Skiing and Snowboarding in Los Angeles 2024-2025

Though Los Angeles may not seem like a typical winter destination, its proximity to several mountain ranges provides ample opportunity for skiing and snowboarding. Just a short drive from the city, there are numerous ski resorts offering terrain for all levels of expertise. From beginners to seasoned pros, Southern California’s mountains have options for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top ski resorts near Los Angeles, along with key information on what to expect.

Best Time to Go

The optimal time for skiing and snowboarding near Los Angeles is generally from December through March. However, the season can extend from late November to early April, depending on snow conditions. According to the resorts, the best snow and the fewest crowds are usually found in January and February. Early December may offer fewer skiers but can sometimes see lighter snow, while weekends and holidays tend to be busier throughout the season.

Mount Baldy (50mi/1hr)

Located just an hour from Los Angeles, Mt. Baldy Ski Resort is the closest destination for skiers and snowboarders. It’s a smaller, classic-style resort but provides a lot of terrain variety with its four chairlifts. According to the resort, it spans over 4,000 acres and offers 26 trails, most of which are suited for intermediate and advanced skiers. The proximity to LA makes it ideal for a day trip.

Trails and Lifts

80% of Mt. Baldy’s runs are designated for intermediate and advanced levels, leaving only 20% for beginners. The most challenging black runs can be accessed by Chairs 3 and 4, while some easier blue and green trails are available from the 8,600 ft (2600m) summits.

Pricing

Winter season passes are priced around $599, with day passes ranging from $70 for adults to $30 for children and seniors.

Rentals

Mt. Baldy does not offer on-site equipment rentals, so visitors are advised to bring their own gear.

Mount Waterman Ski Resort (55mi/1.5hrs)

Often overlooked in favor of larger resorts, Mt. Waterman offers a quieter experience. It’s located about a 1.5-hour drive from Los Angeles and features just three chairlifts. This smaller, less crowded resort provides 25 trails, making it a hidden gem for those who prefer a more peaceful skiing day.

Trails and Lifts

Around 60% of the runs at Mt. Waterman are geared toward advanced skiers, with the remaining 40% divided between beginner and intermediate levels. The resort is known for its scenic views and a cozy Warming Hut, where visitors can rest by the fireplace.

Pricing

Lift tickets are priced at $70 for adults, $60 for teens, and $30 for children and seniors.

Rentals

Mt. Waterman does not offer rental equipment, so visitors need to come prepared with their own gear.

Mountain High Ski Resort (80mi/1.25hrs)

Mountain High is one of Southern California’s most visited ski resorts, located in the Angeles National Forest. This resort is known for being beginner-friendly and offers three mountains connected by shuttle bus: North, East, and West. In total, there are 14 lifts and 290 skiable acres.

Trails and Lifts

Mountain High caters more to beginners and intermediates, making it a good option for families or those new to the sport. The West Mountain is a place where most visitors head, while North Mountain is dedicated to beginners.

Pricing

Lift tickets range from $80 to $120 for a day pass, depending on the day of the week and demand.

Rentals

Ski and snowboard rentals are available at Mountain High, with pricing typically around $40 to $50 for a full-day rental package.

Big Bear Mountain Resort (100mi/2hrs)

Big Bear Mountain Resort now includes three popular Southern California destinations: Bear Mountain, Snow Summit, and Snow Valley. Together, they offer an expansive winter experience with over 240 acres of skiable terrain and diverse activities for all ages and skill levels. Bear Mountain caters to advanced skiers and snowboarders, Snow Summit is ideal for families and beginners, and Snow Valley offers a mix of terrain with award-winning learning centers and lift-served sledding. Located in Big Bear Lake, these resorts provide a convenient getaway for skiers and snowboarders in Southern California.

Trails

Known for its challenging slopes and famous terrain parks, Bear Mountain is a favorite for advanced skiers and snowboarders. The resort's terrain parks are renowned for their innovative design, attracting thrill-seekers. Snow Summit offers a balanced selection of trails for all skill levels. Its wide, groomed runs make it a great choice for beginners and intermediates looking to build their skills in a relaxed environment. As the oldest continually operating resort in Southern California, Snow Valley provides excellent beginner terrain, making it perfect for those new to skiing. The resort also features SoCal’s only high-speed, 6-seat lift, the Snow Valley Express.

Pricing

Lift tickets at Bear Mountain and Snow Summit start at around $100 for adults and $50 for children. Snow Valley lift tickets are valid at all three resorts, with Snow Valley-only options starting at $59 for night sessions. Discounts are available for multi-day tickets and group bookings. Pass holders of the Ikon Pass and BBMR passes can use their passes across all three locations.

Rentals

All three resorts offer a range of rental equipment for skiers and snowboarders. Pricing for a full-day rental starts at $45, and packages are available for standard, performance, and demo gear. Each location has well-equipped rental shops, ensuring guests can find the right gear for their skill level. Snow Valley also features lift-served sledding and snow tubing rentals, ideal for families seeking a fun winter experience beyond skiing.

Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort (310mi/4.75hrs)

Although it is farther from Los Angeles compared to other resorts, Mammoth Mountain, located on the eastern slopes of the Sierra Nevada, makes up for the drive with its 3,500+ acres of skiable terrain, high-altitude slopes, and nearly 400 inches of annual snowfall. The resort features California’s highest lift-served summit, with a base elevation of 7,953 feet and a peak elevation of 11,053 feet. Mammoth is known for having one of the longest ski seasons in the U.S., often staying open from early November into late spring or even August. Additionally, the town offers a vibrant après-ski scene with dining, shopping, and entertainment options, including tubing parks and snowmobiling tours.

Trails and Lifts

Mammoth Mountain caters to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. The vast terrain includes everything from gentle groomers to advanced powder-filled bowls, tree skiing, and halfpipes. The mountain is home to several terrain parks, making it popular with snowboarders and freestyle skiers. The resort's 28 lifts ensure easy access to various areas of the mountain, reducing wait times during peak periods.

Pricing

Lift tickets at Mammoth Mountain range from $150 to $180 for a full-day pass, depending on the season and demand. The resort participates in the Ikon Pass program, offering more flexible pricing and access to multiple resorts.

Rentals

Mammoth Mountain provides a wide range of rental options, from standard skis and snowboards to high-performance demo equipment. Prices for rentals generally range from $50 to $100 per day, depending on the gear type. For budget-conscious skiers, reserving gear at least 14 days in advance can offer savings of up to 25%.