Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 18, 2025
Alta Sierra at Shirley Meadows is welcoming skiers and snowboarders this December 18 with an early-season snowpack measuring 19.1 inches—over 31% deeper than the historical average for this time of year. Alta Sierra at Shirley Meadows ski resort in the United States offers a range of trails for skiers of all levels, with the best runs for intermediate and advanced skiers.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Wind
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Humidity
Summary
Overnight temperatures held steady at 34.3°F, preserving the snow's integrity while keeping conditions soft and forgiving. The current Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) is 3.8 inches, indicating a moderately dense base perfect for carving smooth turns. While no new snowfall has been recorded overnight, the mountain remains well-covered, and all groomed trails are open and skiing well.
Despite the mild overnight temps, weather models indicate a potential storm system building late in the week, which could refresh the slopes just in time for the holiday rush. For now, expect packed powder on most runs with occasional softer patches in shaded areas. Lifts are running smoothly, and there are no notable issues reported in local news at this time. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned rider, today's conditions provide a solid foundation for a full day on the mountain.
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 Cottonwood Lakes.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Cottonwood Lakes
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 Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
The Alta Sierra at Shirley Meadows ski resort in California is located in the southern Sierra Nevada mountain range. The resort is surrounded by several prominent peaks and mountain ranges, including:
1. Greenhorn Mountains: The Greenhorn Mountains are located to the east of Alta Sierra at Shirley Meadows and provide a stunning backdrop to the resort.
2. Breckenridge Mountain: Breckenridge Mountain is located to the northwest of the resort and offers challenging terrain for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
3. Alta Peak: Alta Peak is a prominent peak in the Sierra Nevada range located to the north of the resort. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
4. Shirley Peak: Shirley Peak is a peak located near the resort which offers skiers and snowboarders a variety of runs and terrain to explore.
Overall, Alta Sierra at Shirley Meadows ski resort is surrounded by a diverse range of mountains and peaks, providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
The resort is known for its affordable prices and lack of crowds, making it a great destination for a quieter ski experience. A little-known fact is that Shirley Meadows was once a prominent mining town during the California Gold Rush in the mid-19th century. For beginner skiers, the Bunny Hill is recommended for its gentle slope and easy terrain. The best apres ski bar is the Alta Sierra Pizza and Pub, which offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious food and drinks.
Night Skiing | No |
Lift Count | 3 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 2400 per hour |
Base Elevation | 2042 Meters |
Terrain Park | No |
Acreage | 80 Acres |
Established | 1982 |
Run Count | 8 Trails |
Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows FAQ
How much snow did Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows today?
Weather today, mostly sunny, with a high near 49. west northwest wind 8 to 14 mph.
What are ski area conditions in California like right now?
California's Sierra Nevada is gearing up for a significant snowstorm, with the heaviest 5-day snowfall forecasts centered around the Central and Northern Sierra. The standout locations are Carson Pass (59"), Leavitt Lake (51"), Ebbetts Pass (49"), Sonora Pass (48"), and Burnside Lake (49"). These areas are near top resorts like Kirkwood, Bear Valley, and Dodge Ridge, which are expected to ... Read more
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