California, The Golden State is home to a great deal of outdoor activities. I think everyone knows it for surfing, hiking, biking etc but it is really not known for its winter activities. When winter comes around, it however does offer some of the best ski resorts in the country.
There are quite a few prominent mountains in California making it great choice for skiers and snowboarders to find an ideal area for their level of ability.
The below resorts have been voted California’s best ski resorts:
Kirkwood Mountain
If you snowboard as well as ski, then Kirkwood may be your best option. It has every type terrain that you could want, from bowls to chutes to long cruisers. While there are many expert trails here, the beginner skier will feel at home as well because there are plenty of green trails especially for them, plus some expert ski instructors. Snowboarders will be especially happy with a freestyle park that has trained several Olympic snowboarders. There is something for everyone at Kirkwood.
Snow Summit at Big Bear
This is a ski mountain that is best for those that enjoy an individual touch. The trails are well marked so the beginner will always know which way to go and there is no danger of accidentally getting on a expert ski run. They have lighted runs here so you can enjoy evening skiing and snowboarding here so if you go be sure to dress warmly and make sure you have goggles that are lightly tinted or clear.
While not yet mandatory, the use of ski helmets is strongly recommended. You should always wear one regardless. At Big Bear you can appreciate the calm, relaxed atmosphere that the West Coast is known for. They have several of the very best developed terrain parks for snowboarders.
Squaw Valley
Squaw Valley is one of the most desirable winter sports locations, not just in the United States but around the world. It is of course primarily known for hosting the 1960 Winter Olympics where heavyweights like Jean Vaurnet and also Roger Staub competed with skiers from around the world. Just be aware that weekends can get crowded here and lift lines can be a problem, best to go during the week.
Sugar Bowl
This ski mountain is fantastic for anybody that wishes to include a variety of terrain to their snowboarding trip. The variety of terrain here is second to none. Whether you are looking for tree line skiing or wide open cruisers, Sugar Bowl has it. This mountain is normally uncrowded so lift lines are almost never a problem here.
Mammoth Mountain
Mammoth Mountain is over 11,000 feet tall, making for some long trails as well as attractive views. True to its name there is over 10,000 square acres for skiing and snowboarding here so if you want to avoid other skiers that will not be an issue here. Mammoth Mountain gets plenty of snow, with over 150 inches expected on a typical year. If Mother Nature does not cooperate, there is ample snow making capability here.