Ski Resorts in California, United States
17 ski resorts in the California region of United States, sorted by vertical drop. Compare stats on snowfall, trails, and terrain mix to find the right resort for your skiing level and holiday style.
Click any resort for full stats, or go to all United States resorts to compare across regions.
Formerly Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows, now united as one of the largest Lake Tahoe ski destinations.
Straddling California and Nevada with breathtaking views over Lake Tahoe and one of the longest gondolas in North America.
California's premier ski resort with a long season, reliable snow, and one of the highest base areas in the US.
Mammoth's quieter sister mountain — uncrowded, kid-friendly, and free for kids 12 and under.
A polished Lake Tahoe resort with a pedestrian village, ice rink, s'mores fires, and excellent intermediate tree skiing.
South Lake Tahoe local favorite known for tree skiing, big snowfall, and a long history of producing pro freestylers.
South Tahoe's snowiest resort, beloved by locals for steep chutes, chair-served bowls, and an off-the-grid mountain feel.
Family-owned Stanislaus Forest mountain three hours from the Bay Area — a relaxed, reasonably priced classic.
West Shore Tahoe with the best lake views of any resort and a low-key, locals-only atmosphere.
SoCal's freestyle headquarters — every run is essentially a terrain park, with the West's biggest jib scene.
The closest ski resort to LA — three connected mountains with night skiing and a major snowmaking system.
Founded by Walt Disney in 1939 — four peaks of classic Sierra terrain with deep snow and historic charm.
On the slopes of Mt. Shasta — far-northern California's only resort, with dramatic volcano views and night skiing.
The traditional skier's side of Big Bear, with cruising terrain, night skiing, and a quick LA drive.
Old-school Donner Summit hill above the historic pass — wallet-friendly, family-run, and gloriously unfussy.
Truckee's true beginner mountain, intentionally small, gentle, and friendly — a no-pressure place to learn.
Donner Summit park-rat headquarters — Tahoe's freestyle proving grounds with night skiing and easy I-80 access.
Skiing in California
The California region of United States has 17 ski resorts in the SkiGrade database. The largest by vertical drop is Palisades Tahoe at 1067m of vertical.
Resorts within the same region often share similar snow conditions, altitude profiles, and season lengths. Use the stats above to compare individual mountains, or click through to any resort page for a full head-to-head comparison with any other resort in the SkiGrade database.