Mammoth Lakes CA

Geological History of Mammoth Lakes, CA-

About 110,000 to 50,000 years ago, Mammoth Mountain was created by a long series of eruptions in what is now the Long Valley area of the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains. The volcano is still considered active with minor releases; the largest being a steam eruption some 600-years ago. Mammoth lies on the South end of the Mono-Inyo chain of volcanic craters, some of which erupted as recently as 250 years ago.

Mammoth Mountain is on the southwestern edge of Long Valley Caldera, a large area that subsided after an enormous eruption 760,000 years ago. The area's volcanic history gives way to breathtaking scenery you will find nowhere else on earth.

Mammoth Mountain Stats:

Top Elevation: 11,053 ft
Village Elevation::7,953 ft
Vertical Rise: 3,100 ft

Lift Capacity: 50,000 persons/hour

Area Size:
29 lifts
150 trails
3,500 acres

Longest Run: 3 miles

Terrain Park: Yes
Halfpipe: Yes - SUPERPIPE As Well

Trail Difficulty:
25% Beginner
40% Intermediate
20% Advananced
15% Expert Only

Average Snowfall: Over 400" Annually!

As you can see below, storms that move in and out and dump 10ft of Mammoth Mountain Powder are quite common. Bluebird powder days are the norm in February and March.

Mammoth Lakes, CA Lodging | Mammoth Mountain CA Lodging

A variety of lodging options exist in and around Mammoth Lakes, CA. As in nearly every ski town, Mammoth Lakes lodging can range from hostels to 5-star all inclusive luxury resorts and ski-in chalets. With a little research, the resourceful traveler can find exactly the type of lodging they are looking for.

Cabin Rentals-
Cabin and private residences are available to rent through any one of a number of rental agencies that specialize in the Mammmoth Lakes area. Options can range from studio-style condos, to actual single family homes situated in the town of Mammoth Lakes, CA. For more traditional cabin rentals, check out the accommodations the Convict Lake Resort, only 14 miles south of the lodge off Highway 395. Convict Lake Resort offers 27 mountain cabins and 3 houses for rent. Accommodations are available for 2 to 34-people.

Mammoth Lakes Camping-
Spring through fall is a great time to get outdoors and explore the Mammoth Lakes camping opportunities. The Mammoth Mountain RV Park and Camp High Sierra are both local campgrounds which offer full amenities for the RV camper and traditional tent campers. Remember, temperatures in the high country of the Eastern Sierra can vary GREATLY any time of year. Dress in layers and be prepared for weather from all four seasons... any time of year. Brief snow/hail storms are not uncommon above 13,000ft even in July.

Mammoth Lakes, CA Hotels | Mammoth Lakes Motels-
There is no shortage of affordable hotels and motels in the Mammoth Lakes area, although the more popular spots do fill up months in advance. Holiday weekends are an especially troublesome time to find hotel reservations in Mammoth Lakes. Try the Shilo Inn & Suites, the Quality Inn, or Alpenhof Lodge for conveniently located accommodations. Winter can be a difficult time to get around town, so look for a spot located near the free bus route.

Mammoth Mountain Slopeside Lodging | Mammoth Mountain Ski-In/Ski-Out Lodging-
The traveler seeking the ultimate in luxury also has plenty of places to choose from while in Mammoth Lakes, CA. The Village @ Mammoth Mountain is a European inspired village set at the base of Mammoth Mountain ski area. The Village is home to some of the most convenient lodging in the area, connected with the main ski area via gondola.

Bishop, CA Lodging-
Located approx 42 miles south of Mammoth Lakes (about 1.5 hr drive in Winter), Bishop is home to many affordable hotels, motels and motor inns. The most luxurious accomodations are available at the Best Western Creekside Inn & Suites, but if you are on a budget, try The Trees Motel or the Bishop Mountain View Motel. Staying in Bishop can save you quite a bit of money, but you must factor in the 42-mile (uphill) drive to Mammoth Lakes. During busy times... Bishop can be your only choice! The town is charming and offers year round fishing and excellent dining. **The cheapest gas in the Eastern Sierra is usually found at the Paiute Palace Casino at the north-end of town off Highway 395.