Ski Stories

Mammoth Ski Resort including Lodging at Alpenoff, Dining Options, Activity Feature- Jan. 2025

I had an amazing experience with Sierra Shuttle Service in Mammoth! From start to finish, the service was seamless, professional, and incredibly convenient. Robert, the owner, is fantastic—personable, punctual, and truly dedicated to providing top-notch customer service.

The shuttle itself was super comfortable, making the ride smooth and enjoyable. Whether you’re heading to the slopes or catching a flight, this is hands down the best airport transfer in Mammoth.

If you’re looking for a reliable, friendly, and stress-free ride, I highly recommend Sierra Shuttle. Book your ride at https://sierrashuttleservice.com/

Lodging:

Alpenhof Lodge – A Cozy, Convenient Mountain Retreat in Mammoth Lakes

The Alpenhof Lodge in Mammoth Lakes, California, offers a warm and inviting European chalet-style experience, making it a favored choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience in the heart of the Sierra Nevada.

Proximity to Canyon Lodge Gondola

One of the standout features of the Alpenhof Lodge is its immediate proximity to the Village Gondola Station. Guests can easily walk across the street to the gondola, which offers a complimentary ride up to Canyon Lodge during the winter season. This convenience allows for seamless access to the slopes, eliminating the need for additional transportation.

Spacious and Comfortable Rooms

The lodge boasts a variety of room types, each designed with comfort in mind. Guests frequently praise the spaciousness of the accommodation and the coziness of the beds, ensuring a restful night’s sleep after a day of adventure. The rustic decor complements the lodge’s alpine setting, providing a genuine mountain retreat ambiance.

Friendly and Accommodating Staff

From the moment you arrive, the front desk staff goes above and beyond to make your stay enjoyable. They were extremely friendly, allowing me to check in early without any hassle, which was a great convenience after a long drive. Throughout my stay, they were always available to answer any questions and provide helpful recommendations about the area. Their welcoming attitude added to the overall positive experience.

Amenities

Alpenhof Lodge offers a range of amenities to enhance the guest experience:

  • Jacuzzi and Sauna: After a day on the slopes or exploring the area, guests can unwind in the lodge’s Jacuzzi and sauna, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
  • Wi-Fi & TV: The lodge provides free Wi-Fi throughout the property, ensuring guests stay connected. Each room is also equipped with a flat-screen TV, offering entertainment options for those cozy nights in.
  • Spacious Parking Lot: Unlike some hotels in Mammoth that have limited parking, Alpenhof Lodge offers a large parking lot, making it convenient for guests who drive in. No need to worry about finding a spot, even during peak ski season.
  • Cool Cabin Feel: The lodge exudes a classic alpine charm with its wood-paneled interiors and cozy decor. Whether you’re coming back from the slopes or hiking trails, you’ll feel right at home in this inviting setting.

Dining & Nearby Attractions

For a casual après-ski experience, Clocktower Cellar, located downstairs at the lodge, serves up hearty pub food and an excellent selection of beers and spirits. Beyond the lodge, guests have easy access to all the restaurants, bars, and shops at The Village at Mammoth. Whether you’re looking for a morning coffee, ski rentals, or nightlife, everything is just steps away.

Final Verdict

Alpenhof Lodge is an excellent choice for those looking for a comfortable, convenient, and affordable stay in Mammoth Lakes. The prime location next to the gondola, spacious roomsfriendly staff, and great amenities make it a standout option for skiers, hikers, and travelers alike. Whether you’re visiting in the winter for skiing or in the summer for outdoor adventures, Alpenhof Lodge delivers a fantastic mountain getaway experience.

For more details or to book your stay, visit their official website: https://www.alpenhof-lodge.com.

 

 

Skiing:

Winter Wonderland at Mammoth Mountain

If you’re looking for a world-class skiing experience, Mammoth Mountain is the place to be. With its extensive terrain, excellent lifts, and consistently great conditions, it’s easy to see why it’s a top choice for skiers and snowboarders alike. I recently visited during a winter getaway, and I was thoroughly impressed with everything Mammoth has to offer.  I had two full days of skiing with bluebird skies and nice weather before it got cold the last day I was there, but I took the day off

The Mountain & Runs: Mammoth’s mountain boasts a variety of runs that cater to all skill levels, with long, wide trails and challenging steeps. While I stayed off the double black diamonds, the mountain’s diverse terrain offers something for everyone. The Main Lodge area has tons of beginner and intermediate runs, while the Canyon Lodge is home to steeper, more challenging trails. Runs like Broadway and Goldrush are perfect for intermediates, offering great cruising while enjoying spectacular mountain views. Advanced skiers can take on runs like Hanging Valley and Dropout, which provide plenty of thrills. The terrain is laid out so you can spend your day exploring different parts of the mountain and never get bored.

Lifts: Mammoth’s lift system is top-notch, with a number of high-speed quad lifts, gondolas, and Express chairs that get you to the top quickly. The Eagle Express and Face Lift chairs were my personal favorites, offering access to some of the best intermediate and advanced runs on the mountain. They were consistently efficient, and I spent little time waiting in lines. The layout of the lifts makes it easy to access various areas of the mountain, and the staff makes sure everything runs smoothly and promptly.

Rentals & Ski Tickets: The rental process was incredibly fast and hassle-free. The staff was friendly, and the equipment was in excellent condition. I was able to pick up my skis and boots quickly without any stress. Same goes for the ski tickets—they have an efficient system in place that makes getting your pass a breeze. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned skier, Mammoth makes it easy to get on the slopes with minimal delay.

Staff: The staff throughout the resort was friendly, attentive, and always happy to help. Whether I was getting directions or asking about the best runs, everyone was eager to make my experience as enjoyable as possible. Their positive attitude really added to the vibe of the trip.

Conditions: I got lucky with some fresh snow just before I arrived, and with a few days of sunshine following the storm, the conditions were fantastic. The snow was soft and fluffy, with groomed runs that were smooth and fast, making for excellent skiing.

All in all, Mammoth Mountain is a great destination for any winter sport lover. The terrain is diverse, the lifts are fast and efficient, and the staff makes it all the more enjoyable. I highly recommend it!

For more info on bookings, rentals, and mountain details, check out their website: Mammoth Mountain

 

Dining

Morrison’s – A Must-Visit Dining Experience in Mammoth

If you’re in Mammoth and looking for an elevated dining experience with a cozy, cabin-like atmosphere, Morrison’s is the place to go. I had the pleasure of meeting Food & Beverage Director Kyle, whose hospitality made the evening even more enjoyable.

I started with the Ahi and Hamachi appetizer—fresh and flavorful—followed by their rich and perfectly balanced French onion soup. The baby carrots were a delightful touch as well. For my main course, I went with the Seabass over wild rice and pea purée, which was hands down my favorite dish of the night. Their menu offers a fantastic selection of meats and seafood, including scallops for those looking for another great option.

While I didn’t finish my meal with a cocktail or a glass of wine, their drink selection is impressive. And if you’re wondering about popularity, the fact that they were packed on a Monday night says it all. Make sure to book in advance!

Check them out at https://morrisonsrestaurantandbar.com/

 

 The Warming Hut, located at 343 Old Mammoth Road in Mammoth Lakes, California, offers a delightful dining experience that combines warm hospitality with a diverse and satisfying menu. The staff is notably friendly, and servers like Crystal exemplify the establishment’s commitment to excellent service.

The menu features a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes. Starters like the loaded baked potato soup are flavorful and comforting. Salads, such as the Aji salad with a unique seabass substitution, provide a refreshing and innovative twist.

For entrées, the grilled seabass and miso salmon are both highlights, each cooked to perfection and rich in taste. To complement your meal, consider exploring their selection of signature drinks or wines, which can enhance the overall dining experience. While local ciders are available, the curated beverage options are worth exploring.

Desserts at The Warming Hut are not to be missed. The blueberry pie à la mode stands out as a fabulous choice to conclude your meal on a sweet note.

The Warming Hut operates daily with breakfast and lunch from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and dinner service from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. They also offer a happy hour with specials from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Reservations can be made by calling 760-965-0549.

thewarminghutmammoth.com

For more information, including their full menu and upcoming events, visit their official website:

The Warming Hut provides a welcoming atmosphere, attentive service, and a menu that caters to a variety of palates, making it a must-visit destination in Mammoth Lakes.

 

Roberto’s Café – A Mexican Food Gem with a Lively Bar Scene

If you’re craving excellent Mexican food with a side of fun, Roberta’s Café is the place to be. This spot serves up delicious flavors alongside a vibrant bar scene upstairs, complete with sports on TV and a great happy hour.

Start with their super delicious chicken with vegetable soup, a warm and comforting appetizer, or go for their popular chicken wings, which are a crowd favorite. The menu boasts a fantastic selection of enchiladas, burritos, tacos, and more, so there’s something for everyone.

I went for the chicken fajitas, which came sizzling hot with rice, beans, pico de gallo, tomatoes, onions, and guacamole. Every bite was flavorful and satisfying. And, of course, no visit is complete without one of their signature margaritas—the perfect way to round out the meal.

Check them out and see the full menu at https://robertoscafe.com/

 

Burgers:

If you’re in Mammoth and craving an amazing burger, this place is a must! Perfectly located right across from the Village Gondola, it offers a fantastic selection of mouthwatering burgers and more.

The menu is loaded with options, from classic favorites to unique creations. The Bison Burger is a standout, and they also have great veggie options—I had the Veggie Melt, which came with sautéed eggplant, grilled onions, melted cheese, and toasted sourdough. It was absolutely delicious! Another favorite of mine is the French Dip Turkey Sandwich, which was incredibly flavorful and perfectly done. Meals come with your choice of crispy French fries or a fresh salad.

I also love that they offer appetizers and soups to start, making it easy to kick off the meal with something warm and delicious.

Beyond the food, the atmosphere is top-notch. It’s a fantastic sports bar with a full bar serving a great variety of beers and cocktails. Whether you’re here to catch a game or just enjoy a casual meal, the vibe is always welcoming.

The staff is another highlight. My server, Brady, was super attentive, and Jamie, the general manager, made sure everyone felt at home. The restaurant features both upstairs and downstairs dining, with the upstairs area—built just four years ago—available for special events. The main restaurant itself has been a staple in Mammoth for over 50 years, which speaks volumes about its quality and consistency.

Overall, an outstanding dining experience with delicious food, great service, and a lively atmosphere. Definitely adding this to my list of go-to spots in Mammoth!

For more details, check out their website:  https://www.burgersrestaurant.com/

 

Old New York Deli & Bagel Co. – A Must-Visit Breakfast Spot in Mammoth

If you’re in Mammoth Lakes and craving a hearty, satisfying breakfast, Old New York Deli & Bagel Co. is the place to be. Conveniently located near the Canyon Gondola on Minaret Road, this beloved spot serves up some of the freshest, most authentic bagels outside of New York, along with a full lineup of classic breakfast favorites.

Fresh Bagels Baked Daily

Bagel lovers, rejoice! Old New York Deli & Bagel Co. boils and bakes their bagels fresh every day, delivering that perfect chewy interior and crisp crust. They offer a wide variety of flavors, from classics like plain, sesame, and everything to specialty options such as asiago cheese, cinnamon raisin, and jalapeño cheddar. You can enjoy them toasted with a simple smear of cream cheese or as the base for one of their hearty bagel sandwiches.

A Breakfast Lover’s Paradise

Beyond bagels, this deli serves up an extensive breakfast menu guaranteed to fuel you up before a big day on the slopes or trails. You’ll find:
Fluffy omelettes packed with fresh ingredients
Golden French toast and thick pancakes for a sweet start
Warm, hearty oatmeal topped with fruit and honey
Egg sandwiches stacked high on their signature bagels

The portions here are massive, so bring your appetite! Whether you’re in the mood for a protein-packed omelette or a classic bacon, egg, and cheese bagel, you won’t leave hungry.

Coffee & More to Complete Your Meal

A great breakfast isn’t complete without the right drink, and Old New York Deli & Bagel Co. delivers on that front as well. Their signature coffee blend is bold and flavorful, making it the perfect pick-me-up. If coffee isn’t your thing, they also offer teas, juices, and other specialty drinks to complement your meal.

Plan Ahead – It Gets Busy!

Because of its prime location and top-notch food, this spot gets extremely busy, especially on weekends. If you’re visiting during peak hours, be prepared for a bit of a wait—but trust us, it’s worth it. Arriving early is a smart move if you want to grab a seat without a long line.

Final Verdict

Old New York Deli & Bagel Co. is a can’t-miss breakfast stop in Mammoth. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bagel and coffee before hitting the slopes or sitting down for a leisurely morning meal, you’ll be treated to high-quality food, generous portions, and great service.

Location: 6201 Minaret Rd., Suite 105, Mammoth Lakes, CA
Website: oldnewyork.com

 

Activities.  

Snowcreek Athletic Club – A Top-Tier Fitness and Wellness Experience

If you’re looking for a fantastic place to work out, unwind, and rejuvenate in Mammoth, look no further than Snowcreek Athletic Club. This place has it all—multiple gym rooms with top-notch equipment, a variety of excellent group fitness classes, and even a full basketball court for those looking to shoot some hoops or get a game going.

One of the standout features is the aquatic and spa amenities. The swimming pool is perfect for laps or just relaxing, and the two Jacuzzis provide the ideal spot to soothe sore muscles after a workout or a day on the slopes. Plus, the steamer is an absolute gem, offering a deep, cleansing relaxation session.

Beyond the facilities, what really makes Snowcreek special is the staff—friendly, accommodating, and always happy to help, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time member. Whether you’re in town for a short stay or looking for a long-term fitness home, this club is absolutely worth a visit or a membership.

For more information, visit their website: Snowcreek Athletic Club

 

Mammoth Lakes Community Recreation Center – The Perfect Spot for Skating & More

For anyone who loves ice sports, the Mammoth Lakes Community Recreation Center (CRC) is a must-visit. Public skating is available almost every day, making it a great spot for families, couples, or solo skaters looking to enjoy some time on the ice. Be sure to check their schedule, as times can vary, especially during peak seasons.

Beyond open skate sessions, the CRC offers skating lessons, curling, and youth hockey programs in partnership with the LA Kings, which is an incredible opportunity for young players looking to develop their skills. The facility is well-maintained, and the atmosphere is always lively and welcoming.

Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just lacing up for the first time, the Mammoth Lakes Community Recreation Center is an awesome place to enjoy some time on the ice!

For more information, visit their website: Mammoth Lakes Community Recreation Center