Top Five Skiing and Snowboarding Destinations in California

CA POSITIVE

By: CalBroker Magazine

There is a strong consensus that California boasts the most diverse terrain amongst the 50 states, with its beautiful beaches, vast deserts, quaint vineyards, and massive mountain ranges. Many Californians eagerly anticipate the wintertime, praying to the rain gods for a solid snowfall that will result in good conditions for skiing and snowboarding. While climate change continues to impact snowfall year after year, California still boasts some stellar skiing and snowboarding destinations, and we’ve gathered the top five.

For avid skiers and snowboarders, buying an Ikon Pass is a popular choice as it grants access to over 60 destinations worldwide, including several California resorts. However, the pass often sells out as early as the beginning of December.

Before you depart for your ski trip, consider these tips:

Book your lift tickets and lodging ahead of time.
Consider the parking situation. Many ski resorts allow you to reserve parking in advance.
Be prepared to rent or purchase snow chains if you plan to drive. Check road conditions to see if they are required, using the Caltrans QuickMap for real-time updates.
Pack for the weather—make sure you have gloves and a beanie, thick waterproof socks, long underwear, and a windproof jacket. If the weather looks like it will be moderate, bring a backpack so you can shed layers as you break a sweat.
Bring water and snacks. Many of us are not accustomed to high elevations and zooming down the slopes can exert a lot of energy, so be sure to pack sustenance accordingly.

“As an excellent perk for those born during the winter months, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain offer a free lift ticket on your birthday”

Now, here is our ranking of the top five destinations in California for skiing and snowboarding:

1. Lake Tahoe

With over a dozen major ski areas, Lake Tahoe is a no brainer for the number one spot, as it is home to the highest concentration of ski resorts in the United States within a 100-mile radius. A widely popular destination for skiers and snowboarders alike, Lake Tahoe receives nearly 300 days of sunshine a year, and its snowstorms typically deposit over 500 inches of snow annually. For South Lake Tahoe resorts, try the massive Heavenly Mountain Resort, which is celebrating its 70th anniversary and is presenting a slate of lively DJ sets all season long. Other popular resorts in the South region include the often less crowded Kirkwood, or beginner-friendly Sierra-at-Tahoe. For North Lake Tahoe, try the widely popular Palisades Tahoe, its largest resort featuring a gondola, perfect for serious skiers. Also in this area are family-friendly Northstar California, historic Sugar Bowl, and lakeside Homewood.

2. Mammoth

Just 140 miles south of Lake Tahoe is Mammoth Mountain—another hugely popular Northern California destination for skiing and snowboarding. Compared to Lake Tahoe, Mammoth offers higher elevation and typically drier snow. Situated on the east side of the Sierra Nevada mountain range within the Inyo National Forest, Mammoth is ideal for those who prefer longer runs and more consistent conditions. With over 175 trails and the longest ski season, Mammoth is a premier destination for year-round mountain adventure. For ambitious skiers, Mammoth lift tickets are valid on the same day at its sister location, June Mountain, which is just 20 miles away. June Mountain is known for its more family-friendly terrain, shorter lift lines, and quieter vibes.

3. Big Bear Lake

Arguably the best skiing and snowboarding destination in Southern California, Big Bear Lake offers two prime locations for visitors—Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. Situated near Big Bear’s downtown hub with around 240 skiable acres, Snow Summit offers a more traditional ski vibe, with a wide selection of advanced trails and plenty of beginner-level trails. Bear Mountain has around 198 acres with many pipes and jumps, making it popular among snowboarders. Both locations are open at nighttime, offer lessons, and onsite equipment rental. As an excellent perk for those born during the winter months, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain offer a free lift ticket on your birthday. You must bring a valid government-issued ID at the time of redemption, and it must be redeemed on one’s legal birth date.

Notable mention: located just down the hill from Big Bear Lake is Snow Valley Mountain Resort in Running Springs, a great family-friendly option with 240 acres of skiable terrain. Widely popular for its snow tubing, it boasts the only resort with lift-served tubing in Southern California.

4. Mountain High

Just a short distance from Los Angeles, Mountain High is a popular destination for a quick winter escape. With around 290 acres, Mountain High is slightly larger and offers more trails than Big Bear’s Snow Summit, though conditions can be less dependable due to its lower elevation. On the upside, driving to Mountain High is often less stressful with less windy mountain roads. Mountain High also offers night skiing and a balanced array of beginner, intermediate, and advanced trails. Another perk for the budget conscious: Mountain High offers flexible ticketing, allowing you to purchase passes by the hour or by individual runs.

5. Mt. Baldy

A convenient option for those seeking a day trip and fewer crowds, Mt. Baldy is the closest ski resort to Los Angeles. Popular for its “old-school” vibe and uncrowded slopes, Mt. Baldy is typically best for intermediate or advanced skiers due to its more unpredictable snow, steep terrain, and vertical drops. For the best experience and conditions, visit just after a fresh snowstorm.