2025-12-26T16:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Heavy snow. Additional snow accumulations between 8 to 16 inches for Lake Tahoe communities with 1 to 3 feet above 7,000 feet. Winds gusting as high as 100 mph along the highest ridges and up to 50 mph in the lower elevations and on Lake Tahoe. * WHERE...Greater Lake Tahoe Area. * WHEN...Until 4 PM PST this afternoon. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning commute. Very strong winds could cause extensive damage to trees and power lines.
Alpine Meadows Ski Area Ski Report
4.6/5 (2 Ratings)Nearby: Squaw Valley Granlibakken Ski Resort
Last Updated: December 26, 2025
Fresh turns await at Alpine Meadows Ski Area this December 26, 2025, with 2 inches of new snow overnight and a total snowpack depth of 30 inches. Alpine Meadows Ski Area is a popular ski resort located in California, USA.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Wind
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Humidity
Summary
While that’s running about 18 inches below average for this time of year, the mountain is holding strong with good coverage across most intermediate and advanced terrain. Conditions are packed powder on groomed runs with a slightly firmer base off-piste. Overnight temperatures hovered just above freezing at 32.4°F, keeping the snow light and skiable.
Looking ahead, storm clouds are building with 17.5 inches of new snowfall expected in the next 24 hours and nearly 20 inches forecasted over the next three days—poised to refresh the slopes and elevate conditions heading into New Year’s week. Avalanche awareness remains high following recent headlines about tragic incidents in the region, including the anniversary of the 1982 Alpine Meadows disaster and continued coverage of avalanche safety. Skiers and riders are urged to check in with patrol and stay inbounds as weather intensifies. With new snowfall on the way and mountain operations ramping up, Alpine Meadows is set to deliver classic Sierra powder days just in time for the holiday crowds.
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 Ward Creek #3.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Ward Creek #3
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 Alpine Meadows Ski Area.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Alpine Meadows Ski Area
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Alpine Meadows Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
The Alpine Meadows Ski Area is located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California. Some of the pertinent mountain ranges and aspects of the ski resort include:
1. Sierra Nevada Range: The ski resort is situated within the Sierra Nevada mountain range, which spans across California and Nevada.
2. Granite Chief Wilderness: The ski resort is located near the Granite Chief Wilderness, a designated wilderness area within the Tahoe National Forest.
3. Alpine Meadows Peak: The ski resort's highest point is Alpine Meadows Peak, which reaches an elevation of 8,637 feet.
4. Pacific Crest Trail: The famous Pacific Crest Trail runs near Alpine Meadows Ski Area, providing opportunities for hiking and backcountry skiing.
5. Lake Tahoe: The ski resort is located near the shores of Lake Tahoe, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Overall, Alpine Meadows Ski Area is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges, wilderness areas, and natural landscapes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The resort boasts over 100 trails, with the best trails being Scott Chair, Lakeview, Sherwood, and Kangaroo. Few people know that Alpine Meadows was the first ski resort to permit snowboarding in California, and it has since become a popular destination for snowboarders. For beginners, the resort offers the Subway and Meadow Chairlifts, which provide access to gentle runs perfect for learning. After a day on the slopes, the best apres ski bar is the Alpine Bar, which offers live music, drinks, and a cozy atmosphere. Overall, Alpine Meadows Ski Area is a must-visit destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
Alpine Meadows Ski Area FAQ
How much snow did Alpine Meadows Ski Area receive over the past day?
The ski area received 2" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Alpine Meadows Ski Area today?
Weather today, snow. the snow could be heavy at times. areas of fog before 7am, then patchy fog after 11am. areas of freezing fog before 11am, then areas of freezing fog after 4pm. high near 27. breezy, with a southwest wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 45 mph. chance of precipitation is 80%. new snow accumulation of 7 to 11 inches possible.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Alpine Meadows Ski Area this week?
Alpine Meadows Ski Area is expected to receive up to 19.51" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are some ski resorts near Alpine Meadows Ski Area?
Squaw Valley
Granlibakken Ski Resort
Homewood Mountain Resort
Northstar
What are ski area conditions in California like right now?
California's Sierra Nevada is seeing a significant winter storm, with heavy new snowfall and strong 5-day forecasts centered around key resorts. The Lake Tahoe region is receiving the brunt, with Palisades Tahoe (near Squaw Valley G.C.) reporting 6–20" of new snow in the last 24 hours and up to 19" more expected. Nearby Echo Peak and Carson Pass sensors show ... Read more
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