6 Reasons to Add Mammoth Mountain to Your Ikon Pass Bucket List

September 27, 2024

Mammoth Mountain is one of those places that has to be on the top of your list.

If you're an Ikon Pass holder but have never visited Mammoth Lakes — a little ski town in California's Sierra Nevada Mountains — let's just start by saying, you're missing out big time!

Before Mammoth Mountain popped on your radar as part of the Ikon Pass, you may not have even heard of Mammoth Lakes. Now with access to 50+ resorts around the world and counting, the Ikon Pass makes it easy to plan the ski vacation of your dreams.

MAMMOTH MOUNTAIN: THE PERFECT CALIFORNIA SKI RESORT

1. Legendary Sierra Snowpack

With a summit at 11,053 feet and a unique placement in the Sierra Nevada that supports an unreal amounts of snow, Mammoth Mountain is in a league of its own. The mountain is perfectly situated to get absolutely dumped on from big storms that roll in from the Pacific. And that "Sierra cement" your buddies who ski Colorado tease you about? Not a thing when you bump up the elevation to Mammoth Lakes!

A van is covered in several feet of snow, there are walls of snow on either side of the driveway

2. One of the Longest Seasons in the Country

Massive snowfalls plus the High Sierra climate mean the snow sticks around for quite a while. In fact, Mammoth Mountain historically has one of the longest ski seasons in the country. Most years, guests can ski and snowboard at Mammoth Mountain from early November into the summer (think: skiing in shorts on the 4th of July). In the 22/23 season, we even skied from November to August.

If you're not ready to say farewell to snow when other resorts shut down in early April, make your way to Mammoth Mountain. Summer skiing is a novelty, and that's all the more reason to get Mammoth Mountain onto your bucket list.

3. 275 Days of Sunshine!

As much as we like to brag about the legendary snowpack here in the Sierra, everyone who calls Mammoth Mountain their home mountain is just as grateful for the 275 days of sunshine (on average) as they are for the snowfall. California really serves up the best of both worlds when it comes to plenty of snow coupled with magical bluebird days.

4. Unlimited Days of Skiing & Riding at Mammoth Mountain

And the best news about those 275 days of sunshine? You can soak in as many as you want all season because Mammoth Mountain has unlimited days of skiing and riding on the Ikon Pass. When your one-time bucket list visit turns into the best ski trip of your season, you can come back again and again.

A blue gondola hangs in the air over snow covered mountains

5. The Highest Chairlift-Accessible Mountain in California

Mammoth Mountain's summit reaches 11,053 feet and spans 3,100 feet vertical from the summit to the base lodge. The mountain really lives up to its name when it comes to 3,500 skiable acres, 175 trails and 25 lifts.

6. Fly Here From Anywhere in the World

Mammoth Lakes has non-stop flights from Los Angeles and San Diego on Advanced Airlines, and non-stop flights from San Francisco and Denver to Bishop (just 40 minutes south of Mammoth Lakes) on United Airlines. It's easy to connect to Mammoth Lakes from almost anywhere.

A white and blue United Airlines plane on the tarmac. A snowcapped mountain range is in the distance

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Mammoth Mountain with my Ikon Pass?

Your Ikon Pass grants you unlimited access to Mammoth Mountain, allowing you to ski or ride as much as you want during the season.

What is Ikon Pass Early Ups?

Early Ups is a private event for Ikon Pass and Ikon Base Pass holders, giving them the chance to enjoy exclusive lift access at Mammoth Mountain early in the morning, on select dates. Weather and conditions permitting.

What is the best time of year to visit Mammoth Mountain?

Ski season in Mammoth Lakes typically begins in November and often lasts well into June, giving you plenty of opportunities for skiing and snowboarding throughout the year.

Are there any blackout dates for Mammoth Mountain?

There are no restrictions on the Ikon Pass at Mammoth Mountain so you can ski and snowboard whenever you choose. However, there are blackout dates in December, January, and February for the Ikon Base Pass, Ikon Base Plus Pass and Ikon Session Passes.

Can I upgrade my Ikon Pass to include additional benefits or resorts?

If you purchased an Ikon Base Pass, Ikon Base Plus Pass, or Ikon Session Pass you can upgrade your pass by logging into your Ikon Pass account, clicking "Upgrade Products", and following the prompts.

Are there any discounts available for Ikon Pass holders at Mammoth Mountain?

Yes, Ikon Pass holders enjoy discounts on special lodging rates, discounts in-resort, special events, and activities on Mammoth Mountain. For more details, visit Mammoth Mountain Ikon Pass.

Can I use my Ikon Pass for summer activities at Mammoth Mountain?

Plan a summer trip to Mammoth Mountain and use your pass to enjoy exclusive savings on lodging, dining, shopping, and select summer activities, including biking, climbing and free gondola rides.

Author

Visit Mammoth

Unreal. There is no better way to describe Mammoth Lakes, California. A place so majestic that breathtaking views surround you in every direction. The staff at Mammoth Lakes Tourism is committed to stewardship, education, providing the ultimate visitor experience, and keeping the Real Unreal.