California’s top skiing destination, Mammoth is a striking spot for outdoorsy travellers all year round. There is a good selection of accommodation on offer, including rustic retreats and swish, contemporary resort-hotels fit for a range of tastes and budgets. Whether you’re holidaying as a family, a couple or a big group of friends, our pick of the best places to stay in Mammoth promise stacks of space for everyone, and heaps of fantastic activities to enjoy.
The big draw is, of course, 11,053ft Mammoth Mountain. Snow-clad for almost half the year, this is California’s ultimate playground for skiers and snowboarders, with myriad runs snaking down the mountain-sides. Hone your skills on more challenging slopes, or learn to ski for the very first time with an expert instructor — this is also a wonderful place for little ones to get to grips with winter sports. Summer visitors, on the other hand, will find miles of stunning alpine hiking and cycling trails, as well as the chance to fish or kayak on gorgeous lakes. There’s some impressive wildlife-spotting, too: this is black bear country, after all. Beyond the craggy mountain peaks and alpine lakes lies the verdant Inyo National Forest, a sprawling, almost 2-million-acre wilderness. Back at your hotel or resort, expect extensive facilities, great food, and lovely views of the surrounding landscape — perfect for kicking back after a big day of discovery.
Whilst some of the best places to stay in Mammoth are set within the heart of town, one of our favourite hotels offers ski-in/ski-out access to the slopes for the ultimate winter wonderland experience, whilst another features quirky 1920s cabins on the shore of Twin Lakes, ideal for those looking to hide away in tranquil seclusion. Whatever it is that you’re after, Mammoth won’t disappoint!