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Beach bunnies, if you’re ready to trade your sunscreen for snow goggles, a scenic drive to any of these snow-capped Southern California ski resorts awaits. Scoring fresh powder in California is a fleeting and seasonal treat that typically requires heading to higher elevations and hoping for actual winter weather. It’ll be here soon.
Whether trekking to the snow-capped San Bernardino Mountains or the San Gabriel Mountains inside the Angeles National Forest, get ready to grab the local trail maps and discover ski resorts boasting plenty of skiable terrain for all skill levels. Families traveling from Los Angeles or San Diego can squeeze in an early morning swim in the Pacific Ocean before hitting the slopes at these SoCal ski spots.
Whether your family is just starting out on their snowy journey or are experienced pros ready to tackle the toughest runs, get ready to claim those first tracks at our 7 fav Southern California ski resorts.
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Big Bear Mountain Resort
At Big Bear Mountain Resort, explore three different snow sports areas—Bear Mountain, Snow Summit, and Snow Valley—and all are fun winter playgrounds. Only about two hours from LA or OC, it’s one of the best choices for a quick winter getaway. Plus, if you live in Southern California, no airports are required.
With stunning views, top-rated terrain parks, and slopes for all levels, this is where winter adventures come to life. Learn to ski on one of the biggest beginner areas around, or hop between resorts to conquer 17 miles of intermediate and expert runs.
Rim Nordic and the Discovery Center offer cross-country skiing trails. Freestyle terrain areas have jumps, rails, and halfpipes that are top-notch. And when you’re ready for a break, hit up The Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, The Gold Rush Mining Company, or visit furry friends at the zoo. Yes, they have a zoo!
Pure joy on the slopes and ready to conquer the mountain! ©FamVeld from Canva Pro
Bear Mountain
If you’re ready to level up, Bear Mountain’s your playground. Towering at 8,805 feet with a 1,665-foot vertical drop, Bear Mountain is perfect for testing your skills—whether that’s cruising groomed runs or getting lost in some backcountry adventure. Families can stick to the friendly Chair #6 for smooth sailing, but if you’re itching for a challenge, take Chair #8 to Geronimo Peak (yes, double black diamond). It’s the longest ski run in Southern California, stretching two miles from Geronimo to Bear Bottom. And Chair #9, aka the Bear Mountain Express, is your go-to for freestyle terrain—because who doesn’t want to catch a little air on vacation?
Snow Summit
For those easing into the winter sports scene, Snow Summit’s got your back. It’s chill, not too intimidating, and with a 1,200-foot vertical drop, it’s just enough to keep things interesting. If you’re feeling bold, Chair #2 will whisk you up to tougher terrain, but no rush—start small, grab some lessons, and soak up that laid-back SoCal mountain vibe. Oh, and if you’re really into the idea of skiing under the stars (yes, it’s as cool as it sounds), hit up the night skiing sessions.
Family ski days are filled with laughter and snowflakes! ❄️ ©vm from Canva pro
Snow Valley Mountain Resort
For a more laid-back experience, check out the slopes of Snow Valley Ski Resort, a family favorite located at a lower elevation near Running Springs. Welcoming skiers since 1924, it is the longest continuously operating ski resort in Southern California. This spot is all about family-friendly vibes, with 28 runs and beginner terrain that’s perfect if you’re still finding your snow legs or carving skills. Intimidated by the chairlift? No worries! There’s a rope tow waiting to pull you up the hill. For the more adventurous, Slide Peak is calling your name with a 35-degree pitch that’ll make your heart race (in a good way). Bonus points for their night skiing too—it’s peaceful and magical.
Where To Stay Near Big Bear Lake
For families who prefer spacious accommodations, convenient amenities, and proximity to outdoor activities, check out these family-friendly options:
- Big Bear Frontier: Cozy cabins with kitchenettes and a playground for kids.
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Big Bear Lake: Spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens and an indoor pool.
- Holiday Inn Resort Big Bear Lake: Family-oriented activities and easy access to ski resorts.
- Hampton Inn by Hilton Big Bear Lake: Free hot breakfast and comfortable family rooms for a relaxing stay.
DON’T MISS! 12 Best Places To Stay In Big Bear Lake For Families
It’s time to get those kiddos bundled up and ready for their first ski adventure! ©Chanin Victor
Mountain High
If you’re a ski addict, one of the closest ski resorts to Los Angeles is also one of the most visited in Southern California, mainly because it’s the ultimate day-trip destination. Located along State Route 2, Mountain High ski resort offers 59 trails spanning three mountain areas, and the longest run stretches a cool 1.6 miles. There’s a total of 290 skiable acres, and with a vertical drop of 1,600 feet, this place caters to all ability levels, from first-timers to seasoned pros.
One single lift ticket—ranging from $49 to $99—will allow you to explore all three mountains freely—plus, there’s a free shuttle service to whisk you from one resort to another. If you’re bringing the little ones, kids 4 and under ski free (if purchased online), and snow veterans aged 75 and up are FREE every day. There are also discounts for military, fire, and police personnel, and for the best gift to yourself ever, how about a free lift ticket on your birthday? What’s not to love?
Mountain High offers rentals, lessons, dining options, and even shopping.
Zooming down the slopes together means family fun on the mountain! ©wojciech_gajda from Canva Pro
Mountain High North
The smallest of the trio, North Resort is really the perfect place for newbies and young families; its gentle slopes make learning a breeze. Not a skier? No worries! The snow play and tubing areas are a hit with non-skiers, offering a relaxed vibe for everyone to enjoy.
Mountain High West
If you’re ready to carve out some serious turns, Mountain High West is the place to be! As the biggest and most lively mountain, it’s a magnet for freestylers, advanced skiers, and snowboarders looking for their next challenge. Their terrain has multiple parks, jumps, and rails. When the sun goes down and the crowds start to clear, you can revel in the thrill of nighttime skiing—just you and the glow of the lit-up trails beneath you. Talk about ethereal!
Snow much fun! Making memories one snowball at a time. That’s the way to do winter! ©JasonDoly from Canva Pro
Mountain High East
Mountain High East is your jam if you’re after that cozy, traditional alpine feel. It’s a chill spot with fewer crowds, perfect for intermediate and advanced skiers looking to tackle awesome terrain. You’ll discover long, steep runs that practically beg you to stop and take a picture (or ten)!
And don’t forget to swing by Yeti’s Snow Play! Grab a separate ticket for a full day of tubing, sledding, and good ol’ snowy fun, plus enjoy a ride on the Scenic Sky Chair for those stunning mountain views.
Looking to perfect your ski or snowboarding skills or simply enjoy the winter vibes? Mountain High has all the snow-packed fun you need.
[ctt template=”4″ link=”c0ycl” via=”no” ]Calling all slope-loving families! A scenic drive to snow-capped Southern California ski resorts awaits! Here are the top 7 awesome snow adventures happening this winter! [/ctt]
Mt. Baldy Resort
The Mt. Baldy Resort offers the most challenging terrain in Southern California. Just about an hour from LA, it’s a local favorite for one or two-day getaways for the powder hound set who consider themselves experienced skiers and snowboarders. Don’t sweat it if you’re a beginner. There are easier runs and a dedicated learning area.
Mt. Baldy is unique for its scenic beauty and steeper vertical drops, creating serious downhill action. There’s a variety of challenging terrain for skiers and snowboarders; it’s a blast for adventurers looking for outside-the-box skiing. Plus, you won’t spend half the day waiting in lift lines like at other resorts.
You know you’re in for a good time with ski runs like Toilet Bowl, Turkey Shoot, and Tortilla Flats! If the weather plays nice and you’re carving up fresh powder, Mt. Baldy delivers an exhilarating escape from the city for some epic skiing.
Making snow day memories at Mt. Baldy! Photo: @mtbaldyresort
Where To Stay Near Mt. Baldy
Stay close to the action at the rustic Mt. Baldy Lodge, which has a great restaurant and friendly staff. Families looking for a fancier experience may want to book a nearby hotel in the charming city of Claremont, where the Doubletree by Hilton Claremont makes a great home base. It’s a 30-minute drive up to the Mt. Baldy Ski Resort. Plus, you get a chocolate chip cookie before bed.
Ready to ride the slopes and chase the thrill? Visit SoCal ski resorts all winter long! ©anyaberkut from Canva Pro
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Central California Ski Escapes
For families willing to drive a bit further from Southern California or those who live in Northern California, here are our favorite centrally located snow escapes to consider.
Mammoth Mountain
Mammoth Mountain offers some of the most jaw-dropping views of the Eastern Sierra Mountains, and that’s probably why they get about 1.5 million visitors each season. Or it could be that people love the 3,500 acres of skiable terrain and a chance to shred down over 150 trails. Now those are stats hard to beat! The resort is about a five-hour drive from LA; add an extra two hours from the San Diego area. It’s also centrally located, so Northern California adrenaline junkies often make the trip, too.
Mammoth is the largest ski resort in Southern California. It’s also one of the snowiest; Mammoth typically peaks at 400 inches of snow each season. However, the 2022-2023 season received a whopping 600 inches of snowfall and lasted until the 4th of July, marking the longest ski season in the history of the resort.
When in Mammoth, embrace the terrain, cover as much ground as possible during each descent, and focus on leveling up. We love Mammoth Ski School, conveniently located near three base lodges—Main, Eagle, and Canyon—offering expert instruction for all skill levels. Whether you’re a freestyle freshman finding your snow legs or a hardcore boarder looking to carve up the powder, Mammoth offers many ways to play and grow.
Into trick skiing? Mammoth features five epic terrain parks with everything from large jumps to rails and even a world-class halfpipe. Need a chill day? Strap in for cross-country skiing at the Tamarack Cross-Country Ski Center. There are 19 miles of groomed trails to wander. A week or weekend in Mammoth is always epic! Load up your gear, book that VRBO, and get ready to explore the mountain—there’s plenty of room for everyone to enjoy!
Be sure to shred the slopes with Wholly the Skiing Mammoth when at Mammoth Mountain! ©Chanin Victor
Where To Stay Near Mammoth Mountain
For those who prefer amenities and service, check out these slopeside hotels:
- The Westin Monache Resort: Just a short walk down some stairs to Mammoth Village, visitors will love the suites and spacious rooms and the heated outdoor pool.
- Mammoth Mountain Inn: Comfortable accommodations and multiple dining options.
- Juniper Springs Resort: Condo-style accommodations that are family-friendly. Amenities include a pool and hot tubs.
- The Village Lodge: Cozy accommodations and direct access to shops and restaurants.
Feel unbound and ski toward those epic mountain views! It’s the only way to winter! ©Chanin Victor
June Mountain
June Mountain needs to be on everyone’s skiing and snowboarding bucket list. It’s a beautiful and scenic 30-minute drive from the Mammoth Mountain area to an off-the-beaten-path gem that’s perfect for families. At June, you can escape the crowds, enjoy the laid-back vibes, and be blown away by the picturesque views of nearby June Lake.
The runs cater to all skill levels, from beginner to expert. The enormous width of the trails is perfect for the novice, especially those who are just getting the hang of traversing the mountains—remember to practice “french fries,” not “pizza.” With a vertical drop of 1,500 feet, June Mountain is less intimidating but still a premier ski destination. The ski school is also top-notch. The most exciting thing about June Mountain for families is that kids 12 and under ski and ride for FREE. That’s great news for your ski budgets.
Love on the slopes! ❄️💙 Bring your SO and ski into each other’s hearts. ©Chanin Victor
So sharpen those edges, wax that base, adjust your bindings, and grab those lift tickets! You’ll be soaking up the California sunshine and carving through fresh powder in no time.
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