What to Bring
When visiting Mammoth Lakes, summer temperatures generally hover around the 70’s and 80’s while winter temps can dip down to the low teens. Read on for tips on what to bring.
What you pack when coming to Mammoth varies greatly depending on the season in which you intend to visit, and what you plan to do while in town.
Summer
During the summer months between April and September, temperatures usually hover around the 70’s and 80’s, though during the evenings temperatures can dip down into the low 40’s. Expect to pack light shirts and shorts for the day time and pants and a sweater for cool evenings. If hiking, biking, or other physical outdoor sports are in your plans, light, breathable clothing made of synthetic material is your best bet. It drives quickly if wet and wicks moisture from your skin during the hottest of days. Temperature and weather can change quickly in the mountains, so be sure to pack clothing that can be layered. If you play to play in the water, remember to bring a hat, athletic sandals, and a bathing suit.
Short list the following items:
- Light shirts (preferably moisture wicking)
- Light shorts
- Light Pants
- Sweater (for the evening)
- Athletic Sandals (for wading in mountain streams or playing in the lakes)
- Bathing Suit
- Hiking Boots
- Hiking Socks (wool socks work best)
- Hat
- Backpack
- Sunscreen
Winter
During the winter months, from October through March, expect temperatures ranging from the teens to the low 40’s. Mammoth Lakes is located at an elevation of 7,880 feet, so expect snow. Lots of it.
The best tip anyone can give you to keep warm in cold temps. Dress in layers. This way, if you get warm, you can always peel clothing off. If you plan on participating in snow sports, synthetic, moisture wicking base layers, combined with a heavier mid layer, and a waterproof outer-layer will serve you well. Also, be sure to pack winter essentials like gloves, hats, and boots.
Winter Essentials Include:
- Light base layer (preferably moisture wicking)
- Heavier Mid Layer
- Weatherproof Outer-layer
- Hats, gloves, scarves, etc.
- Waterproof boots
- If skiing, make sure to pack goggles, a helmet, and weatherproof pants
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses