Top 5 Ski Destinations Near San Diego and Los Angeles
Southern California is famous for sunny beaches, palm trees, and endless summer vibes — but when winter rolls in, it also offers easy access to snowy slopes. Just a few hours’ drive from San Diego or Los Angeles, you can trade flip-flops for ski boots and enjoy some of the best ski resorts in California.
At a Glance: Ski Resorts Near San Diego & Los Angeles
|
Resort |
Drive from San Diego |
Drive from Los Angeles |
Elevation |
Runs |
Best For |
|
Mammoth Mountain |
~6 hrs |
~5 hrs |
11,053 ft |
175+ |
Long season, all skill levels |
|
June Mountain |
~6 hrs 15 min |
~5 hrs 15 min |
10,090 ft |
41 |
Families, intermediate skiers |
|
Big Bear Mountain Resort |
~3 hrs |
~2 hrs 30 min |
8,805 ft |
59 |
Beginners, quick weekend trips |
|
Mount Baldy |
~2 hrs 15 min |
~1 hr 15 min |
8,600 ft |
26 |
All levels, close to LA |
|
Kirkwood |
~9 hrs |
~8 hrs |
9,800 ft |
86 |
Advanced skiers, backcountry |
List of Top 5 Ski Destinations Near San Diego and Los Angeles
Whether you’re a beginner, a family on vacation, or an experienced skier looking for challenging runs, these top 5 ski destinations near San Diego and Los Angeles have something for everyone.
Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort
- Best for: All skill levels, long trips, and those wanting a variety of terrain.
Why go: With a peak elevation of over 11,000 feet and more than 3,500 skiable acres, Mammoth Mountain is one of the largest and most popular ski resorts in California. It averages around 400 inches of snowfall annually and offers the longest ski season in the state, often stretching from November to July.
Extra activities: Snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowcat tours, and scenic gondola rides.
June Mountain – “California’s Family Mountain”
- Best for: Families, intermediate skiers, and backcountry enthusiasts.
Why go: Located just 30 minutes from Mammoth, June Mountain is smaller but charming, offering 41 trails and seven lifts. It’s known for fewer crowds and a laid-back atmosphere, making it ideal for families. Kids under 12 ski free.
Extra activities: Snow play areas for kids, backcountry tours, and après-ski at Antler Bar.
Big Bear Mountain Resort
- Best for: Beginners, snowboarders, and weekend trips.
Why go: Just under three hours from San Diego and Los Angeles, Big Bear is perfect for a quick winter getaway. The resort combines Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, offering 59 runs across two mountains.
Extra activities: Snow tubing, ziplining, and lakeside dining.
Mount Baldy Ski Resort
- Best for: Day trips, mixed-skill groups, and those who want activities beyond skiing.
Why go: The closest ski resort to Los Angeles, Mount Baldy offers 26 runs ranging from beginner to expert. It’s also home to a seven-lane tubing park and scenic lift rides with tent cabins at the top.
Extra activities: Zip lines, disc golf, and mountain dining.
Kirkwood Ski Resort
- Best for: Advanced and expert skiers, powder lovers.
Why go: Located in the Eldorado National Forest near Lake Tahoe, Kirkwood is a hidden gem for advanced skiers. It offers steep slopes, deep powder, and some of the best backcountry skiing in California.
Extra activities: Snowshoe trails, cross-country skiing, and terrain park challenges.
Best Time to Visit
- December – March: Peak snow conditions.
- April – July (Mammoth only): Late-season skiing.
FAQs About Skiing Near San Diego & Los Angeles
Q: What’s the closest ski resort to Los Angeles?
A: Mount Baldy is just 1 hour 15 minutes from LA.
Q: Can you ski in Southern California in April?
A: Yes — Mammoth Mountain often stays open until July.
Q: Which resort is best for beginners?
A: Big Bear and June Mountain are ideal for learning.
Q: Which resort has the most snow?
A: Mammoth Mountain averages around 400 inches annually.
Final Tips
- Plan ahead: Weekends can get busy; book lift tickets early.
- Check weather: Road conditions can change quickly in winter.
- Pack layers: Even sunny days can turn cold on the slopes.
Whether you’re after a quick weekend escape or a week-long snow adventure, these top 5 ski destinations near San Diego and Los Angeles prove you don’t need to leave California to find world-class skiing and snowboarding.
