LA's beaches and city life are great, but who knew you could ski nearby? Just a short drive from downtown, you can strap on skis or a snowboard and hit the slopes. From easy runs for the kids to gnarly terrain for pros, LA's nearby ski spots have something for everyone.
Big Bear Lake's Bear Mountain is a top-notch resort in SoCal. Since the '90s, Bear Mountain has been the place to go for sick terrain parks and freestyle riding. With mostly blue and black runs, Bear Mountain is perfect for skiers and riders who know their stuff. The views from Bear Mountain's 8,800-foot peak are insane, and the runs are as good as any big-name resort.
Need a quick mountain fix? Head to Mt. Baldy. Baldy presents an enticing option. Just an hour from LA, Mt. Baldy is a no-frills mountain with steep runs and hardly any lines. Mt. Baldy might be bare-bones, but that's part of its charm. Mt. Baldy is perfect for LA folks who want to squeeze in some runs without a long road trip.
Mountain High has been around forever, but it's way more than just an old-school ski hill now. Mountain High has three different areas, so there's something for everyone. Newbies hang out at North Resort, while more experienced skiers head to East Resort for longer runs. West Resort is where the pros go for killer terrain parks and tree skiing.
Snow Summit in Big Bear is great for families and beginners, with smooth runs and great snow. With lots of easy and intermediate runs, Snow Summit is perfect for learning or improving your skills. Snow Valley in Running Springs is another family-friendly spot, with lessons and even a sledding hill to which you can ride the lift.
If you're up for a longer drive, check out China Peak or June Mountain. These farther-out resorts are less crowded and surrounded by gorgeous scenery—perfect for a weekend trip. June Mountain is especially chill, with a laid-back vibe that locals love when Mammoth gets too busy.
Mammoth Mountain is the most prominent ski resort in California. Mammoth is huge, high up, and has a super-long season, so you can always find great skiing there. The village at Mammoth is awesome too, with tons of places to eat, shop, and party after skiing.
When winter rolls around, LA folks have many options for snow trips just a few hours away. Whether you want a quick day on the slopes or a whole weekend away, there's a perfect mountain for every skill level near LA. Each resort near LA has its own cool vibe, so you can find your own snowy paradise without going far from the city.