The Summit Resort 2BR/2BA, Mammoth Lakes

I came here with my dad and a few friends in the late 2010s, when most of the places in Mammoth had gotten more expensive. Our friends found this condo for all of us, and it was one of the last condos I've stayed in here. The unit was somewhat compact, though it had an upstairs that wasn't quite the kind of loft many local condos are known for. The furniture and bathrooms were starting to look dated, but at least it was something.

We had a successful fishing trip, and Troutfitter was close by for replacing the flies I lost. Our five-day stay was great. The one-bedroom unit 5E had two TVs and was easily three times the size of the budget accommodations, for only a little more than a budget hotel. I got so used to it that I was briefly lost when I got home. The nearly 8,000-foot elevation took my breath away, and I was gassed walking to the unit. There were no NBCSBA Golden State Warriors games.

The condo quality, charm, and comfort vary from unit to unit because they're individually owned. Parking can be a hassle depending on your group size and how many cars you bring. The outdoor jacuzzis, sauna, and bathrooms are good. In winter, it's a good location when the Eagle chairlift is open.

The building is old but decent. We booked a one-bedroom in the Ansel Adams building through air bnb for $110 a night. Dogs are allowed, and the building has stairs plus a small elevator. The ground floor is a garage, with one parking space assigned to each condo. I really liked the strict no-smoking, vaping, or e-cigarette rule across the property, including private balconies and condos. Anyone caught smoking faces a monetary penalty.