Winter storms have brought early snowfall to California’s Sierra Nevada, setting the stage for the 2025–2026 ski season. Mammoth Mountain is scheduled to be the first resort to open on November 14, followed by Heavenly, Northstar California, and Sugar Bowl on November 21. Palisades Tahoe plans to open on November 26.
Last winter, California ski resorts reported an average season length of 140 days, which is about 24 percent longer than the national average for U.S. resorts. During the off-season, many resorts invested in upgrades including new dining options, expanded snowmaking capacity, improved shuttle and parking systems, and a full calendar of events.
“This year, resorts have even more to offer when people come to the mountains, from new experiences to new amenities and upgrades designed to enhance the guest experience,” said John Rice, Ski California president.
Badger Pass in Yosemite will reopen after being closed last season. Guests can stay at lodgings in Yosemite Valley and take a free shuttle bus to Badger Pass. The resort offers lessons, rentals, and nearly 100 miles of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails.
Bear Valley Mountain Resort has introduced a more efficient shuttle service from parking areas and added features such as electronic lockers and expanded cafeteria seating. Dining venues at Bear Valley Lodge have also been revamped.
Big Bear Mountain Resort’s three locations—Snow Valley, Snow Summit, and Bear Mountain—have seen significant improvements in recent years. This season brings night skiing at Snow Valley and Snow Summit starting December 13.
China Peak near Huntington Lake has invested in new shuttles, a learning area for beginners with an all-inclusive “First Turn” program, two new food venues, and live music every weekend at its day lodge.
Heavenly in South Lake Tahoe marks its 70th anniversary with multiple events including the Toyota Air & Après competition from February 27 through March 1. The resort encourages guests to reserve parking during busy periods.
Homewood on Lake Tahoe’s West Shore reopens this year with all lifts operating after extensive grooming equipment upgrades. Plans are underway for a new gondola in future seasons.
Kirkwood’s Timber Creek Lodge received renovations over the summer aimed at improving guest flow. The resort will continue its reservations-based parking program during peak times.
Mammoth Mountain invested nearly $9 million this year into enhancing snowmaking capabilities. The ski school now offers “Ripping Over 50” camps for older skiers. Woolly’s Adventure Summit expands with a dual zip line attraction.
Mountain High Resort made over $500,000 in improvements including upgraded snowmaking equipment and refurbishment of its Discovery Chairlift serving beginner terrain.
Mt. Shasta Ski Park constructed elevated porches on backcountry cabins for easier access during winter conditions.
Northstar California revives its afternoon Tōst tradition where skiers can enjoy drinks slopeside. Paid parking requiring reservations will be enforced during weekends; however Castle Peak lot remains free daily without reservations.
Palisades Tahoe introduces enhanced snowmaking technology and an expanded app-based shuttle service called Mountaineer. A members-only lounge opens this winter alongside incentives like vouchers for carpoolers under the Carpool 4+ program. The Rahlves Bonzai Tour returns April 10–12 after a decade-long absence.
Sierra-at-Tahoe adds two new trails bringing its total trail count to 50 while planting thousands of trees to improve wind protection and glade skiing opportunities.
Sugar Bowl enters phase two of a $100-million development plan featuring an upgraded dining terrace at Village Lodge Hotel along with additional terrain park expansions and four new grooming machines.
Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort debuts a newly constructed lodge offering improved lift access plus family-friendly events throughout the season such as Ski with Santa on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve Glowstick Parade.
For those planning multiple visits this winter season passes may provide cost savings compared to daily lift tickets. Multi-resort passes include Epic Pass (valid at Heavenly, Northstar California, Kirkwood), Ikon Pass (usable at Palisades Tahoe, Mammoth Mountain, June Mountain, Big Bear Mountain Resort, Sierra-at-Tahoe), and Cali Pass (covering Bear Valley Mountain Resort, Dodge Ridge, China Peak, Mountain High).
