Backcountry Ski and Snowboarding the Sherwins to Ranch Road Egress ◈

Hiking and skiing the Sherwins Range is a favorite pastime for locals and offers some of the best frontcountry, earn-your-turns skiing in the country. Hike up along the Lakes Basin Winter Public Access Corridor from the closure on Lake Mary Road (after you cross Old Mammoth Road look for boot tracks on the left leading up to the ridge), or skin up from the closure on Old Mammoth Road. This is high-consequence avalanche terrain; bring appropriate gear and check with the Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center (ESAC ) before you go. Note: the route across the golf course is egress only – you can’t start from the Ranch Road Gate. Please follow all posted signs and be courteous to everyone you meet.
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Hiking and skiing the Sherwins Range is a favorite pastime for locals and offers some of the best frontcountry, earn-your-turns skiing in the country. Hike up along the Lakes Basin Winter Public Access Corridor from the closure on Lake Mary Road (after you cross Old Mammoth Road look for boot tracks on the left leading up to the ridge), or skin up from the closure on Old Mammoth Road. This is high-consequence avalanche terrain; bring appropriate gear and check with the Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center (ESAC ) before you go. Note: the route across the golf course is egress only – you can’t start from the Ranch Road Gate. Please follow all posted signs and be courteous to everyone you meet.

Avalanche Forecast for 02/21/2025

AVALANCHE FORECAST: A small Wet Loose avalanche, a cornice falling, or the weight of a person could trigger a dangerous avalanche breaking deep within the snowpack. Choosing low-consequence terrain with low slope angles, avoiding slopes with hazards overhead, and maintaining wide safety margins are the best strategies for managing the avalanche problems. Find out More

Experience Checklist
- Avalanche safety gear
- Backcountry Partner
- Beanie
- Complete backcountry Ski/Snowboard Kit
- Day pack
- Energy bars/electrolyte replacement
- Knowledge and understanding of local conditions
- Knowledge of conditions & safety/rescue procedures
- Ski goggles
- Ski goggles or sunglasses
- Ski helmet
- Ski or snowboard boots
- Ski pants & jacket
- Ski poles
- Skis or snowboard
- Sunscreen/lip protector
- Warm clothing
- Water
- Windbreaker/shell
- Winter gloves
Public Services
Experience Information

Trail Length
3.4 miles

Trail Surface
Snow

Duration
Half day
This trail begins at the Winter Closure Lake Mary Road.
- Get driving directions to Winter Closure Lake Mary Road
- Get public-transit options*
*Note that not all facilities are accessible via public transit.