12 Best Ski Resorts California – Skiing in California

Table of Contents

Introduction

California is not only known for its sunny beaches and bustling cities but also for its excellent ski resorts. From the Sierra Nevada Peaks to Lake Tahoe and the San Bernardino Mountains, there are plenty of options for skiing enthusiasts to hit the powder. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, California offers ski areas with diverse terrains, efficient lifts, and stunning backdrops for a memorable snow-filled adventure.

Palisades Tahoe Olympic Valley

Formerly known as Squaw Valley, Palisades Tahoe is a top ski resort in California located in the Lake Tahoe area. With 270 trails, 43 lifts, and 400 inches of snowfall annually, it is a premier winter destination. The resort, which hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics, is renowned for its expert-level runs and features attractions like the Olympic Museum and Aerial Tram.

Big Bear Mountain Resort

Situated in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Mountain Resort is the winter recreation epicenter of Southern California. With 58 slopes, 19 lifts, and 400 skiable acres, it offers a peaceful snowy retreat for families. The resort, along with Snow Summit, provides a classic winter vacation experience with easy slopes, a terrain park, and night riding opportunities.

Sugar Bowl Resort

Sugar Bowl Resort is a mid-sized ski resort ideal for families, known for its laid-back atmosphere, affordability, and skiable terrain suitable for all skill levels. With 103 routes spread across 1650 acres, the resort’s close proximity to the Bay Area makes it a convenient choice for a skiing getaway. As one of the oldest resorts in the U.S., Sugar Bowl has a long history of providing respectable skiing experiences.

Mountain High Resort Wrightwood

Located just an hour and a half from downtown Los Angeles, Mountain High Resort in Southern California offers skiing with views of the Mojave Desert and Catalina Island. Comprising three mountains, the resort features the North Pole tubing park, the largest in Southern California. Free shuttles connect the mountains, providing easy access to various terrains for skiing and snowboarding.

June Mountain

For a peaceful family skiing experience away from crowds, June Mountain near Mammoth Mountain is a perfect choice. With 41 routes, 1500 skiable acres, and a terrain park, the resort offers breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada. Known for its friendly atmosphere, reasonable prices, and minimal lines, June Mountain is an affordable option where children under 12 can ski for free.

Bear Valley

Located in the Central Sierra mountains, Bear Valley is a hidden gem off the beaten path, offering a tranquil winter getaway for families. With 87 courses of varying difficulty levels, two terrain parks, and luxurious hotel options, the resort provides a restful vacation experience. Visitors can enjoy dining with scenic views at the resort’s eateries, pubs, and cafes.

Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort

Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort is a popular destination for skiers seeking a wide variety of rides in a stunning volcanic setting. With 3500 skiable acres and 400 inches of annual snowfall, the resort offers excellent skiing conditions similar to Alpine resorts in Europe. Families can enjoy a range of activities amidst the Long Valley Caldera, making it an inclusive skiing vacation spot.

Kirkwood Ski Resort

Situated south of Lake Tahoe, Kirkwood Ski Resort is known for its high snowfall, family-friendliness, and welcoming community. With 2300 acres of skiable terrain, backcountry skiing options, and scenic mountain views, the resort caters to both experts and beginners. Despite its lack of luxury amenities, Kirkwood offers a laid-back atmosphere and safe slopes for all levels.

Heavenly Mountain South Lake Tahoe

Heavenly Mountain in South Lake Tahoe is renowned for its intermediate ski slopes and breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe. With 4800 skiable acres and an elevation of 10,067 feet, the resort offers unique experiences like tree skiing and exploration. Visitors can enjoy the luxurious amenities of South Lake Tahoe and State Line, including fine dining and entertainment, complementing the skiing adventure.

Homewood Mountain Resort

Homewood Mountain Resort near Lake Tahoe’s western side provides a serene skiing experience with stunning views of the lake. With 1260 acres, eight lifts, and 64 runs, the resort caters mainly to families seeking a tranquil skiing atmosphere. While smaller in size compared to other Lake Tahoe resorts, Homewood offers a more peaceful and scenic skiing experience.

Northstar California Truckee

Northstar California in Truckee elevates the Lake Tahoe ski resort experience with upscale amenities, fine dining options, and well-maintained paths. Covering 3170 acres of skiable land, the resort features eight terrain parks, a festive ice rink, and breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe. While slightly pricier, Northstar offers a more exclusive skiing experience with luxurious accommodations and upscale apres-ski scenes.

Sierra at Tahoe Twin Bridges

Sierra at Tahoe, located just 10 miles from Lake Tahoe, is a top ski resort in California known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities for beginners. With 480 inches of annual snowfall, the resort offers good powder conditions and features a 320-acre backcountry ride and fantastic tree skiing tracks. While lacking accommodations and a developed apres-ski scene, Sierra at Tahoe focuses on providing superb skiing experiences for visitors.