There aren’t many places in the world where you can ski with the rising sun and surf as it sets, but then again, not many places in the world are as diverse as California. The Golden State’s unique ecosystem allows for just that, making it an adventure capital – perfect for a ski trip.
Big Bear Mountain Resort
All you need is one lift ticket and you can ski both Bear Mountain and its sister peak Snow Summit in Southern California. Also known as “The Park,” Big Bear Mountain’s trails posses many terrain features to keep riders of all levels challenged.
Squaw Valley
At 3,600 acres of ride-able terrain, Squaw Valley is one of the largest ski resorts in the nation. The resort’s terrain is legendary for its diversity of offerings, as well as hosting the Winter Olympic Games in 1960.
Mammouth Mountain Ski Resort
Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort in Mono County is a resort with an explosive past. Formed by a series of volcanic eruptions thousands of years in the making, this resort is world-famous for its bowls and steep chutes.
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Heavenly Mountain Resort is a peak so large, it spans two states. 97 runs and 30 lifts are split between its California-Nevada border. Aside from gorgeous views overlooking Lake Tahoe’s south shore, expect 360 inches of snow and 300 days of sunshine.
Bear Valley Mountain Resort
Not to be confused with Big Bear Mountain Resort in the south, Bear Valley Mountain Resort in Alpine County is a whole different beast. Bear Valley Resort serves guests hometown charm in a rustic setting, but don’t underestimate its quaint nature. The Grizzly Bowl, or the “Grizz,” is notorious as being one of the most challenging faces in all California.
June Mountain Ski Resort
After over 50 years of consecutive use every winter season, June Mountain Ski Resort was closed for the 2012-2013 season. But a massive uprising brought it back with a vengeance. With all the challenging terrain of its neighbor Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort, yet half the crowd, many skiers find themselves carving deep S’s into its pristine slopes.
Badger Pass Ski Area
Only 90 acres small, Badger Pass Ski Area in the heart of Yosemite National Park has only ten runs and five lifts. However, it is a mecca for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing with 84 miles of trails. Not to mention, tubing and family-friendly activities make it the perfect mountain to teach the kids.
Dodge Ridge Ski Area
Dodge Ridge Ski Area is the closest location for Bay Area residents to get out of the city and take in the fresh mountain air. A straight shot down the highway lands skiers among 60 trails of fresh powder.
Northstar Ski Resort
Where adventure meets luxury, Northstar Ski Resort is the only resort in Northern California with five-star ski-in, ski-out lodging. One billion dollars in renovations have improved everything from the trails and terrain parks to upscale shops and distinguished dining.