Alta Sierra At Shirley Meadows Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Winter is in full swing at Alta Sierra at Shirley Meadows this December 5, 2025, with ideal early-season conditions. 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.
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Summary
Overnight temperatures dipped to a crisp 26.5°F, preserving a snowpack depth of 21.8 inches—an impressive 124% of the seasonal average. This solid base, paired with a Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) of 3.9 inches, is providing excellent surface conditions for skiers and snowboarders. Groomers report packed powder across most runs, making for smooth, fast descents and optimal control even for intermediate riders.
Though no new snow is in the immediate forecast, current coverage is more than sufficient for a full day of slopeside adventure. Lifts are operating on schedule, and crowds remain light, offering short lift lines and plenty of open terrain. With no major headlines from the region today, it’s all about the snow—pure, uncompromised mountain bliss. Whether carving turns or cruising with the family, Alta Sierra is delivering a classic Sierra winter experience.
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 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, sunny, with a high near 42. north northwest wind 6 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.
What are ski area conditions in California like right now?
California ski conditions remain dormant this week with no new snow reported across the Sierra Nevada or Southern Cascades. All sensors across the state show 0" of snowfall in the last 24 hours and no snow in the 5-day forecast. Key resorts including Palisades Tahoe, Heavenly, and Kirkwood align with nearby sensors such as Squaw Valley G.C., Echo Peak, and ... Read more
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