Thanks to radical terrain ideal for biking, an assortment of hiking trails perfect for every skill level, and its family-friendly Adventure Center—Mammoth Mountain—is an excellent summer destination. If you’ve already made up your mind to plan a summer trip here, the next thing to do is decide what to pack. Below you’ll find some suggestions to consider, brought to you by the knowledgeable staff at ASO Mammoth, your one-stop shop for all the equipment you need to enjoy your time in Mammoth, whether it’s fishing tackle, mountain biking accessories, or Mammoth snowboard rentals.
Warmer Clothes for Cool Evenings
This may seem like a silly suggestion, given the fact that Mammoth Mountain is in California, but it’s actually a practical one. Because of the high elevations here, evenings can be on the cool side, so you’ll definitely appreciate having quick access to a hoodie or light jacket as the sun goes down.
Hiking, Biking, or Camping Gear
If you have plans to hike, bike, or camp during your trip to Mammoth, make sure you bring the right gear so you’ll be safe and comfy. For hiking, the essentials include:
• Hiking boots or shoes
• A lightweight backpack with some snacks and water
• A first aid kit
• Navigation tools
For biking, whether it will involve the Paper Route Loop, the popular Mountain View Trail, or another trail that appeals to you, you’ll need a properly fitting helmet and a good pair of gloves. You may also want to pack long pants to protect your legs as you ride.
Whether you have plans to camp at the popular Camp High Sierra, the Mammoth RV Park and Campground, or another local camping spot during your trip, camping-related accessories to consider packing include:
• A tent or sleeping bag if you prefer the true camping experience
• A lantern or flashlight
• Portable camp chairs
• A mix of warmer and cooler clothing to be prepared for temperature changes during the day
Comfortable, Supportive Shoes
Covering more than 3,000 acres, Mammoth Mountain absolutely lives up to its name. What this means for you is a lot of opportunities to walk, hike, explore, and do other things involving a need to put one foot in front of the other. Add comfortable, supportive shoes to your Mammoth packing list for your summer trip. Also, mix things up with your footwear (e.g., boots for hiking, more casual shoes for general exploring, etc.) based on your planned summertime activities during your trip here.
Sunglasses & Sunscreen
Along with looking cool, sunglasses serve some practical purposes for summertime visitors to Mammoth. For one thing, they can reduce glare as you enjoy your preferred outdoor activities. Also, they’ll protect your eyes from the sun’s UV rays. As long as we’re on the topic of sun, don’t forget to pack sunscreen, too. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 for sufficient protection.
Fishing/Water Gear & Accessories
If you have plans to visit the Mammoth Lakes Basin during your summer trip to this area, remember to pack your fishing and/or water gear. With fishing, you can actually purchase the basics when you get here, while many anglers prefer to bring their own rods and tackle boxes. Water-related accessories you may want to pack include:
• Swimwear, since swimming is allowed in all lakes in the basin
• Life jackets or vests if you’ll be kayaking, canoeing, boating, or paddleboarding
• A hat or visor to keep the sun out of your eyes
If you’re on your way to the gorgeous Mammoth area during the summer, don’t forget to stop in and see the friendly folks at ASO Mammoth. Whether they need fishing equipment, hiking or mountain biking gear, or top-quality ski rentals, Mammoth visitors will find everything they need at our shop throughout the year. Drop by on your way to the mountain or give us a call at 760-965-3444.