Magical Winter Activities in Mammoth Lakes

Bundle up and prepare to discover the top winter activities in Mammoth Lakes that will make your winter journey to the Eastern Sierra unforgettable.

Imagine a place where the winter chill brings not just a blanket of snow, but a playground for endless adventure. Mammoth Lakes, nestled in the Eastern Sierra of California, is just that—a snowy treasure trove of activities, where every day invites a new way to embrace the chill. From the quiet solitude of snow-covered peaks to the warm embrace of natural hot springs, this destination transcends skiing to offer a full spectrum of winter delights that ignite the senses.

Whether you’re seeking the thrill of a snowmobile chase, the laughter of a family sledding day, or the magical silence of a snowshoe hike under a canopy of stars, there’s something here for everyone. These are some of my favorite things to do in Mammoth Lakes. I hope this guide inspires you to explore the corners of a landscape that is just waiting to tell its winter stories. Lace up your boots, dive into the snowscape, and uncover the myriad ways you can revel in Mammoth Lakes’ winter magic.

1. Ski and Snowboard at Mammoth Mountain

You won’t want to miss the thrill of carving down the slopes at Mammoth Mountain, the crown jewel of California’s winter sports scene. Steeped in history, this world-renowned resort has welcomed snow enthusiasts since the 1950s and has evolved into a winter playground with an elevation reaching a lofty 11,053 feet. As you glide over 3,500 acres of skiable terrain, let yourself be challenged and exhilarated by the mountain’s 150 named trails, suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.

Operating from 8:30 am to 4 pm daily, you’ll have ample time to explore. Whether tackling the expansive beginner areas or the gravity-defying cornices and chutes, the experience here is nothing short of epic. A lift ticket grants you access to this snowy haven, with prices varying based on peak times and age, but you can expect to pay around $169 for adult full-day access when purchasing in advance. As a premier mountain resort in California, Mammoth Mountain promises fresh powder, exciting terrain, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Definitely the top of the top 10 winter activities in Mammoth Lakes.

2. Snowshoeing & Snowmobiling to Minaret Vista

Step onto a pure white canvas, the crunch of snow beneath your feet, and follow a path that leads you through a pristine winter landscape. This is the joy of snowshoeing in Mammoth Lakes, and the Minaret Vista trail offers an easily accessible route laden with some of the most stunning views you could wish for. As you tread this 4-mile round trip, each step from the Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge brings you closer to a remarkable vantage point, revealing the grandeur of the Sierra peaks. This is a top choice for me to take visiting friends and family on a winter adventure.

The wind whips past your helmet as the snowmobile roars to life. Laughter mingles with the engine’s purr as you follow the tracks that lead to Minaret Vista. Twists and turns through snow-laden forests and up to the ridge where a view explodes before you – the Minarets, the Ritter Range, and the deep valley below painted in shades of blue and gold. Soak in the breathtaking views, the exhilaration of the ride still buzzing. It’s an afternoon painted in adventure, etched in memory like a perfect snowflake. Rent a snowmobile or bring your own.

3. Dive into Nature: Hot Springs Escapade

Peel off your gloves and coat to slip into the steamy, natural waters of Mammoth Lakes’ hot springs, while the chilly air kisses your cheeks. The contrast is stark and delightful, as the warmth from these geothermal miracles envelops you, set against a wintry, snow-dusted panorama.

These hot springs are the perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate after a day spent in the cold. You’ll find yourself soaking not just in the water, but also in the natural beauty that surrounds you. The minerals in the hot springs are said to have healing properties, so give yourself the gift of relaxation and healing amidst the rugged landscape. Don’t just admire the snow-capped peaks from afar, dive into the heart of nature, and let the warm embrace of Mammoth Lakes’ hot springs soothe your soul.

4. Scenic Gondola Ride to the top of Mammoth Mountain

Delight in the bird’s-eye view of Mammoth Mountain, draped in a white blanket of snow, with the surrounding forest and peaks stretching out into the distance. Experience this enchanting vista without breaking a sweat with a scenic gondola ride. The gondola whisks you up the mountain, offering a comfortable and effortless journey to some of the most breathtaking views around.

Rides begin at 8:30 AM, allowing you and your loved ones to greet the clear, crisp mountain morning from high above. With the last ride down at 3:30 PM, you have plenty of time to soak in the scenery. Just remember, the final ride only offers views from the gondola, as exiting at the top is not permitted after 3:15 PM. You’ll want to book your tickets, which are reasonably priced at $33, to secure your place in this popular winter attraction.

From the comfort of your enclosed gondola cabin, you gain a unique perspective of the winter wonderland that is Mammoth Lakes. Whether you’re capturing panoramic shots or simply enjoying the serenity of the alpine environment, the gondola ride is a gentle adventure that rewards you with some of the most iconic scenes of California’s winter beauty.

5. Snowcat Tours: Sunset to Moonlight

Glide through a pristine winter landscape as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vivid hues, and ride under the twinkling stars of a clear night sky. This adventure comes to life aboard a snowcat tour. As you cozy up in the heated cabin, you’ll venture to areas of Mammoth Lakes that are simply unreachable by any other means during the winter season. The snowcat provides a safe and exciting vantage point with experienced drivers who know the best paths through the snowbanks, ensuring a smooth journey.

These tours offer an exclusive passage into quiet, snow-covered landscapes where the silence is only broken by the soft crunch of the snowcat’s treads. You’ll have a front-row seat to some of nature’s most breathtaking shows: the spectacular alpine sunset and the mesmerizing full moon.

These excursions become extraordinary as day shifts to night; the changing light casts the mountains in an ethereal glow, setting the stage for stories and memories that linger long after the cold has faded. Grab your camera, bundle up, and prepare for a winter escapade that epitomizes the enchantment of Mammoth Lakes after dusk.

6. The Village at Mammoth: Apres-Ski Culture

As the sun dips behind the snow-capped mountains and you bid farewell to the slopes, the Village at Mammoth welcomes you into its lively apres-ski embrace. Here, you’ll find a vibrant scene buzzing with excitement, a space where fellow winter enthusiasts gather to share stories and laughs. Apres-ski traditions thrive in this cozy enclave, where the clink of toasting glasses melds with the murmur of joyful conversations.

Stroll through the cobblestone walkways, and let your senses guide you to an array of tantalizing dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for upscale cuisine or a simple, hearty meal, you’ll discover a spot that hits the mark. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in some local fare and relish the warm, inviting atmosphere.

After sating your hunger, dive into the assortment of shops, where you can browse for souvenirs or the latest gear to enhance your winter exploits. As night falls, the Village’s entertainment offerings come to life; from live music to dancing, there’s a pulse of energy that invites you to join in the fun.

As you wrap up your evening in this enchanting setting, you’ll find that apres-ski in the Village is more than just a pastime—it’s the perfect bookend to an exhilarating day, providing an opportunity to make new friends and cherish the festive spirit of Mammoth Lakes.

7. Discover Mono Lake: A Portal to Another World

Step into a scene from another planet. Surreal tufa towers rise from the water’s surface and the high desert air whispers tales of ancient history. This is the mesmerizing world of Mono Lake, a sublime saline lake with an ecology and geology all its own. Over thousands of years, calcium-rich springs have mixed with the lake’s alkaline waters, creating the fantastical tufa formations that Mono is famous for.

Birdwatchers will be in heaven here, as the lake is a vital habitat for migratory birds, including eared grebes and Wilson’s phalaropes. Don’t miss the chance to roam the shores and observe these winged visitors in their natural locale. Bring your camera, because the vistas of the Sierra Nevada reflecting off the still water make for breathtaking snapshots, especially during the golden hours of dawn and dusk. Venture to Mono Lake for a glimpse into an ageless ecosystem—it’s an essential chapter in the story of your wintertime exploration of Mammoth Lakes.

Come back in summer when the Mono Basin Scenic Visitor Area is open; view exhibits, learn about the history, geology, and wildlife, and explore the trails. Go kayaking, get up close and personal with the tufa towers.

8. Reflecting Beauty: Morning at Convict Lake

Behold the first rays of dawn streaking the sky as you stand by Convict Lake’s tranquil waters. The serene beauty is almost palpable as the silence of the morning is broken only by the gentle lapping of the water’s edge. Convict Lake is a jewel amidst the vast landscape of Mammoth Lakes, and capturing its reflection in the gentle morning light is a must for any photographer seeking that perfect shot. You should aim for an early arrival, as the sun begins to kiss the mountain peaks, for the most dramatic effect.

The morning calm also provides an ideal setting for contemplation or meditation, allowing you to attune yourself with nature’s rhythm. As the day progresses, you can indulge in a leisurely walk around the shore, or, for the more adventurous, kayak on the glassy surface of the lake, exploring its hidden corners. Deep winter may freeze the lake’s surface and cloak the landscape in white, but the lake retains its enchanting allure, making it a year-round spot for solace and the pure pleasure of natural wonders.

9. Fish for Winter Trout

Stand alongside a natural warm water creek as the steam rises around you in the bracing mountain air and the hush of nature surrounds you. This is winter trout fishing in Mammoth Lakes, a serene escape for anglers and nature lovers alike. Hot Creek is a challenging, yet rewarding fishery, full of large and wise brown trout. Fishing here is as much about the hot creek experience as it is about catching a fish.

The Owens River is bountiful where the cold waters slow down the fish, and yet they remain responsive to a well-placed lure or fly. You’ll appreciate the quiet art of casting lines in these pristine environments and possibly enjoy the thrill of a winter catch. Keep in mind that Hot Creek and the Upper O, as the locals call it, allows only single-barbless, catch-and-release fishing in winter. Releasing your trout gently back into the water maintains the natural balance and ensures future anglers can share this tranquil joy. With the majestic Sierras as your backdrop, you’ll find winter fishing is not just about the catch; it’s an immersive moment of peace with the natural world.

10. Drive Along the Historic Highway 395

Take a scenic journey along historic highway 395. The magic and majesty of the Eastern Sierra unfolds before your eyes. With snow-capped mountains as your backdrop, each turn presents a new vista that begs you to pull over and capture the moment. Bring your camera for those postcard-perfect shots that will forever remind you of this serene drive.

Whether you drive north or south of Mammoth Lakes stop at some of the many roadside vistas and pull into the small towns and settlements along the route. Discover local eateries offering delicious meals, visit museums and galleries, and follow signs to nature’s wonders that can be investigated on foot. Unwind under the open skies, where the crisp air meets the warmth of the winter sun. It’s these simple pleasures that often create the most cherished winter memories at Mammoth Lakes.

Embracing Winter’s Embrace in Mammoth Lakes

You’ve zipped down snowy slopes, felt the hush of the forest on snowshoes, and warmed your soul in steaming hot springs. From airy gondola rides that give you a bird’s eye view of the pristine beauty to snowcat adventures under the luminescent glow of a full moon, Mammoth Lakes wraps you in a world of winter marvels. Indulge in the vibrant apres-ski culture, or find serenity at Mono Lake’s otherworldly shores. Here, every sunrise paints Convict Lake in hues of gold, and quiet moments spent trout fishing recharge your spirit.

As you meander along the historic US-395, with the Eastern Sierra as your backdrop, every stop becomes a memory etched against the vast expanse. This place invites you to etch your own path in the snow and discover winter’s embrace beyond the well-trodden trails. So, gear up for an escapade that’ll spellbind you with its chilly charm. We promise, the allure of Mammoth Lakes in the cooler months is an experience begging to be lived – and there’s no time like the present to immerse yourself in its magic.