Before you take off on that spring trip to Mammoth Mountain, make sure you’re adequately prepared. Equipping yourself properly is the best way to make the most of your weekend. The mountain sports experts from ASO Mammoth—your top choice for snowboard, ski, and mountain bike rentals in Mammoth—offer the following advice about how to pack for a truly enjoyable spring weekend at Mammoth Mountain.
Sun Protection
Remember the sun’s rays reflect off the snow and get a bit more intense on the mountain, so make sure you’re packing properly for it. Have a high SPF (at least 40) sunscreen ready to protect anything you choose to leave exposed. Pack full-coverage clothing, including water-resistant gloves and a hat. Your shirt and pants should be made of nylon or acrylic fabric that sheds water easily. These items and some dark-tinted sunglasses will make all the difference. The days get longer up here as the season progresses, and you’ll be exposed to a lot more sun than you might think.
Fluids
While enjoying your time outside, don’t forget to stay hydrated. The sun will be climbing higher as the day goes on, and with the dry breezes and all the exercise you’re likely to get, it’s important to remember your body will be losing more liquids. Having some bottled water or your favorite electrolyte drink with you could make the difference between getting tired early and being able to stay out the entire day enjoying yourself.
Winter & Spring Clothing
Spring in the mountains brings wide variations in temperatures and weather conditions. It’s best to be ready to wear layers in the mornings, but as the day progresses, you may want to be able to remove an item or two to keep cool. It’s best to bring a combination of winter attire and lighter spring clothing with you just in case. Mammoth Mountain provides a forecast for the day as well as conditions at the top, middle, and bottom levels of the mountain.
Proper Footwear, Maps, & First Aid Kits
If you’re up for some hiking, bring a pair of hiking boots or trail shoes for any rough terrain you’ll encounter. Break them in for a few days to avoid getting blisters on your feet when you wear them on the mountain. And don’t rely solely on a GPS. In some areas, you may lose the signal, and you’ll want to have a map and compass with you. Make sure to bring a first aid kit just in case. Carrying everything you need in a lightweight weatherproof backpack with shoulder and chest straps will give you greater balance.
Camping Gear
Bring everything you need for a night of camping: a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pads, blankets, and pillows. To make your outdoor experience more comfortable, consider the things you have at home, such as a lantern or flashlight, a cooler, and a portable stove and utensils. There are many U.S. Forest Service campgrounds if you want access to toilets, so book ahead.
Mammoth is a fantastic place to visit any time of year, including spring. Whether you need last-minute snowboarding gear, top-notch ski repair, or high-quality Mammoth Mountain bike rentals, 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.