

You’ll need a permit for the day or the season, available at motor mehicle offices and vendors across the state. Check road conditions with your destination before heading out.Ĭalifornia operates 19 SNO-PARKS and 29 snowmobile trailheads in the Sierra Nevada for the use of snowmobilers, cross-country skiers, and snowshoe and dog sled enthusiasts. Tips to know before you snowĮven if it’s sunny where you are, roads leading into the mountains can close for hours or days because of drifting snow. Once it gets wet, it stays wet, and in the winter that could mean hypothermia. Just be ready for the first news of snow. When the conditions are just right, snow will blanket the hills, parks, and trails around the town.

With an elevation of 4,226 feet, it’s one of the higher points in the county. Keep the advice that “cotton kills” in mind. Julian gets an average of 22 inches of snowfall a year. Recreational cross-country skiers should choose a daypack that fits comfortably over their jacket. Goggles are a must, even if you wear eyeglasses – some manufacturers have models designed for eyeglass wearers. Pack socks that aren’t too bulky for your ski boots and get fitted for a helmet. Wear a pair of thin, woolen socks under a thicker pair of woolen or synthetic socks.įor a day on the slopes, most of the same rules apply. Pack water-resistant, windproof outer garments, gloves and goggles or sunglasses. Hikers and backpackers should pack clothing they can layer as they get warm from exertion or as the weather changes. In addition to ski slopes and terrain parks, Mammoth offers snowmobile and snow cat rides. At 11,053 feet, skiers have panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. If you want to ride a gondola to the top of the highest ski slope in California, head for Mammoth. The Lake Tahoe area is home to seven ski resorts, including Kirkwood, an out-of-the-way treasure for powder lovers. The resort has plenty of runs for intermediate and advanced skiers as well as a legendary mogul run. Hikers love the more than 100 miles of marked trails. Visitors can park in turnouts along the highway, or better yet, enter the park itself by purchasing a day pass at the park entrance. Heavenly Mountain Resort in Lake Tahoe gets high marks for both downhill skiing and snowboarding. Cuyamaca Rancho State Park (1 Hour) A great place for a day trip, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is an ideal place for snow play.
