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If, like us, you think of California and you think of A-listers, golden tans and golden beaches (it is The Golden State after all) and maybe the glorious sun-drenched wines of the Napa Valley, we’d not be surprised. But does it snow in California?
Sure, it’s not famous for its wintry landscapes like your Aspens and your Alaskas, but the state has a few climate tricks up its sleeve and is more than just a great place to catch a sunset. Bordering Nevada to the East with its desert climate and Oregon to the North, California has snowy mountain ranges like Mammoth Mountain and plenty of fun that doesn’t require dousing yourself in sunscreen from head to toe. Like any Cali multi-hyphenate, the state too has many personalities.
What part of California gets the most snow?
Where gets the most snow? Northern Cali plays host to the mighty Lake Tahoe with a huge choice of ski resorts as well as Sierra Nevada, a stunning mountain range and national park that boasts the highest snowfall in California on record.
In Southern California, San Bernardino offers up charming historic town and imposing mountain range with yep, snow and skiing (or the typical California sport of hiking) in the winter months of December to March.
Image source:Jörg Angeli / unsplash
Top snow-related activities to experience in California
So now you know there is snow to be found, what should you do in it? Top must-do activities in the golden-yet-snowy state include:
- Making snow angels in Yosemite National Park – it’s not just for kids! Basking in the shadow of the famous El Capitan Mountain, you can enjoy blankets of snow and well, play in it. Don’t take our word for it, the rangers suggest it too.
- Taking in the incredible nature at Sequoia National Park – you shouldn’t really swing by California without going to see some of the tallest trees on planet Earth. In winter the trees are magical and crisp and a great backdrop for your annual Christmas card.
- Ice skating outdoors on Mammoth Lake – romantic, silly or just a good laugh (particularly if you’re not a natural on skates), with the majestic Mammoth Mountains as your view and a crackling real fire afterwards to warm your soul. And hands. Skates can be hired, and you can visit the mountains while you’re there.
- Snowboarding at Big Bear – anywhere called Big Bar Mountain has got to live up to its name, right? Correct. This great resort is known for its epic snowboarding runs and great snow conditions, plus has loads of other fun sports like skiing, snowshoeing and the scenic sky chair if boarding’s not your thing.
And does it snow in LA?
Well, not really. While we never say never, Los Angeles’ almost permanently warm climate (often liken it to that of the Mediterranean) means it’s just too warm to snow. There is however, just one hour’s drive away, the snow-capped mountains of Mount Baldy – real name Mount San Antonio, but pretty much nobody calls him that.
So, while Kim K and family may import snow for their Christmas shindig, someone should point them in the direction of all the neighbouring snow-filled California mountains and save them a few bucks.
Whether you’re a snow bunny or sun chaser, we’re willing to bet there’s a corner of Cali that will have what you need. Trips to California can be a little something for everyone.
Just don’t blame us if you develop an addiction to tacos and start to question your life (don’t say we didn’t warn you!). In the meantime, check out some other fun things to do in California.
