With an average annual snow fall of 385 inches, Mammoth is popular for winter sports. 2 years ago it was too heavy to be profitable, last year too light, so the 4 mile sq. town of Mammoth Lakes declared bankruptcy. However, the town remains lively with bargain happy hours and dining, starting at 3 PM, lots of camping on lakes above the town, and all resort amenities, deeply discounted. We have been enjoying fishing, tennis, ping-pong in the Village Courtyard, paddling in Mary Lake, swimming (Brrr!), hiking above Coldwater Creek, and hot-tubbing. Below is the view of Crystal Crag from our camp at Mary Lake.

Everyone is so nice, and already bubbling with enthusiasm at the start of Autumn. Sure enough, the Aspens higher up are turning gold, and the nights are getting cold. We sometimes find that a furry black hot water container has warmed our bed unexpectedly.