10 Resorts For The Best Snowboarding In California

Many people don’t realize that while California is famous for its sunshine and warm weather, the eastern part of the state is home to numerous fantastic ski resorts that get hammered with legendary snow. Choosing the right one can be tricky with so many options, as each resort offers something unique. 

If you plan to snowboard in California this winter, this list highlights the top resorts perfect for snowboarders. Although skiers are welcome at all of them, snowboarders will especially appreciate how welcoming these ski resorts are to fellow boarders, and you’ll appreciate the terrain, amenities, and overall atmosphere. Take a look at the best snowboarding in California below.

1. Heavenly Mountain Resort

Without a doubt, Heavenly Mountain Resort tops the list. This resort, located in the Lake Tahoe area, is one of the most famous California ski resorts for its unbelievable terrain, gorgeous views, and friendly atmosphere. Snowboarders will love the 4,800 skiable acres of terrain and the 251 inches of average snowfall. 

If you are looking for one of the most convenient resorts in terms of its location in downtown Tahoe, which has a great restaurant scene, nightlife, bars, and casinos, this resort is your perfect choice. Its awesome ski slopes and beautiful views make it the perfect combination for a memorable California ski trip.

2. Palisades Tahoe

Next up on the list is one of my personal favorite resorts in the state, Palisades Tahoe. This resort is rich in history, having hosted the Winter Olympics in 1960. In fact, you can even take your photo with the Olympic rings displayed on one of the buildings at the resort. It’s a super cool experience. 

Aside from its history, Palisades Tahoe is an excellent resort for snowboarders because it boasts 6,000 skiable acres of terrain, two different mountains for snowboarders to explore, and it receives an annual average of 400 inches of snowfall so you can enjoy plenty of magical powder days here!

3. Mammoth Mountain Ski Area

Mammoth Mountain is the next ski area on this list. This ski resort has an impressive 3,500 skiable acres of terrain, receives an annual average of 400 inches of snowfall each year, and gets 300 days of sunshine yearly, so snowboarders can expect plenty of bluebird powder days. What’s not to love about that? 

To top it off, Mammoth Mountain sits near Mammoth Lakes. This is a great area worth exploring in California and reminds me a bit of the Lake Tahoe region. What really sets Mammoth apart for me is that it’s a little less talked about than the Lake Tahoe ski resorts, so you can generally expect a bit fewer crowds at this resort, which is nice for skiers and snowboarders who don’t want to deal with excessive crowds and long lift lines. 

4. Big Bear Mountain Resort

Next up is Big Bear Mountain Resort. This resort is owned by Mammoth Mountain, so you expect great terrain, amenities, and a smaller version of Mammoth. It’s the place for snowboarders wanting a hidden gem, small resort experience. Big Bear has just 678 skiable acres of terrain split between three areas: Snow Valley, Snow Summit, and Bear Mountain. But where Big Bear really stands out is its prices. This ski resort offers affordable lift tickets and more affordable accommodation options. 

The cherry on top is that Big Bear also has a regional airport just 10 minutes from the resort. Alternatively, you can fly into L.A. and drive 1 hour and 55 minutes to the resort, making it super convenient. So, if you are a snowboarder looking for a more intimate experience that is both affordable and easy to get to, this should be at the top of your list. 

5. Northstar California Resort

Northstar is another one of the best places to visit for snowboarding in California. This resort also sits in the Lake Tahoe area and is a great place to visit for its variety of terrain. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or expert snowboarder, Northstar has something for everyone to enjoy. But I will admit, it’s more of an intermediate skiers’ or snowboarders’ mountain because it boasts 3,170 skiable acres of terrain, and 60% of its runs are blues meant for intermediates. 

Another reason that I adore Northstar is its village area. It’s full of shops, restaurants, and accommodations, making it the perfect place to spend a few hours after hitting the slopes. I also love that Northstar has other activities around the mountain and village area, like ice skating and snow tubing, so if you want a break from snowboarding or skiing but still want to spend time outdoors in the snowy atmosphere, you can do so here!

6. Kirkwood Mountain Resort

Kirkwood is located about 40 minutes past South Lake Tahoe and is the perfect place to visit for snowboarders looking to escape the crowds that surround the Maine area of Lake Tahoe in the winter. This resort is famous for its expert territory. It boasts 2,300 skiable acres of terrain with 38% advanced and 20% expert runs, so this is a great place to go if you are looking for challenging runs in California. 

This resort is also famous for getting some of the deepest and most legendary snow in the high Sierra Mountains. So, if you are an advanced boarder looking to enjoy powder and fewer crowds, Kirkwood needs to be on your California bucket list. 

7. Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort

Another resort worth mentioning is Sierra-at-Tahoe. Big names like Heavenly and Palisades often overshadow it, so it deserves some attention. Sierra is a great destination for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, but it’s particularly ideal for beginners. With 2,000 skiable acres and 25% dedicated to green, beginner-friendly runs, it’s one of the best resorts for beginners. 

It’s also a fantastic spot for families, offering a welcoming atmosphere for those with young children and boasting a world-class ski school. Sierra-at-Tahoe is a must-visit if you’re looking for a less crowded Tahoe resort that’s beginner-friendly.

8. June Mountain Ski Resort

June Mountain is another top ski area in California, perfect for those looking to ski in the Mammoth Lakes area but with a more intimate, less crowded experience. The resort offers 1,500 acres of skiable terrain and is well-known for its family-friendly atmosphere. 

One standout feature is their amazing policy of allowing children 12 and under to ski and snowboard for free. As a mom, I really appreciate this, as it shows their commitment to the community and encourages young riders.

9. Bear Valley Mountain Resort

Bear Valley Mountain Resort is a bit lesser known than many on this list. This resort sits in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range and is home to 1,680 skiable acres of terrain. It receives 359 inches of snowfall each year and is a great place to visit for all skill levels. 

What I really love about Bear Valley is that it offers over 1,000 skiable acres of terrain but still has a small, local mountain feel. This can be shown not only in how friendly the people are here but also in their mountain lodging. Most people stay at the Bear Valley Lodge, which is the perfect warm and cozy environment by the slopes. The resort really leans into this welcoming environment, making it the perfect place for snowboarders looking for awesome conditions with a friendly spirit. 

10. Sugar Bowl Resort

Last but certainly not least is Sugar Bowl Resort, located just outside of Truckee and Lake Tahoe. It’s famous for having fewer crowds than some of the area’s resorts while offering incredible terrain, legendary snowfall, and a welcoming environment. Sugar Bowl Resort boasts 1,650 skiable acres, receives a whopping 500 inches of average snowfall each year, and has a variety of terrain suitable for beginners, intermediates, and experts. 

I really love this resort for those looking to escape the crowds that surround Lake Tahoe and the more name-brand resorts. Plus, this resort has a super rich history and has been family-owned since 1939! It’s super cool to ski such legendary runs and powder at a resort that has been open for so long. If you are looking to ski in the Tahoe area but would instead visit somewhere a bit less crowded with a rich past, don’t hesitate to come here. 

Have You Snowboarded At Any Of These Iconic Spots In California?

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