Scenic 395 - The Official Guide 2021/2022

the Inyo National Forest’s vast network of trails and unpaved roads. There are so many different conditions and views to discover; in fact, you may even cross a couple of microclimates. During the summer, Mammoth Mountain Bike Park offers oppor- tunities for everyone from beginners to veteran bicyclists. Paths are even available for those on e-bikes. Whether it’s your first time riding on dirt, or you’re a downhill master, the Mammoth Bike Park delivers the ultimate high-alpine riding experience for everyone. With over 80 miles of singletrack offering plenty of pavers, berms, jumps and drops, as well as our beginner-friendly Discovery Zone, there’s two- wheeled fun for all at the country’s premier lift-served bike park. The Discovery Zone is dedicated to helping you progress, this area features shorter trails, a Skills Park, an intermediate trail, and a be- ginner-friendly lift. It’s ideal for quick practice laps that will leave you smiling. Winter operations Mammoth Mountain plans to prioritize access to the mountain for season pass holders. Resort visitation levels will be controlled to avoid overcrowding by tightly regulating the number of daily lift tickets sold, which will be available by advance purchase only. Walk-up sales of lift tickets will no longer be available. Face coverings are mandato- ry in base areas, in lift lines and on chairs. The guest experience will also be elevated by several new restau- rants and lodging options, including two new mobile shipping con- tainer eateries and a new luxury lodging property. Getting to Mammoth Lakes will also be easier. The town of Mam- moth Lakes announced a new airline partner for this winter in Ad- vanced Air. The public charter carrier allows air travelers to skip the terminal, making travel to Mammoth Lakes from several airports in Southern California easier and faster than ever before. The mountain experience has also been upgraded with new ameni- ties, according to Mammoth Mountain operations. • Hillside Highlands Luxury Townhomes — Luxury just steps away from the Village at Mammoth, the new Hillside Highlands Luxury Townhomes are now a part of the Mammoth Mountain Lodging Col- lection. Only a short two-minute walk to dining, shops and the Vil- lage Gondola, the top-notch, three-bedroom townhomes are elegantly and efficiently appointed with all the modern amenities, including private hot tubs. All three units can be combined to offer over 9,000 sq. ft., 9 bedrooms and 12 bathrooms. • Two new up-hill routes (now five total) — Mammoth Mountain will offer two new up-hill ski routes this winter, adding to the three such trails already in place. Up-hill lift tickets ($29 for the day, $150 for the season) are required and provide skiers and split-boarders looking to earn their turns with a safe up-hill travel experience. • Contactless rental services — Skiers and snowboarders have the option of reserving rental and demo gear and have it waiting for them in a sterilized locker in Main Lodge, Canyon Lodge or the Mountain Center in The Village. The option minimizes wait times and reduces contact with other guests and staff. The locker is also yours for the duration of the rental, so there’s no need to haul gear around. • Yama Ramen — A new traditional ramen restaurant in the Village boasting a full selection of top-shelf Japanese whiskies. Perfect for winter take-out. • Two new quick eateries — Two new custom shipping container style eateries will provide guests with grab-n-go options this season. Find these new quick eat spots at Main Lodge and adjacent to the Gondola terminal at Canyon Lodge. Both locations will offer snacks, beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), and hot, quick-serve food options including burgers and grilled cheese. • 53 Kitchen & Cocktails revamp — 53 Kitchen & Cocktails has been reimagined as a casual sports bar eatery with multiple TVs, a full-service bar, and order-at-the-counter dining options. 36 2021-2022 Scenic 395 Mammoth Continued from Page 35 DAKOTA SNIDER/MONO COUNTY TOURISM Hiking and biking on Mammoth’s trails are still enjoyable activities, even during a pandemic.