Mammoth Mountain vs Palisades Tahoe
Comparing Mammoth Mountain (CA) and Palisades Tahoe (CA) on price, terrain, snowfall, and lift wait. Numbers from the 2026 season.
Mammoth Mountain
Mammoth Lakes, CA
Ikon pass
Window price$219
Online (advance)$77
Season pass$1,329
Palisades Tahoe
Olympic Valley, CA
Ikon pass
Window price$289
Online (advance)$189
Season pass$1,329
Side-by-side
| Stat | Mammoth Mountain | Palisades Tahoe | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Window lift ticket | $219 | $289 | Mammoth Mountain |
| Online (30+ days) | $77 | $189 | Mammoth Mountain |
| Season pass | $1,329 | $1,329 | Tied |
| Annual snowfall | 400" | 450" | Palisades Tahoe |
| Skiable acres | 3,500 | 6,000 | Palisades Tahoe |
| Vertical drop | 3,100' | 2,850' | Mammoth Mountain |
| Runs | 178 | 270 | Palisades Tahoe |
| Lifts | 24 | 42 | Palisades Tahoe |
| Summit elevation | 11,053' | 9,500' | Mammoth Mountain |
| Beginner terrain | 25% | 25% | Tied |
| Advanced terrain | 35% | 35% | Tied |
| Average lift wait | 15 min | 15 min | Tied |
The Match
Mammoth Mountain is cheaper at the gate ($77 vs $189 entry). Palisades Tahoe is significantly bigger (6,000 vs 3,500 acres). Both are on the Ikon pass — same pass, same wallet.