Mammoth Mountain Ski Area grew from Dave McCoy’s recognition in the 1930s that Mammoth held snow more reliably than nearby peaks into one of California’s major mountain resorts. Operating formally after a U.S. Forest Service permit in 1953, it expanded from a rope tow and the first lodge into a large ski area with extensive terrain, long seasons, and strong north-facing snow preservation. It became an early full-mountain center for snowboarding and a leading site for freestyle training and competition. Ownership changes and major infrastructure upgrades accompanied its rise, while avalanches, explosives accidents, volcanic hazards, and other patrol tragedies have remained part of its history.