Mammoth Mountain skiing/snowboarding conditions epic after snowiest February in 10 years

Mammoth Mountain Ski Area has been hit hard by an economic slump that is preventing many skiers and snowboarders from driving or flying to the Eastern Sierra resort.

But those making the trip are experiencing epic conditions, thanks to the snowiest February in 10 years and four consecutive days of abundant snowfall in March.

With water agency people everywhere crying drought, the entire Sierra Nevada range continues to thicken with snow.

For the season, Mammoth, which received 12 feet of snow in February, is reporting 418 inches. That's above a yearly average of 400 inches. The resort now boasts a base of 12-16 feet, and that will ensure open slopes at least through Memorial Day.

Mammoth could easily remain open beyond that, but if visitation remains down, it will become too costly.

Here are a few of Mammoth's so-called "Ski Stimulus Deals": Ski for $53 per day when you purchase an adult ticket for four or more days; slopeside hotel rooms from $99 at the Mammoth Mountain Inn and one-bedroom condos from $169 at Juniper Springs Lodge and The Village Lodge (Sunday-Thursday). Click on the blue link above for details.

--Pete Thomas

Photo of skier Ray McMillian taken at 10 a.m. Thursday. Credit: Brad Peatross, courtesy of MMSA

Comments

[Mushrin]

I showed off this magnificent skiier to all my friends. Snow conditions look too good to be true.

[Caroline Wasser]

Thisis an awesome picture!!! Who is that skier? Great shot! Makes me want to go sking