Where to Ski Near Los Angeles

Los Angeles is known all too well for its entertainment culture, miles of beaches, warm weather, and great food and drink scene. But what you might not think of L.A. for is its access to skiing. In as little as an hour, depending traffic and where you are in the city, you can swap your surfboard for skis to enjoy a powder day on the slopes. This makes it possible to begin your day on skis or a snowboard and end your day on a surfboard.

While most people fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), you’ll be even closer to ski resorts if you fly into Burbank (BUR) or Ontario (ONT). Without further ado, let get to our list of ski resorts near Los Angeles.

Where To Ski Near Los Angeles, California

Mt. Baldy Resort

Just 55 miles from Los Angeles, Mt. Baldy offers a rugged, no-frills ski experience that’s a perfect day or weekend trip. While it has a small learning zone, it stands out for its rugged terrain, including steep bowls and dramatic chutes. Served by four lifts, Mt. Baldy has 600 skiable acres and a vertical of 2,100 feet, all tucked into the stunning San Gabriel Mountains. In between laps, enjoy a drink at Top of the Notch, sitting at 7,800 feet at the top of Chair 1, and featuring incredible views of the Inland Empire and even the Pacific Ocean on a clear day. Mt. Baldy is a good day trip ski destination considering how close it is to L.A. Before you head back to the city, however, enjoy après in the charming Mt. Baldy Village. Note: Mt. Baldy doesn’t get the snow of some of California’s more well-known destination ski resorts, so check their website for the latest operating schedule.

Mountain High

Mountain High is 80 miles from Los Angeles, serving as one of Southern California’s most accessible and popular ski destinations. The resort is split across three distinct areas—North, West, and East—and features 1,600 of vertical accompanied by a summit elevation of 8,200 feet. Nearly 60 trails wind throughout the mountain, providing a mix of terrain parks, groomers, alpine meadows, and steep slopes that accommodate every type of skier and rider. Reliable snowmaking systems help ensure coverage all season long. Bonus: Mountain High is the only Southern California ski resort with night skiing seven nights a week.

Big Bear Mountain Resort

Bear Mountain blends creative, freestyle‑driven terrain with a lively, youth‑centric mountain culture. Sitting above Big Bear Lake—about 100 miles from Los Angeles—the resort tops out at 8,805 feet and delivers roughly 1,665 feet of vertical. It’s best known for one of Southern California’s strongest terrain‑park lineups, with progressive features, innovative setups, and a scene that consistently draws snowboarders and park‑focused skiers. Combine visits to its sister resorts, Snow Valley and Snow Summit, for an epic week-long trip.

Snow Valley

Snow Valley is one of Southern California’s most approachable and easygoing ski areas, offering a relaxed mountain vibe just 85 miles from Los Angeles. Recently revitalized under new ownership, the resort features a peak elevation of 7,841 feet, 32 trails, and 1,041 feet of vertical. Here, guests will find a mix of beginner‑friendly runs, long cruisers, and mellow glades that make it ideal for new and progressing skiers and families. Its dependable snowmaking and uncrowded feel give it a welcoming, old‑school charm. Off the slopes, charming nearby communities, like Lake Arrowhead, make it easy to make a whole weekend of it.

Snow Summit

Snow Summit, Big Bear’s other sister mountain, delivers a polished, family‑friendly feel and features some of the region’s best groomed terrain. Located just outside of Big Bear Lake, about 99 miles from Los Angeles, Snow Summit features a peak elevation of 8,200 feet and roughly 1,200 feet of vertical drop. While everyone will find something to love, its extensive network of wide cruisers are well suited to intermediate skiers. Snow Summit’s modern lift system and reliable snowmaking helps keep conditions consistent throughout the season, while the sunny, laid‑back vibe, and convenience to the town of Big Bear, makes it a favorite for day trippers and weekend warriors alike.

Mammoth Mountain

While Mammoth isn’t nearly as close to L.A. as the other ski areas on this list, no roundup of drivable ski trips would be complete without featuring one of California’s biggest and snowiest resorts. Located a few hours north of Los Angeles (without traffic), it’s far enough to feel like a true mountain road trip yet still close enough for a long weekend escape. Featuring a towering summit of 11,053 feet, 178 trails, and a sprawling 3,500+ acres of terrain, Mammoth is an absolute winter playground, with everything from wide‑open bowls and steep chutes to playful tree runs and world‑class terrain parks. Its high elevation and long season—often stretching into late spring or even early summer—make it one of the most reliable snow-sure destinations in the West.

June Mountain

While you’re at Mammoth, don’t miss June Mountain, located just a half-hour north. June is the locals’ mountain, home to roughly 2,590 feet of vertical and 41 trails. It’s a particularly great ski area for beginners and intermediates who want room to roam without the crowds. Long groomers, playful tree runs, and stunning views of the June Lake Loop give the mountain a relaxed, laid-back feel that sets it apart. Off the slopes, the village of June Lake adds to the charm with its alpine lakes, cozy lodges, local cafés, and slower pace of life.

Hero Image ©Cody Mathison