Alpine Meadows Ski Area Ski Report
4.6/5 (2 Ratings)Nearby: Squaw Valley Granlibakken Ski Resort
Last Updated: January 23, 2026
Alpine Meadows Ski Area is serving up classic Tahoe thrills this January 23, 2026, with crisp overnight lows of 28.9°F and a snowpack base of 32 inches. Alpine Meadows Ski Area is a popular ski resort located in California, USA.
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15-Day Snow Forecast
Snowfall Accumulations
Summary
While current snow levels are trailing about 39% below average, skiers can still expect solid early-morning groomers and decent off-piste conditions in shaded terrain thanks to a relatively firm snowpack and a Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) of 10.8 inches—offering a good balance between powdery and packed snow. Forecasts are calling for a major storm system to move in later this week, with projections hinting at nearly 100 inches of new snow across the Tahoe region. That means today is the calm before what could be a true Sierra snowstorm—get your laps in while visibility is still prime.
On the mountain, spirits remain high following a blockbuster season last year that saw Alpine notch over 500 inches of snowfall and a record-setting July 15th closing date. With El Niño ramping up again, buzz is building around another potentially epic winter. However, safety remains top of mind after recent avalanche-related headlines and a notable 35-year remembrance of the tragic Alpine Meadows avalanche. Skiers are advised to check avalanche conditions and stick to marked terrain, especially as new snow begins to accumulate later this week.
Hourly 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 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Alpine Meadows Ski Area today?
Weather today, sunny, with a high near 41. west wind around 5 mph becoming north in the afternoon.
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 ski resorts are currently experiencing a lull in snowfall, with no new accumulation reported across the state in the past 24 hours at most monitoring stations. The five-day snow forecast also remains flat at zero across all key snow sensors, including those near major ski areas such as Palisades Tahoe, Mammoth Mountain, and Heavenly. Despite the lack of new ... Read more
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