Thanksgiving

We have been coming to Mammoth for Thanksgiving since 2015. Most time a few weeks after the season is open (it usually opens at the beginning of November). Kids loved it. Apart from skiing, the village holds the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony by the village with music, food, and activities. It has always been lot of fun. 

Yet, we were somewhat disappointed this year. The mountains are bare, only 39 out of 165 trails are open (less than 25%). The snow-making machines are running 24-7. This is the driest, most bare condition that we have seen in 8 seasons. Climate change? Maybe, or just pure bad luck. 

So we incorporated a few hikes in between (because normally the hiking trails are closed by October due to the snow condition). Personally, the highlight has been the geothermal site that is 11 miles away. What's a refreshing walk through the thermal stream with magnificent Eastern Sierra in the backdrop. I am in awe. Not to mention that we spot families of white-tailed deer along the way. 

Kids have to write down what they are thankful for and Ninja could have not put it better for all of us with this poignant quote he searched up on Google: 

Life is not a problem to be solved but a reality to be experienced.