2025-12-26T10:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Accumulation amounts uncertain at this time but may range from around a foot at 5500 feet and up 4 feet at highest elevations. Winds could gust as high as 45 mph. * WHERE...West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada and Western Plumas County/Lassen Park including Interstate 80 and Highway 50. * WHEN...From Tuesday evening through Friday 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 will remain near or above pass level through Tuesday, then drop to around 5500 feet during the day Wednesday.
Squaw Valley Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 21, 2025
Squaw Valley is gearing up for an exciting winter rebound on this December 21, 2025. Squaw Valley ski resort in the United States offers over 3,600 acres of skiable terrain, including some of the best trails in North America.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Wind
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Humidity
Summary
Following unseasonably warm overnight temperatures of 37.4°F and a meager 1-inch snowpack—an astounding 97% below average—conditions on the mountain are currently thin and patchy. However, skiers and riders have cause for optimism, as winter is making a dramatic return. An impressive 17.7 inches of fresh snow is forecasted within the next 24 hours, with over 36 inches expected in the next 3 days. Even more promising, a whopping 104 inches are projected over the next 5 days, setting the stage for a potential powder-filled holiday week.
Amid the snowfall, Squaw Valley remains in the spotlight with big developments and high-altitude buzz. Construction is underway on a brand-new chairlift at neighboring Alpine Meadows, promising improved access for next season. Meanwhile, anticipation builds for the upcoming WinterWonderGrass Tahoe music festival, adding a cultural flair to winter adventures. Though early-season conditions have been lean, with just 1 inch of Snow Water Equivalent, the incoming storms could rapidly transform the slopes. All eyes are on the mountain as Squaw Valley braces for a much-needed snow resurgence—just in time for the holidays.
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 Squaw Valley G.C..
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Squaw Valley G.C.
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 Squaw Valley.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Squaw Valley
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Squaw Valley impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
Squaw Valley ski resort in California is situated in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The resort is surrounded by several prominent peaks and mountain features, including:
1. Squaw Peak: The resort's namesake peak, Squaw Peak, is a prominent mountain in the Sierra Nevada range. It offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a popular destination for hikers and skiers.
2. KT-22: Known for its steep terrain and challenging runs, KT-22 is a famous peak at Squaw Valley. It is a favorite among advanced skiers and snowboarders for its challenging terrain and deep powder.
3. Granite Chief Wilderness: Located adjacent to Squaw Valley, the Granite Chief Wilderness is a protected area of the Sierra Nevada range known for its rugged terrain, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife. It offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, skiing, and backpacking.
4. Palisades: The Palisades are a series of steep cliffs and chutes at Squaw Valley known for their challenging terrain and breathtaking views. This area offers some of the most challenging skiing and snowboarding in the resort.
5. Emigrant Peak: Another prominent peak near Squaw Valley, Emigrant Peak offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a popular destination for backcountry skiing and snowboarding.
Overall, Squaw Valley ski resort is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and features that offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration.
The resort's longest trail, Mountain Run, spans 3.2 miles and boasts stunning views of Lake Tahoe. As a fun fact, Squaw Valley hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics, which was the first time the Olympics were held in the United States. For beginners, the resort offers a variety of gentle, beginner-friendly runs such as First Venture and Red Dog Ridge. For après ski, the Auld Dubliner Irish Pub offers a cozy atmosphere, live music, and a selection of craft beers and hearty pub fare.
Night Skiing | Yes |
Lift Count | 34 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 49000 per hour |
Base Elevation | 1890 Meters |
Terrain Park | Yes |
Acreage | 4000 Acres |
Established | 1949 |
Run Count | 170 Trails |
Squaw Valley FAQ
How much snow did Squaw Valley receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Squaw Valley today?
Weather today, showers. the rain could be heavy at times. temperature falling to around 36 by 5pm. windy, with a south southwest wind 29 to 32 mph, with gusts as high as 60 mph. chance of precipitation is 100%. new precipitation amounts between 3 and 4 inches possible.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Squaw Valley this week?
Squaw Valley is expected to receive up to 104.88" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are some ski resorts near Squaw Valley?
Alpine Meadows Ski Area
Granlibakken Ski Resort
Sugar Bowl Resort
Northstar
What are ski area conditions in California like right now?
California is bracing for a significant winter storm system, with the heaviest snow forecasts centered around the central and northern Sierra Nevada. The CSS Lab near Truckee, close to resorts like Palisades Tahoe and Sugar Bowl, leads with a 5-day snowfall forecast of 131 inches. Carson Pass and Ebbetts Pass, near Kirkwood Mountain Resort, are also expecting upwards of 100 ... Read more
Tahoe State Recreation Area
Donner Memorial State Park
West End Beach Park
Granite Chief Wilderness
Bill Rose Park