Mammoth Mountain
3,500 acres, 945m vertical, 400 inches annual snow. California's highest resort with terrain parks and Ikon Pass access.
Season 2026 - 2027
Opens
21 Nov 2026
Closes
30 May 2027
Days open
190
Annual snow
33ft
The Overview
Michael Fulton
Melbourne-based skier and snowboarder with 50+ resorts across 5 continents. Specialises in Australian resorts and international resort comparisons.
Mammoth Mountain spans 3,500 acres across California's Eastern Sierra with a summit at 3,369 metres and a base at 2,424 metres, delivering 945 metres of vertical drop. The resort operates 180 named runs distributed across 15% beginner, 48% intermediate, 24% advanced and 13% expert terrain. Annual snowfall averages 10.16 metres at the base, rising above 400 inches at upper elevations where the summit reaches 11,053 feet. The 2022-23 season recorded over 700 inches at Main Lodge, marking the snowiest winter on record.
The mountain's 65% north-facing aspect ensures reliable snow preservation from November into June, with terrain spreading horizontally across four distinct base areas. Chair 23 accesses steep chutes and exposed upper bowls above treeline, whilst Chair 22 serves wind-sheltered expert runs including the Avalanche Chutes on Lincoln Mountain. The Panorama Gondola reaches the summit in seven minutes, connecting to Cornice Bowl and advanced alpine terrain. Unbound Main Park anchors a terrain park system comprising 10 parks, two halfpipes, over 100 jibs and 50 jumps across 100 acres.
Main Lodge sits at 2,743 metres and serves as the historic hub, whilst Canyon Lodge and Eagle Lodge provide family-oriented beginner zones with dedicated learning areas. The Village at Mammoth connects to Canyon Lodge via a 15-passenger gondola, creating pedestrian access between lodging and slopes. Weekends draw crowds from Los Angeles and Southern California, though the resort's sprawling layout disperses skiers efficiently. Wind frequently closes upper lifts during storms, sending advanced riders to the protected Chair 22 zone.
Mammoth is included on both the Ikon Pass with unlimited access and the Mountain Collective with two days. The 2025-26 season opened 14 November and runs through 25 May, with extensions possible into June or July during heavy snow years. The resort attracts Olympic athletes training in its world-class terrain parks and suits intermediates seeking long groomed runs, experts chasing steep lines, and families requiring varied terrain. Altitude, massive acreage and exceptional park infrastructure define the Mammoth experience.
3,100ft
Vertical
180
Runs
3,500 acres
Skiable
33ft
Annual snow
Ikon / Mountain Collective
Pass
The Terrain
180 runs across 3,500 acres skiable
Mammoth Mountain is one of California's largest ski areas, with about 3,500 acres (1,416 hectares) on 180 runs and 3,100 ft (945 m) of vertical, from a 7,950 ft (2,424 m) base to an 11,050 ft (3,369 m) summit. Intermediate runs take 48% of the terrain, with 24% advanced, 15% beginner and 13% expert, so there is something for every level. The Panorama Gondola reaches the summit in about seven minutes, giving quick access to the upper mountain and its advanced alpine terrain, while Broadway Express serves as the primary beginner access from the Main Lodge.
Above the trees, Chair 23 serves steep chutes and exposed upper bowls, including Cornice Bowl, one of the mountain's classic steep descents. Chair 22 on Lincoln Mountain offers wind-sheltered expert runs, including the Avalanche Chutes, which are useful when wind closes the top. Hangman's is a famous run near McCoy Station, visible from the gondola along with Broadway and the Paranoids. Unbound Main Park anchors a system of ten terrain parks, two halfpipes and more than 100 jibs and 50 jumps. Mammoth suits families, park riders and experts after steep lines.
Terrain split
180
runs
180 runs across 4 grades
Beginner27 runs · 15%
Intermediate86 runs · 48%
Advanced43 runs · 24%
Expert23 runs · 13%
Time it right
When to visit Mammoth Mountain
The 2025-26 season opened 20 November following snowmaking preparation and runs through 25 May 2026, with daily lift operations from 7:30am to 2:00pm during spring hours beginning in May. Mammoth typically operates from early November into June, with exceptional years extending into July or August. The 1994-95 season opened 8 October and closed 13 August, whilst 2017 closed 6 August and 2022-23 ran until 6 August following record snowfall. Season length averages over 200 days.
Annual snowfall averages 400 inches at base elevations, exceeding 10 metres total accumulation and rising past 500 inches at the 11,053-foot summit. The 2022-23 winter delivered over 700 inches at Main Lodge and nearly 900 inches at the summit. February and March historically produce the heaviest snowfall, with the first week of March averaging 43 centimetres. November typically receives 32 inches, whilst December through February each deliver 67 to 71 inches. Snowmaking covers 33% of terrain, establishing a reliable early-season base.
January and February offer peak powder conditions, whilst March balances fresh snow with increasing sunshine. April and May deliver spring corn snow under bluebird skies, with temperatures rising but coverage holding at altitude. The resort benefits from 300 days of annual sunshine. The 2025-26 season received 87 inches in February alone, securing a Memorial Day closing despite a slower early winter. Mammoth's east-side Sierra location captures Pacific storms whilst the 2,424-metre base elevation prevents rain.
Night of Lights returns 14 December annually at Canyon Lodge with fireworks and family activities. Elevation Mammoth gay ski week runs 12-16 March 2025. Ikon Pass holders receive Early Ups exclusive morning access on select dates with complimentary breakfast at McCoy Station. The resort does not offer night skiing but extends spring hours to maximise morning corn snow. Chair 1 banner breakthrough and opening day ceremonies feature Woolly the mascot and complimentary beverages.
Season 2026 - 2027
21 Nov 2026
Opens
30 May 2027
Closes
190
Days open
33 ft
Annual snow
Getting there
Getting to Mammoth Mountain, and where to stay
Mammoth Mountain rises from the eastern slope of California's Sierra Nevada range in Mono County, 58 kilometres southwest of the Nevada state line. The resort sits above the town of Mammoth Lakes at 2,424 metres base elevation, surrounded by the Inyo National Forest and Long Valley Caldera volcanic landscape. The summit reaches 11,053 feet, making Mammoth California's highest lift-served ski area. Volcanic geology defines the terrain, with the mountain itself a lava dome complex.
Mammoth Lakes town lies 6.4 kilometres from Main Lodge along Highway 203, offering lodging, dining and services for a resort community. The Village at Mammoth provides slopeside accommodation, restaurants and pedestrian access via gondola to Canyon Lodge. Los Angeles sits 307 miles south via US 395, Reno 168 miles north, and San Francisco 360 miles west during winter when Tioga Pass through Yosemite closes seasonally. Highway 395 runs north-south through the Eastern Sierra, providing primary access.
The drive from Los Angeles takes five hours via Interstate 14 north to Highway 395, passing through the Owens Valley with views of the White Mountains and Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. From Reno the journey requires three hours south on US 395, passing Mono Lake and the ghost town of Bodie State Historic Park. San Francisco requires six to seven hours in winter via Highway 99 or Interstate 5 east, then Highway 395 south, as Tioga Pass closes from approximately October through May.
Mammoth Yosemite Airport sits 10 minutes east on Highway 395 with seasonal United Airlines service from Los Angeles, San Francisco and Denver, plus Advanced Air from Carlsbad and Hawthorne. Eastern Sierra Regional Airport in Bishop operates 45 minutes south with year-round United flights from San Francisco and seasonal Denver service beginning December. Mammoth All Weather Shuttle, Mammoth Taxi and rental cars serve both airports. Eastern Sierra Transit Authority operates free shuttles between Reno Airport and Mammoth. Winter driving requires chains during storms.
Where to stay
Search all stays →Hotels and lodges near Mammoth Mountain, powered by Stay22.
Latest News
From the SnowStash desk
Valle Nevado Extends Season to November 8 After 108 cm in 48 Hours
Winter was meant to be winding down in Chile. Then Valle Nevado took 108 cm in 48 hours in early October, and the resort has pushed its closing date out to November 8 - its latest in 38 years of operation. That makes 143 days of skiing since opening day on June 19, with 690 cm banked for the season. Only part of the mountain is running while the storm settles, so check the mountain report before you plan a trip.
9 Oct 2026
Alps Snow Forecast: Cold Front Brings Thursday Snow to the High Alps
The Alps look a lot more like winter today, for a day or so. A cold front is moving west to east, dropping up to 35 cm on high glaciers and peaks, with snow levels falling to around 1,500-1,800 m at times. Don’t plan a trip around it: mid-elevation snow will be thin and wet, every area is closed bar a limited Sölden glacier opening tomorrow, and warmer weather returns by Monday.
8 Oct 2026
California Ski Resort Opening Dates 2026-27: Mammoth Leads, Tahoe Follows
Mammoth Mountain is first up in California, targeting Friday 13 November after a dusting of September snow. Heavenly and Northstar follow on 20 November, Palisades Tahoe on Wednesday 25 November and Sugar Bowl on 27 November, with Kirkwood on 4 December and June Mountain on 19 December. Plenty of smaller areas have no date yet. A super El Niño favours the Sierra, but a warmer storm track is the catch.
7 Oct 2026
Colorado Ski Resort Opening Dates 2026-27: A-Basin and Keystone Race to Be First
Arapahoe Basin, Keystone and Winter Park are all chasing an October start, though none has a firm date yet. The first dated openers are Breckenridge and Copper on Friday 6 November, then Vail on 13 November, with most of the rest bunched around US Thanksgiving. Hesperus did not open at all last season. A super El Niño offers hope but no guarantee, and forecasters say the southern mountains have the better odds.
5 Oct 2026
Dolomiti Superski 2026-27: Four New Gondolas, New Reservoirs and an €89 Peak Day Pass
Dolomiti Superski is spending around €100 million across its 12 areas before winter. Kronplatz gets a new 10-passenger gondola with a middle station, 3 Zinnen gets Helmissimo, and Val di Fassa swaps a chairlift for a gondola above Col Valvacin. New water-storage basins and upgraded snowmaking follow, and construction has started on the San Martino to Passo Rolle link. A peak adult day pass is €89.
4 Oct 2026
Utah Ski Resort Opening Dates 2026-27: Brian Head First, Eagle Point Out
Brian Head is targeting 6 November, though last year it aimed for 7 November and did not open until the 25th. Park City, Alta and Solitude are pencilled in for 20 November, Snowbird and Snowbasin for 27 November, and Deer Valley for 5 December. Eagle Point will stay closed after the Cottonwood Fire. A super El Niño is forecast, but the big snow is not expected until January.
4 Oct 2026
Hintertux Glacier Opens for 2026-27 With 12 Kilometres of Piste
Hintertux became Austria's second glacier to open for 2026-27 on Friday 2 October, after the Pitztal Glacier. Twelve kilometres of piste are running around the Olperer and Gefrorene Wand, served by one gondola and two drag lifts, with the Betterpark also open. Lifts officially run 8:15 am to 4:30 pm, but skiing stops at 2 pm for now.
4 Oct 2026
Vail Resorts Counts the Cost of a Thin Winter as Pass Sales Slide Further
A historically poor western winter cut Vail Resorts' annual net income from $280 million to $147.5 million and skier visits by 13.4 per cent. Now 2026-27 pass units are down 12 per cent as of 18 September, worse than the 10 per cent flagged in spring. Vail blames the weather and thinks some buyers are simply waiting, and it forecasts a rebound if the snow behaves.
3 Oct 2026
Mammoth Mountain Webcams
8 live angles across the mountain. Tap any camera to go full-screen.
About Mammoth Mountain's live webcams
Check live conditions across Mammoth Mountain with 8 real-time webcams showing snow, weather, and lift operations, updated every 10 minutes. Check high-elevation cams for powder visibility and base-area cams for crowd levels before you head up.
Camera guide
- Summit11,053ft
- Experience breathtaking alpine vistas from this Mammoth Mountain webcam positioned at the summit at 3369 meters elevation, one of California's highest accessible ski areas. This Mammoth webcam delivers real-time views across the Eastern Sierra's dramatic peaks and valleys. Essential for assessing upper mountain visibility and wind conditions, this live snow cam showcases the spectacular high-altitude terrain that makes Mammoth legendary among serious skiers.
- McCoy Station8,999ft
- Monitor mid-mountain conditions through this Mammoth Mountain live cam stationed at McCoy Station at 2743 meters elevation. This strategic Mammoth webcam captures the central hub where multiple lifts and trails converge, providing perfect visibility of intermediate terrain. The Mammoth Mountain web cam shows real-time snow quality and crowd levels at this popular gathering point in the heart of the resort.
- Unbound Main Park8,999ft
- Watch world-class terrain park action unfold through this Mammoth Mountain live snow cam overlooking Unbound Main Park at 2743 meters. This live cam provides real-time views of progressive features and freestyle skiing at one of North America's premier park destinations. The Mammoth webcam captures the cutting-edge progression happening daily at this iconic California resort's showcase terrain park.
- Main Lodge7,953ft
- Stay connected to Main Lodge activity through this essential Mammoth Mountain webcam positioned at the resort's primary base area at 2424 meters elevation. This Mammoth live cam captures arrivals, lift operations, and current snow conditions at the mountain's historic heart. Perfect for checking crowd levels and weather, this live snow cam provides crucial information for planning your visit to this legendary Eastern Sierra destination.
- Canyon Lodge7,953ft
- Monitor Canyon Lodge operations through this Mammoth Mountain web cam at the resort's modern base facility at 2424 meters. This live cam shows real-time conditions at the southern access point, including gondola operations and parking availability. The Mammoth webcam helps you choose the best base area for your adventure at California's largest ski resort.
- The Outpost8,999ft
- Experience the remote backcountry access zone through this Mammoth Mountain live snow cam positioned at The Outpost at 2743 meters. This strategic live cam monitors conditions where advanced skiers and riders access the resort's most extreme terrain. The Mammoth live cam provides essential visibility updates for those seeking adventure beyond the groomed runs at this vast Eastern Sierra playground.
- Tamarack Lodge8,999ft
- Track conditions at Tamarack Lodge through this Mammoth webcam stationed at 2743 meters in a popular mid-mountain zone. This Mammoth Mountain live cam shows real-time snow quality and trail activity across intermediate terrain. Essential for families and recreational skiers, this live snow cam helps you navigate to the perfect runs at this massive resort.
- Village7,953ft
- Capture the vibrant base village atmosphere through this Mammoth Mountain web cam overlooking the pedestrian village at 2424 meters. This live cam shows current weather conditions and the bustling mountain town scene that makes Mammoth a complete destination. The Mammoth webcam provides a feel for the resort's energy before you even arrive at this world-class California ski area.
Mammoth Mountain snow cams FAQ
How often do Mammoth Mountain snow cams update?
All Mammoth Mountain snow cams and webcams update every 10 minutes with fresh images showing current mountain conditions. This frequent update schedule ensures you have access to near real-time conditions for planning your ski day at Mammoth Mountain.
Which Mammoth Mountain webcam shows the best powder conditions?
The high-elevation Summit webcam at 3,369m provides the clearest view of powder conditions and snowfall. These Mammoth Mountain webcams capture fresh snow accumulation and visibility better than base area cameras.
Can I see Mammoth Mountain lift queues on the webcams?
Yes. Multiple Mammoth Mountain snow cams specifically show lift queue areas and chairlift operations, helping you time your arrival and avoid peak queue periods.
When is the best time to check Mammoth Mountain snow cams?
Check Mammoth Mountain webcams early morning (7-8am) for overnight snowfall assessment, and mid-afternoon for current crowd levels and weather. The live cams are most useful after storm events to assess fresh powder.
How can I check current conditions before buying Mammoth Mountain lift tickets?
Use our Mammoth Mountain webcams alongside the live snow report to assess conditions before purchasing lift tickets. The webcams show real-time visibility, snow quality, and operational status.
Do Mammoth Mountain webcams work on mobile devices?
Yes. All Mammoth Mountain snow cams and webcams are optimized for mobile viewing, so you can check live conditions from anywhere using your phone or tablet.
More Mammoth Mountain intelligence: snow report, lift tickets, trail map, resort overview.