Who knew there could still be ample amounts of fresh snow in June? After discovering that Mammoth Mountain was still open for the season (through the Fourth of July weekend!), my friend Avra and I decided to take an impromptu road trip. We hit the road on a Monday night right in the midst of rush hour traffic… once we got past civilization we were smooth sailing due North. The five hour drive flew by thanks to the beautiful sights including snow-capped mountains glistening as the sun was setting.

We arrived at our beautiful hotel (Juniper Springs Resort) around 10pm… although the resort and village were pretty much deserted, we did score quite the deal staying at a ski-in resort for a fraction of the high-season cost.

Although only the main lodge was open (with access to limited chair lifts) and the days were cut short (2pm) due to the high afternoon temps, the conditions were pretty amazing! With several “Expert Only” trails, the half-pipe and the Unbound park all open… even this small sampling of what Mammoth has to offer made me fall in love!

More Mammoth photos here.

I can’t believe it took me so long to make the trek up to Mammoth… but now I can’t image planning a trip anywhere else! I’m already making plans to return once the mountain re-opens this Fall – who’s in?

<3 Nessa