Kirkwood Ski Report
Rate this placeNearby: Sierra at Tahoe
Last Updated: November 17, 2025
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A wintry pulse is building at Kirkwood as the Sierra prepares for a snowy week ahead. Kirkwood ski resort, located in California, is known for its high elevation and extensive terrain.
Summary
Overnight temps dipped to 29°F, keeping conditions cold enough to preserve the early-season base, currently at 4 inches—about 31% below average. While coverage remains light, snowmakers and selective terrain openings are making the most of what’s on the ground. The real excitement lies in the forecast: 6.7 inches of fresh snow is expected within the next 24 hours, with totals climbing to over a foot (12”) by the weekend. With a Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) of 0.7", the incoming storm system is packing solid moisture, hinting at heavier, wetter snow—great for building that base.
Kirkwood is squarely in the bullseye of a multi-day storm cycle that could kickstart the season in earnest by the projected early opening on November 30. While anticipation builds, skiers are reminded to tread cautiously—recent tragic headlines underscore the mountain's inherent risks. Resort crews are actively preparing terrain, and a new parking reservation system has launched to streamline guest access. With more snow on the horizon and a stormy pattern settling in, Kirkwood is poised for an exciting and potentially early winter comeback. Stay tuned—the Sierra snow machine is warming up.
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 Carson Pass.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Carson Pass
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 Kirkwood.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Kirkwood
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Kirkwood impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
Kirkwood ski resort in California is located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The resort is known for its steep terrain, deep snow, and challenging runs. Some of the key mountain aspects of Kirkwood ski resort include:
1. The Sisters: A group of three prominent peaks located near the resort, offering challenging terrain for expert skiers and snowboarders.
2. Thunder Mountain: A popular area for advanced skiers and snowboarders, featuring steep chutes, cliffs, and deep powder.
3. Red Cliffs: A series of cliffs and rock formations that provide some of the most difficult terrain at the resort.
4. The Cirque: An expansive bowl area with a mix of steep chutes, open powder fields, and tree runs, perfect for advanced and expert skiers.
5. Palisades: A collection of steep, rocky chutes and cliffs that offer some of the most challenging terrain at Kirkwood.
Overall, Kirkwood ski resort is known for its rugged mountain terrain, varied snow conditions, and challenging runs that attract advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders looking for a thrilling mountain experience.
The resort boasts 86 runs, with the best trails being Cornice Express, Sentinel, and Zachary. An interesting fact is that Kirkwood was founded in the 1960s by an Olympic skier, and was one of the first ski resorts in the United States to allow snowboarding. For beginner skiers, a great suggestion is to take the Timber Creek Express lift to access easier runs like Lower Monte Wolfe and Conestoga. As for apres ski, The Wall Bar & Grill is a popular spot with a lively atmosphere and delicious food.
Night Skiing | No |
Lift Count | 14 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 19205 per hour |
Base Elevation | 2377 Meters |
Terrain Park | Yes |
Acreage | 2300 Acres |
Established | 1972 |
Run Count | 65 Trails |
Kirkwood FAQ
How much snow did Kirkwood receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Kirkwood today?
Weather today, snow showers, mainly before 3pm. the snow could be heavy at times. high near 29. south southwest wind 5 to 9 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. chance of precipitation is 90%. new snow accumulation of 6 to 10 inches possible.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Kirkwood this week?
Kirkwood is expected to receive up to 12.04" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are ski area conditions in California like right now?
Heavy snow is expected across the Sierra Nevada over the next five days, with the heaviest accumulations forecasted near major resorts such as Mammoth Mountain, Palisades Tahoe, and Kirkwood. Virginia Lakes Ridge is leading the state with a 5-day forecast of 17", followed closely by Cottonwood Lakes and Tamarack Summit at 19". Mammoth-area sensors, including Mammoth Pass (7" in 24hrs), ... Read more
Nearby Snowpack Depths
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SONORA PASS
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2" |
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NOHRSC SILVER LAKE (GOES)
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33.29" |
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NOHRSC HORSE MEADOW
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3" |
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NOHRSC CSS LAB
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4" |
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BLUE LAKES
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2" |
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INDEPENDENCE LAKE
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7" |
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NOHRSC RUBICON #2
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1" |
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NOHRSC CARSON PASS
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4" |
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NOHRSC HORSE MEADOWS
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1.52" |
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NOHRSC BIG MEADOW
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3" |
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NOHRSC WHITE WOLF RAWS
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0.66" |
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CSS LAB
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4" |
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NOHRSC EBBETTS PASS
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5" |
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BIG MEADOW
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3" |
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WARD CREEK #3
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1" |