During the summer, the Main Lodge at the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area offers a range of family activities. The main feature is the gondola, which takes you to over 11,000 ft., after a ride that even the youngest will enjoy. Many gondola-riders have mountain bikes in tow. Amazing views are had from the top, from where you can see hundreds of miles on clear days.

Behind the lodge, a 240-foot-long zip line caters to kids 13 and under. Your child must be able to climb up a ladder — assisted by the staff — to the platform, and be comfortable with, well, jumping off. My 3-1/2 year old did it and immediately wanted to do it again.

Other draws include an onsite climbing rock (all ages) and geocaching hunts that can be arranged for families and groups.