Welcome to Mammoth Lakes!
Mammoth Lakes offers many recreational opportunities all in the majestic high mountains of the Eastern Sierra.
The center of town is approximately 7,800 feet above sea level, and the elevation at the base of Mammoth Mountain near the Main Lodge is 9,000 feet. The top of Mammoth Mountain is 11,053 feet. Visitors may experience some minor side effects due to Mammoth Lakes’ high elevation.
Here are a few tips and suggestions for staying healthy while enjoying your stay in the mountains:
Altitude Adjustment
When you first arrive, acclimatize yourself for a period of time prior to beginning strenuous activities. At high elevations, the atmosphere is thinner and there is less oxygen and less humidity available to you than at sea level. This can result in a number of symptoms such as muscle fatigue, insomnia, mild headaches or slight shortness of breath. Our thin atmosphere filters out only a minimum of the sun's ultraviolet ("UV") rays and can result in severe sunburn. So be sure to take adequate precautions to protect your eyes and skin.
What to do:
Eat lightly and drink plenty of liquids
You may tend to become dehydrated more quickly at high altitude than at sea level, so drink plenty of water and other fluids (8 to 10 glasses daily). You should also avoid drinking alcoholic beverages for the first 24 hours of your stay.
Keep Warm
There's an old saying here in Mammoth Lakes: "if you don't like the weather, wait ten minutes...it's sure to change." At this elevation, the weather can change quickly. In winter or summer prolonged exposure to the elements can cause serious problems. Moderation is a must. Take frequent breaks from the cold or heat.
It is wise to layer your clothes, no matter what the season. A t-shirt, wool sweater, nylon windbreaker with a hood and a bottle of water are basics for just about any summer activity. Winter sports enthusiasts should wear warm, water-resistant clothing and goggles or sunglasses with adequate UV protection. Local sporting goods stores carry outdoor wear which is both wind and water resistant, an ideal choice for unpredictable mountain weather.
Avoid sunburn
Adequate UV (ultraviolet) protection is a must. At this elevation, the atmosphere is thinner and provides less protection from the sun's UV rays. UV exposure has been linked to an increased incidence of skin cancer, so use a sunblock lotion with an SPF if 30 or greater. During high exposure activities those with fair skin may experience a sunburn after only two hours of sun exposure even after applying maximum sunscreen protection. Be sure to reapply it at least every four hours. If you're perspiring or getting wet from the snow or water, apply it more frequently.
Protect your eyes
It is also important to use proper UV protection for your eyes. The surface of the snow or water can act as a reflector of UV rays and can generate a great deal of UV exposure to the eyes.
Equip yourself with UV sunglasses or goggles. Failure to wear proper eye protection can result in an actual burn of the eye's surface - a painful condition requiring medical treatment.
Listen to your body
If you experience symptoms such as headache, insomnia and/or fatigue, you may have a mild form of altitude sickness. These symptoms are a warning to decrease your activity level.
Know your ability level
Moderate your level of activity according to your physical condition. Skiing, snowboarding, hiking and mountain biking require muscular strength and flexibility for control. The more control you have, the safer you will be.
Warm up
Drink plenty of liquids prior to any activity. Performing a few stretches before engaging in strenuous physical activity can help your muscles respond to the challenges ahead.