Mammoth Mountain Scenic Gondola Mammoth Lakes
Ascend to 11,053 ft via the Panorama Scenic Gondola for breathtaking 360° views of the Eastern Sierra.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, thinner air
Mammoth Mountain Scenic Gondola Mammoth Lakes
Best Time
Clearer skies, thinner air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend to 11,053 ft via the Panorama Scenic Gondola for breathtaking 360° views of the Eastern Sierra.
"The ride itself is smooth and stunning, but nothing compares to arriving at the summit elevation of 11,053 feet."
🎟️ Buy Tickets in Advance
Save money and time by purchasing gondola tickets online. Lunch vouchers can also be bought with tickets.
🧥 Layer Up for the Summit
It's much colder and windier at 11,053 ft. Bring a jacket, sunglasses, and secure hat.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panorama Scenic Gondola Ride
Main Lodge
Ascend to 11,053 feet for breathtaking 360-degree views of the Eastern Sierra and beyond.
Summit Interpretive Center
Summit
Explore exhibits on local geology, wildlife, and history, with telescopes pointing to iconic peaks.
Panoramic Views of the Lakes
Summit
Hike beyond the main summit area for a stunning, less-crowded view of the five Mammoth Lakes below.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Dress for the Summit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Buy Tickets in Advance
Save money and time by purchasing gondola tickets online. Lunch vouchers can also be bought with tickets.
🧥 Layer Up for the Summit
It's much colder and windier at 11,053 ft. Bring a jacket, sunglasses, and secure hat.
🅿️ Parking Strategy
Parking near the gondola can be expensive. Consider parking on side streets for free options.
🌬️ Check Weather Before You Go
The gondola is weather-dependent. Check the Mammoth Mountain website or app for operational updates.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Tickets in Advance
Save money and time by purchasing gondola tickets online. Lunch vouchers can also be bought with tickets.
🧥 Layer Up for the Summit
It's much colder and windier at 11,053 ft. Bring a jacket, sunglasses, and secure hat.
🅿️ Parking Strategy
Parking near the gondola can be expensive. Consider parking on side streets for free options.
🌬️ Check Weather Before You Go
The gondola is weather-dependent. Check the Mammoth Mountain website or app for operational updates.
🥾 Explore Beyond the Summit
Don't miss the chance to hike around the summit for unique perspectives and fewer crowds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from the summit, calling the gondola ride a highlight of their Mammoth Lakes trip. The Summit Interpretive Center is also a hit for its informative exhibits. Some find the summit cold and windy, and the on-site dining expensive, recommending advance ticket purchases and layering clothing.
"Enjoyed our ride up, our lunch at the restaurant, and our ride down. If you have a problem with heights, this might not be your favorite thing to do. I highly recommend a sweater or light jacket, it’s chilly on top of the mountain. Also, buy your lunch vouchers when you buy your tickets. It’s expensive at the restaurant. All in all a very enjoyable experience! Thank you!"
Martee
"Gondola Ride to Mammoth Mountain Summit – A Breathtaking Summer Adventure
After a peaceful morning boating on Convict Lake, we made a spontaneous detour to Mammoth hoping to visit Devil’s Postpile. Unfortunately, the road was closed for maintenance—but what a silver lining we found instead! We opted to take the scenic Gondola ride to the summit of Mammoth Mountain ($40 per person), and it ended up being one of the most memorable highlights of our trip.
The ride itself is smooth and stunning, but nothing compares to arriving at the summit elevation of 11,053 feet. The air is noticeably thinner—literally breathtaking—and the views are out of this world. In the summer months, mountain bikers can load their bikes and ride the thrilling trails down the mountain. It looked like a blast—definitely something we will consider for a future visit.
At the top, we explored the Summit Interpretive Center, which is fantastic for kids and adults alike. It’s filled with exhibits showcasing the local wildlife, alpine plants, geology, and the history of the surrounding peaks. One of our favorite features was the mounted telescopes aimed at key landmarks like the Minarets, Mt. Ritter, Banner Peak, and Bloody Mountain—each with background on the explorers who first charted them.
From there, we hiked out to the elevation marker at 11,053 feet, and on a whim continued further across the summit. We’re so glad we did—on the other side, we were rewarded with a jaw-dropping view of the five Mammoth Lakes sparkling below. It felt like discovering a secret bonus view!
Pro tips: It’s very windy at the top, so bring lip balm, sunglasses, layers, and make sure your hat is secure or it’ll blow away. The air is thin, so take your time if you’re not acclimated to the elevation.
Whether you’re a hiker, biker, photographer, or just a lover of epic landscapes, this summit ride is absolutely worth it. A perfect way to elevate your Mammoth Lakes experience—literally!"
Shelly G
"We went there last Monday which was Presidence day. There were parking next to Scenic Gondola Ride however they will charge you $35 dollar fee on top of the $44 dollar lift ticket per person so better park on the side street it was free. They have 2 stop going to the summit and unfortunately due to strong wind only made it halfway and had to go back and came back later to check if we can go to the peak . We did come back later that afternoon to check but still no luck so they gave us a voucher so had to come back within a year to claim it. Overall , with that short experience I would say it was good , we saw a lot of skier and snow borders and the Mountain View was stunning."
twofeet traveller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The gondola is located at the Main Lodge, 10001 Minaret Rd, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546. You can drive and park (paid parking available) or take the free town shuttle (Red Line) to the Main Lodge.
Yes, there is parking available at the Main Lodge, but it can be expensive, especially during peak season. Some visitors recommend parking on side streets for free options.
Absolutely! The Panorama Scenic Gondola is designed for sightseeing. You can purchase a scenic gondola ticket specifically for the ride to the summit.
The summit of Mammoth Mountain is at an elevation of 11,053 feet (3,369 meters). Be prepared for thinner air and cooler temperatures.
The gondola ride offers expansive views and can be a thrilling experience. If you have a significant fear of heights, it might be challenging, but many find the views worth it.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but expect around $40-$55 per person for a round-trip scenic gondola ride. Purchasing in advance online can sometimes offer savings.
Yes, if you have a valid ski lift ticket, you can typically use it to ride the scenic gondola to the summit.
While specific discounts can vary, purchasing tickets in advance online is often recommended. Some packages or passes might include gondola access.
Operating hours are weather-dependent and vary by season. It's crucial to check the official Mammoth Mountain website or app for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
If the gondola is closed due to strong winds or other weather conditions, Mammoth Mountain usually offers a voucher for a future visit within a year.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can visit the Interpretive Center, enjoy panoramic views, take photos, and even hike short trails. Mountain bikers can also ride down.
Yes, there is a restaurant at the summit. However, it can be expensive, so purchasing lunch vouchers in advance with your tickets is a good idea.
Dress in layers! Bring a warm jacket, sunglasses, and a hat that can be secured, as it's significantly colder and windier at 11,053 feet.
Typically, pets are not allowed on the scenic gondola, except for service animals. It's best to confirm Mammoth Mountain's specific pet policy.
The ride to the summit typically takes about 15-20 minutes one way, offering ample time to soak in the incredible scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings often offer clearer skies and softer light. Late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour hues on the surrounding peaks.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast panoramas. Consider a telephoto lens for distant peaks like the Minarets. A polarizing filter can help with glare on sunny days.
The main viewing areas at the summit offer stunning vistas. For a more unique shot, hike a bit further to find unobstructed views of the lakes below.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national forests and on ski resort property. Always check current regulations before flying a drone.
The area around the Main Lodge offers scenic mountain backdrops. Twin Lakes, a short drive away, also provides beautiful reflections of the mountains.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider purchasing lunch vouchers in advance to save money if you plan to eat at the summit restaurant. Dress the kids in layers, as the summit can be chilly and windy, even on a sunny day. The open space at the summit also allows kids to move around and explore safely (with supervision, of course).
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Timing is crucial for the best shots. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the most dramatic lighting. Bring a wide-angle lens for expansive scenes and consider a telephoto lens for distant peaks. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance colors and reduce glare. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and protect your gear accordingly.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
In summer, the surrounding Mammoth Lakes Basin is also a prime destination for hiking, with trails ranging from easy strolls around lakes to strenuous climbs. The gondola ride itself offers a unique perspective on the alpine environment, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Sierra Nevada.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scenic Gondola Experience
The journey itself is an experience, with the landscape transforming dramatically as you gain altitude. For those not interested in skiing or snowboarding, it's the perfect way to access the summit's beauty. The gondola operates year-round, weather permitting, making it a fantastic option for summer hikers and winter snow enthusiasts alike.
+1Pro-tip: Always check the Mammoth Mountain website or app for operational status, as the gondola is subject to closure due to high winds or other adverse weather conditions.
Summit Exploration & Activities
Beyond the interpretive center, the summit offers opportunities for exploration. Short hiking trails allow you to wander across the mountaintop, discovering hidden viewpoints. One particularly rewarding path leads to a less-crowded vantage point offering a spectacular view of the five Mammoth Lakes sparkling below.
Remember that the summit is exposed and can be significantly colder and windier than the base. Dressing in layers, including a windproof jacket, sunglasses, and a secure hat, is essential for comfort.
Seasonal Wonders: From Snow to Summer Hues
As spring melts into summer, the snow recedes, revealing lush alpine meadows and clear blue skies. This is an ideal time for hiking, photography, and enjoying the vibrant wildflowers. The gondola ride offers a different perspective, showcasing the rugged beauty of the granite peaks and the vastness of the Sierra Nevada.
Fall brings a spectacular display of autumn colors, with aspens turning golden. The crisp air and clear views make it a perfect time for a scenic gondola ride, offering a beautiful transition between the summer and winter seasons.
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