Once you arrive at Mammoth Mountain, there are plenty of things to do, see, enjoy, and explore. While you’ll need to pay for lift tickets if you intend to ski or snowboard, there are some free things you’re also welcome to do at Mammoth. Take a moment to learn more about what you can do free of charge during your visit at this resort and within the Mammoth area. Here are just a few fun things to enjoy without having to spend a dime, brought to you by the friendly folks at ASO Mammoth, your one-stop shop for everything from snowboarding gear to Mammoth ski rentals.
Riding the Shuttle
The Eastern Sierra Transit Authority offers complimentary shuttle service from Mammoth Mountain that goes to the nearby Mammoth Lakes area. You can catch this bus at any of the base lodges and enjoy a free ride into town and back. This is a great way to check things out locally and explore area shops, restaurants, and community events.
Checking Out On-Site Skiing & Snowboarding Competitions
During the winter months, Mammoth regularly hosts various ski and snowboarding competitions. For instance, from January 19–21, you can cheer on participants in the Futures Tour for free at Unbound South Park and Main Park Pipe.
Sightseeing
The natural wonders viewable from Mammoth Mountain and found throughout the area are impressive throughout the year. With this in mind, another thing you can do for free during your visit is spend some time snapping selfies or just being in awe as you take in the sights. Some of the more popular Mammoth-accessible scenic areas include:
• Rainbow Falls National Monument
• Bodie State Historic Park
• The Mammoth Lakes Basin
• Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest
Visiting Local Lakes
Speaking of local sights, there are many lakes easily accessible from Mammoth Mountain you can check out for free as long as weather permits. Plus, there are many trails around these lakes where you can walk, jog, run, or hike without having to invest in anything except your own preferred outdoor clothing if you want to exercise or take in the fresh air while being surrounded by natural beauty.
Going to On-Site Events
During certain times of the year, Mammoth hosts family-friendly events tailored for holidays like Christmas and New Year’s. These are events you can usually attend for free or without having to spend too much. Also, in many instances, there are goodies and treats offered for resort guests at these events.
Exploring Mammoth by Foot
When Mammoth’s trails are accessible by foot and not covered with too much snow, you can always do some exploring for free with nothing but foot power. For example, the Mammoth Mountain Trail eases down along the back of the mountain and offers views of the San Joaquin River Valley before taking you to the Main Lodge.
Enjoying Free Ikon Pass Perks
The Ikon Pass itself isn’t free. However, there are some free perks passholders can enjoy at places like Mammoth Mountain, one of which is “early ups.” This refers to a free extra hour of exclusive lift access that’s only for passholders. Visit the Mammoth website for a list of pass deals.
If you’re heading to Mammoth Mountain and planning to hit the slopes, make sure to stop by and see the knowledgeable staff at ASO Mammoth, a premier Mammoth Mountain outdoor store. Whether they need hiking gear, ski repair, or high-quality snowboard rental, Mammoth visitors can find everything they need at our store. Drop by on your way to the mountain or give us a call at 760-965-3444.