2026-01-05T16:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Heavy snow expected above 5000 feet. Total snow accumulations of 6 to 12 inches above 5000 feet, with 2 to 4 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 above 5000 feet. * WHEN...From 10 PM Friday to 4 PM PST Monday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday evening through Monday morning commutes. Strong winds could cause tree damage. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels 6500-7500 feet Friday night 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.
Kirkwood Ski Report
4.8/5 (2 Ratings)Nearby: Sierra at Tahoe
Last Updated: January 2, 2026
A fresh dusting of 2 inches overnight has brought a welcome refresh to the slopes at Kirkwood today, January 2, 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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°F
mph
Wind
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Humidity
Summary
Despite a milder overnight low of 36°F, current conditions remain firm with a snowpack sitting at 36 inches—noticeably below average by nearly 20 inches. However, skiers and riders have reason to smile as a potent storm system barrels toward the Sierra, promising a remarkable 48 inches over the next 72 hours and up to 82 inches in the 5-day forecast. This incoming powder could transform Kirkwood into a deep-snow paradise just in time for the weekend.
On the mountain, all signs point to a major reset, with operations closely monitoring avalanche risk and grooming efforts ahead of the storm. Enthusiasts should stay tuned for terrain updates and possible lift delays. Notably, Kirkwood recently made headlines as one of the few resorts to record a staggering 206 MPH wind gust—reminding skiers of the raw mountain power that defines this rugged resort. With Vail Resorts announcing opening dates and winter plans for the 2025–26 season, plus ongoing upgrades to lifts and lodges, Kirkwood is doubling down on delivering a top-tier experience. Powder hounds, the storm you’ve been waiting for is on the horizon.
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 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