Mammoth Mountain is the highest resort mountain in California that’s open during all four seasons. There are many things to do around Mammoth Lakes during the winter. The most popular activities are skiing and snowboarding down the slopes. Snowmobiles and scenic gondola rides offer great views of the area. Here are some other fun activities in Mammoth during the winter months, brought to you by the friendly folks at ASO Mammoth, your one-stop shop for everything from mountain biking gear to Mammoth ski rentals.
Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is a great way to get in shape or have a family outing in Mammoth. Climbing uphill trails on skis is an awesome workout. The Mammoth Lakes Basin is more than 19 miles long, and it’s beautifully groomed. A public access trail leads along the lake and branches off to multiple other trails. There are snowshoe trails for slower walks to enjoy the sights more. You can acquire ski and snowshoe rentals along with taking lessons. You and your family can take guided tours on the trails.
Going to Woolly’s Tube Park
Woolly’s Tube Park is a playground for all ages. Some like having snowball fights, building a snowman, or sledding, while others prefer to snow tube down the trails of Wooly’s Tube Park. Children must be 42 inches tall to use the tubes. In the open area, you can search for a hill clear of rocks and trees, climb to the top, and tube down it. You can either hike to the top of the park or catch a lift and head down the groomed trails. The snow play area has a heated deck with alcohol and hot chocolate.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is a big attraction on Mammoth Mountain, and that passion doesn’t have to stop in the winter. Fat bikes are the latest trends in snow biking. Since the tires are wider, cyclists don’t sink into the snow when riding. This new activity has a growing number of accessories, such as cycling shoes that have more insulation and mittens that fit over the handlebars.
Ice Climbing
The most popular ice climbing spot is about a half hour from the lakes. Within Lee Vining Canyon are frozen waterfalls perfect for experienced climbers. Three ice climbing guide companies—California Alpine Guides, Mammoth Climbing Guides, and Sierra Mountaineering International—will happily give you a climbing course if you’re new to the activity.
Ice Skating
Ice skating is a fun winter activity for people of all ages. The skating rink is called the Mammoth Ice Rink, and it’s near the Mammoth Lakes Library. You can have fun skating around or even join a pickup game of hockey. For people who are new to this activity, there are lessons and skate rentals.
No matter what time of year you visit Mammoth, stop by and see the knowledgeable staff at ASO Mammoth. Whether they’re looking for snowboards, ski repair, or high-quality bike rentals, 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.