Beastmode at Mammoth: Earning Your Turns Inbounds

With proper gear and ample motivation, you can skip the lift line (and the lift price!) by skinning an uphill route, then skiing down any run you like. Most of the mountain can be reached by the designated uphills, so your options are limited only by your stamina. There is even backcountry terrain to be explored by those with the equipment and experience. In this guidebook, you’ll see all the uphill routes, plus some recommended runs you could take on the descent. Some sidecountry and backcountry lines are included, so you can see the full range of possibilities on this legendary mountain. Use this guide to plan ahead and craft your ideal resort tour at Mammoth.

Before you go, you will also need to plan for obtaining the uphill pass. It costs some money, though it’s free for Ikon Pass holders. After purchasing the pass and signing the waiver, you must then attend a “brief uphill training session” with ski patrol, according to Mammoth’s uphill access page. Visit the website for more information and to see all the trails, including uphill routes, that are open for the day. Once you have your uphill armband and have made your plan of attack, it’s time to get out there and earn some turns at Mammoth!