* WHAT...Heavy snow expected above 5000 feet. Total snow accumulations of 6 to 12 inches above 5000 feet, with 2 to 4 feet above 6000 feet. Locally higher amounts at highest peaks. Winds gusting as high as 55 mph. * WHERE...West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada and Western Plumas County/Lassen Park above 5000 feet. * WHEN...From 10 PM Friday to 4 PM PST Monday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday evening through Monday morning commutes. Strong winds could cause tree damage. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels 6500-7500 feet Friday night into Saturday morning, lowering to 5000 to 6000 feet Saturday afternoon into Sunday, and further to around 4500 to 5500 feet by early Monday morning. Heaviest snow expected on Sunday.
Boreal Mountain Resort kicks off 2026 with a promising start to the New Year. Boreal Mountain Resort is a popular ski resort in the United States located in California's Sierra Nevada range.
Wind
Humidity
Despite overnight temperatures hovering at a mild 35°F, recent snowfall and storm activity have reinvigorated the slopes. With a current snowpack depth of 32 inches—below seasonal averages by about 28%—skiers will be pleased to know that reinforcements are on the way. The forecast calls for a fresh 8.5 inches in the next 24 hours, ramping up to a powder-packed 96 inches over the next five days. Conditions are expected to improve dramatically heading into the weekend as a powerful storm system pushes through the Sierra.
The resort, which opened early this season with $25 lift tickets, is now fully operational and ready to welcome winter enthusiasts. Light snow overnight has kept the trails groomed and fast, and upcoming blizzard conditions promise a fresh layer for deeper carving. Local buzz is high amid reports of a “Miracle March”-style rebound in snowpack, and with El Niño contributing to the storm train, Boreal is primed for a standout season. Whether you're a seasoned shredder or a first-time visitor, now’s the time to head up the mountain and experience the energy that’s electrifying Northern California’s slopes.
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 Css Lab.
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 Boreal Mountain Resort.
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Boreal Mountain Resort impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
The pertinent mountain ranges and mountain aspects of Boreal Mountain Resort in California are:
1. Donner Summit: Boreal Mountain Resort is located on Donner Summit, which is part of the larger Sierra Nevada mountain range in California.
2. Terrain Parks: Boreal is known for its terrain parks, which feature a variety of jumps, rails, and other features for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy.
3. Night Skiing: Boreal is one of the few resorts in California that offers night skiing, allowing guests to hit the slopes after dark.
4. Woodward Tahoe: Boreal is also home to Woodward Tahoe, an indoor training facility with trampolines, foam pits, and other features to help skiers and snowboarders improve their skills.
5. Family-Friendly: Boreal is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with a dedicated beginner area and lessons for all ages and abilities.
Overall, Boreal Mountain Resort offers a variety of terrain and amenities for skiers and snowboarders of all levels to enjoy.
The resort boasts a range of trails suitable for all levels of skiers, with the best options being the Castle Peak and the Cliff Runs. Few people know that Boreal Mountain Resort was the first ski resort in California to install a chairlift in 1958. For beginner skiers, the resort offers a dedicated learning area with expert instructors. Don't miss out on the chance to visit the Last Chair Bar, which is the perfect spot for an apres ski drink and delicious bites.
Night Skiing | Yes |
Lift Count | 10 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 13200 per hour |
Base Elevation | 2195 Meters |
Terrain Park | Yes |
Acreage | 380 Acres |
Established | 1965 |
Run Count | 41 Trails |
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
Weather today, rain and snow before 3pm, then rain likely between 3pm and 4pm, then rain and snow after 4pm. high near 39. south southwest wind 6 to 8 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph. chance of precipitation is 100%. new snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.
Boreal Mountain Resort is expected to receive up to 96.12" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
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California ski resorts are gearing up for an impressive storm cycle, with the Sierra Nevada set to receive some of the heaviest snowfall in the West. Bloods Creek leads with a massive 179 inches in the past 24 hours and 92 inches forecasted over the next five days. This surge will significantly impact nearby Bear Valley Resort and Dodge Ridge, ... Read more