidays, parking lots fill up much earlier, often before 8 a.m. During peak season, it’s not uncommon for lots to be full by 7 a.m., so if you’re planning to ski or snowboard on a weekend or holiday, it’s essential to arrive as early as possible.
The Village Gondola – If you’re parking at the Village Gondola, which provides access to the Canyon Lodge area, you may have more flexibility in terms of arrival time. The Village Gondola lot tends to fill up later in the day, as many skiers and snowboarders prefer to park at Main Lodge or Canyon Lodge. However, keep in mind the shuttle from the Village Gondola to Canyon Lodge can get crowded during peak season.

Tips for Parking at Mammoth

Here are some additional tips to help you navigate the parking situation at Mammoth:

Carpool – If possible, carpool with friends or family members to reduce the number of cars in the parking lot. This not only helps with parking but also reduces your carbon footprint.
Use the shuttle – Mammoth offers a free shuttle service that runs between the parking lots and the base areas. Using the shuttle can save you time and hassle, as you won’t have to navigate the crowded parking lots.
Consider alternative transportation – If you’re staying in Mammoth Lakes, consider using the public transportation system, such as the local bus or the Eastern Sierra Transit Authority. Some hotels also offer shuttle services to and from the resort.
Check the forecast – If you’re planning to ski or snowboard on a weekday, check the weather forecast in advance. If a storm is predicted, many people may decide to stay home, which could mean fewer crowds and a better chance of finding a parking spot.

By following the above details, you can plan ahead and prepare to have a great time at Mammoth Mountain. Whether you need last-minute mountain biking gear, top-notch snowboard repair, or high-quality ski rentals in Mammoth, ASO Mammoth is your one-stop shop for everything you need to have a great time on the mountain during every season. Stop by on your way to the mountain or give us a call at 760-965-3444.