Featuring more than 100 trails and an abundance of natural beauty, Mammoth Mountain is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the Mammoth Lakes area. However, you don’t have to be an expert to enjoy a summer or autumn hike here, since there are easily accessible hiking destinations suitable for all skill levels. But you do need to make sure you have essential hiking gear and related accessories for your trip to Mammoth. Check out this list of important items to remember, brought to you by the mountain sports experts at ASO Mammoth, your one-stop shop for all the equipment you need to have a fantastic time in Mammoth, whether it’s hiking gear, fishing tackle, or Mammoth Mountain bike rentals.
A Backpack You Can Manage
Bring a backpack with you so you can focus more on what you’re seeing around you while hiking in the Mammoth area. Look for one you can comfortably wear and manage as you hike. Opt for one specifically designed for hiking with areas for extra clothing, light snacks, water, and other essentials mentioned below.
Clothing Appropriate for Hiking
A common mistake newer hikers make is just wearing everyday clothes like jeans and a t-shirt when hiking. The problem is some types of casual clothing tend to get heavy when you work up a sweat as you hike. Be better prepared for your trip to Mammoth by opting for:
• Moisture-resistant, or “wicking,” clothes
• Long pants so your legs don’t get scratched by anything along the trails
• Layers if you’ll be hiking later in the day, since temps can be a bit on the cool side here, especially in late summer and early fall
It can also be helpful to bring a rain jacket or disposable poncho in case the weather suddenly changes. Extras like these can be placed in your backpack.
Comfortable, Supportive Shoes or Boots
Footwear is especially important when hiking in the Mammoth area. Athletic shoes with a good grip can be fine as long as you’re getting sufficient traction and support. If you prefer hiking boots, the outdoor sports experts at REI recommend lower-cut boots with flexible midsoles for daytime hiking.
Water & Light Snacks
Fluid loss can happen faster than you may realize while hiking or spending any time outdoors. Avoid dehydration by bringing bottled water or a reusable water bottle with you. Also, pack some light snacks, like granola bars, for times when you need an energy boost.
Navigation Options
Mammoth Mountain alone has numerous trails, and the entire Mammoth Lakes Trail System consists of roughly 300 miles of trails. Even though there are trail markers and other ways to tell where you are, it never hurts to err on the side of caution and bring your phone or another navigation tool with you.
Sunscreen & Additional Backpack Essentials
Even on a cloudy day, UV rays from the sun can still get through and affect exposed skin. This is why another hiking essential is sunscreen. Round out your hiking essentials prep list with the following items that can be stashed in your backpack:
• A first aid kit
• Insect repellent
• A small flashlight or headlamp in case your hike extends later in the day
If you’re on your way to gorgeous Mammoth Mountain to do some hiking, don’t forget to stop in and see the friendly folks at ASO Mammoth. Whether they need hiking equipment, fishing gear, or top-quality e-bike rentals, Mammoth visitors can find everything they need at our premier outdoor store. Drop by on your way to the mountain or give us a call at 760-965-3444.
Winter is just around the corner, so while you’re here, plan ahead and ask us for details about our top-quality snowboard and ski rentals in Mammoth.