Mammoth Mountain Sets Ski Opening for November 20

Mammoth Mountain, a prominent ski resort in California's Eastern Sierra, has rescheduled its season opening for Thursday, November 20, 2025, after multiple delays caused by an underwhelming early storm. Officials announced the new date on Monday, citing recent snowfall and improved conditions that now allow for a safe start to the 2025-2026 winter season.

The resort initially planned to open on Friday, November 14, but pushed the date back by one day to Saturday, November 15, to capitalize on an incoming atmospheric river storm forecasted to deliver up to two feet of snow. That system, however, shifted southward and arrived later than expected, bringing warmer temperatures and minimal accumulation at lower elevations. By Thursday, November 13, resort officials determined the conditions were insufficient for opening and issued a further delay, stating they would monitor daily and provide 24-hour notice once ready. Snowfall remained light over the weekend, with only trace amounts near the summit and barren slopes at base areas like the Main Lodge at 8,909 feet.

Conditions turned favorable starting Sunday, November 16, when colder air arrived and natural snow began accumulating....