People from the cities need to be aware that the altitude at Mammoth Lakes is very high. The altitude has an impact on many things, such as the ability to acclimate and the types of clothing required for comfort, both during the day and at night. The mountain sports experts from ASO Mammoth, your top choice for mountain bike, snowboard, and ski rental in Mammoth, offer the following vital altitude information for visitors to Mammoth Lakes.
How Mammoth’s Altitude Compares to Other Places of Note
The altitude at Mammoth Lakes is 7,990 feet above sea level. If you go to the base of the mountain, you’ll be at 9,000 feet above sea level. If you intend to scale Mammoth Mountain, you’ll end up at 11,053 feet. To put this into perspective, visitors to South Lake Tahoe are only at 6,255 feet of elevation. Big Bear Lake is only 6,755 feet in elevation. This difference in elevation is considerable and has an impact on the climate of the area and on people’s bodies.
What to Expect in Terms of Summer Weather
If you’re from the city, you may head to Mammoth Lakes without realizing that while it may get warm during the day, the nights can be quite chilly in the summer. In June, the average temperature is 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and a chilly 41 degrees at night. You may go from wearing short sleeves during the day to needing a decent jacket at night. In July and August, the average temperatures are in the high 70s during the day and the high 40s at night.
How the Altitude Impacts Camping
If you’re camping, you need to realize that sleeping bag ratings are generous at best. Get a top-rated bag with good insulation. You can’t sleep at night if you’re too cold, but high-quality sleeping bags from reputable manufacturers today are light yet warm.
How to Manage Dryness and Sunburn
Mammoth Lakes also has a dry climate in the summer, which means you need to bring lip balm and hand and body lotion and drink more water than you think you need. Drink water even when you’re not thirsty. Also, at this high elevation, it’s easier to get sunburned. Bring sunscreen and apply it copiously.
How to Deal with Elevation Issues
People who live in Mammoth Lakes are “higher livers.” Their bodies have adjusted to the elevation. The atmosphere at Mammoth Lakes has less oxygen because the air is thinner. People who live closer to sea level may experience physical difficulties if they don’t acclimatize before attempting activities that are more strenuous. Physical symptoms indicating your body has not acclimatized to the elevation may include shortness of breath, headaches, and muscle fatigue. Your body needs 24 hours to acclimatize before you tackle hiking the mountain or going on an epic bike ride. Also, keeping well hydrated can help you avoid physical problems associated with high elevations.
Don’t let any of this scare you off. Just planning ahead and being well prepared will allow you to have a great time at Mammoth Lakes. Whether you need last-minute mountain bike gear, top-notch ski repair, or high-quality Mammoth snowboard rental, 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 lakes or give us a call at 760-965-3444.