SNOFLO


       
       

CALIFORNIA SKI REPORT

April 16 2025
       

California ski conditions remain relatively static today, with no significant new snowfall reported across most major resorts. Snowpack depths remain solid, particularly in the Sierra Nevada region. Notably, Palisades Tahoe and Heavenly are holding at 73" and 43" respectively, but have received no new snow in the last 24 hours. Echo Peak and Carson Pass continue to report substantial base depth (64" and 48") but are also dry. A minor dusting of 1" was observed at Fallen Leaf and Forestdale Creek near South Lake Tahoe, but this is unlikely to impact skiing conditions substantially. Further north, Dismal Swamp and Independence Lake lead in snow depth at 83" and 110", respectively, though no new snow is reported there either.

Looking ahead, the most promising snowfall is forecasted for high-elevation areas near Leavitt Lake (5"), Virginia Lakes Ridge (4"), Charlotte Lake (4"), and Sonora Pass (2"). These areas are closest to resorts like Mammoth Mountain and Bridgeport backcountry zones, which may see a modest refresh. Of particular note is the Nohrsc Horse Meadows sensor near Leavitt Meadows, which reported a surprising 34" in the last 24 hours—likely an anomaly, but worth verifying if heading into the backcountry. Mammoth Mountain, near Tioga Pass and Rock Creek areas, could pick up to 4" over five days, enhancing ski touring potential. Overall, while the main Tahoe resorts will retain good snowpack for spring skiing, significant new snowfall is limited and concentrated in isolated eastern Sierra locations.



California boasts some of the best ski resorts in the United States, with world-renowned terrain and an average snowfall of 300 inches per year. Here are some popular resorts within the state.

1. Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort: Located in Eastern Sierra, Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort is one of the most popular ski resorts in California. It boasts an average snowfall of 400 inches per year and a ski area of over 3,500 acres. The best month to visit is usually February.

2. Squaw Valley Ski Resort: Squaw Valley Ski Resort, located in North Lake Tahoe, is known for hosting the 1960 Winter Olympics. It has an average snowfall of 450 inches per year and a skiable area of 3,600 acres. The best month to visit is usually January.

3. Heavenly Mountain Resort: Located in South Lake Tahoe, Heavenly Mountain Resort is the largest ski resort in California, with a skiable area of over 4,800 acres. It has an average snowfall of 360 inches per year. The best month to visit is usually March.

Other notable ski resorts in California include Northstar California Resort, Kirkwood Mountain Resort, and Sierra-at-Tahoe Ski Resort.

The average snowpack in California varies by region, but the Sierra Nevada Mountains typically have a snowpack of around 100-150 inches in early winter and up to 200-300 inches by late winter.

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