Kirkwood Ski Report
4.8/5 (2 Ratings)Nearby: Sierra at Tahoe
Last Updated: December 29, 2025
Kirkwood is charging into the final days of 2025 with a solid snowpack and the promise of a powder-filled start to the new year. Kirkwood ski resort, located in California, is known for its high elevation and extensive terrain.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Wind
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Humidity
Summary
As of December 29, the mountain is sitting on a healthy 41 inches of snowpack—over 8 inches above average for this time of year—thanks to consistent early-season storms and chilly overnight lows of 13.8°F preserving snow quality. With 9.8 inches of snow water equivalent, the base is dense and durable, offering excellent coverage across open terrain. While the next 72 hours look quiet with just over an inch of snowfall expected, a powerful storm system looms in the 120-hour forecast, promising up to 22 inches of fresh snow. Skiers and riders should prepare for deep days just in time for the long holiday weekend.
The resort buzzes with anticipation as Kirkwood and nearby Northstar gear up for a stellar season start, reaffirmed by recent headline announcements. An upgraded parking reservation system is now in place to smooth out arrival logistics, so plan ahead. With scenic backdrops and smaller crowds compared to other Tahoe resorts, Kirkwood is set to deliver an epic mountain escape. Early conditions are ripe for groomer-lovers and off-piste adventurers alike—The Wood is back, and it means business.
Snowstake Cam
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 Carson Pass.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Carson Pass
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 Kirkwood.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Kirkwood
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Kirkwood impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
Kirkwood ski resort in California is located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The resort is known for its steep terrain, deep snow, and challenging runs. Some of the key mountain aspects of Kirkwood ski resort include:
1. The Sisters: A group of three prominent peaks located near the resort, offering challenging terrain for expert skiers and snowboarders.
2. Thunder Mountain: A popular area for advanced skiers and snowboarders, featuring steep chutes, cliffs, and deep powder.
3. Red Cliffs: A series of cliffs and rock formations that provide some of the most difficult terrain at the resort.
4. The Cirque: An expansive bowl area with a mix of steep chutes, open powder fields, and tree runs, perfect for advanced and expert skiers.
5. Palisades: A collection of steep, rocky chutes and cliffs that offer some of the most challenging terrain at Kirkwood.
Overall, Kirkwood ski resort is known for its rugged mountain terrain, varied snow conditions, and challenging runs that attract advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders looking for a thrilling mountain experience.
The resort boasts 86 runs, with the best trails being Cornice Express, Sentinel, and Zachary. An interesting fact is that Kirkwood was founded in the 1960s by an Olympic skier, and was one of the first ski resorts in the United States to allow snowboarding. For beginner skiers, a great suggestion is to take the Timber Creek Express lift to access easier runs like Lower Monte Wolfe and Conestoga. As for apres ski, The Wall Bar & Grill is a popular spot with a lively atmosphere and delicious food.
Night Skiing | No |
Lift Count | 14 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 19205 per hour |
Base Elevation | 2377 Meters |
Terrain Park | Yes |
Acreage | 2300 Acres |
Established | 1972 |
Run Count | 65 Trails |
Kirkwood FAQ
How much snow did Kirkwood receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Kirkwood today?
Weather today, sunny, with a high near 34. wind chill values as low as zero. east northeast wind 8 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Kirkwood this week?
Kirkwood is expected to receive up to 22.76" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are ski area conditions in California like right now?
California’s Sierra Nevada is primed for significant snowfall in the coming days, with the heaviest accumulations forecasted around the Lake Tahoe and Central Sierra regions. Top snowfall projections include Palisades Tahoe and CSS Lab (near Donner Summit), both expecting up to 32–33 inches over the next five days. Independence Lake, near Sugar Bowl Resort, follows closely with 26 inches forecasted ... Read more