Mammoth Mountain, California

Nestled on the east side of the Sierra Nevada range, Mammoth Mountain resort is a welcome haven for Southern California skiers. It is an easy five hour drive northeast of Los Angeles where blue skies, fresh air, and heaps of snow await the urban-weary for a vacation of skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Best of all, however, is that Mammoth Mountain resort is a diversified destination so that whether one is a novice or an expert, a shopper or a skier, part of a family or in a group of singles, there is something for everyone at this fun and accessible resort.

Since the first chair lift opened in 1955, Mammoth Mountain has expanded into 3,500 acres with 28 lifts and 3 gondolas. With the summit at 11,053 feet, Mammoth's typical season runs from November until June. Lift ticket prices are competitive with Colorado resorts at $92.00 per day; however, unlike many smaller resorts that charge the same price, Mammoth delivers on the diversity of runs as well as the geographical expanse of skiable terrain. The lodges are more utilitarian, simple, and practical than their counterparts at places like Sun Valley and Deer Valley, but the service both in the lodges and on the mountain are totally professional and most polite.

For those seeking the serenity and peace of the mountains, Tamarack lodge is a short drive from the downhill ski resort and the Village. Tamarack Lodge was built in 1924and retains the original stacked stone fireplace and log construction. Small, tight, and somewhat frumpy, it is steeped in the rich traditions that a strong fire and a warm bowl of soup in an intimate setting are far more comforting that a modern posh lodge with uniformed attendants. Miles of cross-country and snowshoe trails surround Tamarack Lodge and the lakes, so whether you want to traverse on groomed trails or cut your own tracks, you have beautiful views as you make your way through the forest.

Accomodations are varied at Mammoth with everything from condominiums with daily housekeeping, to modest hotels, to glamourous slopside homes. While the Village lodging tends to be noisy and bafflingly does not offer in-condo washers and dryers, it is convenient to many restaurants, shops, and gondola service to the base of the ski resort. The Town of Mammoth Lakes offers additional lodging, restaurants, and services, so one does not feel limited.

For a world away from the hustle and bustle of a huge metropolitan area, Mammoth Mountain is worth the trek. Make your plans for a fun respite in the great outdoors.