10 Closest Ski Resorts To Los Angeles Worth Visiting For Outdoor Fun

When most people think of Los Angeles, they often picture beaches and palm trees, not snow. But one of Southern California's biggest surprises is that, within a couple of hours of the LA area, travelers can exchange ocean views for alpine trails. Numerous ski resorts throughout the region offer everything from family-friendly getaways to romantic winter destinations in the mountains. While skiing and snowboarding are the major draws, many of these resorts also offer a variety of other outdoor activities, including tubing, snowshoeing, and more. Some are known for gentle runs that are suitable for visitors of all skill levels, even those who have never been on skis before. Others are famous for their steep slopes and rugged terrain in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. These resorts have a good reputation among serious skiers who are willing to drive a bit farther for the best experience.

In this guide, we'll take a look at the 10 closest ski resorts to Los Angeles that are actually worth visiting. We've done the hard work for you by finding the spots that receive consistently high ratings from skiers and snow bunnies for their facilities, range of activities, and overall atmosphere. From escapes within two hours of the LA metro area, to mountain resorts that are perfect for a weekend excursion, these ski areas prove that California offers much more than sand and surf. You just have to know where to look. If you're in the mood for winter recreation in Southern California, you're in the right place.

Located roughly two hours from Los Angeles by car, Snow Valley Mountain Resort is one of the city's closest ski and snowboard destinations. This spot isn't about glitz and glamor, and you won't find gourmet restaurants or five-star hotels. Instead, families come here for pure wintertime fun and classic American fare like hot dogs, hamburgers, and hot chocolate around a fire pit after a day on the slopes. Serving Californians since 1924, Snow Valley is particularly well-suited for beginners and intermediate skiers. With 11 lifts, this is one of the smaller ski resorts in the area, but visitors enjoy its well-groomed slopes that are appealing to both newbies and experts alike. Nearly half of the 28 runs here are appropriate for intermediate skiers. This area gets the most natural annual snowfall in the region, roughly 125 inches on average, so powder conditions are typically favorable. Snow Valley's smaller size makes it easy to navigate, so it's a practical choice for families with little ones and first-time skiers learning the ropes.

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Snow Valley Mountain Resort offers plenty of other outdoor family-friendly activities. One of the most unique experiences here is the sledding hill with its own chairlift to the top. Another highlight for families with younger kids is the popular Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park. As the oldest tubing playground in the state of California, this is a great destination located just a mile from Snow Valley. All in all, Snow Valley is a well-rounded winter destination even for those who don't want to spend all day on the slopes. For minimal crowds, try to visit on a weekday or off-peak weekend. The busiest days at Snow Valley, and all ski resorts in general, often include weekends and winter holidays like Presidents' Day.

About 80 miles from Los Angeles, Mountain High is one of Southern California's most well-known ski and snowboard spots. Its proximity to the city is one reason for its popularity, and its long history is another. Angelenos have flocked to the slopes at Mountain High Resort since 1937, when it first opened under the name Blue Ridge Ski Area. One of the most appealing aspects of Mountain High is that it has three dedicated areas, each with its own features. East Resort was made for those who want to ski and ski some more, with long trails and varied terrain for all skill levels. West Resort, the oldest section of the park, is popular with freestyle snowboarders and serves as the party spot, with après-ski events and regular concerts, while the North Resort is a family-friendly section open on weekends and designed for those with younger kids. Mountain High offers 50 marked trails with a good mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced options. However, it's worth noting that there are no expert slopes here.

One of the biggest draws of Mountain High is its night skiing and snowboarding, which has a completely different vibe than daytime on the mountain. Gliding under the stars makes for an unforgettable winter night out. For families, Yeti's Snow Play area is another highlight. This is a wonderland for kids, with snow tubing, sledding, and character meet and greets with Yeti and his squad. In online reviews, visitors praise this SoCal ski resort for its team of patient skiing and snowboarding instructors. Mountain High is an excellent place for families seeking a convenient weekend escape from Los Angeles packed with wintertime activities.

Snow Summit, a ski resort about two-and-a-half hours from Los Angeles by car, is a popular and reliable Southern California destination for snowy fun. Located near one of California's best winter weekend vacation spots, Big Bear Lake, this resort is known for its well-groomed trails and welcoming atmosphere that has been delighting families since 1952. Snow Summit gets about 100 inches of snow per winter season, and boasts around 240 acres of piste. Most of the slopes are in the intermediate level range, while the rest are best suited for experts and beginners. Among the toughest runs here is The Wall, located on one of the steepest hills in SoCal. Whether you've never stepped foot onto a ski resort before, or have been chasing downhill thrills your whole life, you're bound to have a good time at Snow Summit.

Visitors can enjoy night ski sessions at Snow Valley, and kids of all ages can go on snow tubing runs. This California resort also has a special place in winter sports history. Snow Summit hosted the very first Winter X Games in 1997, cementing Southern California as a destination for competitive snowboarding and epic freestyle skiing. The games gave rise to winter sports stars like Shaun Palmer and Barrett Christy, as well as household names like the legendary snowboarder Shaun White and Olympic gold medalist Chloe Kim. With its scenic setting, consistent powder, and activities for all ages, Snow Summit is a favorite wintertime resort within easy driving distance of Los Angeles.

Akin to Colorado's renowned ski resort town of Aspen, Bear Mountain is a famous destination adjacent to Snow Summit. Also less than three hours from LA by car, Bear Mountain offers a distinctly different experience from its neighbor, despite their close proximity. While Snow Summit is known for being a family-friendly destination, Bear Mountain is built for experienced snowboarders and freestylers looking for a thrill. This resort is widely known for its terrain parks, jumps, and halfpipes. It's the perfect spot for winter sports enthusiasts seeking more than what traditional resorts can offer. Bear Mountain even boasts the only superpipe in Southern California. The steep and technical runs here also appeal to experienced skiers seeking a challenge, the greatest of them all being the double black diamond run called The Wedge.

Despite its advanced terrain and energetic vibe, Bear Mountain isn't exclusively for expert riders. Some parts of the park are designed for skiers who are still finding their legs, so to speak. That said, the best thing about Big Bear's ski area is that you'll find a wide variety of experiences all in one place. Beginners and families are better off heading to Snow Summit, while those looking for a bigger thrill or a great party scene — especially at the deck, which can get wild on weekends — will love Bear Mountain. For those seeking an adrenaline rush within easy reach of Los Angeles, Bear Mountain can't be beat.

Just over an hour's drive from Los Angeles, Mt. Baldy Resort is known for offering some of the steepest terrain in Southern California, with a total vertical drop of 2,100 feet. Situated on Mount San Antonio in the San Gabriel Mountains, Baldy has a more old-school feel than many modern ski resorts. The first ski lodge in this small town opened in 1914, and some families have been enjoying winter fun here for generations. With over 50 trails and four lifts, Mt. Baldy Resort itself has been catering to skiers and snowboarders since 1952. The mountain's steep trails and variable terrain are its major draw, especially when the powder is fresh. The slopes here are intentionally rugged, unlike the perfectly groomed piste at many other local resorts, and Mt. Baldy has earned a reputation as the go-to spot for those who prefer a more backcountry-like experience. This is the perfect local resort for LA-based skiers and snowboarders who want a challenging downhill experience that isn't too far from home.

However, Mt. Baldy doesn't completely leave novices behind. Its Flow Zone area is designed for those who are still perfecting their skiing or boarding skills. However, it's worth noting that only 9% of the runs here are appropriate for beginners. Roughly 70% of Mt. Baldy's terrain is suitable for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders. Thankfully, there's more to do here than hit the slopes. Visitors can hike the area on snowshoes or enjoy tubing and sledding in a family-friendly section of the ski park. This makes Mt. Baldy a great choice for groups where not everyone wants to ski all day. Nonetheless, this resort caters to experienced thrill-seekers who want a "big mountain" vibe without a long drive from the Los Angeles metro area.

Located along Highway 2 in the Angeles National Forest, just over an hour from Los Angeles proper, the Buckhorn Ski and Snowboard Club is a small but mighty option for winter sports fans in SoCal. It offers a more low-key experience compared to the popular commercialized resorts, such as those at Big Bear Lake. Founded in the 1940s, some visitors find that the resort has changed very little over the past 80 years. The ski lodge has maintained much of its mid-century character. This, in many skiers' and snowboarders' minds, is a good thing. Buckhorn offers an authentic experience that is more about the powder than high-end amenities. It's important to note that a membership is required to use the slopes here. Those interested can contact the club directly for membership options. From a practical standpoint, this is not much different than purchasing a seasonal lift pass to other resorts.

This region of Southern California is sometimes subject to snow droughts. This problematic winter weather phenomenon means that conditions here don't always allow for a perfect ski season. However, with fresh powder on the ground, visitors can enjoy excellent terrain and beautiful scenery throughout the property. Although there are only five runs here, it's a great place for families to spend a day. With a maximum vertical rise of 680 feet, the slopes here aren't particularly steep. Cross-country ski trails and snowshoeing paths are also available on site. Buckhorn Ski and Snowboard Club is the sort of place where locals can spend a few hours making lifelong family memories before returning to the city. And, since the club requires a membership, it's a great place to develop friendships with other winter sports enthusiasts who frequent these slopes.

Although it's a longer drive from the Los Angeles area — upwards of six hours — into the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort offers an excellent experience for those interested in a weekend trip. Located in the Stanislaus National Forest near Pinecrest, this resort offers terrain that simply can't be found in Southern California. Dodge Ridge is a family-friendly resort that has operated since 1950. It currently offers 71 runs, with a solid mix of options for beginner, intermediate, and advanced riders. This makes it a great destination for groups with varying skill levels. The resort is known for its ski and snowboard school, where visitors can receive training from expert staff members. Dodge Ridge also hosts regular clinics and events, including the Ryan Lavagnino Classic competition.

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, visitors can try other wintertime activities here. Snowshoeing and snowy wildlife hikes are popular. Plus, families with young children can enjoy tubing and outdoor play in the park's River's Otter Run section. Dodge Ridge has a more old-school, rustic feel than other ski resorts in the LA area, but it delivers mountain charm in abundance. This resort rewards those willing to make the drive with scenic views and the perfect setting for a cozy family getaway.

Located just under six hours from Los Angeles, China Peak Mountain Resort provides a true Sierra Nevada skiing experience that feels very different from Southern California's San Bernardino Mountain trails. While it does require a longer drive, serious skiers and snowboarders consider it well worth the trip for a weekend getaway. Visitors consistently praise the scenery and fairytale-like atmosphere. "The entire area felt like a winter wonderland. There was fresh snow everywhere, and the lake was completely frozen, creating the most breathtaking view," reads one review on Google.

China Peak has options for everyone, regardless of skill level. First-timers will want to start in the Progression Park at Ullmann's Alley, where they can get familiar with the basics before trying tougher runs. Tree riding is particularly popular here among more experienced skiers. China Peak is also known for its high-altitude runs, including black diamonds, which offer amazing views of Huntington Lake.

The landscape here is one of the draws. Compared to SoCal mountains, the trails have a more natural feel that appeals to many skiers and snowboarders. In addition to hitting the resort's 54 slopes, many China Peak guests stay overnight at the on-site inn, which has rooms and suites that can house up to six people. Travelers also come here to simply enjoy wintertime hiking and wildlife viewing. For those willing to drive a bit farther for an exceptional experience, China Peak is an ideal option that combines stunning runs, scenic mountain landscapes, and fewer crowds all season long.

A tick over five hours from Los Angeles by car, Mammoth Mountain is one of the nation's premier skiing and snowboarding destinations. While it's farther away from the city than Big Bear Lake and Mt. Baldy, winter sports enthusiasts from all over the country come to visit this renowned resort, making it one of California's top tourist hot spots. The slopes here are so good, in fact, that many professional skiers and snowboarders use Mammoth Mountain as their home base for training. The resort is home to 28 lifts and 150 marked trails, ranging from beginner slopes to ultra-steep drops that attract elite winter athletes. Dragon's Tail, The Hemlocks, and Philippe's are among the hardest trails here for thrill-seekers. Mammoth Mountain offers the perfect combination of varied terrain and beautiful alpine scenery. It could easily be considered one of the top ski destinations in the western United States.

The resort offers all sorts of activities for those who are not as serious about their time on the slopes. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, visitors can enjoy Woolly's Adventure Summit, a wintertime playground that offers tubing, zip lining, and a mountainside toboggan roller coaster. It's great fun for all ages. Mammoth Lakes, the resort town near Mammoth Mountain, is a tourist draw in itself. Steeps Bar offers an unmatched indoor-outdoor après-ski experience in the heart of the slopes. Yodler Restaurant and Bar is long-standing spot with a Bavarian twist that will make you feel transported to Austria's beautiful ski resort towns. For those who don't mind a bit of a drive from Los Angeles, Mammoth Mountain delivers everything a winter sports lover could wish for, and then some.

Located close to Mammoth Mountain, also about five hours from Los Angeles by car, June Mountain offers the same impressive Sierra Nevada terrain without the "see-and-be-seen" popularity of Mammoth. June Mountain is known for being family friendly, with many skiers and snowboarders returning for generations. This resort's less crowded atmosphere makes it the perfect place for newer skiers and youth to build confidence on the slopes. With 41 runs and a maximum 2,590-foot vertical, June Mountain is not just for novices. Skiers and snowboards of all levels will find suitable trails here.

One major perk of June Mountain is that kids under age 12 receive free lift tickets, an appealing incentive for parents hoping to save money on their family ski trip. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, visitors have access to other outdoor winter activities at the nearby Deadman Summit Hill. Despite its ominous name, this spot is actually incredibly safe and is specifically designed for snow play. Many guests also enjoy relaxing at June Mountain's on-site chalet, an alpine-style lodge with a restaurant, cafe, and apparel shop. It's also home to the Antler Bar, which serves drinks with spectacular mountain views. If you're seeking stunning vistas, approachable terrain, and a more laid-back ski experience, June Mountain combines scenic beauty with practical family value in a memorable Sierra Nevada setting.

In creating this guide, one of the key criteria was a minimum rating of 3.9 stars on TripAdvisor and Google Reviews. These ratings, along with visitor reviews, helped us determine which California ski resorts are worth the drive from Los Angeles. I also relied on my own knowledge and expertise, as well as official resources like Visit California and Ski California. Trusted platforms such as On The Snow and Ski Central provided some additional details about each resort, including average snowfall totals and trail difficulty.