2026-01-04T10:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Accumulations are uncertain at this time but may range from 2 to 4 feet above 5000 feet. Locally higher amounts are possible at higher elevations. Winds could gust as high as 45 mph. * WHERE...West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada and Western Plumas County/Lassen Park Counties. * WHEN...From Friday afternoon through Sunday morning. * IMPACTS...Dangerous travel conditions with chain controls and road closures possible. Low visibility due to combination of wind and heavy snow. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow accumulations remain above pass level through Friday afternoon, then drop to 5000 to 6000 feet late Friday night into Saturday. Potential for mountain snow to continue into early next week.
Sugar Bowl Resort Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 31, 2025
Sugar Bowl Resort is ringing in the New Year with prime ski conditions and exciting developments. Sugar Bowl Resort is located in California, United States.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Wind
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Humidity
Summary
After waking up to a fresh 10 inches of powder this morning, the resort boasts a snowpack depth of 25 inches—well above seasonal averages at 118%. Overnight temperatures hovered around a crisp 30.6°F, preserving snow quality on both groomed trails and in off-piste terrain. With 3.6 inches of snow projected over the next 72 hours and a whopping 57 inches expected within five days, skiers and riders should prepare for deep turns and unforgettable powder days heading into the first week of 2026.
Beyond the stellar snow, Sugar Bowl is buzzing with transformative energy. The resort just launched a $100 million improvement plan—the largest in its history—cementing its status as one of Tahoe’s last great independent ski destinations. Guests can now enjoy the state-of-the-art Sugar Bowl Parks, designed to elevate freestyle skiing and snowboarding for youth athletes. For families, the newly opened Sugar Rush Tubing and Snow Play Park adds even more excitement. With unbeatable $39 lift ticket deals and a strong commitment to culture and community, Sugar Bowl is the hidden gem of the Sierra this holiday season.
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 Truckee #2.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Truckee #2
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 Sugar Bowl Resort.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Sugar Bowl Resort
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Sugar Bowl Resort impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
The Sugar Bowl Resort is located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California. The resort itself is situated on Mount Disney, which is part of the larger Donner Summit area. Other nearby mountain ranges in the region include the Granite Chief Wilderness to the north and the Carson Range to the east. The resort offers skiing and snowboarding on a variety of mountain aspects, including north-facing slopes for cooler temperatures and better snow preservation, as well as south-facing slopes for sunny days and spring skiing conditions.
The ski resort boasts over 1,500 acres of skiable terrain that offers a mix of beginner, intermediate, and expert trails. The best trails at Sugar Bowl Resort include the Powder Bowl Express Lift and the Disney Lift, which provide access to some of the most challenging runs in the resort. An interesting fact about Sugar Bowl Resort is that it was the first ski resort in California to install a chairlift in 1939. For beginners, the best trail is the Flume Trail, which is gentle and wide. The Belt Room Bar is the perfect spot for an apres ski drink, offering a cozy and rustic atmosphere.
Night Skiing | No |
Lift Count | 12 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 21740 per hour |
Base Elevation | 2098 Meters |
Terrain Park | Yes |
Acreage | 1500 Acres |
Established | 1938 |
Run Count | 84 Trails |
Sugar Bowl Resort FAQ
How much snow did Sugar Bowl Resort receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Sugar Bowl Resort today?
Weather today, rain, mainly after 4pm. snow level 9000 feet rising to 10000 feet in the afternoon. high near 43. calm wind. chance of precipitation is 80%.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Sugar Bowl Resort this week?
Sugar Bowl Resort is expected to receive up to 57.57" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are some ski resorts near Sugar Bowl Resort?
Donner Ski Ranch
Boreal Mountain Resort
Soda Springs
What are ski area conditions in California like right now?
California ski resorts are in for a powder-packed stretch, with the heaviest snow forecasts targeting the central and northern Sierra. Palisades Tahoe leads the charge, with nearby sensors like Squaw Valley G.C., Ward Creek #3, and CSS Lab reporting 5-day snowfall forecasts of 71", 62", and 79" respectively. Independence Lake and Truckee area sensors are forecasting 65" and 57" respectively, ... Read more
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