Winter Storm Watch
2026-01-04T10:00:00-08:00

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Accumulations are uncertain at this time but may range from 2 to 4 feet above 5000 feet. Locally higher amounts are possible at higher elevations. Winds could gust as high as 45 mph. * WHERE...West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada and Western Plumas County/Lassen Park Counties. * WHEN...From Friday afternoon through Sunday morning. * IMPACTS...Dangerous travel conditions with chain controls and road closures possible. Low visibility due to combination of wind and heavy snow. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow accumulations remain above pass level through Friday afternoon, then drop to 5000 to 6000 feet late Friday night into Saturday. Potential for mountain snow to continue into early next week.


Donner Ski Ranch Ski Report

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Last Updated: January 1, 2026

Donner Ski Ranch is a ski resort located in California, United States.



Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast

Hourly Snowfall


0"

Past 24 Hours

32.0"

Snowpack

°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Powder Predicted

Summary

No new snow to report today, with snowpack levels sitting at 32.0". 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. Up to 96" of more snowfall forecasted over the next 5 days. Heavy snow is on the way, with the mountain expecting up to 8.47" of new snowfall by tomorrow. Get driving directions if you're planning on heading up.

Snowpack Percent Normal

75%

Max Recorded Snowpack

208"

Snowfall Past 24 Hours

0.0"

Snowfall Next 24 Hours

8"

Snowfall Next 72 Hours

27"

Snowfall Next 5 Days

96"

Terrain Surface

NA

Powder Score

NA
       

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 Css Lab.

Regional Snowpack Depth

Snow levels measured 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 Donner Ski Ranch.

Historical Air Temperature

Temperature fluctuations at Donner Ski Ranch


Recent air temperature fluctuations at Donner Ski Ranch impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.

About the Area


The Donner Ski Ranch ski resort in California is located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The resort is situated near Donner Summit and overlooks Donner Lake. Some of the prominent peaks in the area include Mount Judah, Mount Lincoln, and Donner Peak. The terrain at Donner Ski Ranch offers a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs, making it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

The resort offers 500 acres of ski terrain with 52 trails, featuring a mix of beginner, intermediate and expert runs. The popular trails include Snowbird, Apache, and Buckhorn. An interesting fact about the resort is that it was founded in 1937 and is one of the oldest ski resorts in California. For beginners, the resort offers a dedicated learning area with gentle terrain and a magic carpet lift. The best apres ski bar is Summit Bar & Cafe, offering panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and a cozy atmosphere.

Night Skiing

No

Lift Count

6 Lifts

Hourly Lift Capacity

7800 per hour

Base Elevation

2143 Meters

Terrain Park

Yes

Acreage

505 Acres

Established

1937

Run Count

52 Trails

Donner Ski Ranch FAQ


How much snow did Donner Ski Ranch receive over the past day?

The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.


What's the weather like at Donner Ski Ranch today?

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.


How much new snowfall is forecasted for Donner Ski Ranch this week?

Donner Ski Ranch is expected to receive up to 96.12" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.


What are some ski resorts near Donner Ski Ranch?

Boreal Mountain Resort
Sugar Bowl Resort
Soda Springs