2026-01-05T16:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Moderate to heavy snow. Additional snow accumulations of 4 to 8 inches south of Interstate 80. For areas north of Interstate 80, 2 to 6 inches above 4500 feet, 8 to 24 inches above 5000 feet, and 1 to 3 feet above 6000 feet. Southwest wind gusts of up to 40 mph. * WHERE...West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada and Western Plumas County/Lassen Park above 5000 feet. * WHEN...Until 4 PM PST Monday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning commute. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels around 4500 to 5500 feet on Monday. Heaviest snowfall expected north of Interstate 80.
Kirkwood Ski Report
4.8/5 (2 Ratings)Nearby: Sierra at Tahoe
Last Updated: January 5, 2026
Kirkwood ski resort, located in California, is known for its high elevation and extensive terrain.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
°F
°F
mph
Wind
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Humidity
Summary
The ski area reports 1" of new snow today with snowpack levels rising to 45.0". Snowpack levels for this time of year average around 42 inches, but can be as high as 164 inches. Weather today, snow. the snow could be heavy at times. high near 27. south southwest wind 10 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph. chance of precipitation is 100%. new snow accumulation of 13 to 19 inches possible. Up to 21" of more snowfall forecasted over the next 5 days. Heavy snow is on the way, with the mountain expecting up to 18.8" of new snowfall by tomorrow. Get driving directions if you're planning on heading up.
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 1" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Kirkwood today?
Weather today, snow. the snow could be heavy at times. high near 27. south southwest wind 10 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph. chance of precipitation is 100%. new snow accumulation of 13 to 19 inches possible.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Kirkwood this week?
Kirkwood is expected to receive up to 21.14" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.