Ask skiers outside California to name a resort they’ve never visited but would love to, and Mammoth often comes up. They’ll tell you they’ve heard about the “best lift system in North America” (No. 1), the “excellent terrain” (No. 4), the intense steeps (No. 7) and the “outstanding scenery” (No. 8). Their kids will tell you they’ve heard about the sickest terrain parks (No. 1) this side of the X Games. “A huge resort with everything imaginable,” one reader says. With open bowls, wide groomers, above-treeline steeps, a variety of lodging and a vibrant village and town, you’ll want for nothing. So why all the never-beens? Located five hours from Los Angeles, Mammoth is an “out-of-the-way place.” That may be a blessing for devotees who come to a “great mountain with all the challenge you could ask for, and lifts to match.” Last year, accessibility improved via daily flights from L.A., and more routes are coming. On the fence? One reader sums it up: “You want it, they’ve got it.”
/ What’s New / Horizon Air is adding a second daily nonstop from L.A., new daily nonstops from San Jose and Reno, and direct service from Seattle and Portland.
/ Mandatory Run / Experts, earn your stripes on Cornice Bowl off the Panorama Gondola
and the Avalanche Chutes off Chair 22.
/ Local Tip / Chair 9 hides powder stashes days after a big storm.
