Skiing California
It may sound crazy. But it is actually possible to swim in the Pacific Ocean in the morning and then end the day with a couple of brisk runs down the snow-covered slopes of Mammoth Mountain in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. And that too well into spring. Yes, in fact, there was snow on the slopes as late as August last year.
It is unusual for there to be so much snow so late in the year in the Californian mountains. Nevertheless, it is becoming a reality that snowfall in the mountains is now so heavy that the slopes, instead of being covered in wildflowers, are covered with a thick layer of snow when Americans celebrate Independence Day on July 4.
Last year, a record amount of snow fell. Almost ten meters. This was due to special climatic conditions where large cloud formations formed over the Pacific Ocean. The seawater in the clouds blew through icy cold air onto land, where it hit the Sierra Nevada and triggered massive snowfall. The largest after the state had been plagued by drought for years.
In the winter months, there is traditionally good skiing in the Californian mountains. But the fact that it is now possible to ski well into spring, perhaps even in summer, makes it possible to combine the ski trip with activities that usually belong to summer. One thing is the beach holiday at the Pacific with surfing and everything that goes with it. But what about renting a car and visiting the Californian vineyards or delightful restaurants scattered throughout California?
We have found five unique ski resorts in the Sierra Nevada for you:
Mammoth Mountain
Mammoth Mountain tops the list of the best ski resorts in California. Both for the ‘regulars’ who come here year after year. And everyone who comes here for the first time. It is a vast, complete resort with wide-open areas of powder snow and gnarly, challenging slopes and runs. Here, there is the possibility to ski through epic forest areas and several national parks. Additionally, there are also fantastic options for inexperienced skiers who are just learning the art of swooping down steep mountain slopes. At the base of the lifts lies a lively resort town equipped with everything needed for a fantastic winter vacation. We are talking about meter-deep snow and plenty of Californian après-ski.
- Ski Area: 14.1 square kilometers
- Number of Runs: 175
- Number of Lifts: 25
- Highest Point: 3,269 meters
- Average Snowfall: 10 meters.
Palisades Tahoe
Just under 300 kilometers north of Mammoth Mountain lies a ski resort – Palisades Tahoe – which is not only renowned for its deep snow. Here, the sun shines 300 days a year. With long, winding runs, plenty of expert terrain if you want to test your skills, and a lively resort center filled with accommodation options and après-ski possibilities, Palisades Tahoe is one of the largest – and best – Californian ski resorts. Just three and a half hours from San Francisco and near Lake Tahoe, it is a popular weekend destination for city dwellers. There are tons of luxurious accommodation options if your next holiday needs a little extra glamour.
The valley floor has plenty of long marked runs – perfect for beginners and those nursing their hangovers. Higher up, you will also find plenty of tracks for experts. Have a hearty breakfast and then head out to find Hidden Bowl, Tram Bowl, Siberia Bowl, and G.S. Bowl. A mighty journey around the mountain, hiding many incredible experiences.
- Ski Area: 14.5 square kilometers
- Number of Runs: 170
- Number of Lifts: 29
- Highest Point: 2,578 meters
- Average Snowfall: 10 meters
Heavenly Ski Resort
Heavenly Ski Resort is one of the largest resorts in California. It spans nearly 20 square kilometers. Heavenly is located on the border with Nevada and offers a unique experience where the ski runs take you through two states in one day. In addition to this, it is known for its impressive snow record and unparalleled views of Lake Tahoe.
With its wide-open slopes and the largest vertical drop on the entire American West Coast, Heavenly is an excellent choice for a more serious ski vacation. And with plenty of beginner terrain, it is also one of the best-suited areas for groups where not everyone is equally experienced. At the bottom, the difficulty level is manageable. But higher up, it gets really interesting. Milky Way Bowl is legendary, and Ski Ways Glades and Hogsback are also worth exploring. The experience here is always top-notch.
- Ski Area: 20 square kilometers
- Number of Runs: 97
- Number of Lifts: 28
- Highest Point: 1,066 meters
- Average Snowfall: 9 meters
Northstar Resort
Northstar Resort at the northern part of Lake Tahoe is epic. It is popular among families and those looking for a truly special holiday. The village is full of exclusive hotels and luxury accommodation options, and the mountain is also quite incredible. Northstar is owned by Vail Resorts, so expect high-tech lifts and fantastic infrastructure, including perfectly maintained runs if you prefer the easier ski trips. Something many people don’t know is that the snow on many of the lower runs lies on grass. This means that much of the terrain remains open, even when there is minimal snow coverage. So Northstar is an excellent choice for a more relaxed trip both early and late in the season.
In the old days, Northstar lacked elevation and challenging terrain. But today, new lifts open up areas like The Backside, where an adrenaline-pumping, advanced terrain awaits. Alternatively, you can take a trip to The Stash, Burton's terrain park located on Mount Pluto, which guarantees insane freestyle runs!
- Ski Area: 12.8 square kilometers
- Number of Runs: 97
- Number of Lifts: 20
- Highest Point: 2,624 meters
- Average Snowfall: 9 meters
Kirkwood Ski Resort
All over social media, Kirkwood Ski Resort is referred to as a hidden gem. It shouldn’t be. Because it should be one of the most popular areas. Kirkwood, located south of Lake Tahoe, benefits from the same weather and rock-solid nearly nine meters of snow each season. However, it is not packed with nearly as many weekend visitors from the coastal cities as many of the other resorts in the Sierra Nevada. Therefore, the more local vibe has been preserved. And thanks to a lot of recent investments, many accommodations, restaurants, and bars have found their way here.
There is good beginner terrain around the children’s center and the base areas of the mountain village. The best snow can be found at Sentinel Bowl and Palisades Bowl. Both are northeast-facing and sheltered from the wind and afternoon sun. Don’t forget the Sunrise lift. It opens up epic, long descents that would be a mistake to miss.
- Ski Area: 9.3 square kilometers
- Number of Runs: 87
- Number of Lifts: 13
- Highest Point: 609 meters
- Average Snowfall: 9 meters