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Jerry Seinfeld famously claimed that "there is no such thing as fun for the whole family," but that certainly doesn't stop most people from trying to make everyone happy on family vacations. As families grow and become more spread out across the country, it seems that there are only a few times a year parents, their children, their grandchildren and often their own parents can all spend time together. It's no longer just about fun for the whole family, but fun for the entire extended, multi-generational family as well.

After the ordeal of coordinating a time when everyone is free and able to travel, choosing a destination that pleases everyone can be difficult, to say the least. Luckily, California's Mammoth Mountain is a perfect spot for all ages and dispositions, even if not everyone in your family likes to ski. Here's a sampling of why Mammoth is a playground for people of all backgrounds and athletic inclinations.

Skiing and Snow Boarding
Consistently ranked among the top ski resorts in any North American rating, Mammoth has terrain for all abilities. Experts will want to head to the 35-degree chutes off of Chair 23 or the Gondola, while intermediates will be happy cruising the massive variety of open snowfields and groomers lower on the mountain.

Beginners can sign up for lessons at any of the three lodges, but calling in advance is recommended (1-800-MAMMOTH). Private family lessons are also available. For the complete novice, the Family Center, located in the Village at Mammoth, will walk you through the entire ski process from equipment rental to sign-ups.

Cross-country Skiing and Snowshoeing
For a different approach, the Tamarack Cross-Country center maintains 19-miles of groomed trails. Learn about the natural history of the Sierra Nevada by joining a complimentary Naturalist Tour (held at noon Fridays and Saturdays) or by reserving a spot in one of the full moon tours held throughout the winter on, you guessed it, nights with full moons.

Snowmobiling
For those who prefer motorized recreation, the backcountry is just as beautiful (just not as quiet) from atop a snowmobile. The bonus of a snowmobile is that you can cover more distance, getting more of those awe-inspiring views and historic landmarks that dot the Inyo National Forest. Ages five and up can ride and anyone with a driver's license can take the helm.

Dog Sledding
Most kids love dogs. And so do most grown-ups. If you don't mind the yipping of a team of huskies and malamutes, take the young ones in your family on a cross-country ride through the snow-drenched meadows and pine forests of the Eastern Sierra.

Apres
The local hotspot for après is the Clocktower Cellar, where you'll find a selection of around 50 beers. Get away from the family for a night and indulge in a romantic mountaintop meal with Parallax Snowcat Dinners; after a cozy snowcat ride to the restaurant, you'll enjoy a five-course meal and a selection of wines from across the Mediterranean regions.

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