snowmobile tours in mammoth

(760) 935-4480

• TOURS AND RENTALS
• BOOK NOW/BUY GIFTS CARDS

DJ's Snowmobile Adventures! Offering snowmobile tours in Mammoth Lakes

Company history.

DJ’s Snowmobile Adventures began in the 1970’s providing snowmobile rentals to Hollywood filmmakers.

In 1981, snowmobile tours were offered to the public. The ride program then, and now, targets the family recreational aspect for snowmobiling in the Eastern High Sierras.

In 2018, after serving the Eastern Sierra community, and its tourists,

In 2018, after serving the Eastern Sierra community, and its tourists, for over 36 years, Don and Jewel Little decided it was time to "pass the torch". 

Ricky  McCoy, along with his wife, Whitney, were eager to take on the business. As Eastern Sierra residents, and business owners themselves, they knew the importance of carrying on the tradition of DJ's Snowmobile Adventures for the future. 

Along with their family, they are eager to continue the tradition of great customer service, and back country snowmobiling, that their predecessors established. 

"We hope you will continue to support DJ's and come see all we have to offer as we embark on this new chapter!"- Ricky   and Whitney McCoy

What We Offer

Looking for a new and exciting winter activity to do in the Easter Sierra? Look no further than DJ's Snowmobile Adventures! With over 95 square miles of trails, there's a new adventure every day at DJ's. Fun for the whole family! Novice and experienced riders welcome. We have a tour perfect for you.  

*PLEASE NOTE: Our insurance dictates t

*PLEASE NOTE: Our insurance dictates that all riders must be at least 4 years of age to be a passenger in our snowpark and at least 6 years of age to go on the back country tours . We cannot make ANY exceptions to these rules. PLEASE be aware of the ages of your group members when choosing your tour. 

Reservations

Book online or call our team for recommendations on the perfect tour for your group.  

Whether you've been riding the trails for years, or have never even sat on a snowmobile, we can help you decide which tour is right for you. 

It's better to be in-the-know. Sign up to hear from us about specials, sales, and events. We promise only to email you when we've got something really awesome to tell you. ;-)

Apple Maps Directions

Click HERE for Apple Maps directions.

Google Maps Directions

Click HERE for Google Maps directions.

Better yet, see us in person!

While we strongly encourage advanced reservations, we will do our best to accommodate drop in customers who wish to rent snowmobiles for our snowpark. Simply stop by (or call) during business hours to see what we have available.  

SnowPark  reservations can be made over the phone up to one day in advance. We also welcome walk-ups for SnowPark (subject to availability). ALL Back Country Guided Tours MUST be made in advance via our website. SnowPark is NOT available for online advance booking. Please call for SnowPark availability. 

DJ's Snowmobile Adventures

(760) 935-4480 [email protected]

Online Booking is Now OPEN! Click the link to book your tour for the 23/24 season.

Opening Day is Saturday, December 16th, weather permitting.

Drop us a line!

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Copyright © 2021 DJ's Snowmobile Adventures - All Rights Reserved. 

Operating Under a USFS Special Use Permit Since 1981

Powered by GoDaddy

Cookie Policy

This website uses cookies. By continuing to use this site, you accept our use of cookies.

• Email Sign Up

• Mammoth Snowmobile Rentals & Tours

You are here

• Things to Do
• Outdoor Activities

Imagine the wind at your face, the snow beneath your snowmobile, and beautiful views all around. This is snowmobiling in Mammoth Lakes, California. We've got all the details on snowmobile rentals, tours and play areas right here in our guide to snowmobiling Mammoth.

Where to Rent Snowmobiles in Mammoth

Mammoth mountain snowmobile adventures.

Mammoth Mountain Snowmobile Adventures offers both single and double person snowmobiles for rent. Prices vary depending on if you rent on a weekday, weekend or holiday. You can usually expect a single rental for somewhere between $119 - $165 and a double rental for $159 - $165.

DJ's Snowmobile Adventures

DJ's Snowmobile Adventures offers self-guided snowmobile rentals in the Snowmobile Park. One hour single or double rentals are around $95, and includes a snowmobile, helmet, instructions and practice.

Sierra Engines

Sierra Engines offers single and double person snowmobile rentals, available for 3, 6 or 24 hours at a time. A single 3 hour rental starts at around $300, and a double at $375. Full day rentals are around $600 for a single and $675 for a double.

Guided Snowmobile Tours in Mammoth

Mammoth Mountain Snowmobile Adventures offers a 1.5 hour Adventure Tour and a 3 hour Explorer Tour. Most tours depart at 9am, 11am or 2pm and prices start at $119 for the Adventure Tour and $239 for the Explorer Tour.

DJ's Snowmobile Adventures offers a 1.5 hour Adventure Plus tour (starting at $115), a 2 Hour Local's Favorite tour (starting at $142) and a 3 Hour Bald Mountain Tour (starting at $272). They also offer a tow-behind passenger sleigh, so you can bring the kids along!

Plan Your Mammoth Vacation Today

Mammoth is calling, so pack your bags! Browse our huge selection of Mammoth Lakes rentals and start planning your trip with our Mammoth Vacation Guide .

Browse Mammoth Condo Rentals

DJ's Snowmobile Adventures

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travelers

DJ's Snowmobile Adventures - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• (3.69 mi) The Westin Monache Resort, Mammoth
• (3.58 mi) The Village Lodge
• (3.89 mi) The Mammoth Creek Inn
• (3.19 mi) Empeiria High Sierra Hotel
• (3.55 mi) Alpenhof Lodge
• (3.35 mi) Mogul Restaurant
• (3.30 mi) Shea Schat's Bakery
• (3.48 mi) Skadi
• (3.40 mi) Good Life Cafe
• (3.57 mi) Burgers Restaurant

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to this park navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to this park information section
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, ride a snowmobile or snowcoach.

Download This Dataset

Snowmobile Rentals

The following businesses rent Best Available Technology snowmobiles approved for use in Yellowstone's Non-commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program .

East Entrance

• Gary Fales Outfitting : 307-587-3970

North Entrance

• Big Boy Toys : 406-587-4747 (snowmobiles must be towed to Mammoth)

South Entrance

• Jackson Hole Adventure Rentals : 307-733-5678 (snowmobiles must be towed to Flagg Ranch)
• Leisure Sports : 307-733-3040 (snowmobiles must be towed to Flagg Ranch)
• Scenic Safaris : 888-734-8898 (snowmobiles must be towed to Flagg Ranch)

West Entrance

• Backcountry Adventures : 460-646-9317
• Three Bear Rentals : 406-646-7353 or 800-646-7353
• Two Top Snowmobile Rental, Inc. : 406-646-7802
• Yellowstone Adventures : 406-646-7735 or 800-231-5991
• Yellowstone Vacations : 406-646-9564 or 800-426-7669

Winter is a magical time to explore Yellowstone by skis, snowshoes, snowmobile, or snowcoach.

Make tracks in a winter wonderland.

Last updated: October 25, 2023

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

PO Box 168 Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190-0168

307-344-7381

Stay Connected

Mammoth Mountain Snowmobiling: Snowmobile Rentals & Tours

Mammoth Lakes California

• Pet Friendly
• Bed & Breakfast / Inns
• Ski In - Ski Out
• Guest Ranches
• Resorts & Spas
• Vacation Homes
• RV & Camping
• Summer Activities

Winter Activities

• Entertainment
• Attractions
• Summer Packages
• Winter Packages
• Weather & Seasons
• Transportation
• Nearby Towns
• Winter Recreation
• Snowmobiling

Photo © iStockPhoto

With over 80 miles of groomed trails winding through 75,000 acres of wilderness, Mammoth Lakes is perfect place for your snowmobiling vacation.

Providers these companies can get you there, sierra engine.

• Verified - Update Listing

Adventure gear rental and sales specialist based in Bishop, CA. Over 20 years in the industry. Mountain bikes, kayaks, tubes and more on hand.

Dj's Snowmobile Adventures

• Mammoth Lakes, CA
• Claim Your Business

Enjoy the most scenic snow trails the High Sierra has to offer! Guided tours and specialty rentals all at affordable prices!

Mammoth Powersports

Supplier, rental outlet and repair shop for power sport supplies, including ATVs, snowmobiles, dirt bikes and more. Only 1/4 mile from 300 miles of trails.

Mammoth boasts over 80 miles of groomed trails located on 75,000 acres of forestland. Many great trails leave from the Smoky Bear Flat staging area just north of Mammoth Lakes. For equipment rentals and great custom tours, contact one of the providers located on this page.

If you’re looking for a fast paced, high-speed thrill ride through beautiful backcountry trails, snowmobiling is your sport. Mammoth Lakes boasts over 80 miles of groomed trails winding through 75,000 acres of wilderness. 

Where to go Snowmobiling

The snowmobiling trails around mammoth vary in length and difficulty level. Most leave from the Smokey Bear Flat staging area, located just north of town off US-395. We’ve compiled a list of the more popular routes.

Vista Loop   If you’re new to the sport this trail is a great place to get comfortable riding. At 11 miles in length, the trail takes just about an hour to complete. Find the trail by looking for the blue markers.

Lookout Mountain Loop  This twelve mile trail takes about 2-3 hours and takes riders on a tour around the base of the peak. The trail is marked by orange lettering.

Bald Mountain This 24 mile trail travels from the mountains base at 9,104 feet and winds its way up to the top of the mountain. Expect 3-4 hours of riding. This long ride is for advanced riders only.

Guided Tours & Rentals

Rentals are available from several area providers.

If you’re looking for gear, lessons, or advice, take some time to explore the suppliers, outfitters, and shops located on the page. They provide expert advice and invaluable local's only knowledge.

Stay at a Cabin

• Snowshoeing
• Dog Sledding
• Guided Tours
• Ice Skating
• Outdoor Rentals

Escape to a Perfect Cabin Getaway in Mammoth Lakes, CA

Visit allcabins.com.

Where to Go Snowmobiling in Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes is home to over 100 miles of trails that are snowmobile-friendly. The region is exquisite, featuring dazzling granite cliff sides, ancient trees, and rolling foothills with some of the best snowmobiling in the country.

Bringing your own snowmobile? Rent a mountain home at 1849 Condos and let the office know you need to park your snowmobile trailer (limited to space available).  

Mammoth Snowmobile Adventures

Mammoth Snowmobiling Adventures tour operator offers two tour options: the 1.5-hour Adventure Tour, and the three-hour Explorer Tour. You and your group will be led by a trained and seasoned guide on entry-level trails. Nothing here will require experience and you will be given a demonstration on steering, shifting gears, and your position on the machine, as well as other information vital to handling the snowmobile. You will also be fitted with a helmet and undergo a prompt safety briefing. The team will cover the popular Mammoth snowmobile trails and what to look out for when you’re riding through the forest. This includes wildlife and incredible views.

We suggest arriving at least 45 minutes prior to the departure time. Tours may be cancel or reschedule without warning due to inclement weather.

What to wear

Be sure to dress warm and wear layers . Apply plenty of sunscreen (we recommend wearing at least 50 spf) and drink plenty of water.

Getting there

Mammoth Snowmobile Adventures is located at 10200 Minaret Road, in between the Mammoth Mountain Inn and the Yodler Restaurant and Bar, and across the parking lot from Mammoth Mountain’s Main Lodge. You can take the free bus from your 1849 Mountain Rentals to the Village at Mammoth and then transfer to the red line. Be sure to leave in plenty of time to arrive early.

Touring on your own

Here are three trails that leave from the Shady Rest parking lot. For additional trails, log onto Mammoth Lakes Trails and Public Access .

Shady Rest to Deadman Creek

This is a beginner-friendly loop with groomed trails that wind through Jeffery Pine Forest and over open terrain. Enjoy views of Mammoth Mountain and San Joaquin Ridge as you follow this 22.3-mile experience.

Shady Rest to Minaret Vista

Another beginner-friendly tour, this option offers views of Ansel Adams Wilderness and Ritter Range. The 23.2-mile trip follows groomed trails and passes by the Main Lodge – a great place to grab a bite to eat or drink before heading back.

Experienced snowmobilers can extend the adventure and head to the top of San Joaquin Ridge.

Shady Rest to Bald Mountain

A long ride covering 52.3 miles, this half-day experience follows groomed trails on intermediate terrain. Enjoy a mix of open country and forest views, including the Long Valley Caldera. Pass by June Lake Junction on your way home, where you can refuel and grab a bite to eat.

Plan Your Trip Today

Coming home to a spacious condo to warm up, relax and swap stories is a great way to end the day. 1849 Mountain Rentals has you covered. Ready to plan your snowmobiling getaway?

More Winter Adventures

• Hidden Untitled
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
• Property Map
• Rentals Sitemap
• Terms/Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Unique Guest Services 

1849 Mountain Rentals has built its reputation on convenience and guest services. Every spacious home comes fully furnished providing a relaxing retreat for your friends and family. Prepare your morning coffee, yummy lunches, and big dinners in your fully-equipped kitchen. Gather together at your dining room table, and cozy up to a fire in your living room for happy hour.

Additional Guest Amenities Include:

• Fresh linens and towels, paper towels and toilet paper, dish and dishwasher soap and toiletries
• Onsite rental office, housekeeping, and maintenance in 1849 Condos (which neighbors represented complexes)
• Spacious homes with FREE WiFi, FREE firewood (winter seasonal), FREE permitted parking, and enhanced cable TV
• Plenty of room to work and study in your full-size dining area

Exclusive Electric Car Charging:

• Private access to (5) level 2 electric car charging stations by ChargePoint

One-of-a-kind ski, snowboarding, mountain biking, and recreation amenities:

• Exclusive discount for in-room ski and snowboard rentals and complimentary storage with Black Tie Ski Rentals
• Mountain biking wash station (summer seasonal)
• Boat and trailer parking at 1849 Condos (summer seasonal, first-come, first-serve)
• Each complex has its own recreation area offering

Mammoth Legacy

1849’s dedication to guest services stems from Mammoth Lakes’ visionaries – Dave McCoy and Bob Tanner. Dave McCoy was the founder of Mammoth Mountain and former resident at 1849 Condos. Bob Tanner was Dave McCoy’s colleague and friend, who founded Bishop’s Mule Days, and was the original General Manager of 1849. Dave McCoy and Bob Tanner mirrored each other’s commitment to providing memorable mountain experiences for all. Read more about the 1849 legacy story. 

1849 Mountain Rentals in Mammoth Lakes, California isn’t simply a place to stay, it’s a tradition. Once you arrive, you’ll recognize the feeling of family among loyal guests and homeowners, who have called 1849 home for generations. Stay close, play close at 1849 Mountain Rentals!

Stay close, play close! 1849 Mountain Rentals in Mammoth Lakes represents only the closest condo rentals to the slopes and  mountain  bike trails  at   Mammoth Mountain’s Canyon Lodge , ski lifts, and Village Gondola (winter seasonal).  Nestled into the Mammoth Mountain mountainside, 1849 offers spacious, fully furnished one to five-bedroom homes with rugged mountain peaks and tree-lined views. As an added benefit, all our homes are non-smoking and do not allow pets.

• SIDE X SIDES
• SNOWMOBILES 
• AFFORDABLE PACKAGES TO MAKE YOUR OUTDOOR DREAMS COME TRUE
• MAPS, HELMETS AND TRAILERS ( OFF ROAD VEHICLES ) INCLUDED WITH EVERY  RENTAL
• SELF GUIDED  ADVENTURES

Unreal Ways to Experience Mammoth Lakes

November 15, 2023 | OnTheSnow Staff

Sponsored by Visit Mammoth

Mammoth Lakes is a must-visit destination for skiers, snowboarders, and mountain enthusiasts. You needn’t look any further than last ski season to discover how special it is. Mammoth Mountain’s 2022-23 ski season was record-breaking, seeing 700-plus inches of snow at the Main Lodge and 900-plus inches at the summit. Skiing continued at Mammoth Mountain until August 6.   

Simply put, Mammoth Lakes is a world-class ski destination , and there’s a lot to discover in this mountain town in the heart of California’s Eastern Sierra. Continue reading for five unreal ways to experience Mammoth Lakes.  

Ski the highest ski resorts in the U.S.  

That’s resorts, plural. Mammoth Lakes is home to the two highest ski resorts on the West Coast, Mammoth Mountain and June Lake. Mammoth has a summit elevation of 11,053′, while June Mountain clocks in at 10,090’. Between the two mountains, you could ski all week and still just scratch the surface of all the skiable terrain, since Mammoth is one of California’s largest ski resorts, boasting 25 lifts, 175 trails, 3,500+ skiable acres, and 3,100 feet of vertical. On average, Mammoth receives an impressive 400 inches of fresh powder per year. Over at June Lake, skiers and riders have access to 1,500 acres of skiable terrain and 2,590 feet of vertical. Bonus: Both mountains are on the Ikon Pass .  

Mammoth also boasts one of the longest ski seasons in North America, often remaining open into the summer months. Pro tip: Book your Mammoth trip midweek for no lift lines, powder for days, lodging deals , and après-ski specials.  

Experience one of North America’s best après-ski parties  

We’ve called Mammoth’s Weekend Après Party one of the best après-ski parties in North America. And it’s for good reason. Kicking off Christmas weekend, December 22, Mammoth’s Canyon Lodge deck turns into a complete party with a DJ spinning music from an elevated gondola car, giveaways, drink specials, and more. Mammoth’s Weekend Après Party kicks off at 2 p.m. and goes until 5 p.m., every Friday and Saturday until April, culminating with the pond skim. Afterward, hop on the complimentary Village Gondola and continue après-ski down at the Village at Mammoth.  

Enjoy dinner from a Michelin-starred chef  

Ski towns aren’t historically known for their culinary bounty. Enter Mammoth Lakes, and the Village at Mammoth, which is dotted with some unique food and drink spots, like the sleek Whitebark Restaurant & Lounge inside the Westin Monache, Lakanuki Tiki Bar, and Shelter Distilling. One of the newest additions is Vulcania, which comes from the Voltaggio brothers of Food Network fame. Bryan is a James Beard finalist, while Michael is Michelin-starred. Enjoy Italian American staples with the Voltaggio’s own twist.  

Go on a guided snowmobiling tour of Mammoth Lakes  

Few places boast the vastness and beauty of snowy terrain like the Eastern Sierra backcountry. Inyo National Forest alone is home to more than 100 miles of groomed multi-use trails stretching from Minaret Vista and the San Joaquin Ridge to June Lake and the remote Bald Mountain warming hut. However, you don’t have to have your own snowmobile to explore Mammoth Lakes’ backcountry. Mammoth Mountain offers a few different snowmobile tours, including a 1-hour guided tour of Minaret Vista, featuring 360-degree views of the Minarets, Mammoth Mountain, and the Ritter Range.  

Go on a full moon snowshoeing tour  

Home to three million acres of wilderness, Mammoth Lakes has no shortage of mountains, valleys, and trails to explore by snowshoes, cross-country skis, and hiking boots. What’s better than a bluebird day of snowshoeing than a guided snowshoe tour by moonlight. Mammoth Mountain offers 90-minute moonlit guided tours, which take place a few times during the winter, departing from the Tamarack Cross-Country Ski Center. Tamarack is a good starting place, too, for accessing 19-plus miles of secluded, groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. All told there are more than 140 miles of cross-country trails throughout the Mammoth Lakes region.  

Start planning your Mammoth Lakes trip now . Fly into Bishop (40 miles south of Mammoth Lakes), or directly into Mammoth Lakes, from around the country. United offers nonstop service to Bishop (BIH) from San Francisco and Denver, while Advanced Air flies into Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) from Carlsbad and Los Angeles.  

Related Stories

Favorite hikes in Mammoth Lakes; for dogs, too

Hike to These Alpine Lakes in North America

Best Ways to Find Discounted Lift Tickets

Utah ski trips for less: 5 ways to save money

• Groups & Weddings

California’s Great Beyond

Things to Do

• Fishing Reports
• Fishing Events
• Hall of Fame
• Sustainable Fishing
• Fishing Guides
• Hiking Essentials
• John Muir Trail
• Mt. Whitney
• Pacific Crest Trail
• Permits & Fees
• Wildlife and Bear Safety
• Top 10 Hiking Trails
• Mountain Manners
• All Hiking Information
• Top Bike Rides
• Horseback Riding
• Off Road / ATV
• Rock Climbing
• Kayaking / Canoeing / Paddleboarding
• Marinas / Boating
• Cross Country Skiing
• Ice Climbing
• Ice Skating
• June Mountain
• Mammoth Mountain

Snowmobiling

• Snowshoeing
• Winter Road Trip
• Craft Breweries and Distilleries
• Restaurants
• Theater & Live Music
• Fall Color Report
• Fall Color Photo Galleries
• Fall Color Map & Guide
• Fall Events
• Fall Color Drives
• Fall Color Viewing Areas
• Best Fall Color Hikes
• Different Ways to See the Fall Colors
• Bird Watching
• Photography
• Scenic Gondola Rides
• Scenic Viewpoints
• Wildflowers and Waterfalls
• Wildlife Viewing

Bridgeport Winter Recreation Area

Adventurous snow-seeks are welcome to explore the Bridgeport Winter Recreation Area, an epic and wild 7,254-acre section of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Open to experienced snowmobilers (bring your own sled), backcountry skiers, cross-country skiers, and snowshoers, this snowy alpine playground offers challenging terrain and spectacular vistas. Access is located on the east side of Sonora Pass / SR 108 at the Caltrans (People's Gate), about six miles west of US 395, between the towns of Bridgeport and Walker.

Permits are free but mandatory and can be obtained online from the Bridgeport Avalanche Center , from the Bridgeport Ranger Station , just south of the town of Bridgeport on US 395, or at the People's Gate entrance to the Bridgeport Winter Recreation Area. For more information, please call the Bridgeport Ranger Station at 760-932-7070. Before venturing into the backcountry, be sure to have the proper safety equipment and understanding of hazards, as well as snow and avalanche conditions. Contact the Bridgeport Avalanche Center for current conditions and advisories: www.BridgeportAvalancheCenter.org , or call 760-932-5820.

Inyo National Forest Trails

Have your own sled? Miles of snow-covered roads and play areas are open to snowmobilers in the Mammoth Lakes, June Lake, and Mono Lake areas. The Inyo National Forest's Winter Recreation Map  has more information, a huge map, and is a great resource to carry on your adventure. Before venturing out, be sure to check the  current grooming report  and the Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center  for advisories and snow-pack reports. 

Guided Snowmobile Tours & Rentals

DJ's Snowmobile Adventures  at Smokey Bear Flat on Highway 395, and Mammoth Snowmobile Adventures at Mammoth Mountain's Main Lodge both offer guided tours that the entire family will remember forever. DJ's connects you with over 100 miles of groomed trails, and also offers self-guided tours and rentals. Mammoth Snowmobile Adventure's tours will guide you to some of the most spectacular views and untouched powder stashes around. 

Snowmobiling on Sonora Pass

Filter your search.

• Pre-Arrival Guide
• Responsible Recreation
• Giving Back
• Mammoth Lakes Promise
• Special Offers
• Hotels, Motels & Resorts
• Condominiums
• Houses, Cabins & Chalets
• Bed & Breakfasts
• Campgrounds, RV Parks & Trailer Rentals
• Winter Activities
• Summer Activities
• Family Friendly
• Indoor Activities
• Spas & Fitness
• Arts & Heritage
• Guided Services
• Instruction & Lessons
• Equipment Rentals
• Signature Events
• Submit an Event
• Bakeries, Sweets & Ice Cream
• Breweries, Wine Bars & Distilleries
• Cafes & Delis
• Casual Dining
• Coffee & Tea Shops
• Fine Dining
• Late Night Bars
• Pubs, Sports Bars & Lounges
• Getting Around Mammoth Lakes
• Driving to Mammoth Lakes
• Flying to Mammoth Lakes
• Regional Transportation
• Accessible Travel
• Road Conditions
• Newsletter Signup
• Visitor Guide
• High Altitude Tips
• Trip Ideas & Itineraries

Family-Friendly Snowshoeing in Mammoth Lakes

Snowshoeing is winter’s version of hiking and is something the oldest to youngest members of your family can enjoy. If you aren’t on the slopes skiing or snowboarding, grab a pair of snowshoes and enjoy the miles of trails available throughout Mammoth Lakes.

Family-friendly Snowshoeing At Minaret Vista

Snowshoe to see Mammoth Lakes’ signature skyline, the Minarets, from Minaret Vista. The gentle and gradual uphill slope of this route is perfect for beginners and families with older children.

The 2.5-mile trail begins at Mammoth Mountain Main Lodge. Be on the lookout for snowmobiles, cross country skiers, and downhill skiers, since the trail is used for multiple sports. Follow signs for Minaret Vista as the trail branches away from the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area.

Getting There

Ride the free Red Line bus to Main Lodge or drive up Highway 203 to the ski area’s large parking area. Use the Main Lodge parking shuttle or simply walk toward the Mammoth Mountain Inn and past the Mammoth Mountain Chalets where you’ll see the trail.

Family-friendly Snowshoeing In The Mammoth Lakes Basin

Mammoth Lakes Basin offers a variety of options to explore with your family. While many of the trails in the Lakes Basin are groomed for cross country skiing (accessible with a pass from Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center), the Lake Mary Winter Public Access Corridor is free to the public for snowshoeing.

For families with older children, the Panorama Dome Loop offers stunning views of the Mammoth Crest, Sherwin Range, White Mountains, Glass Mountains, Mammoth Mountain and the Town of Mammoth Lakes below.

A favorite route among locals and families with small children is to take the trail out of Tamarack’s parking lot, cross the bridge, and walk along the lakes to the campgrounds and back. While in the Lakes Basin, see if your kids can spot the famous lava tube called “Hole in the Wall” on the southerly face of Dragon’s Back.

Take the free Orange Line bus to Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center or drive along Lake Mary Road to Twin Lakes Road, where you can parallel park. Then walk along Lake Mary Road to the winter road closure. The public trail runs alongside a groomed ski trail that requires a pass, while Panorama Dome Loop veers off to the left. Please note, that parking is minimal and when possible we suggest taking the free Orange Line.

Family-friendly Snowshoeing At Shady Rest Park

Located in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, Shady Rest Park offers beautiful trails that are free and easily accessible to families. Because these trails are in town and at a lower elevation, the season for snowshoeing at Shady Rest is dependent on snowfall and typically shorter than higher elevation areas.

Snowshoers share the mostly-flat trails at Shady Rest Park with cross country skiers in the areas designated for non-motorized use. If you venture onto snowmobile trails, be cautious of over-snow vehicle (OSV) traffic.

To access the trailhead, ride the free Purple line shuttle or park at the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center and walk along the path past the buildings toward Sawmill Cutoff Road.

Family-friendly Snowshoeing Events In Mammoth Lakes

Don’t miss out on these special snowshoeing activities in Mammoth Lakes.

Naturalist Snowshoe Tours

Every Friday through Sunday and on holiday Mondays, at 10:30am, your family can join a U.S. Forest Service volunteer naturalist on a free snowshoe tour to learn about the ecology of the Mammoth Lakes Basin.

Full Moon Snowshoeing Tours

Families with children ages seven and up can participate in the moon-lit scenic beauty of an after dark snowshoe excursion. Departing from the Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center at 7pm, your family will be guided on a 1.5-hour tour around the Mammoth Lakes Basin by the light of the full moon. Afterward, enjoy desserts and hot drinks at the Tamarack Lodge.

Reservations are required and include rentals. Call 800.MAMMOTH for more information.

What To Wear Snowshoeing With Kids In Mammoth Lakes

Comfort is key when it comes to kids. For snowshoeing, put them in layers making sure their outer layers (pants, jacket) are waterproof. Stay away from cotton and remember to bring gloves or mittens. Pack water and snacks for the whole family. Don’t forget pocket tissues for little noses that run more in the cold.

Snowshoe Rentals in Mammoth Lakes

If you need equipment for your snowshoeing adventure, you can rent snowshoes from these local retailers:

• Black Tie Ski Rentals
• Footloose Sports
• Kittredge Sports
• Get Outdoors 365
• Mammoth Mountaineering Supply
• Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center

Babywearing & Tow-Behind Sleds (Pulkas)

If your children are too young for snowshoes or aren’t feeling the vibe of traipsing the trails on their own, some families opt for babywearing or sledding! Many parents use an ergonomic baby carrier or hiking backpack to carry their child while snowshoeing.

Likewise, at Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center, families can rent Pulkas, tow-behind sleds that allow you to pull your youngest along the trails. Sleds are not just helpful for carrying young ones, but also for carrying your packs, snacks, and jackets too.

More Posts Like This

Related content.

Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center, a Designated California Welcome Center 2510 Main Street Mammoth Lakes, California 93546

Minaret Vista Minaret Road Mammoth Lakes, California 93546

Mammoth Lakes Basin Lake Mary Road Mammoth Lakes, California 93546

This site uses cookies to provide you with an optimized experience. Learn More

Let us know a bit about your travel style and interests so we can send you curated information about visiting Mammoth Lakes.

Make Your Reservation

Book your adventure.

• Location: Select Accommodation
• Nights: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
• Adults: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
• Kids: 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
• Promo Code:

*Do not check this box if you have an Annual Pass.

Interagency Access Pass

Advance reservations for Lodging, Campground, and Tour/Activities available online or please call 307-344-7311. The latest info on in-park roads can be found here.

Winter Tours from Mammoth

Mammoth Hot Springs is a spectacular location for wildlife watching, skiing, and snowcoach tours in Yellowstone’s Northern Range. Explore some of the tours and activities departing from the Mammoth area in winter.