| The Town of Mammoth Lakes sits at an altitude of 7,800 to 8,200 feet, with some lodging up to 8,900 feet. Some visitors may experience minor side effects due to the high elevation. If you experience headaches, insomnia or fatigue you might be experiencing altitude sickness. To acclimate to the altitude, eat lightly, drink plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol, and take it easy the first 24 hours you are here.
The surrounding mountains rise to elevations exceeding 14,000 feet. Only 100 miles to the south lies Mt. Whitney, towering at 14,494 feet as the tallest mountain in the contiguous 48 states.
POPULATION
Approximately 7,500 people reside in the Mammoth Lakes area year-round. During the peak winter season, the population swells to over 35,000.
CLIMATE
In summer, temperatures average 75-80 degrees for a high and seldom dips below 40 for a low. Winter temperatures average 30-40 degrees for a high and 10-20 degrees for a low with mostly sunny skies. We average over 300 sunny days a year and with an average of 385 inches of snow we are often are skiing until July 4th. It is much easier to sunburn your skin and eyes at this altitude. SPF 30 sunscreen and UV glasses or goggles are a must for all children and adults.
DRIVING, PARKING, & TOWN TRANSPORTATION
Traffic during busy times of the year can be a bit hectic. Please remember that town roads were not designed to be driven like the 405 in Southern California. As soon as you turn onto Hwy 203 it is time to take a deep breath, relax, slow down and go with the flow. Start your vacation as soon as you exit 395!
Winter driving can be a new experience. The key is to carry required chains at all times, obey all chain control signs, give yourself plenty of room to stop, and slow down. Most winter accidents are caused by driving too fast for the road conditions. To check CA road conditions call 800-427-7623.
Parking on town roads is not permitted from November 1st to April 30th to enable efficient snow removal during snow storms.
The Town of Mammoth Lakes has free Bus Service in the winter and a free Trolley service in the Summer. The bus or trolley will drop you in front of most venues, saving you the walk with all your gear. Help save the environment and cut down on traffic by taking the bus or trolley!
RECREATION
Winter Amenities
• Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding
• Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
• Snowmobiling & Dog Sledding
• Sledding & Snow Play
• Nature and Wildlife
• Points of Interest (Day Trips)
• Shopping and Spa days
• Dining Out & Nightlife
• Ice Climbing & Winter Mountaineering
Summer Amenities
• Fishing
• Camping, Hiking & Backpacking
• Rock Climbing & Mountaineering
• Mountain and Road Biking
• Art, Wine, Beer & Jazz Festivals
• Nature, Wildlife & Geology
• Points of Interest (Day Trips)
• Dining Out, Shopping & Spa Days
• Horseback Riding & Pack Trips
• Swimming & Boating
• Golf & Tennis
We welcome you to experience all our town has to offer!
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