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Mammoth Mountain, USA

Introduction

California has given us Hollywood, Daffy Duck and thankfully, Mammoth Mountain. Located in the Eastern Sierra region, Mammoth has welcomed snowboarders onto its slopes for many years, and with a good snow record (a record 15.4m in 2004/5 season), riding is often possible into June.

The past few years have seen huge investment by Intrawest (owners of Whistler & Squaw), much of this evident in the huge terrain parks and fast lift system, but also the construction of the new village resort that opened last season. The new village sits on the edge of town with a Gondala taking you to Canyon Lodge, this season should see a trail back to the village completed. Mammoth's slopes can often get busy at weekends when the place fills up with California's city dwellers. Don't let that put you off though as by normal American standards, Mammoth is a pretty big place. In fact, it's one of the biggest resorts in America, with over 150 trails set out on a long-since dead volcano; no matter what your style or ability, theres plenty to do.

Mammoth's terrain parks have acheived legendary status, for the third year running picking up Transworlds best pipe award, and runner up to Whistler for best terrain park. Its not just for the pro's either, theres parks and pipes designed for every ability. Overall Mammoth is a great resort for boarders, theres good variety in terrain from trees to open bowls, an efficient lift system; the last drag lift was removed last season. One gripe is the piste markings which are a bit of a nightmare as they seem to just disappear.