Best Ski Resorts in California

Mammoth Mountain

Living up to its name, Mammoth Mountain is the highest summit elevation in the state of California, peaking at 11,053 ft. and offering more than 3,500 skiable acres with a 3,100-ft. vertical drop. Sierra storms deliver an impressive 400 inches of annual snowfall, along with 300 days of sunshine on average. It's open layout makes it easy to navigate the diverse terrain that features expansive bowls, steep chutes and the best ski for groomers. A boarder’s paradise, Mammoth Mountain has nine world-class terrain parks, three half-pipes and abundant amount of planter boxes, stairs and lift towers to jib off. Considered by some as the best ski resort in California, Mammoth is only an hour’s drive from Yosemite National Park and boasts an extended ski season can sometimes stretch into July.

Mountain High

Thanks to its convenient location just about an hour from L.A., Mountain High is considered one of the best snowboard places in So Cal. Mountain High is actually divided into three different resorts — West Resort, East Resort and North Resort. West Resort, the more advanced peak, features technical terrain and an impeccably designed park for freestyle boarders. A skier’s nirvana, East Resort is well-known for its mogul runs and glade skiing — not to mention stunning views of the Mojave Desert. The North Resort offers an ideal area for families and beginners, with more than 70 acres of less skilled terrain, as well as the exciting North Pole Tubing Park.

Northstar

Along the north shore of Lake Tahoe, Northstar California—previously known as Northstar-at-Tahoe—offers more than 3,000 acres of skiable terrain. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and luxurious accommodations, Northstar provides an all- around enjoyable experience for winter sports enthusiasts. Northstar has a variety of well-groomed trails, including fun tree skiing and terrain options for all skill levels. A favorite of So Cal snowboarders, Northstar’s world-class terrain parks are highlighted by a 22-ft. Superpipe designed by Olympian Shaun White, making it among the best snowboard parks in the U.S.

Kirkwood

Located along the Sierra Crest, Kirkwood Mountain is a scenic ski destination in the Eldorado National Forest just south of Lake Tahoe. Kirkwood’s all-mountain terrain offers skiers and riders everything from long groomed trails to expert lines and chutes. The resort is known for having some of the best snow in the area — plentiful, light and dry. Spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and convenient ski in, ski out accommodations make Kirkwood one the best ski resorts in Lake Tahoe. The resort also offers tons of other thrilling snow-related activities like cross country skiing, snow shoeing, dog sled tours and backcountry access.

Gear Up with a Ski Rack for Your Next Ski Trip

Thule Universal FlatTop Ski & Snowboard Rack

INNO Gravity Ski & Snowboard Rack

Thule SnowCat Ski & Snowboard Rack

Rhino-Rack Ski & Snowboard Rack

Yakima FatCat Ski & Snowboard Rack

Thule Universal PullTop Ski & Snowboard Rack

INNO Grab Max Ski & Snowboard Rack

Yakima Big PowderHound Ski & Snowboard Rack

Haul More Gear with a Custom Roof Rack & Cargo Box

Thule Force Cargo Box

Thule Sonic Cargo Box

Thule Pulse Cargo Box

Thule Hyper Cargo Box

Thule AeroBlade Base Rack

Yakima Base Rack System

INNO Base Rack System

Rhino-Rack Aero Bar Roof Rack System

Don't Get Stuck, Bring Snow Chains for Maximum Grip

Pewag Glacier Cable Tire Chains

Thule CB-12 Tire Chains

Thule Easy Fit Tire Chains

Thule XG-12 Tire Chains

Pewag Glacier Twist Link Tire Chains

Pewag Glacier Square Link Tire Chains

Pewag Glacier V-Trac Cable Tire Chains

Thule XB-16 Tire Chains

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