Heavy snow at Mammoth Mountain on April 22nd.
Heavy snow at Mammoth Mountain on April 22nd.

California is down to just two open ski resorts, but that doesn’t mean the season is over yet. The recent snowstorm that hit the state has done some wonders for Mammoth Mountain, bringing 12-16 inches of fresh powder in the last 24 hours.

With the major snowfall, Mammoth is running a delayed opening with lifts spinning no earlier than 9am, giving the mountain teams plenty of time to dig out and work on avalanche mitigation. Further delays are likely across the mountain throughout the morning, and all uphill routes are closed until further notice.

Of course this means the on-mountain conditions feature fresh powder, but it also comes with partly cloudy skies and very cold temperatures to kick off the morning. Winds will also be fairly high when the mountain opens up, but will steadily decrease through the afternoon.

9 lifts are set to open today, though there will likely be significant delays. Broadway Express (1), Stump Alley Express (2), Roller Coaster Express (4), Unbound Express (6), Gold Rush Express (10), Discovery Express (11), and the Lower Panorama Gondola are all scheduled to open, though none will spin before 9am. Face Lift Express (3), High-Five Express (5), Chairs 12, 13, 14, 23, and the Upper Panorama Gondola will start the day on a weather hold.

Other lifts, including Chair 7, Chair 8, Cloud Nine Express (9), Eagle Express (15), Canyon Express (16), Schoolyard Express (17), Chair 20, Chair 21, Chair 22, Chair 25, and the Village Gondola, have closed up operations for the season, and Canyon and Eagle Lodges are both closed.

Remember, while fresh snow is inviting, hazards like dirt, rocks, and bushes still remain just below the surface. Make sure you’re riding with caution and stay aware when heading off trail. More information on on-mountain safety is available here.

Nolan Deck is a writer for Unofficial Networks, covering skiing and outdoor adventure. After growing up and skiing in Maine, he moved to the Denver area for college where he continues to live and work...