Best Places to See Snow Near Los Angeles
Most people don’t associate Los Angeles with snow—sunshine, sure. Traffic? Definitely. But snow near Los Angeles? That’s the kind of contradiction Southern California specializes in. In less time than it takes to get through a Starbucks drive-thru on Sunset, you can leave behind palm trees and find yourself throwing snowballs, skiing down fresh powder, or sipping cocoa in a pine-scented mountain town.
Yes, snow near Los Angeles is real—and surprisingly accessible. Whether you’re craving a winter wonderland day trip or a quick weekend escape, this guide will take you to the best snowy spots just a short drive from the city of eternal summer.
Best Places to See Snow Near Los Angeles
Finding snow near Los Angeles might seem daunting, especially when the city is known for its sunny and warm weather.
However, there are actually a few great spots where you can experience a snowy winter wonderland just a short drive away from the metropolitan area.
1. Angeles Crest in the San Gabriel Mountains
If you’re an East Coaster living in Los Angeles, as I am, Angeles Crest, located in the Angeles National Forest, is the first place you go to see snow after moving to LA when you still miss it. I took my daughter here to see snow as soon as she was old enough to enjoy sledding.
Located about 17 miles from Pasadena, CA (yes, it’s amazing how close Angelenos are to snow), the drive is on the scenic and winding Los Angeles Crest Highway. If you find the right hill, there is sledding to be done! Just look for all the other excited LA natives with their sleds.
If you want to avoid the crowds, head further up the mountain, but remember to put chains in the car, just in case.
You can enjoy a scenic drive or hike through the snow-covered trails. Accessible through Interstate 5, this beautiful snowy landscape is a perfect spot for your winter adventures.
2. Idyllwild in the San Jacinto Mountains
Located just a few hours southeast of LA, this relaxed mountain town offers an excellent weekend escape from the city.
Unlike other resort-based LA mountain communities, it’s less developed and corporate, with a more laid-back vibe. You’ll find plenty of cultural activities, natural wine, local craft beer, and independent art. Plus, there are outdoor winter activities like hiking, sledding, and snowshoeing.
While visiting Idyllwild, don’t forget to explore the quaint shops and local cuisine in the village.
3. Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada Mountains
Yosemite, California’s most-visited national park, is renowned for summer activities like hiking, climbing, and swimming in the always-chilly Merced River.
However, winter in Yosemite is underrated. From snowboarding to snowshoeing, there are plenty of snow activities. With picturesque snow-capped peaks and majestic waterfalls, Yosemite is an ideal destination for unforgettable winter moments.
The Yosemite Valley’s stunning granite walls take on added beauty under a soft snow cover, and hiking becomes a thrilling adventure on icy trails.
The off-season tranquility brings fewer visitors and more opportunities for contemplative nature appreciation, as well as increased wildlife sightings, including black-tailed deer, hawks, hares, and coyotes.
4. Big Bear
Big Bear, about 2 hours east of Los Angeles, is where my daughter learned to ski. It’s a popular destination for Angelenos looking fit in a quick day of skiing, and makes an excellent day trip from Los Angeles.
The area offers two popular ski resorts, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, both providing ample options for skiing and snowboarding.
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain offers snow tubing.
Big Bear Lake offers many snowy activities, restaurants, and places to stay centered around the mountains and the lovely Big Bear Lake.
5. Mt. Baldy Resort on Mt. Baldy
Mt. Baldy Resort, just an hour from LA (though potentially longer in traffic), offers a short commute to the chairlift from most parts of the city.
It boasts excellent natural terrain after storms, although it typically opens later in the season due to its lower base elevation.
With more skiable acres than Mountain High, it’s ideal for beginners.
Families visiting the mountain can also enjoy scenic chairlift rides starting at $25 and weekend snow tubing for $58, perfect for non-skiers.
6. Mountain High in Wrightwood
Mountain High ski resort, just a 1.5-hour drive from LA near Wrightwood, attracts many Southern Californians seeking a convenient snowy getaway and a quick skiing fix.
With its convenient location in the San Bernardino Mountains, Mountain offers a variety of trails suited for beginners and advanced skiers alike.
They offer flexible lift ticket options, including half-day (12–4 p.m., $94-$109), full-day (8:30 a.m.–4 p.m., $109-$119), and even nighttime skiing on weekends (5–10 p.m., $49–$59).
If skiing isn’t your preference, you can still indulge in adventure with zip-lining or enjoy some retail therapy at nearby antique shops.
Nearest Snow to Los Angeles: Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find snow close to Los Angeles?
You can find snow near Los Angeles at locations like Mount Baldy, the closest snow play area to the city. Another popular destination is Big Bear, located in the San Bernardino Mountains.
Which mountains near LA have snow?
Mountains near LA that have snow include Mount Baldy, Big Bear, and Mammoth Mountain. These locations offer skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and other snow-related activities.
What are some snow play options near Wrightwood?
Wrightwood, about 75 miles northeast of Los Angeles, is home to Mountain High Resort. The resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and other snowplay options, making it an excellent destination for winter fun.
How can I get to Mt. Baldy for snow activities?
To reach Mt. Baldy for snow activities, you must drive or find transportation from Los Angeles. Check the Mt. Baldy website for information on current conditions, lift ticket prices, and directions.
Which part of Southern California experiences snowfall?
Snowfall in Southern California is typically found in the higher elevations of the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains, like Mount Baldy, Big Bear, and Mammoth Mountain.
Any snowy destinations near Northern California?
Yes, Northern California also has snowy destinations such as Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park. These locations offer a variety of winter activities, from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and ice skating.
Final Thoughts: Snow Near Los Angeles
While living in Los Angeles, you might not expect to encounter snow just around the corner. But surprisingly, there are several places nearby, as you can see from the above list, where you can indulge in some fun-filled winter activities.
The adage is true: in California, you can surf and ski on the same day.
Read More About California
- The Best Private San Francisco to Napa Tour
- Napa Valley in the Fall
- The Catalina Island Ferry: Everything You Need to Know
- Cheapest Way to Get to Catalina Island
- How to Plan a Road Trip in 19 Steps
- Renting a Golf Cart on Catalina Island
California Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance for California?
100% YES! – With basic coverage averaging $1.50 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from SafetyWing, one of the biggest names in travel insurance. (Read more)
💦 Can you drink the water in California?
Yes — But I wouldn’t. It doesn’t taste very good and there are contaminants in it. You’ll want to buy a Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters drinking water while on the go (traveling) and helps keep you hydrated.
🚙 Is it safe to rent a car in California?
Yes — Renting a car in California is one of the best ways to explore this vast, awesome state, and kind of a must! I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local California companies, so you get the best rates. (read more)
🏨 What’s the best way to book my California accommodations?
For California hotels, Booking is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World. If you’re considering a California Airbnb, don’t forget also to check VRBO, which has better rates than Airbnb.
🧳 What do I pack for California?
Head to the Ultimate California Packing List to get all the information you need about packing for a trip to California.
🛫 What’s the best site to buy airfare to California?
For finding cheap California flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
