At the heart of several wilderness areas, Mammoth Lakes is cut through by the San Joaquin and Owens rivers. Mammoth Mountain overlooks the Ansel Adams Wilderness Area to the west and the John Muir Wilderness Area to the southeast, and beyond to the Inyo National Forest and the Sierra National Forest.
The Mammoth Mountain Ski Area (tel. 800/626-6684 or 760/934-2571; www.mammothmountain.com) is the central focus for both summer and winter activities. Visitors can ride the lifts just to see panoramic vistas, but those who want an active adventure have many options. If you do hit the slopes in winter, you can use the free Mammoth Area Shuttle (tel] 760/934-2571, ext. 9238) or Sierra Express taxi service (tel. 760/934-8294) for transportation between town and the ski area. The shuttle makes many stops and eliminates the long wait that may befall you if you drive yourself.
The state-of-the-art Panorama Gondola provides great viewing every day, in winter or summer, weather permitting. The gondola carries eight passengers and stops midway up the mountain and at the summit with 360-degree views. In summer, you can use it to access the hiking and biking trails on the mountain. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for youths 13 to 18, $10 kids 7 to 12; kids 6 and under ride free.
In addition to the most popular activities listed below, adventurers can go hot-air ballooning with Mammoth Balloon Adventures (tel. 760/937-UPUP; www.mammothballoonadventures.com). And golfers can play at Snowcreek Golf Course, Old Mammoth Road (tel. 760/934-6633; www.snowcreekresort.com).
Winter Driving in the Sierra
Winter driving in the Sierra Nevada Range can be dangerous. The most hazardous roads are often closed, but others are negotiable only by vehicles with four-wheel-drive or tire chains. Be prepared for sudden blizzards, and protect yourself by taking these important precautions:
Check road conditions before you set out by calling tel. 800/427-7623.
Let the rental-car company know you're planning to drive in snow, and ask whether the antifreeze is prepared for cold climates.
Make sure your heater and defroster work.
Always carry chains. In a blizzard, the police will not allow vehicles without chains on some highways. If you don't know how to put them on, you'll have to pay about $40 to have someone "chain up" your car at the side of the road.
In your trunk, stow an ice scraper, a small shovel, sand or burlap for traction if you get stuck, warm blankets, and an extra car key (motorists often lock their keys in the car while chaining up).
Don't think winter ends in March. Snow can pile up high as late as April on the sides of the roads leading to the valley, and cold temperatures make more snowfall more than plausible.
