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.
Kirkwood Ski Report
4.8/5 (2 Ratings)Nearby: Sierra at Tahoe
Last Updated: January 3, 2026
Kirkwood is kicking off 2026 with a fresh coat of powder and the promise of a stormy week ahead. 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
Overnight temperatures hovered just below freezing at 27.9°F, preserving the 4 inches of new snow that fell in the last 24 hours. The current base sits at 36 inches—below seasonal average—but the 72-hour forecast is calling for an impressive 35 inches, with up to 49 inches expected over the next five days. Snow riders can anticipate deep turns and face shots later in the week if these totals hold. The snowpack’s SWE is at 10.3, signaling dense, rideable snow with moisture-rich layers beneath.
While conditions are improving, skiers should remain cautious. A recent tragedy on California slopes underscores the need for safety and awareness. Kirkwood’s terrain, known for its off-the-beaten-path vibe and steep chutes, is expected to shift from crusty mornings to soft, playful snow by afternoon. As highlighted in recent reports, this mountain remains a favorite for powder hounds seeking solitude and vertical thrills. With significant snowfall on the horizon, now is the time to plan your escape to Kirkwood—just keep an eye on weather warnings and avalanche advisories as the storm system rolls in.
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, mostly sunny, with a high near 35. south southwest wind 5 to 7 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Kirkwood this week?
Kirkwood is expected to receive up to 49.23" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are ski area conditions in California like right now?
California's Sierra Nevada is poised for a major snowfall event, particularly in the Lake Tahoe and Central Sierra regions. The heaviest 5-day snowfall totals are forecasted near CSS Lab (71"), Ward Creek (60"), and Palisades Tahoe (63"). Ski resorts closest to these sensors—Palisades Tahoe, Sugar Bowl, and Northstar—should expect deep accumulations, excellent powder days, and possible weather-related travel delays. Farther ... Read more