Any day on the snow at Mammoth Mountain is better than a day off it, but even as much as we love skiing and snowboarding at Mammoth we know that the more snow on the slopes, the better.
We’re not alone either. That’s why people from all over the world plan their trips around when Mammoth Mountain gets the most snow. If you’re planning a ski trip around when Mammoth Mountain gets the most snow, we have what you need below. Read all about it, then visit ASO Mammoth for the best ski and snowboard rentals in Mammoth Lakes!
December Storms Do Happen
Mammoth Mountain is always open during December thanks to cool temperatures and a healthy mix of natural and manmade snow. That’s why the time near the holidays is one of the busiest parts of the season.
Some years though, we are lucky and get buried in powder in December. In fact, in 2021 we had one of the heaviest December’s in Mammoth Mountain history with multiple storms dropping tons of snow. In some cases, storms hit even earlier in November.
That being said, heavy snowfall in December and earlier is uncommon. There is still snow at Mammoth during this time with most of the mountain open, but groomed runs are still the best place to ride. If a storm does hit, it is unlikely it will drop as much snow as it would later in the season.
Powder Days Are Most Likely Between January and March
The powder days we all dream about are most likely to happen between January and March when cold weather combines with heavy storms to drop feet of snow on Mammoth’s slopes.
Storms are unpredictable so it’s hard to plan a trip around them with more than a few days notice. However, you can track storms hitting Mammoth by checking their own storm tracker or local weather sources.
Late Season Storms Are Possible
Mammoth Mountain’s high elevation and heavy snowfall allow for snow to stay on the slopes into May and beyond. That can also mean that storms can hit in April when most mountains are either closed or closing.
Heavy snow is less likely in April, but always possible. Even if there isn’t any snow in the forecast, a late season visit to Mammoth is a great way to make the most of your last few days on the slopes. Depending on the season’s snowfall there may still be great off-piste riding,
Late in the season you’re also likely to find corn snow, which forms when the freeze-thaw cycle of warm days and cold nights causes snow to freeze into small lumps that resembles corn. When hit at the right time, corn snow is a blast to ski and snowboard on.
However, you have to time when you ride perfectly. Too early and the snow is hard and difficult to hold an edge on. Too late, and the snow is slushy and slow. That’s why it’s best to follow the sun for the best late-season skiing and snowboarding!