In 2019, Mammoth Mountain set a record for having the most snowfall ever for any North American resort. This is a record worth bragging about when you’re largely known as the go-to place on the West Coast for skiing, snowboarding, and other activities requiring fresh powder. Below, the friendly team from Mammoth Bound, where you can find everything from stylish Mammoth t-shirts to snuggly Mammoth beanies, dive deeper into the science behind why Mammoth Mountain gets so much snow.
Elevation Is a Big Help
Mammoth Mountain is nestled in the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains. The mountain itself has an elevation at the summit of 11,053 feet. Even the Main Lodge is perched at 9,000 feet. It’s these higher elevations that allow for cooler temperatures and more natural snowfall than what’s typical in a state largely known for its warmer weather and sunshine. The cooler temperatures common at higher levels also create perfect conditions for artificial snowmaking when there’s a need to supplement natural snow.
Then There’s the “Sponge Effect”
Another reason Mammoth gets so much snow is due to what can be referred to as a sort of “sponge effect.” Because of the nearby lakes, Mammoth absorbs extra water on one end that mingles with the colder temperatures at higher elevations to dump a lot of snow on Mammoth Mountain and the resort located here. Plus, the weather in this part of California typically moves southeast, and this creates the right directional flow for this sponge process to occur.
Mammoth Mountain Is the Perfect Location for Snow
It’s no accident Mammoth Mountain’s founder, Dave McCoy, picked this particular location to build a resort. It’s in the perfect spot to get an abundance of snow, which can begin as early as October and continue well into the spring. January is when the most snowfall occurs here, with the average being 12.6 inches for this month. After February, which is another snow-heavy month, natural snowfall amounts taper off through March and April. Snowfall can also occur here in May, but conditions for snowmaking sometimes remain optimal into June and even July.
Mammoth Has Plenty of Experience Managing Snowfall
Mammoth Mountain has a lot of experience handling snowfall and creating a safe, welcoming destination for skiers, snowboarders, and anyone with an appreciation for snow-related activities. The resort carefully monitors conditions so lift operations can be shut down when necessary. There’s also a Mammoth app you can download to get alerts about weather conditions.
The Resort Has Fully Embraced Its Reputation for Snow-Related Fun
Mammoth Mountain is definitely the appropriate name for the resort located here. The mountain itself is massive, and the snowfall totals here routinely break records for being equally “mammoth” in nature. It’s also a place with conveniently located on-site lodges that put you right in the heart of the action. The resort also operates a lift system that makes it easy for you to get to any point on the mountain where you want to enjoy all the snow and the fun that goes along with it.
If you’re looking for stylish Mammoth Mountain clothing to keep you warm when you visit, Mammoth Bound is your one-stop shop for gaiters, hats, beanies, and a variety of logo wear. Stop by on your way to the mountain or contact us at [email protected].