2025-12-26T17:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 5 feet possible. Winds could gust as high as 50 mph. * WHERE...Sierra Nevada south of Yosemite to Lake Isabella area. * WHEN...From Tuesday afternoon through Friday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches.
Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 19, 2025
The slopes at Alta Sierra at Shirley Meadows are calling this December 19, 2025, with a snowpack depth of 19 inches—about 34% above average for this time of year, setting the stage for solid early-season turns. 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 a mild 35.5°F, keeping the snow soft but carvable, especially in the shaded glades and north-facing runs. While the 72-hour forecast shows only a light dusting of 0.04 inches of snow, current conditions remain skiable and enjoyable across much of the mountain. The Snow Water Equivalent stands at 3.9 inches, providing encouraging signs for snow sustainability heading into the holidays.
Despite the lack of major snowfall in the near term, the base is firm enough for beginner and intermediate terrain to remain open and groomed. No significant updates or alerts have come in from local news sources, indicating smooth operations across the resort. With clear skies and mild winter temps, it’s a great day to hit the slopes early, beat the weekend crowds, and take in the serene mountain views. Expect packed powder on groomed runs and softer coverage in sheltered areas—so wax up and enjoy the ride.
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 46. windy, with a west wind 20 to 30 mph, with gusts as high as 39 mph. A snow storm is incoming, with 3 to 5 feet possible forecasted.
What are ski area conditions in California like right now?
California’s Sierra Nevada is bracing for a major snow event, with the heaviest snowfall expected in the central and southern Sierra. Leavitt Lake and Sonora Pass are forecast to receive up to 127 cm and 119 cm of snow respectively over the next five days, positioning nearby resorts like Bear Valley and Dodge Ridge for significant powder days. Mammoth Mountain, ... Read more
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