By Chanin Victor

California skiing is a diverse and thrilling experience, and if you live in California, YKWIM! Offering everything from iconic mountain resorts with challenging slopes to family-friendly destinations to alternative winter escapes amid the state’s stunning natural landscapes, California Skiing is…

California skiin’
On such a winter’s day 🎶

When most people first think of the Golden State, the things that come to mind are sun‑drenched beaches, palm trees, kite surfing, a warm breeze, and wineries! However, quite a few mountain ranges are perfect for your snow‑white Christmases and Presidential Holidays.

Finding snow in California is a very short seasonal thing requiring a higher elevation and inclement weather. If you’re not one of those Californians who just have to wake up to see an epic snowfall out their window, planning a few wintery getaways full of snowy sports and adventures is a must!

So, calling all snow bunnies! Here’s a Guide to California Skiing Destinations that will hopefully have you on the slopes in no time.

Which mountain below 👇🏻 is your favorite place to ski? 

NO. 1

Mt. Baldy Ski Resort

Mt. Baldy ‑ Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow Tubing

The Mount Baldy Ski Resort is located on Mount San Antonio, aka “Baldy” in the San Gabriel Mountains. It is about 45 out of LA, in San Bernardino County, Southern California. Mt. Baldy has friendly learning areas for skiers at all levels, but check if they have enough snow before you go. If they do, embrace this ‘winter wonderland’ that is just a hop, skip and jump from downtown LA and the 10 Freeway. You can even stay in nearby towns and go up for the day.

PRO TIP: Book a nearby stay at one of Claremont’s charming family-friendly hotels, and you’ll be just 10 miles away (approx. a 30-minute drive). Experience two awesome places in one week!

Photo Courtesy @MtBaldyResort

NO. 2

Mt. Waterman Ski Resort

Mt. Waterman ‑ Skiing, Snowboarding

Mt. Waterman is the closest ski area to Los Angeles. It has three lifts and operates in the winter and the summer. In the winter, they are a day ski/snowboard area offering beginning, intermediate, and advanced runs. California wildfires and drought often affect Mount Waterman’s ability for snow-making, so be sure to check their website before going for snow-making potential. Opening Day 12-23-2023.

PRO-TIP: Check if there is enough snow before you go.

NO. 3

Mt. Pinos Nordic Base

Mt. Pinos ‑ Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow Play, XC Skiing or Snow Shoe

Mt. Pinos Is the highest point in Ventura County, near Kerns County. A network of trails weaves in and out of the Los Padres National Forest. Getting there can be treacherous in snowy conditions, and chains will most likely be required. It could be worth a visit for its scenic landscapes and alternative winter recreation, but it’s not recommended to go if you’re looking to just ski. Check their website for Opening Day details.

NO. 4

Mountain High Ski Resort, Wrightwood, Ca

Mountain High (Wrightwood) ‑ Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow Play

It is one of the most visited resorts in Southern California from LA and Orange County, and you won’t find an easier drive to the mountains anywhere. Great for quick weekend trips and learning to ski or snowboard. There are tons of trails, and all levels are welcome. Currently open.

NO. 5

Rim Nordic Ski Area & Rim Nordic Bike Park

Rim Nordic Ski Area ‑ Skiing, Snowshoeing

Rim Nordic is a cross‑country ski area in the San Bernardino National Forest. It is located on Rim of the World Drive after the town of Running Springs. Find it as you head to Big Bear Lake. The entrance to the park is just across from the Snow Valley Mountain Resort. This is Southern California’s ONLY cross‑country ski area with a groomed trail system. They offer rentals for all sizes & lessons as well. Open daily when winter arrives.

NO. 6

Snow Valley Mountain Resort

Snow Valley Mountain / Running Springs ‑ Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow Play, Sledding

This family‑favorite ski resort receives tons of natural snowfall and is a great place for skiers and snowboarders with more experience, as most of the trails are intermediate and advanced. But if you’re a beginner, don’t worry, you’ll be fine. It’s one of the oldest continually operating ski resorts. They operate in the summer, too, for hiking and biking adventures. Opening Day 12-9-2023. An IKON PASS destination.

PRO TIP: Get an IKON PASS and go every weekend! 

NO. 7

Snow Summit ‑ Big Bear Mountain

Snow Summit & Big Bear Mountain Resort ‑ Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow Tubing, Night Skiing, Bobsledding

Looking to spend longer than a weekend in the snow? About two hours from LA or the OC, you can drive to Bear Mountain and Snow Summit for some of Southern California’s best skiing and snowboarding. With amazing views, award‑winning terrain parks, and awesome year‑round recreation for the whole family, it’s a win-win-winter getaway. Learn to ski in one of the largest beginner areas around or shuttle between mountains for different intermediate and expert trails. Snowboarders love it here, and there are fun evening adventures on the slopes at Snow Summit. Of course, Big Bear has many things to do, including The Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, The Alpine Zoo, and The Gold Rush Mining Company. Opening Day 12-8-2023. An IKON PASS destination

Learn more about Big Bear here.

NO. 8

Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort

Mammoth Mountain ‑ Skiing, Snowboarding, Ice Skating, Tubing, Sledding, XC and Nordic skiing, Snowshoeing, Snowmobiling, Snowcat Tours, and Ice Climbing

Mammoth Mountain is California’s premier year-round resort, boasting the highest lift-served summit at 11,053 feet. With 300 days of sunshine annually, the Eastern Sierra provides abundant recreational opportunities and breathtaking scenery. From early November to May, winter enthusiasts can revel in the legendary skiing experience, while the summer season offers a myriad of outdoor adventures and activities. Nestled on the border of Yosemite National Park, Mammoth Mountain ensures an endless playground for all-season enjoyment. Opening day 11-10-2023. An IKON PASS Destination

Learn more about Mammoth here.

NO. 9

June Mountain Ski Resort

June Mountain ‑ Skiing, Snowboarding, XC Skiing, Snowshoeing

June Mountain offers some of the most spectacular views in the Sierra Nevada. The surrounding lakes, various terrains, and free lift tickets for kids 12 years old and under keep families coming back. Because there is something to do all year long here, June Mountain is known as “California’s Family Mountain.” There are 1,500+ acres of uncrowded slopes, an easy‑going atmosphere, and breathtaking views. It’s one of the best places in Southern California for the whole family. Enjoy a ski weekend at June Mountain for family fun! Opening Day 12-23-2023 An IKON PASS Destination

NO. 10

Granlibakken Tahoe

Granlibakken Resort ‑ Skiing, Snowboarding, Sledding

In North Lake Tahoe, Granlibakken is a historic, family‑owned & operated resort on a private, 74-acre wooded valley. They have everything you’ll need for an awesome ski week, including lodging, a heated outdoor pool, a Pub, a Restaurant, and breakfast. You don’t need to leave the resort, and it’s perfect for families (especially those with small children.) Rent their ski equipment and learn to ski or snowboard on their private hill, or take the ‘Magic Carpet‘ up to the top for some great tubing fun! In the summer, swim, play tennis, or test your skills on their Treetop Adventure Park ropes course connected by bridges, zip lines, logs and swings. Opening day 12-15-2023.

PRO TIP: Book HERE early if you have family skiing in mind! Couples will also love a stay at The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe.

NO. 11

Heavenly Ski Resort Lake Tahoe

Heavenly ‑ Skiing, Snowboarding, Après Ski

Heavenly has the highest elevation in Lake Tahoe, thus the name. It’s also the largest ski resort in CA. By day, ski amidst the prettiest pine forests with spectacular views. At night, visit some of the nearby pubs, casinos or nightclubs. Everything you need is only a short walk, and do we need to say it? It’s heavenly! Opening day 11-21-2023. An EPIC PASS Destination

NO. 12

Homewood Mountain Resort

Homewood – Skiing, Snowboarding, Designated Areas for Sledding and Tubing 

Homewood Mountain Resort winters bring skiing, snowboarding, lessons, and events. This California mountain also offers a summer season with hiking, mountain biking, and lake access. It’s a versatile destination catering to a diverse audience, extending beyond traditional winter sports. For a unique winter experience against the stunning backdrop of Lake Tahoe, head to Homewood. Opening day 12-15-2023.

NO. 13

Kirkwood

Kirkwood – Skiing, Snowboarding

Kirkwood Mountain Resort, located south of Lake Tahoe, is a year-round destination renowned for its winter focus on skiing and snowboarding and its summer emphasis on hiking and mountain biking. The resort offers skiers abundant snowfall and a variety of challenging skiing terrain. For winter sports enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating experience, Kirkwood is suggested for advanced skiers. Opening day 12-1-2023. An EPIC PASS Destination

NO. 14

Palisades Tahoe

Palisades Tahoe (Formerly known as Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows) ‑ Skiing, Snowboarding

Palisades Tahoe has two areas to ski: Olympic Valley and Alpine Meadows. Known for its advanced and expert terrains, advanced skiers will love it here, but there truly is something for everyone. The latter is a bit less crowded, but there’s more of an après ski life at Olympic Valley. This place is historic, though, perfect for beginners and if you come to Lake Tahoe for skiing, you’ll want to try it out! Opening day 11-22-2023. An IKON PASS Destination

NO. 15

Northstar 

Northstar – Skiing, Snowboarding, Ice Skating, Tubing, Cross-Country

Northstar California Resort is a welcoming, family-friendly resort with year-round activities. This premier year-round destination near the Lake Tahoe region is a great place to experience exceptional skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The mountain features well-groomed slopes and a variety of terrain for all levels. With its picturesque setting and many outdoor activities, Northstar offers everything you could want in a mountain resort experience for visitors seeking adventure and relaxation. Opening day 11-23-2023. An EPIC PASS Destination

NO. 16

Mount Shasta Wilderness

Mt. Shasta Ski Park – Skiing, Snowboarding, Tubing, Snow Play

During winter, visitors can indulge in skiing, snowboarding, tubing, a backcountry cabin program, lessons, rentals, and events. As the snow melts, the Mt. Shasta Ski Park transforms into a summer haven, inviting guests to enjoy scenic chairlift rides, mountain biking, and disc golf. It’s an ideal destination for those who cherish the great outdoors, providing a distinctive winter experience beyond conventional winter sports. Projected opening day 12-15-2023.

Embrace California’s Winter Wonderlands and SKI!

California offers diverse skiing destinations catering to winter sports enthusiasts and those seeking different winter experiences. From the iconic slopes of Palisades Tahoe to the family-friendly atmosphere of Granlibakken or June Mountain to the advanced ski slopes of Kirkwood, there’s a destination for everyone. Whether drawn to the convenience of Southern California resorts like Big Bear/Snow Summit or the breathtaking views at Heavenly in Lake Tahoe, the state of California provides many options for skiing, snowboarding, and other totally tubular winter activities.

For those who don’t ski or haven’t tried it, locations like Granlibakken Tahoe and Mountain High offer beginner options and alternative winter escapes. The resorts have incredible natural beauty, designated trails, and some outdoor adventures beyond traditional winter sports. Whether you’re an experienced skier or someone looking to enjoy the winter wonderland of California uniquely, this list of diverse ski destinations has something special for everyone. 

So, gear up, hit the slopes and embrace the winter wilderness—it’s time for a memorable winter getaway in the Golden State!

Chanin Victor is a family travel specialist focusing on experiential, immersive, multigenerational travel. Based in LA with her family, Chanin loves new adventures. Discover her travels @chaninvictor and at chaninvictor.com.