Does It Snow in Southern California? 11 Best Snow Spots in 2024!
Have you ever wanted to sit on a sunny beach in the morning and warm up in a cozy cabin with snow outside by the evening? Believe it or not, there are plenty of places in southern California where you can get your snow fix and create a unique winter break experience. Whether you’re looking for serious downhill skiing, family fun, or just a scenic area to enjoy some time away from home – this list of the best spots to find snow in southern California (written by a SoCal resident) has something for everyone!
❗️CURRENT SOCAL SNOW UPDATE ❗️
Southern CA has finally started to get snow! Mammoth and June Mountains have the most right now and Big Bear has begun their man-made snow creation. Most places have about half of their lifts open. (As of 1/24/24)
Keep an eye on Big Bear’s snow and lift updates HERE.
Keep an eye on other SoCal snow reports HERE.
A note about the author: Born and raised in Torrance, CA, I used to go skiing with my grandpa in Big Bear every year. Nowadays, I still try at least once a year to head up into the mountains around Los Angeles to explore new spots and find some snow to enjoy for a day or weekend each winter!
Does It Snow in Southern California?
Yes, it does snow in southern California! Specifically higher elevation areas in the mountain ranges will receive snow in the winter.
The views are absolutely stunning and there is the opportunity for skiing and snowboarding with resorts welcoming families, couples, and adventurers alike.
Most people think only of the beaches when they consider southern California, but there is plenty more in addition to the sand and sunshine. There are mountains, deserts, and forests all within the southern half of our gorgeous state.
Where in Southern California Does It Snow?
While many of the lowlands remain warm and sunny year-round, the higher elevation areas such as the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range and San Gabriel Mountains often get snowfall during the winter.
Does It Snow in Los Angeles, California?
No, it does not snow in the city of Los Angeles. Though technically, yes, it has snowed in LA before. However, snow is very rare and when it does snow, it typically melts almost immediately.
It’s snowed a handful of times in Los Angeles over the past 20 years. From what I have experienced it tends to be a short few minutes of hail that ends almost as quickly as it starts.
The average winter low temperature in Los Angeles and most of the coastal regions of southern California is about 49°F, rarely falling below 42°F or exceeding 56°F. Meaning it hardly ever gets cold enough to snow on the coast and if it does, it burns off as soon as the sun is back in the sky.
Luckily, the mountains near Los Angeles DO get snow – meaning there are plenty of snow escapes within driving distance of LA!
How Often Does Southern California Get Snow?
Southern California gets snow every winter in certain mountainous regions. Snow falls most often in the months of December, January, and February. Some areas can get snow as early as October and as late as April.
>>> RELATED POST: Where Is the Best Weather in California? 17 Lovely Cities
11 Best Places to Find Snow in Southern California This Year
1. Big Bear
One of the most popular snow destinations in southern California, Big Bear offers plenty to do during its snowy winters. Often referred to as “SoCal’s Snow Capital,” whether you’re a ski enthusiast, someone who loves outdoor adventures, or a family looking for fun snow tubing, Big Bear is the perfect place.
This well-loved mountaintop destination boasts two fantastic ski resorts – Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. Both offer ski and snowboard lessons and equipment rentals.
This is our personal favorite winter escape – especially if you’re looking for skiing or snowboarding! However, if all you want is a spot to play in the snow, continue reading for some of the less crowded spots.
If you want an easy adrenaline rush, try the Alpine Slide which offers a unique snow experience down the mountain. And if the kids are itching to have some snowy fun, take them to Big Bear Snow Play (home of the longest tubing runs in Southern California!) where they can get hours of enjoyment out of their snow tubing experience.
Make sure to spend some time simply appreciating nature by walking around the beautiful lake. With plenty of cozy cabin accommodation options and great restaurants, Big Bear is the most popular place to get your snow fix this season.
Where to Stay in Big Bear (Besides the Big Resorts)
💸 Budget-Friendly: Wolf Creek Resort – 8/10 rating
⭐️ Best All-Around: Marina Riviera – 8.4/10 rating, lakefront views
🌲 Best Cozy Cabin: Original 1940s cabin, beautifully restored! – 4.9/5 rating
*NOTE: Make sure you’re prepared with winter clothes BEFORE heading up the mountain – it will save you a lot of money! Once you get up the mountain and realize you forgot something… the prices will be far more expensive because they know you’re in desperate need.
2. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
For a unique way to experience snow in southern California, consider taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Enjoy spectacular views from the world’s largest revolving cable car while it takes you from the dry desert all the way up a mountain where you can enjoy snow activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
At the top, the Mountain Station’s 3-story facility has a cocktail lounge, dining facilities, a gift shop, and an observation deck. Taking the tramway is a great way for your family and friends to gather together, play in the snow, and have a memorable day!
TIP: Don’t forget to bundle up with sweaters and gloves because temperatures on the mountaintop can be 20-30 degrees cooler than where you begin.
❗️BOOK YOUR AERIAL TRAMWAY TICKET HERE❗️
Where to Stay Near the Tramway
💸 Budget-Friendly: Inn at Palm Springs – 9.2/10 rating
⭐️ Best All-Around: ARRIVE Palm Springs – 9.2/10 rating
3. Snow Valley + Running Springs
Spending time in the beautiful San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California is an amazing experience, and Snow Valley is a great place to start. It’s the oldest continually operating ski resort in the area and it’s just a short 5 miles away from the quaint town of Running Springs.
Located about 30 minutes closer down the mountain from Big Bear, Snow Valley is one of the more convenient snow locations to see snow in SoCal. However, due to being about 1,000ft lower in elevation, it also tends to get snow later than its more popular counterpart.
Snow Valley is best if you’re looking to ski or snowboard, as there are fewer non-ski recreation activities available. Known for being more affordable, friendly, and less crowded than the Big Bear resorts, it has a nice combination of terrain for both beginner and more advanced skiers.
(Stay in Lake Arrowhead or drive up for the day)
4. Frazier Mountain
Frazier Park’s Mount Pinos is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of southern California city life! One of the closest places for free snow play as a day trip in the Los Angeles area, this snow spot will be great for you if you simply want to enjoy playing in the snow and finding a taste of winter.
At the Chula Vista Campground, you will have views of stunning meadows with two long sledding slopes – excellent for kids and adults alike. Whether you want to simply wander around, toss the powdery snow at your loved ones, or zoom down the slopes with a sled, there are great snow activities here for everyone!
5. Idyllwild
If you’re looking for a nearby snow escape from Orange County, head to the San Jacinto mountain. This eclectic, artisan town only takes 1.5 to 2 hours to get to by car and is filled with unique shops and experiences that are worth exploring.
While there is no skiing available, there is still plenty of outdoor exploration and fun in this SoCal snow spot to be had, such as taking a hike through the snowy pine trees. A great thing about Idyllwild is that even if there is snow, the weather will be much more moderate.
Where to Stay in Idyllwild
💸 Budget-Friendly: Silver Pines Lodge – 4.7/5 rating
⭐️ Best All-Around: The Creekstone – 9.4-10 rating
🌲 Best Cozy Cabin: Beautiful cabin with a private hot tub – 4.3/5 rating
P.S. Cabins are the way to go here, there are so many cute ones in this area!
👉🏽 Check out more HERE
6. Green Valley Lake
Nestled away in the San Bernardino Mountains, Green Valley Lake is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to break out your mountain bike and explore some of the local trails or want to get the family together for a day of snow play, this amazing lake has it all!
At the same elevation as Big Bear, snow is plentiful in winter. The free snow play areas are conveniently located at the end of Green Valley Lake Road close to the campground.
If you’re looking for more of a thrill, check out Snowdrift, Southern California’s oldest and largest snow tubing park. Or, those looking to ski or snowboard can make their way over to Snow Valley, about a 40-minute drive away.
(Stay in Big Bear or Lake Arrowhead)
7. Lake Arrowhead
If you’re looking for where to see snow in southern California this year, Lake Arrowhead is the perfect destination. Located about 90 minutes from Los Angeles, also situated in the San Bernardino National Forest, this high-altitude lake is the ideal place to relax and explore the natural beauty of California.
With plenty of restaurants to choose from, Lake Arrowhead provides a unique atmosphere that can’t be found elsewhere. For activities in the snow, there’s plenty of hiking, as well as snow tubing and sledding.
While the town of Lake Arrowhead is fantastic, you will still have to head over to Snow Valley – only 30 minutes away – for any skiing and snowboarding.
Where to Stay in Lake Arrowhead
💸 Budget-Friendly: Arrowhead Lake Inn – 8/10 rating
⭐️ Best All-Around: Saddleback Inn – 8.6/10 rating
🌲 Best Cozy Cabin: Treetop Cabin, Modern Luxe – 4.9/5 rating
8. Mount Baldy
Mount Baldy rises over the Angeles National Forest of the San Gabriel Mountains and provides a great destination for outdoor adventurers. It’s a popular snowshoeing location that really brings the stunning beauty of the mountains to life.
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, consider attempting the surf-to-ski challenge (surf in the morning then ski or snowboard in the afternoon), since Seal Beach and Newport Beach in Orange County are only one hour and 20 minutes drive time away!
Besides being an excellent spot for more active travelers, Mount Baldy also provides plenty of value if you’re looking to unwind and relax amidst nature’s gorgeous snowy backdrop.
>>> RELATED POSTS
A Guide to Surfing in Los Angeles
Best Santa Barbara County Surf Spots
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Where to Stay Near Mount Baldy
🌲 Best Cozy Cabin: Mt. Baldy Cottage on Bear Creek – 5/5 rating
9. Mountain High (Wrightwood)
Based in the San Gabriel Mountains, Mountain High is Southern California’s closest winter resort with no mountain driving. This makes it the perfect EASY winter getaway to spend time with family and friends.
Experienced skiers and snowboarders can take your pick from 16 runs or 3 terrain parks for endless fun on the slopes, while kiddos and non-skiers can join in the fun safely within Mountain High’s snow play area.
Where Else to Stay in Wrightwood
⭐️ Best All-Around: Grand Pine Cabins – 9/10 rating
🌲 Best Cozy Cabin: Aery Pines Cabin – 5/5 rating
10. Mount San Jacinto
Mount San Jacinto is a wonderful place to explore and experience more rugged snowy nature. This beautiful area will offer you the chance to explore hiking, snowshoeing, and skiing trails.
NOTE: You will need to carefully plan your journey here, it’s required to fill out a wilderness day-use permit for your adventure and be prepared as the snowbound trails are NOT groomed. Bring along a map, compass, and GPS just in case – always be careful when exploring outdoors!
11. Julian
Julian, located in San Diego County in the Cuyamaca Mountains, is an adorable mountain town with breathtaking scenery and many activities. Whether it’s exploring the rich history of Julian by visiting the site where gold was discovered, savoring some of the famous Julian apple pie, or hiking and picnicking amidst magnificent oaks and pines – there are numerous possibilities for you to create lasting memories here.
During the holiday season, not only can you enjoy the snow and cozy activities, but the town of Julian puts on a season of activities known as “Country Christmas”! Enjoy a range of holiday events such as a holiday lights walk through the Festive Forest or sipping on Victorian Christmas Teas.
Where to Stay in Julian
🌲 Best Cozy Cabin: Charming Cottage Home – 4.9/10 rating
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Does It Snow in Southern California?
– FAQs –
Winters in southern California vary by region. Coastal areas maintain mild temperatures of 50 to 65°F (10-18°C), ideal for beach strolls. In mountainous regions, temperatures will range from 22 to 47°F (-6-8°C) with many days seeing snowfall.
Snow in California is rare in lower elevation and coastal regions due to the generally mild climate. However, it is NOT rare in higher-elevation areas, such as the Sierra Nevada and the San Gabriel Mountains.
Snowfall frequency in California varies widely. While some higher-elevation regions, like the Sierra Nevada and the San Gabriel Mountains, experience regular snow during the winter, coastal areas rarely ever see snow. Overall, snow is infrequent in most parts of the state, but there are certainly places to find snow throughout California.
In California, it does not snow in coastal regions such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco, where winters stay mild. Additionally, the low-lying areas of the Central Valley, including cities like Fresno and Bakersfield, typically experience minimal to no snowfall and have consistently temperate conditions throughout the year.
California’s diverse climate results from its geographical features, including coastal plains, mountain ranges, and deserts. The influence of the Pacific Ocean and warm air currents moderates temperatures, limiting snow to higher elevations. Additionally, fluctuating weather patterns and periodic droughts contribute to the variable snowfall occurrences across the state.
Conclusion: Where to Find Snow in Southern California
Southern California may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of snow, but with a little effort, you can find some great spots to enjoy a winter wonderland. From Big Bear and Wrightwood to Mount Baldy and Snow Summit, there are plenty of options for you to hit the slopes or just play in the snow.
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☀️ California FAQs ☀️
✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to California?
1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible
2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal
❗Is Travel Insurance Required in the U.S.?
No, it’s not.
However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing. It covers some medical as well, which is important in the U.S. due to the high cost of health care.
>>> CLICK HERE FOR INFO
☔️ When Is the Best Time to Visit California?
Summer (June-August) – is the warmest (in some parts it can be pretty hot) but you will have the most crowds. Some parts of the state get “June Gloom” where it can be cloudy during the morning and burn off by mid-day.
Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have the potential of rain, but you will beat some of the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).
🏠 Where Should You Stay in California?
Hotels, vacation rentals, and house-sitting are all available for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are:
• Booking.com
• Vrbo
• Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay)
🌴 Where Can You Find Tours?
I find incredible tours around the world >>> HERE with private and guided group tours of the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.
🚘 Should You Rent a Car in California?
I very highly recommend renting a car in California so you don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! California is fantastic for road trips – there is SO much to see up and down the coast. Plus, sites are often spread far out, even in the cities, so having a car is the most convenient option.
>>> Best car rental rates and deals
