2026-01-05T16:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Heavy snow expected above 5000 feet. Total snow accumulations of 1 to 2 feet above 5000 feet, with 2 to 5 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 Counties. * WHEN...From 10 PM this evening to 4 PM PST Monday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact this evening through Monday morning commutes. Strong winds could cause tree damage. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels 6500-7500 feet tonight 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.
Donner Ski Ranch Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: January 2, 2026
It’s a powder-packed start to 2026 at Donner Ski Ranch! Donner Ski Ranch is a ski resort located in California, United States.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
°F
°F
mph
Wind
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Humidity
Summary
As of January 2, the snowpack sits at 32 inches—just under a third of the seasonal average—but don’t let that fool you. With 4 inches of fresh snow expected today and a staggering 96 inches in the five-day forecast, conditions are primed for a dramatic transformation. Overnight temps held steady at 35°F, keeping the base firm but rideable for early risers. Despite a historically challenging season due to drought, this incoming storm system is breathing life back into the Sierra slopes, promising deep powder days ahead.
Local buzz is building around the recent heavy snowstorm that’s putting Donner Ski Ranch back on the radar. Once overshadowed by bigger resorts, Donner is making waves with its affordability and Indy Pass inclusion, offering unbeatable value for powder seekers. Media outlets are calling it one of California’s top affordable ski destinations—and with big snow inbound, it’s a perfect time to carve out your place on the mountain. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned powder hound, Donner’s welcoming vibe and historic charm make it a must-ride as the season finally kicks into high gear.
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
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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