Fortunately, Mammoth was on the same page, starting lifts at 7:30 a.m., closing at 2 p.m.
Many runs were getting salted and groomed, so it wasn't too hard to pick a route relatively free of mashed potatoes all the way down to the bottom, even at 1 p.m. on the way to lunch.
Even with heavy spring snow, the mountain is a blast with a claimed 275 acres groomed, a half pipe and a race course running — but just talking about riding misses the point.
The views into the Ritters, the Minarets and the other Alp-like mountains surrounding Yosemite National Park are soul-stirring, and I found myself gaping at the vistas when I should have been paying attention to my skis on more than one occasion.
If you aren't ready to hang up the skis or board, check out www.mammothmountain.com for current conditions and rates.