Explore Winter Adventures in California
California is renowned for its stunning coastline; however, winter travelers who venture inland are rewarded with a unique experience. The mountainous areas in northern California receive significant snowfall from late November through March, transforming the region into a winter wonderland filled with activities for the entire family that do not require lift tickets.
Explore our guide to accessible winter adventures that can enhance your visit to California. Be sure to check online for the latest updates, as most snow activities can be influenced by weather conditions. Moreover, it’s essential to be respectful of the natural environment while enjoying the great outdoors.
Snowshoeing
If you’re looking for an accessible way to immerse yourself in California’s breathtaking landscapes, snowshoeing is highly recommended. This activity enables you to traverse snowy terrains without sinking into the powdery depths. Snowshoes are generally available for rent in charming towns and parks where you’ll need them.
For those interested in local ecology, guided snowshoe hikes are enjoyable for families and solo explorers alike. Beautiful Mammoth Lakes in the heart of the Eastern Sierras hosts Naturalist Snowshoeing Tours on weekends and holidays, led by U.S. Forest Service naturalists. In addition, Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park typically offer ranger-guided snowshoe tours. Be sure to consult a local visitor center or the NPS website for further details.
If your schedule allows, consider reserving a moonlight snowshoe tour in advance. Mammoth Lakes offers Full Moon tours departing from Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center. Further north, Lake Tahoe welcomes guests for full moon and new moon tours, providing an incredible opportunity for stargazing enthusiasts. Choose to explore with either Tahoe Snowshoe Tours or Tahoe Adventure Company.
Winter Hiking
While snowshoes are ideal for snowy hikes, hiking boots can suffice in areas where the snow isn’t deeper than one to two inches.
The Alpine Pedal Path, located along the north shore of Big Bear Lake, offers an excellent trail for spotting bald eagles from late November to early April. Stretching over 2.6 miles, this relatively flat and paved path allows visitors to take in the beauty of winter in a leisurely manner. Park at either Juniper Point or Meadow’s Edge Picnic Area.
Ice Skating
Whether you are perfecting your skate or enjoying a leisurely glide, ice skating in the winter at an outdoor rink creates a festive atmosphere. The Siskiyou Ice Rink, situated in the foothills of Mount Shasta, features daily skating from November through February. Be sure to check their calendar for information on free skate nights or public skate times.
If you are visiting Yosemite National Park during the winter, the Curry Village Ice Rink is an essential stop. Tickets are first-come, first-serve at the Curry Activity Desk. Keep an eye on their site for current rink opening dates.
Snow Tubing
For those seeking a thrilling experience without requiring specific skills, tubing is an excellent choice. Tube Town at Soda Springs Mountain Resort features a 400-foot magic carpet lift, accessing some of the longest tube runs around Lake Tahoe. All-day Mountain Adventure tickets grant entry to the tubing area and the onsite snow play area, suitable for families and adults alike.
In Southern California, Big Bear Snowplay offers an incredible value with a day pass, allowing unlimited rides. Unique glow tubing events are available after dark on Fridays, Saturdays, and holidays. Plus, two magic carpet lifts allow for more excitement without the uphill trek.
Sledding and Snow Play
Northern California visitors can enjoy a wonderful free spot for sledding at Nyack Snow Park near Lake Tahoe. If you don’t want to bring your sled, Tahoe Donner provides sled rentals based on their snow play day rates, also permitting reservations in 75-minute slots.
Moreover, across Central and Northern California, you can find a network of SNO-Parks maintained by the state and U.S. Forest Service. These areas typically feature amenities like restrooms and well-maintained snow paths, making them perfect for building snowmen or sledding. Daily permits cost just $5. Nearby Shaver Lake boasts numerous sports stores and delicious restaurants to refuel after a day of fun.
Southern California’s Boulder Bay Park is an excellent spot to admire Big Bear Lake while crafting a snowman. Additionally, Angeles Crest Highway offers various picturesque locations to enjoy the snow amongst the San Gabriel Mountains. Always remember to carry snow chains and to check your gas level before venturing into the mountains.
Snowmobiling
If your aim is to see as much of the magnificent landscape as possible, snowmobiling is an ideal option for exploration. Inyo National Forest features over 100 miles of multi-use trails. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Hot Creek Geological Site, known for its boiling turquoise water (note that swimming is prohibited due to extreme temperature shifts). Make your way to the remote Bald Mountain warming hut for a memorable experience. Adhere to trail markings and speed restrictions for a safe adventure. If you’re a beginner, Mammoth Mountain also provides guided snowmobile tours of the Inyo National Forest, available daily from December through April, starting from Mammoth Mountain Lodge. Be sure to check their website for the latest updates on opening dates.
If you prefer a quieter pace, many trails in Inyo National Forest also serve as cross-country ski routes.
