Kirkwood Ski Report
4.8/5 (2 Ratings)Nearby: Sierra at Tahoe
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Bluebird skies and crisp mountain air greet skiers and riders at Kirkwood today, January 12, 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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Wind
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Humidity
Summary
With an overnight low of 25.9°F, conditions are holding firm, and the mountain boasts a robust 48-inch snowpack—12% above the seasonal average. The base layers are stable and groomed to perfection, with 14.3 inches of Snow Water Equivalent ensuring lasting coverage across the resort's famously steep terrain. No new snow in the past 24 hours, but with clear skies and low winds, it’s an ideal day for carving through Kirkwood’s high-alpine bowls and tree-lined glades.
Despite the stellar conditions, the mountain community is in somber reflection following a tragic weekend. A snowboarder lost their life at Kirkwood, marking the second fatality in Tahoe resorts this weekend. Skiers are advised to stay within marked trails and ride with caution. Meanwhile, excitement continues to build for the season, with Kirkwood recently spotlighted among the West Coast’s highest-elevation resorts—making it a prime destination for those chasing dry powder and long descents. With the slopes in prime condition, Kirkwood remains one of California’s most exhilarating winter playgrounds, blending raw beauty with advanced terrain for those ready to ride the edge.
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 37. east wind 7 to 10 mph.
What are ski area conditions in California like right now?
California ski areas are experiencing a dry spell with no fresh snow reported across all sensors in the last 24 hours, and no snowfall forecasted over the next five days. The Sierra Nevada remains capped in snowpack, with Leavitt Lake (near Sonora Pass and Bear Valley Mountain Resort) leading the state at 86”. Nearby regions like Independence Lake (close to ... Read more