2026-01-05T10:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations up to 5 feet. Winds gusting as high as 45 mph. * WHERE...A portion of central California. * WHEN...From 1 AM Saturday to 10 AM PST Monday. * IMPACTS...Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning commute. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches.
Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: January 2, 2026
A fresh 6 inches of snow blanketed Alta Sierra at Shirley Meadows overnight, bringing the snowpack depth to an impressive 50 inches — about 84% of the seasonal average. Alta Sierra at Shirley Meadows ski resort in the United States offers a range of trails for skiers of all levels, with the best runs for intermediate and advanced skiers.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Wind
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Humidity
Summary
With crisp morning temperatures dipping to 22°F, conditions are primed for a stellar day on the slopes. The snow is soft and powdery from the recent storm, offering excellent carving opportunities for skiers and snowboarders alike. Groomed runs are in pristine shape, and off-piste terrain is boasting fresh layers of untouched powder, perfect for adventurous riders seeking that backcountry feel.
Looking ahead, riders can get excited about what's to come: 2 inches of snow are expected in the next 24 hours, with a significant dump of 48 inches forecasted over the next 72 hours — a potential powder paradise for the weekend. An additional 10 inches are projected within five days, signaling that winter is far from over. No local disruptions or alerts have been reported, making this the ideal time to hit the mountain. Whether you're a seasoned shredder or a weekend warrior, Alta Sierra is serving up classic California snow with a side of epic mid-season conditions.
Weather Forecast
Seasonal Comparison
Year over year snow water equivalent
Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) shows how much water the snow holds. This is ideal for year-to-year tracking of real snowfall and water resources. Measurements from Cottonwood Lakes.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Cottonwood Lakes
Snowpack depth measures how much snow has accumulated in the area. This is a key indicator of powder quality, trail coverage, and how epic your runs are going to be this season at Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
The Alta Sierra at Shirley Meadows ski resort in California is located in the southern Sierra Nevada mountain range. The resort is surrounded by several prominent peaks and mountain ranges, including:
1. Greenhorn Mountains: The Greenhorn Mountains are located to the east of Alta Sierra at Shirley Meadows and provide a stunning backdrop to the resort.
2. Breckenridge Mountain: Breckenridge Mountain is located to the northwest of the resort and offers challenging terrain for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
3. Alta Peak: Alta Peak is a prominent peak in the Sierra Nevada range located to the north of the resort. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
4. Shirley Peak: Shirley Peak is a peak located near the resort which offers skiers and snowboarders a variety of runs and terrain to explore.
Overall, Alta Sierra at Shirley Meadows ski resort is surrounded by a diverse range of mountains and peaks, providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
The resort is known for its affordable prices and lack of crowds, making it a great destination for a quieter ski experience. A little-known fact is that Shirley Meadows was once a prominent mining town during the California Gold Rush in the mid-19th century. For beginner skiers, the Bunny Hill is recommended for its gentle slope and easy terrain. The best apres ski bar is the Alta Sierra Pizza and Pub, which offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious food and drinks.
Night Skiing | No |
Lift Count | 3 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 2400 per hour |
Base Elevation | 2042 Meters |
Terrain Park | No |
Acreage | 80 Acres |
Established | 1982 |
Run Count | 8 Trails |
Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows FAQ
How much snow did Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows receive over the past day?
The ski area received 7" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows today?
Weather today, mostly sunny, with a high near 37. west southwest wind 6 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows this week?
Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows is expected to receive up to 10.21" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are ski area conditions in California like right now?
California is in the midst of a significant snow cycle this week, with the heaviest 5-day snowfall forecast centered around the Central and Northern Sierra. The CSS Lab sensor near Sugar Bowl and Boreal Mountain predicts up to 96 inches, while nearby resorts like Palisades Tahoe and Northstar are expecting 60–80 inches, making the Lake Tahoe region the clear standout. ... Read more
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