Kirkwood Ski Report
4.8/5 (2 Ratings)Nearby: Sierra at Tahoe
Last Updated: December 27, 2025
Kirkwood, CA is welcoming skiers this December 27, 2025, with classic Sierra charm and mid-winter conditions. 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
Overnight temperatures dipped to a brisk 19.6°F, keeping the 46-inch snowpack light and carvable. Although only 0.04" of new snow is forecasted over the next 72 hours, the existing base—standing a solid 22% above average for this time of year—offers excellent coverage across the resort. Groomers are fast and firm early, softening as the day progresses, while off-piste terrain remains rideable thanks to the robust base and cold overnight temps maintaining snow quality.
Exciting news from the resort adds to the buzz: Kirkwood launched a new parking reservation system to ease weekend and holiday congestion, and insiders are already talking about a potentially extended season if storms continue to deliver. With the 2024-25 winter season kicking off early on November 30 and neighboring resorts also expanding their operations, Kirkwood is poised for a standout season. Whether you're chasing corduroy or dipping into powder stashes from last week’s storm, it’s a great time to be on the mountain. Just remember to plan ahead—holiday crowds are expected, and the mountain is buzzing with energy and fresh turns.
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 26. west southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the morning.
What are ski area conditions in California like right now?
California ski resorts are seeing a fresh layer of snow, with the heaviest 24-hour snowfall totals centered in the central Sierra and northern Lake Tahoe areas. Heavenly Mountain Resort and Palisades Tahoe are key beneficiaries, receiving 10" and 7" respectively. Echo Peak (9") and Ward Creek (13") report strong gains, confirming solid conditions in the Lake Tahoe region. Black Springs ... Read more