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.
Kirkwood Ski Report
4.8/5 (2 Ratings)Nearby: Sierra at Tahoe
Last Updated: January 1, 2026
A fresh winter pulse is charging into Kirkwood just in time for New Year’s Day 2026. 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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mph
Wind
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Humidity
Summary
Though the overnight temps held mild at 36°F, snow lovers can expect a dramatic shift: over 7 inches of snow is forecast within 24 hours, with a staggering 82 inches possible over the next five days. The current snowpack sits at 36 inches—about 8 inches below average—but that deficit is poised to vanish quickly. The Snow Water Equivalent at 10 inches indicates a solid base, and new snow will only sweeten the terrain's texture for skiers and boarders itching for deep powder lines.
Despite recent tragedies casting a somber tone—two snowboarding fatalities reported in Tahoe resorts, including Kirkwood—it’s full steam ahead for operations. Kirkwood continues to roll out improvements, including a new parking reservation system to streamline visitor access. With the resort extending its winter season in response to incoming snow, the slopes are set to deliver epic conditions. Skiers should prepare for low visibility and quickly changing weather but can look forward to a powder-filled kickoff to 2026. Stay safe, ride smart, and get ready to experience Kirkwood in its winter prime.
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, rain and snow, becoming all snow after 7am. temperature falling to around 30 by 5pm. south southwest wind 6 to 9 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph. chance of precipitation is 100%. new snow accumulation of 3 to 5 inches possible.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Kirkwood this week?
Kirkwood is expected to receive up to 82.93" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are ski area conditions in California like right now?
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