While skiing and snowboarding are the main activities that attract visitors to Mammoth Lakes between November and May, the area has tons of additional family-friendly winter activities. For those whose downhill skiing days are behind them (or still ahead of them!) or families who are looking to explore beyond the slopes, read on for a list of our favorite local activities for the snowy months!
Gondola ride: Embark on a breathtaking journey on the Panorama Gondola, soaring to an elevation of over 11,000 feet. Witness panoramic vistas of the majestic Sierra Nevada as you ascend to the summit of Mammoth Mountain. Your gondola ticket grants unlimited rides for the day, allowing you to experience the stunning views from different angles. Up to two children under 12 ride free with a paying adult!
Woolly’s Adventure Summit at Mammoth Mountain is a winter wonderland offering fun for the whole family.
Here’s a breakdown of the activities:
- Woolly’s Tube Park: This is the star attraction, featuring snow tubing with a convenient magic carpet to get kids and adults uphill. If you’re looking for a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the snow, this is the perfect activity. Take note that kids must meet the height requirement of 42 inches.
- Mountain Coaster: For thrill-seekers, Woolly’s Mountain Coaster offers an exhilarating ride through the mountain terrain. This high-speed coaster features twists, turns, and drops, reaching speeds of up to 25 miles per hour. However, there are height and age restrictions: riders must be over 3 years old and accompanied by a driver at least 18 years old and over 54″ tall.
- Snow Play Area: Perfect for young children below 42 inches tall, this play area offers a safe space for them to romp in the snow. Here they can build snowmen, play on surf sleds, and even meet Woolly, Mammoth Mountain’s mascot.
- Mountain Coaster and Tube Park Hours:
- 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, open Friday–Sunday from December 6–8, 2024
- 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, open daily from December 13, 2024–April 6, 2025
Beyond the downhill slopes, Mammoth Lakes offers a winter wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the pristine beauty of the region on cross-country skis or snowshoes.
Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center:
- Guided Adventures: Join a naturalist tour at Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center. Led by a friendly US Forest Service volunteer, you’ll learn about the unique flora, fauna, and geology of the area while enjoying a scenic snowshoe trek. Full moon and sunset tours are also available for a truly magical experience.
- Independent Exploration: Tamarack boasts over 19 miles of groomed trails perfect for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Choose your own adventure!
Mammoth Lakes Trail System:
- Sherwins Trails: Explore the Sherwin Range on the groomed Sherwins Winter Trails. The Sherwins Meadow Trail, a 1.2-mile out-and-back trail, is popular for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other winter activities.
- Shady Rest: Shady Rest provides a tranquil winter setting for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. The 1.8-mile groomed loop trail offers a gentle introduction to winter sports in a serene forest of Jeffrey pines and red firs.
For a break from the winter chill, Mammoth Lakes offers a variety of indoor activities. Lace up your skates at the LA Kings Ice Rink, perfect for families or solo skaters. After a day on the slopes, unwind at Mammoth Rock ‘N’ Bowl, where you can enjoy bowling, foosball, darts, ping pong, or even virtual golf. For a unique and exciting experience, try your hand at axe throwing at Yosemite Axe Throwing (ages 8+), where you’ll get to throw axes at real log targets.
While our slopes are world-class, Mammoth Lakes is more than just a winter sports destination. Join us at the Alpenhof Lodge and explore the many other ways to enjoy the snow, from snowshoe adventures to gondola rides.