Alpine Meadows Ski Area Ski Report
Nearby: Squaw Valley Granlibakken Ski Resort
Alpine Meadows Ski Area is slowly waking up to the 2025/26 season with a modest snowpack of just 1 inch—about 77% below average for this time of year. Alpine Meadows Ski Area is a popular ski resort located in California, USA.
Last Updated: November 14, 2025
Summary
Overnight temperatures held steady at a mild 35.4°F, keeping the base thin and limiting early-season terrain. Despite the current shallow coverage, there’s hope on the horizon: the 72-hour forecast is calling for over 9 inches of new snow, and up to 20 inches could fall within the next five days. If predictions hold, this upcoming storm system could be the season’s first true base-builder.
The buzz on the mountain is more than just weather-related. Memories still linger from past tragedies, as Alpine Meadows continues to honor the legacy of those lost in historic avalanches. Meanwhile, excitement builds with the expansion of the Squaw Valley-Alpine Meadows gondola project, set to create North America's third-largest ski resort. As cloud-seeding experiments and climate debates continue across California, all eyes are on the Sierra to deliver the snowfall skiers crave. For now, bring your rock skis and low expectations—but stay tuned. Winter may be fashionably late, but it’s on its way.
Current Conditions
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Hourly Snowfall Totals
Recent & Projected
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 3" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Alpine Meadows Ski Area today?
Weather today, rain and snow before 1pm, then a slight chance of rain after 4pm. snow level 7700 feet rising to 8400 feet in the afternoon. high near 41. south wind around 5 mph. chance of precipitation is 80%. little or no snow accumulation expected.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Alpine Meadows Ski Area this week?
Alpine Meadows Ski Area is expected to receive up to 20.96" 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 ski conditions are improving with significant snowfall expected across the central and northern Sierra over the next five days. The heaviest snow is forecasted near Bloods Creek (31"), Blackcap Basin (34"), and Tuolumne Meadows (31"). These areas are closest to major resorts like Kirkwood, Bear Valley, and Mammoth Mountain. Mammoth Mountain, in particular, stands to receive close to 28" ... Read more
Nearby Snowpack Depths
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NOHRSC LEAVITT LAKE
|
1" |
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POISON FLAT
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1" |
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INDEPENDENCE LAKE
|
2" |
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WARD CREEK #3
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1" |
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NOHRSC INDEPENDENCE LAKE
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1" |
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HEAVENLY VALLEY
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1" |
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NOHRSC TAHOE CITY CROSS
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1" |
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NOHRSC SILVER LAKE (GOES)
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33.4" |
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TAHOE CITY CROSS
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1" |
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BLACK SPRINGS
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0.22" |
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NOHRSC DEADMAN CK NEAR KENNEDY MEADOWS - SONORA PASS
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7.41" |
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BLOODS CREEK
|
200.19" |
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NOHRSC FORNI RIDGE
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0.69" |
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NOHRSC SPRATT CREEK
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1" |
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NOHRSC HORSE MEADOW
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1" |
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