Snowshoeing from Main Lodge to Minaret Vista involves a gradual but sustained uphill stroll on a groomed trail shared with cross-country skiers, snowmobiles and even the occasional dog sled. Once you get beyond the downhill ski area you enter a peaceful forest of mountain hemlock and then emerge at the base of San Joaquin Ridge. The views from here of the Ritter Range and the Ansel Adams Wilderness are worth every step. On a warm day the vista is a great place for a picnic. Depending on the weather and how you feel you can continue up along the open ridgeline, or just head back down the way you came.

Snowshoeing from MMSA Main Lodge to Minaret Vista
Do you have Snowshoeing Experiences you'd like to share? Find out How!
Avalanche Forecast for 03/20/2023
- AVALANCHE FORECAST: Very dangerous avalanche conditions exist this morning where the most new snow has fallen, especially around Mammoth. Traveling on and below wind-loaded terrain is not recommended. New snow could be sensitive to human triggers and could shed as wet snow avalanches as the storm clears. Avalanches breaking in new and drifted snow could step down to deeply buried weak layers resulting in a much larger slide. Conservative decision-making will be essential for safe travel, even outside of the Mammoth area today. Find out More
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Experience Checklist
- Animal Track Identifier/Guide
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Day pack
- Energy bars/electrolyte replacement
- Hat
- Hiking boots
- Ski poles
- Snowshoes
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen/lip protector
- Telephoto lens
- Tree Identifier/Guide
- Warm clothing
- Water
- Wildlife-identification guide
- Winter gloves
Public Services
Experience Information
- Trail Length
- 2.5 miles
- Trail Surface
- Snow
- Duration
- Less than 4 hours
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This experience begins at the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area Main Lodge.
*Note that not all facilities are accessible via public transit.
Related Destinations
Mammoth Mountain Ski Area Main Lodge
- Hours/Season: Call for hours | Year Round
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Minaret Vista
- Hours/Season: N/A | Year Round
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Related Destinations
Destination | Activities and Services |
---|---|
Mammoth Mountain Ski Area Main Lodge |
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Minaret Vista |
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