Mammoth Mountain is like a massive snow-covered unicorn, as it receives the rare combo of 300 days of annual sunshine and 400 inches of snow – the 2010-2011 season saw 669 inches of snow! Because of its high altitude, with a base at around 8,000-feet, and the summit at 11,053-feet (making it the highest ski resort in California), the mountain is famous for its superior snow conditions, allowing slopestyle-lovers to be met with a playground of intricate terrain parks, speed-chasers to discover a tapestry of groomed black diamonds, intermediate-groovers to play in a sprawling wonderland of wide blues, and nervous beginners to delight in the abundance of lifts dropping them on easy-rider runs. And one of the best parts is that this mountain is so colossal (with 162 trails and 28 lifts!) these varieties of skiers and boarders rarely merge, as they all have their own, semi-contained zones.

With this dynamic, glorious network of steep, heart-pounding inclines, corduroy groomers (if you get on it early), sweeping bowls and bumps, wonderlands of picturesque paths through the pines, and epic jumps, Mammoth is a frosty eden for everyone from the slow-and-steadys to fast-and-highs (and we mean high in every sense of the word.)

While frozen bliss awaits on Mammoth Mountain, it can be harder to discover if you’re heading to the slopes with kids, uncertain as to what runs will be a win, and which will inspire mid-slope tantrums. To simplify the conundrum we’ve offered breakdowns of our favorite trails below. If this list is missing a run you think deserves a spot, please let us know in the comments, or via email – we want to hear from you!

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Happy Travels Tip: Because Mammoth Mountain is composed of a wildly extensive tapestry of runs, make sure everyone carries a trail map with them – you can snag em’ in any lodge where lift tickets are sold. We’ve been skiing at Mammoth for ten years and still use a map if we’re utilizing more than one section of the mountain.

Terrain Stats

3,500 skiable acres

Over 3,100 vertical feet

25% beginner runs

40% intermediate runs

20% advanced runs

15% expert runs

Favorite Advanced Runs

Riders that enjoy skin tingling anticipation, rare air that’s so thin it makes you feel a bit tipsy, and that rollercoaster-esque drop in the stomach will discover their fantasyland along Mammoth Mountain’s infamous ridgeline. Whether you’re hoping to score buttery turns, test your resolve on nearly vertical chutes or score powdery landings, Mammoth will cause your cheeks (and probably everything else) to burn by the end of the day because of its perma-smile-inducing powers.

While there are few advanced runs on Mammoth that aren’t adored, these are the favorites of Eric, and the other bold riders we know.

Climax

This is the place to go if you’ve made it to the gondola by 8:30am the morning after the weather Gods dumped powder. The steep pitch and spaciousness of this bowl, in addition to being the highest run on the mountain, often gives the illusion that you’re blasting through fluffy clouds in the heavens. But because this run is so exposed, it loses its appeal when the wind picks up.

West Bowl

Often empty, West Bowl is a top-tier option for those hoping to refine their mogul skills. If you want to keep hitting it, just hop back on Facelift Express. But if you’re looking to mix it up and get a longer ride, stay to skier’s right after passing McCoy Station to find a fun assortment of under-utilized tree runs that end at Stump Alley Express.

Avalanche Chutes

Also called “Avy Chutes,” these puckering runs are so appealing die-hards used to hike to them before Chair 22 was installed. And those in the know pray for days when Chair 22 is closed so they can put in the leg work to have the chutes to themselves. Each of the three chutes is unique, so give them each a go to discover your top pick.

Hangman’s Hollow

This short, hourglass shaped drop demands constant precision, but especially at the pinch point that is guarded by two large, seemingly identical craggy rock faces that are definitely judging your skills. Like most runs, Hangman’s Hollow morphs with the conditions, sometimes offering a fairly straightforward ride, and other times demanding mental mapping and total focus.

Phillipe’s

A formidable double black diamond gully, with a narrowness that often preserves powder, Phillipe’s is a darling for riders who like to saturate themselves in adrenaline.

Paranoid Flats

We believe that the not-so-simple act of just dropping into the “Noids” is a bragging right on its own, as you’re skimming a shockingly narrow ridge to access it and need to thoroughly scope it out before committing. Thrill-seekers will be in nirvana.

Wipeout Chutes

Steep, tight and challenging, these chutes are often protected from the full force of the wind, allowing them to hang on to more powder. After you get through the narrow beginning everything opens up, facilitating a swift, graceful dance of wide turns. As Chair 23 runs above these chutes, you’ll be on full display – so bring your A-game.

Sanctuary

In a world where Goldie Locks is an advanced skier, Sanctuary would be one of her top choices, as it’s high enough on the mountain to preserve primo snow conditions, but not so high that it’s over-exposed to the wind. This run also has a fair amount of trees, adding a creative element of maneuvering for those who want to play.

Main Park

With a half pipe that was named #1 by Transworld Snowboarding, and a known favorite of snowboarding legend Shaun White, Main Park is an optimal choice for advanced shredders looking to get experimental on jibs, jumps, spines, berms and bumps.

Favorite Intermediate Runs

Although Bailey has tried all the blue to blue-almost-black runs on Mammoth Mountain, she’s a creature of habit and now sticks to her tried and trues, depending on weather conditions. But before you discover her top picks, know that she has an aversion to wide, well-tread runs that often end up choppy. Because of this, most of the runs listed below are winding tree-lined trails that – if you wait a minute or two, allowing a surge of riders to pass – are usually empty-ish. Enhancing the charm of these runs is the fact that many offer long cruisey rides that can last as long as 15 or 20 minutes – but that’s of course dependent on your speed-demon tendencies.

Stump Alley to Mambo (or Forest Trail Park) to Phantom’s Escape

Our go-to during wind-free, bluebird days, this trail combo allows Bailey to enjoy a scenic mosey down Mambo, while Eric plays with the jumps and jibs on Forest Trail Park. We then meet at the top of Phantom’s Escape and blast down to Stump Alley Express together.

Tip: Go for speed on Phantom’s Escape to prevent getting stuck in the doldrums at the bottom of the run.

If we’re racing, we can finish this route in 4-5 minutes, but if we’re taking our time, stopping to take in the vista that seems to have been pulled from a Thomas Kinkade painting, it can last about 15 minutes.

While this route is idyllic when the weather’s calm, it’s a frost-bitten-fingertip-waiting-to-happen during a storm. Stump Alley Express is pretty exposed (especially the top half) so you get blasted by weather. For example, Bailey was almost pushed off the lift once when a snow devil hit. On stormy days, we stick to Roller Coaster, where tree coverage provides a decent wind buffer.

Jibs & More

If you think you’d enjoy a super mellow, skier-friendly, and almost always empty terrain park, scoot down the edges of South Park then take a skier’s left to hop on Jibs & More (if you accidentally miss the turn and end up on Lost in the Woods, just take Chair 21 to get back on South Park.)

The mini-jumps, grooves, and other playful terrain is easy to test out your skills on, and is one of the best kept secrets on the mountain. But don’t take the run all the way to the bottom, as you’ll have a mini-hike to get back on Roller Coaster Express – instead, take a skier’s right when you see a big break in the trees that allows you to cut over to South Park. With that said, if you adore Jibs & More and want to do nothing but it (like Bailey most days), ride it to the bottom until you hit Chair 20, which will take you back to the top of Jibs & More.

South Park

For those that rolled their eyes when they read “super mellow and skier-friendly” on the Jibs & More description, take a page from Eric’s playbook and head to South Park. This long run is filled with serious jibs and massive jumps, making it a prime choice for riders looking to up their game and fully commit. If you just want to watch (and there ain’t no shame in that game) there’s plenty of room on the edges to cruise without getting in the way.

Roller Coaster

If you prefer a straight shot down the mountain, instead of the intentional obstacles riddling the options above, stick to Roller Coaster, which has consistent snow conditions and (usually) in-control riders. Folks who would prefer most of the slope to themselves should chill at the top of the run for a few minutes and wait for it to clear – on non-beginner runs traffic usually comes in waves, so if you just show some patience you can hop in between the waves and enjoy a fairly solo ride.

When the weather is wild we stick to Roller Coaster and the two runs above because they offer wind protection, and often have fluffy stores of powder on their edges.

Beware that the uppermost portion of Roller Coaster that sits beside the top of the lift can be icy and hectic (as riders from different lifts are crossing paths), so keep your eyes open and take it slow – but once you pass the short “zoo zone” you’re good to go.

Road Runner

Referred to as a “thigh-burner” by pretty much everyone who has journeyed down it, this whopping 3-mile run (the longest on Mammoth, and accessed from the top of the Panorama Gondola) takes you on a mind-blowing tour of the summit and backside of the mountain, as it looks out on an overwhelming panorama coated in snow-kissed pines and nature-made stone sculptures. But don’t get too hypnotized by the view – Road Runner often runs parallel to steep drops (sometimes the drop is on both sides), so come to a stop before taking in the sights. Speaking of an intense drop… this is not the place to take riders who are still getting their ski legs – solidly intermediate to advanced skiers and boarders only.

White Bark Ridge

If you want to skip the intense tour of the summit that Road Runner offers, hop on its lower half by taking Discovery Chair to Chair 12, then veering to looker’s right off the lift (and staying high) to get on White Bark Ridge. When Bailey was re-learning to ski in high school, this was one of her preferred runs, and is still a favorite on days when we want a long, chill ride.

Lost in the Woods

A great choice for those ready to upgrade from beginner to intermediate, Lost in the Woods is a short, straightforward and easy-rider run located beneath Chair 21. Because of its location at the bottom of the mountain, and the ample tree protection, it’s a good choice for wild weather days.

If you want a longer ride, take Roller Coaster Express to South Park, then swing over to Lost in the Woods. If you’re into Lost in the Woods, you can rinse and repeat by sticking to Chair 21.

Tip: The easiest access to Chair 21 is via the parking lot located right before the main parking area for The Mill.

Back for More and Haven’t the Foggiest

Just as Lost in the Woods is an optimal choice for beginners moving up to intermediate, Back for More and Haven’t the Foggiest (located right next to one another) are where you want to go if you’re an intermediate making the move to advanced. Both trails receive little traffic, provide long rides, and taper out into mellow greens right when your legs start to burn. Because of their largely unoccupied nature, these options both maintain fairly smooth snow throughout the day, and are loads of fun if you score them in the morning when they still boast glistening corduroy.

The pitch is perfect for Bailey – who likes to go really fast, then slow/stop, then go really fast, then… you get it – as these trails offer steep patches that level out right when you’re starting to get nervous about going so fast. And because of well-placed clusters of trees those who prefer off-trail-powder-play will be in nirvana.

Favorite Beginner Runs

With a quarter of the mountain geared towards beginners, riders who have the basics down, but are still finding their groove will enjoy the plethora of options suitable for newer riders. While these runs won’t cause your stomach to fill with “I might need to go to the bathroom” nerves, they will offer a gentle push, helping to ease your skills into the next level.

Lupin

One of the longest green trails on the mountain, Lupin is the place to play if you want plenty of track to tinker with your skills. But if you get nervous with eyes on you, check out Easy Rider or St. Moritz, as the busy Eagle Express runs above Lupin. However, as people who have fallen often under Mammoth lifts (in a spectacularly embarrassing fashion), we’re pleased to report that we’ve never been hit by unkind words from a Lookie Lou.

Easy Rider

Another long ride, Easy Rider gets you higher on the mountain than any of the other beginner runs, and provides killer views of the surrounding Sierras on its wide meandering trail that ends at The Mill.

Canyon Express drops you at the top of Easy Rider, but if you want to do it again (from The Mill), you’ll need to take Gold Rush Express, take a looker’s right to hop on Solitude, then follow the signs to Easy Rider. Be aware that the inaptly-named Solitude is an intermediate run that’s usually crowded, but if you stick to the edge where there’s softer snow and less people you should be good. And your stint on Solitude will be short.

St. Moritz

If you tried out Solitude to Easy Rider and weren’t spooked by the blue, mosey over to the Panorama Gondola and ride to McCoy Lodge. From there, take Stump Alley (a mild intermediate) to St. Moritz, where you can celebrate your conquering of an intermediate run on its gentle, charming path. If you’d rather get to St.Moritz from The Mill, hop on Stump Alley Express, then take the same route (Stump Alley to St. Moritz.)

Broadway

A blue that borders on a green (we’ll call it a turquoise), Broadway is an ideal spot for riders skiing or boarding out of Main Lodge who want a run they can easily do over and over again. This trail is wide enough to accommodate large crowds and rarely feels excessively cluttered, a major plus for riders who still aren’t fully comfortable with intermediate paths. An extra perk is that Broadway Express takes you over Gravy Chutes, offering a jaw dropping show if you’re lucky enough to glide above it while someone is crazy enough to be going down it.

Favorite Never-Slid-Down-a-Mountain-Before Runs

Mammoth’s newcomer trails are like loving, (sometimes) soft hugs for those just mustering the courage to strap on skis or a board. Adding to the pleasant nature of these runs are their adorable names, like Pumpkin, Little Bird, School Yard, Apple Pie and Sesame Street – you can’t help but say “aww.

While there’s a generous helping of super-beginner options spread across the mountain, the bulk live at Main Lodge and Canyon. In addition to offering the trails mentioned below (and all the green paths that splinter off them), these lodges both provide extensive beginner areas, including the much coveted magic carpets (conveyor belts that transport beginners to the top of a tiny slope.)

Everything off of School Yard Express

This lift leads to multiple, relatively long beginner routes, allowing ample opportunity to explore within the bounds of your comfort zone. School Yard is the most direct path back to the lift, while taking Spring Canyon, to Ginger Bread, to Fun Zone provides more variety, in addition to nooks to pull into for a little rest. An additional perk of these runs (and the ones mentioned below) is that everyone understands that they’re for learners, and won’t get pissed if you fall, or suddenly have to stop, in the middle of the slope.

Everything off of Discovery Chair

Contained in a metaphorical “green bubble” at the edge of the mountain, the beginner slopes off Discovery Chair don’t mingle with any intermediate or advanced runs, making this area a haven for those feeling nervous about getting in the way of more advanced riders. Go as slow as you want while heading straight down Sesame Street, or exploring a more backcountry-esque section like Woolly’s Woods. Moral of the story: You can meander through any of the terrain below Discovery Chair without fear of suddenly meeting the precipice of a black diamond.

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The post Ultimate Mammoth Mountain Trail Guide for Every Level of Skier + Snowboarder appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

Exploring a world blanketed in fluffy snow, before heading inside to slip into pjs and snuggle fireside with cocoa and a puzzle, is a rare form of bliss. However, all the stuff required for a successful snow sojourn can be overwhelming. And we know the pain of forgetting many of the essentials, namely, chains for the tires. Not good. So do as we say, not as we do, and make sure you load up all of the following before setting off into the wild white yonder.

* Click here for a printable version of the list.

A few tips…

* Avoid the temptation to randomly throw clothes into your suitcase. Being intentional with what you pack, by putting together outfits that will suit your itinerary, ensures only items you’ll actually use end up in your suitcase.

* If you’ll have easy access to a washer and dryer, you can cut the number of outfits you bring in half.

* If you’ll be on the slopes, bright colored jackets (especially for the kids) minimize your chance of losing one another.

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And now the list…

· Folder with identification, airline and lift tickets, insurance info and essential documents like visas and vaccination records (and photocopies of all of the above.)

You can probably get away with going on a trip without anything on this list… except these items. We recommend tasking the most responsible adult in your family with keeping a sturdy folder with items like passports or driver’s licenses, birth certificates, Visas, or any other documentation required for wherever it is that you’re going, in their carry-on.

· Two or three forms of payment. Have that responsible person mentioned above carry a money pouch on their person that has credit cards, debit cards and cash.

· Sunscreen that can be easily applied, especially if you have small children. We prefer some form of zinc oxide as it lasts longer than many other options. Cold weather can often make you forget about sun exposure, but that’s when we’ve developed some of our worst sunburns, as snow is a major reflector.

· Sunburn remedies.

Because sunburns happen, you’ll want to bring aloe, or other lobster skin soothers. As skin can also chap in the cold air, bringing a thick salve or oil to apply to dry skin can be a comfort saver.

·. As you’re planning these outfits, have your itinerary handy so you can ensure you’re packing the right type of garb for the activities you’ll be engaging in. If you think you’ll be done by evening, and ready to climb into pajamas, skip the second outfit.

But if you plan to go out for dinner every night, or do other evening activities where you’ll want fresh clothes, the second outfit can come in handy. In the case of cold weather, more is more, so consider bringing a few more cozy layers than you think is necessary.

· Jacket with insulation and wind protection. If you’ll be engaging in snow sports, you’ll also want this jacket to be waterproof.

· Thermal base layer.

Even if you won’t be skiing, a thermal under-layer for your top and bottom will make almost all your clothes wearable in cold temps.

·:

· Skis or snowboard

· Poles

· Ski or board boots

· Ski socks

· Snow boots

· Ski pants and base layer

· Ski jacket and base layer (and a middle layer if it will be really cold)

· Goggles

· Helmets

· Gloves with liner (mittens are best for frigid temps)

· Neck warmer

· Ski socks

· HotHands feet and hands warmers

· Warm clothes/gear bag.

For our ski trips, we have a massive bag filled with ski clothes, extra layers, helmets, goggles, gloves, etc.

· Cozy socks and hat!

· Pajamas. If you won’t have access to a washer and dryer, you’ll likely want a pair of pajamas for every two nights you’ll be away. If you’ll be able to wash clothes, cut this number in half.

· Bathing suits, if there will be a hot tub. Here’s hoping!

· Footwear.

Again, pull out that itinerary and figure out what footwear will be required for your various activities. And then… resist the temptation to pack additional pairs, as shoes take up serious luggage real estate.

· Toiletries for skin, hair, eyes, teeth, lips, odors, etc. A few days before you depart, pull out all your hygiene and beauty essentials. Now consider the length of your trip, and yet again, the nature of the activities you’ll be doing.

Next, figure out which items you need to buy more of before you depart, what can be housed in a smaller container, and what you can buy when you get there (for example, for long trips we often purchase items like shampoo, conditioner and body lotion when we get to our destination.)

As cold weather is dehydrating, bring extra nourishing products for skin.

· Chains.

Even if there’s not snow in the forecast, freak storms or icy roads can easily pop up. And in many areas, you can be fined for driving without chains in certain conditions.

· Portable humidifier. You can purchase lightweight humidifiers that help prevent your family from feeling like all moisture has been sucked out of them by morning.

· Earplugs. We think these gems deserve their own bullet point as they can be sanity-savers on an airplane, in a hotel room with your family, or a ski lodge filled with people.

· Medicine and other self care items, like glasses, contact lenses, inhaler, Epi pen etc. Be sure to refill any needed prescriptions at least a week before you depart so you don’t have to scramble at the last minute.

· Backpack.

Whether you’re on the slopes, snowshoeing or walking through an alpine village, it’s ideal to have a lightweight backpack to store snacks, water, sunscreen, chapstick, payment options and a few entertainment options for the kids, especially if you’ll be eating out.

· Reading material you’ll actually read. We’ve often been guilty of packing way more books and magazines than we’ll ever read, which takes up precious weight and space. Be super selective with the reading material you bring, limiting yourself to those you’re sure you’ll crack.

·.

If you really want to stoke them out, you can pack a backpack with toys, etc that they’ve never seen. We sometimes siphon off a few of Hudson’s birthday gifts to use for this purpose.

And of course, pack that screen and headphones if your family does screen time. Hudson adores road trips, as that often means an Octonauts binge.

· Work essentials.

Hopefully, you won’t have to engage in much work on your adventure, but we live in the real world and realize that sometimes a few emails might have to be taken care of while you’re sitting fireside. So make sure you have that laptop, charger, paperwork, or whatever else you’ll need to get the job done.

· Gadgets. While items like your computer are likely already on the list if you’ll be working on your trip, make sure you securely pack other gadgets like a portable speaker, cameras, drones, phones, necessary chargers and batteries, and any other digi-items you’re almost 100% sure you’ll use on the trip.

·. If your children are really little, you’ll want to bring their car seats that are most travel-friendly. If your kids are of booster seat age, you can save space by purchasing a seat belt adjuster that lowers the strap and adds cushioning for comfort.

· Baby carrier or stroller.

If you’ll be doing ample walking on your trip, you can save yourself a world of hassle by bringing along your favorite baby/kid transport option.

·. In addition, keep everyone hydrated with their own metal water bottles.

· Translator app or book. If you’re going to an area with a language you don’t fluently speak, it’s handy to have a translator app (if you’ll have access to Wi-Fi) or the booklet equivalent.

* Click here for a printable version of this list.

The post What to Pack for a Family Snow + Ski Trip (Printable Checklist Included!) appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

Mammoth Mountain inspires an intrepid energy that trickles through everyone who graces its seemingly endless slopes. It makes you want to be brave, push your limits, and suck it up when you can no longer feel your fingers and toes. It’s lovely, which is why it’s a favorite training destination for the U.S. Snowboarding Team, previous host of the X Games and U.S. Freeski and Snowboard Grand Prix, and on the must-visit list of anyone who enjoys the silky wonders of first-rate slopes. And, you can get your kids super stoked to visit by informing them that it’s also an active volcano (but don’t worry, it hasn’t erupted in over 700 years.)

Each lodge at Mammoth has a personality as unique as the melting pot of skiers + boarders shredding on its slopes. You have the family-focused lodges touting play areas for the kids, occasional igloos and frequent sightings of Woolly the mascot, those with bars overflowing with millennials and hipster hip hop, and others with the Patagonia-clad “we’re here for one reason, and one reason only” crews stuffing down protein whilst hovering over a trail map. There’s a flavor for everyone, ensuring your crew can find a sweet-spot hangout that checks all your boxes.

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Eagle Lodge: The Convenient Option

Photo: Mammoth Mountain

Nestled between streets filled with a slew of accommodations, Eagle Lodge requires the least amount of travel if you’re staying in town. Because it’s one of the smaller lodges, you’ll generally find shorter lines for tickets, gear rentals, lifts and food here, but be forewarned that getting a table during peak lunch hours is pretty tricky (at all of the lodges.) If you want to make sure you score a table, shoot for an early lunch around 11am, or a late one around 3pm. The parking lot also fills up fairly fast – if you don’t want to park on the street, try to arrive before 8:30am.

Best Beginner Lift: Eagle Express

Eagle is one of the most popular choices for families as it features, Lupin, the longest bunny slope on the mountain. Just hop on Eagle Express, which is a six seater, and cruise on up. Lupin is a straight shot from the top of the lift to the bottom, so it’s pretty much impossible to get lost. Because this is such a long run, only take beginners that are patient enough to have their gear strapped on for awhile.

One of our favorite features of Eagle Express is that it’s so low on the mountain that even if the wind is raging on upper lifts, Eagle is almost always calm.

Best Intermediate Lift: Eagle Express to Chair 25

For intermediate riders that don’t mind black-blues, runs like Back for More and Haven’t the Foggiest are long scenic runs that flow off Chair 25. Bailey says a fat NO to black diamonds, and any runs that even slightly emulate the pitch of a black, but the trails snaking off of Chair 25 are her “Goldie Locks” runs – not too steep, not too flat. This lift is rarely crowded, so if you enjoy the runs, return to Chair 25, instead of cruising all the way back to Eagle Express. But if you’re with kids that are just dipping their toes in the intermediate waters, heading back to Eagle is a nice balance, as they’ll spend half their times on blues, and the other on greens.

Best Expert Lift: Eagles Express to Chair 25 to Cloud 9 Express

If you want a quick shot of adrenaline, take a looker’s right off Chair 25 and zip down double black diamonds like Avalanche Chutes (some of the steepest terrain anywhere), Shaft or Grizzly, which all end in Follow Me that leads back to Chair 25. If you’re looking for a longer, more remote expert run, hop off Chair 25 then follow Relief, to Quicksilver, to Goldhill, which ends at Cloud 9 where some of the best snow on the mountain can be found after a storm. At the top of Cloud 9, take a looker’s left to Ricochet.

Canyon Lodge: The Family Choice

Photo: Mammoth Mountain

Home to a massive igloo (when there’s enough snow, which is often), four lifts, the drop off point for The Village gondola, and a four-story lodge (with heaven sent escalators!) Canyon Lodge is a favorite choice for families with skiers and snowboarders of all levels. This is where we took Hudson when he was first learning to snowboard, as there’s an abundance of learning areas that allow beginners to get a mellow taste of the mountain without navigating lift lines. Adding to its appeal is its proximity to town, which allows it to be surrounded by accommodations that are within walking distance.

Best Beginner Lift: Schoolyard Express

Spilling off the top of Schoolyard are numerous green runs that are fairly short, but offer enough space to thin out the crowds that are prevalent on beginner runs.

Best Intermediate Lift: Canyon Express to Roller Coaster Express

This is a long lift that can get chilly when the wind is up, but luckily, it moves fast and transports you to some of our favorite intermediate runs on the mountain, specifically Roller Coaster. If you’re a slope-styler, Canyon Express also provides access to South Park, which is one of the most extensive terrain parks on the mountain. If you want to get back to Canyon Express, follow the signs for Downhill, but if you want to keep hitting the best intermediate runs on Mammoth (in our humble opinion), stick to Roller Coaster Express until it’s time to head back to the lodge. Sweetening Roller Coaster Express is the fact that there’s a bathroom, and pop-up bar (on busier days), by the lift.

Tip: If you fall in love with this lift, and are traveling with all intermediate to advanced riders, there’s a semi-secret parking lot off the 203 that’s a short (about 3-minute) walk to Roller Coaster Express.

Best Expert Lift: Chair 8 to Chair 22

If you’re hoping to hit some of the most extreme terrain on Mammoth over and over again (we’re looking at you Avalanche Chutes), you’ll need to take Chair 8, then go to looker’s right and scoot down Hully Gully to Lower Grizzly until you reach Chair 22. Chair 22, one of the most famous (or infamous?) lifts on Mammoth, drops riders into an extreme wonderland of trails, like the aforementioned Avalanche Chutes. Once these initial black runs spill onto Follow Me, make sure you hop on Lower Viva or Lower Grizzly to make it back to 22. Safe travels you crazy animal.

The Mill: The Snowboarder’s Den

Photo: Mammoth Mountain

This is the spot Eric and I used to go when we were young, childless and (thought we were) cool. While we’re still allowed here, and like it just fine, it doesn’t offer any lift options for our little buck who would rather eat Brussels sprouts that scream down a blue. So we just come here when we’re playing hooky from parenthood, and want to sit by the enormous fire in the small lodge with some of the tastiest Bloody Mary’s we’ve ever had. If you’re traveling with children, but they’re all intermediate skiers, The Mill is a great central location that offers easy access to almost all areas of the mountain.

Best Beginner(ish) Lift: Chair 21

While Chair 21 (like the other lifts at The Mill) doesn’t lead to any all-green runs, the short Lost in the Woods trail that spills from the top of 21 to the bottom, is a pretty easy, rarely crowded blue that is a good option for beginners who are testing the intermediate waters. But before you strap on your skis in front of the lodge, know that Chair 21 is a bit of a walk. If you plan on going straight there, park in the small lot right before The Mill’s main lot, as it’s a straight shot to Chair 21.

Best Intermediate Lift: Stump Alley to Facelift Express

View from top of Saddle Bowl

When the wind is low and the sun is high, the fun to be had beneath these lifts is endless. Stump Alley Express leads to the well-used run of the same name, which can easily become choppy and a bit chaotic. But if you’re hoping for slopestyle kicks, head down Stump Alley then take skier’s left to find Forest Trail Park. Just to the right of this park is Mambo, which shockingly, is rarely crowded and usually has good snow (even at the end of the day during Spring season.)

If you want a longer ride, and slightly heightened thrills, keep to skier’s right as you head down the first expanse of Stump Alley (go towards the McCoy Lodge), and you’ll find Facelift Express. This lift is a nice compromise for families who have a mix of adrenaline junkies and adrenaline samplers, who don’t want to split up. Those wanting to go fast and steep can hop off Facelift and head straight down West Bowl or Center Bowl – but examine the conditions of these runs on your ride up as they’re not always great. Conditions on Saddle Bowl on the other hand – the primo option for those that only kind of like steep runs – is consistently superb.

Best Expert Lift: Stump Alley to Panorama Gondola or Gold Rush Express to High Five Express

The portal to Bailey’s nightmare and Eric’s powder-filled dreams exist at McCoy Lodge, where the Panorama Gondola (that you can also catch at Main Lodge) carries crazy people to the summit of the mountain so they can essentially jump off cliffs. Bailey will say yes to this ride for the photo ops, but refuses to walk too close to the edge and gets that grumbling “I might need to use the bathroom” stomach just watching fellow riders hurl themselves off the top of aptly named double black diamonds like Huevos Grande, Climax and Hangman’s Hollow. So yeah, it’s the motherland for extreme-seekers.

One step down from the summit, yet still appealing to those who love runs with an angular lip, is the web of black diamonds accessed from High Five Express. If you want to get straight to it, utilize Face of Five or Sanctuary, but if you want to do some exploring, go to looker’s right where you’ll find goodies like Dry Creek and Walters that all funnel you back to High Five Express.

Main Lodge: The Epicenter

With access to the Panorama Gondola, ski/in-ski/out accommodations, childcare, ski + snowboard school, a sportswear store (that’s pretty expensive – stock up on gear at spots like Mammoth Mountaineering Supply), an abundance of food options (massive salad + sandwich bar, Italian, American and more), and the extremely popular Tusks Bar, Main Lodge is teeming with amenities.

While Main Lodge is the place to be if you’re hoping to immerse yourself in the culture of the mountain, get in some good people watching, or utilize the childcare, it can also get crowded and overwhelming. So if you’re seeking a bustling vibe, head to Main, but if your jam is a more mellow ambiance consider posting up at one of the other lodges.

Best Beginner Lift: Discovery Chair

A popular choice for families wanting to escape the monotony of classic green runs, Discovery leads to fun areas like Fun Zone (a family-friendly terrain park) and Woolly’s Woods (a quaint trail through the trees.) If you’re needing a no-frills beginner run, Sesame Street is for you.

Best Intermediate Lift: Broadway Express or Discovery to Chair 12

Broadway leads to a platter of blue runs that range from “this almost feels like a green” to “did I f-up and get on a black diamond?” The most common choice off Broadway is the run of the same name that is wide, rarely choppy and has a tame pitch. If you want to shake things up and score a longer run, stay to looker’s left after getting off the lift, until you reach Facelift. From the top of Facelift, take Saddle Bowl back to Broadway. Interested in testing your skills on a short black diamond that’s so moderate even Bailey will ski it? Stay to looker’s right when you get off the lift and wrap around to The Wall, which is quickly absorbed by Broadway.

Those wanting to escape the crowds and experience Mammoth’s scenic backcountry should ride up Discovery then take a looker’s right to reach Chair 12. From the top of 12, explore playful blues like Road Runner and Secret Spot. And don’t forget the camera, as the back side of the mountain opens to stunning landscapes of jagged peaks, seemingly held up by endless snow-kissed pine forests.

Best Expert Lift: Panorama Gondola or Broadway Express to Chair 23

Because of access to the gondola and Chair 23, Main Lodge is a prime base camp for those wanting to go hard. The Panorama Gondola leads to the summit where you can access aforementioned double blacks like Climax, Huevos Grande and Hangman’s Hollow, or Dave’s Run and Cornice Bowl, which are somewhat easy-going regular black diamond bowls.

If you stick to skier’s left on any of these runs you’ll be funneled to Chair 23, which leads to a cornucopia of extreme runs like the aptly named Dropout Chutes and Wipeout Chutes, in addition to Monument and Paranoid (or “Noid”) Flats. If you want to skip the summit, take Broadway Express up then go to looker’s right to hit Chair 23.

McCoy Station: The Experts’ Club

Photo: Mammoth Mountain

As a popular pit stop for many of the people that brave Mammoth’s summit, and are just doing a quick refresh before doing it all again, McCoy has a bold, brisk energy. This briskness usually makes it easier to find a table, as non-riders rarely post up to play savesies with an entire table… all day. People are in and out fast – burger, beer, bathroom, go. Much like The Mill, this is one of our favorite lodges when we’re not with Hudson, as the only way to get down is through blues. If you’re wanting time to digest after lunch, but don’t feel like watching other people shove food into their faces, take a ride up the Panorama Gondola to check out the summit.

Best Beginner Lift…

There aren’t any beginner runs (or lifts leading to beginner runs) from McCoy, so it’s best for mega-beginners to skip it. But if you’re with beginners who are ready to try out modest intermediate runs, they can take it slow and steady down Stump Alley or Broadway – although these runs can get crowded (and edge on dangerous) for those who don’t feel like they can maintain control if the going gets steep(ish).

Best Intermediate Lift: Facelift Express

If you’re feeling doneso after hanging at McCoy, flow down Broadway to Main Lodge. But if a little rest filled your coffers, grab a seat on Facelift, which is directly behind McCoy – you can’t miss it. The best intermediate run from here is Saddle Bowl. Saddle Bowl can get a bit icy (as it’s often in the shade), so stick to the softer, fluffier edges if you’re wanting a slower descent.

Best Expert Lift: Panorama Gondola

From the many mentions of this gondola, you already know where this bad boy leads. (For a more detailed description of these runs, skip over to our trail guide.)

The Outpost: The Off-the-Beaten Path Paradise

Photo: Mammoth Mountain

An unsung jewel of the mountain, The Outpost provides some of the most stellar scenic views of unfettered, pristine wilderness, the new Melt House, with offerings of soup and numerous variations of hot sandwiches, and access to largely unoccupied trails. Because you can only access The Outpost via skis or a snowboard, and have to take intermediate trails to get down, this isn’t the place to post up with beginners. But if your crew is filled with intermediate or advanced riders seeking a refueling station as you take on Mammoth’s backside, this lodge can’t be beat (most of the time.) As The Outpost has primarily open-air seating and only a small, partially indoor space (that includes a fire!), it’s a top choice on non-frigid bluebird days, but should be skipped for a larger lodge if a storm’s a blowin’.

Best Intermediate Lift: Chair 12

We left out beginner and expert lifts from The Outpost lodge guide, as this area is all about the blues. While every lift near this lodge is fun, Chair 12 is the portal to one of the most impressive assortments of intermediate runs on the mountain, all of which offer fairly long rides. There are playful tree trails to explore below the lift, but our favorite route is cutting to looker’s right off the chair and taking White Bark Ridge to Lower Runner Runner – a path that offers cruisey adventures filled with scenic thrills.

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