2026-04-22T17:00:00-07:00
* WHAT...Heavy snow likely above 5000 feet. Total snow accumulations of up to 12 to 18 inches, with up to 2 feet at the highest peaks. Minor accumulations of up to 2 inches possible down to 4500 feet. Southwest winds could gust as high as 50 mph. * WHERE...Sierra (El Dorado-Amador) Above 5000 ft, Lassen Volcanic NP, Sierra (Cal-Tuo) Above 5000 ft, Sierra (Sierra-Placer) Above 5000 ft, and Sierra (Tehama-Plumas) Above 3000 ft Counties. * WHEN...From 2 AM Tuesday to 5 PM PDT Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous conditions could impact the Tuesday and Wednesday commutes. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels initially 6000 to 7000 feet tonight, lowering to 5500 to 6500 feet Tuesday, and down to 4500 to 5500 feet Wednesday. Heaviest snowfall expected Tuesday afternoon and evening with snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour.
Kirkwood Ski Report
Last Updated: April 21, 2026
4.8/5 (2)Nearby: Sierra at Tahoe
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Kirkwood ski resort, located in California, is known for its high elevation and extensive terrain.
Summary
The ski area reports 1" of new snow today with snowpack levels rising to 7.0". Snowpack levels for this time of year average around 52 inches, but can be as high as 164 inches. Weather today, snow, mainly before 2pm, then snow showers after 2pm. the snow could be heavy at times. some thunder is also possible. temperature falling to around 28 by 5pm. south southwest wind 10 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. chance of precipitation is 100%. new snow accumulation of 9 to 13 inches possible. Up to 20" of more snowfall forecasted over the next 5 days. Heavy snow is on the way, with the mountain expecting up to 15.38" of new snowfall by tomorrow. Get driving directions if you're planning on heading up.
15-Day Snow Forecast
Snowfall Accumulations
Snowstake Cam
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
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 this Location
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
Where does our Kirkwood snow data come from?
This snow report combines on-mountain observations, regional SNOTEL sensors, and weather model data specific to Kirkwood and the surrounding region.
How much snow did Kirkwood receive over the past day?
The ski area received 1" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Kirkwood today?
Weather today, snow, mainly before 2pm, then snow showers after 2pm. the snow could be heavy at times. some thunder is also possible. temperature falling to around 28 by 5pm. south southwest wind 10 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. chance of precipitation is 100%. new snow accumulation of 9 to 13 inches possible.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Kirkwood this week?
Kirkwood is expected to receive up to 19.76" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
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