Explore the high-altitude charm of Mammoth Lakes, California, a scenic mountain town known for skiing, hot springs, and outdoor adventure at over 7,800 feet above sea level.

Table of Contents

Location and Profile

  • Where is it? In Mono County, CA, near the California-Nevada border, within the Sierra Nevada mountains.
  • Area: 25.31 square miles.
  • Population: Around 8,000 people.
  • Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone.

Elevation Basics

  • Early Inhabitants: Originally home to the Mono people.
  • Settlement: Began in the late 19th century due to gold discovery.
  • Original Name: Known as Mammoth City during the mining boom.
  • Post-mining Industry: Settlers turned to logging after the gold rush.
  • Tourism Rise: Grew in popularity due to mountain setting and Mammoth Mountain Ski Area.
  • Top Attractions: Skiing, natural hot springs, forests, Ski Museum.

Must-Know Elevation Facts

  • What is elevation? Measurement of height above mean sea level.
  • Climate Impact: Elevation affects weather patterns and temperature.
  • Elevation of Mammoth Lakes: 7,880 feet (2,402 m).
  • Comparison to Cities: Much higher than most urban U.S. areas, typically below 500 feet (152 m).
  • U.S. Avg. Elevation: 2,500 feet (760 m) — Mammoth Lakes is 5,000+ feet higher.
  • CA Avg. Elevation: 2,900 feet (880 m); Mammoth Lakes is highest incorporated community in the state.
  • CA High Point: Mount Whitney — 14,505 feet (4,421 m).
  • CA Low Point: Badwater Basin — 279 feet (85 m) below sea level.
  • Big City Elevations: LA – 285 ft; SF – 52 ft; SD – 62 ft; Sacramento – 30 ft.
  • Weather Impact: Elevation brings cold winters and dry summers.
  • Climate: Humid continental — freezing winters, dry summers.
  • Snow Season: October–May, with 200+ inches/year.
  • Driest Period: June–September.
  • Temp Extremes: Warmest – July; Coldest – January.
  • Why Visit? Skiing at Mammoth Mountain draws visitors.
  • Ski Resort Size: Over 3,500 acres and 150 named runs.
  • Resort Elevation: Base – 7,953 ft; Top – 11,059 ft.
  • Other Attractions: Hot springs, museum, hiking, biking, camping.

Plan Your Trip