Record-breaking snowfall in California mountains means that many resorts will be open longer than usual this year. Mammoth Mountain Resort (in Mammoth Lakes, Calif.) and Palisades Tahoe (Olympic Valley, Calif.) have already announced extended seasons through at least the beginning of July — but there are a few details these destinations want prospective visitors to know before arriving for a warm-weather ski experience.
Mammoth Mountain Resort
Joani Lynch, vice president of marketing and sales at Mammoth Mountain Resort, confirmed that the destination is in “good shape to make it through the end of July” for what they’re calling “second-season skiing.” Even lower elevation beginner runs will most likely be open into July.
“It takes a special winter to allow skiing into July and August, but it has happened a few times in our 70-year history,” Lynch said. “It’s warm, the weather is more predictable, [and guests will have] plenty of time to partake in other activities once the ski day is done. It’s a great time to learn to ski, too, since the negative impacts of winter weather are removed.”
It’s warm, the weather is more predictable, [and guests will have] plenty of time to partake in other activities once the ski day is done.
It’s also more affordable to buy tickets this late into spring. Lift ticket options range from $79 for an adult single-day ticket to the “3-Up” package, which costs $209 and includes three single-day tickets valid any time through the end of the season; these can be used individually or shared with friends and family to split costs.
The “Quad Pack+” pass, on the other hand, allows riders to visit the mountain four days, and these pass holders will save 30% on ticket reloads all season long.
Although the resort is not in full operation, Mammoth Mountain Resort will be open for second-season skiing into July.
Credit: Mammoth Mountain Resort“The skiers and snowboarders that come out in the spring are so stoked to be enjoying sunshine and snow – the atmosphere is great,” Lynch said. “It really feels like a celebration in the spring.”
Advisors should let clients know that some mountain operations, like Mammoth’s tube park, are already closed for the season, though.
“The resort is not in full operation,” Lunch warned. “Not every lift or lodge is open in the spring, mostly because there isn’t enough demand to keep everything open, and a lot of our staff departs. Spring skiing is typically not an all-day activity; the slopes are usually best in the morning hours.”
Spring skiing is typically not an all-day activity; the slopes are usually best in the morning hours.
It’s a good idea to warn clients that operating hours may vary during spring season, too. In May, Mammoth's slopes are open 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. – that’s the same amount of open hours as in winter time, but with an earlier start. Towards the end of the second season in July, the mountain may close as early as 2 p.m., as conditions may deteriorate quickly with rising temperatures. Clients can check the resort’s website for updates on slope conditions, hours and lift service.
Palisades Tahoe
“Palisades Tahoe is known as the ‘Spring Skiing Capital’ for a reason,” said Maddy Condon, public relations coordinator at Palisades Tahoe. “With 723 inches of snowfall this year, we are able to have our closing day on the Fourth of July.”
Upon taking a ski trip to Palisades Tahoe myself this May, I experienced warm and sunny conditions. The snow melts quickly, and the slush drags on your skis, making it a more challenging workout than usual. I felt tired more easily, compared to when I ski in the winter — but I didn’t mind, because there’s so much else to do in the afternoon. After getting some runs in, clients can enjoy apres ski at the village, or rent a kayak or boat on the lake nearby.
Ski melts quickly in the summer, so visitors should be prepared that slush may drag on their skis.
Credit: 2023 Palisades TahoeIn terms of pricing, there are options for tickets and ski rentals at Palisades Resort. In May, the cost of single-day tickets depends on the day, but starting June 2, single-day lift tickets are listed at $99 per day.
The “Tahoe Super Pack” is listed at $274.00 (two-day access to the mountain), while the “Spring Ticket Trio”, listed at $359, is three individual tickets that clients can use on their own or share with family or friends by the end of the season.
Also of note at Palisades Tahoe is that one side of the mountain is known as Alpine Meadows, while the other is called Palisades. Both sides are included with a resort lift ticket, but the Palisades side is known to be more lively and spirited, while the Alpine Meadows side is more low-key – a variation in the atmosphere I noticed personally during my May visit.
Most people associate skiing and snowboarding with being bundled up and braving the cold and wind for some amazing powder turns. But when the late season rolls around, the sun is out, the birds are singing, and everyone is wearing shorts and T-shirts to ski, it creates a really fun, upbeat, and laid-back atmosphere.
In June, Alpine will be open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays for skiing and snowboarding from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Palisades will be closed for skiing and riding, but The Village at Palisades Tahoe will be open daily. For the July Fourth weekend, Alpine will be open for skiing and snowboarding and will host all holiday festivities. The full schedule can be found on Palisades Tahoe's website.
“I would say the weather makes second-season skiing a unique experience,” Condon said. “Most people associate skiing and snowboarding with being bundled up and braving the cold and wind for some amazing powder turns. But when the late season rolls around, the sun is out, the birds are singing, and everyone is wearing shorts and T-shirts to ski, it creates a really fun, upbeat, and laid-back atmosphere.”
Additional Tips for Second-Season Skiing
“In the springtime, the snow becomes this amazing soft slush that allows for super fun turns,” said Palisades Tahoe's Maddy Condon. “Late in the day, it can become a bit too heavy and sticky, which is why we adjust our operating hours accordingly, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the winter to 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. this spring.”
She emphasizes that late spring skiing usually equals consistent conditions, meaning sunny skies and soft snow everywhere on the mountain. This is great for beginners, who might be nervous about faring the icy, unpredictable weather in the winter.
Waxing skis and snowboarding gear help to minimize the drag on this softer, slushier summer snow — making it easier to navigate. And no matter where you are, wear sunscreen and a helmet for safety, and ski with groups of people. Finally, be aware that snowmelt can unearth previously hidden obstacles, so pay attention to ski patrol warning signs and be mindful of potentially dangerous terrain.
