Winter storms have already brought snow and cold temperatures to California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, prompting ski resorts across the state to prepare for the upcoming 2025–2026 season. Several resorts are set to open in mid-to-late November, with Mammoth Mountain leading on November 14, followed by Heavenly, Northstar California, and Sugar Bowl on November 21. Palisades Tahoe is scheduled to open on November 26.
Last winter, California ski resorts averaged a season of about 140 days, which is roughly one quarter longer than the national average for U.S. resorts. In preparation for this season, many resorts have invested in upgrades such as improved restaurants, expanded snowmaking capabilities, more efficient shuttle and parking systems, and new event offerings.
“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.
Fifteen ski resorts across California are introducing various changes:
– Badger Pass in Yosemite will reopen after being closed last winter. The resort offers lessons, rentals, and nearly 100 miles of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. Shuttle service from Yosemite Valley lodgings is available.
– Bear Valley Mountain Resort has added a faster shuttle service from parking areas and updated its dining options at Bear Valley Lodge.
– Big Bear Mountain Resort will provide night skiing at Snow Valley and Snow Summit starting December 13.
– China Peak has introduced new shuttles, a learning area for beginners with an all-inclusive program called “First Turn,” additional food venues, and live music on weekends.
– Heavenly in South Lake Tahoe marks its 70th anniversary with events including the Toyota Air & Après competition and celebrity races. A reservations-based parking system remains in place during busy periods.
– Homewood returns after not opening last year; it plans full lift operations ahead of constructing a new gondola in future seasons.
– Kirkwood has renovated Timber Creek Lodge and continues its reservations-based parking program during peak times.
– Mammoth Mountain invested nearly $9 million in snowmaking improvements. New offerings include camps for older skiers and an expanded adventure summit featuring a dual zip line.
– Mountain High Resort upgraded its snowmaking equipment and refurbished the Discovery Chairlift for better access to beginner terrain.
– Mt. Shasta Ski Park enhanced backcountry cabins with elevated porches for easier access during snowy conditions.
– Northstar California brings back its afternoon slopeside bar tradition (Tōst) and maintains paid parking reservations on busy days; some lots remain free without reservation requirements.
– Palisades Tahoe improved snowmaking capacity and expanded shuttle services. The Apex Club lounge opens this winter along with incentives like vouchers for carpoolers under its parking program. The Rahlves Bonzai Tour freeride race returns after ten years.
– Sierra-at-Tahoe added two new trails that improve access to West Bowl and planted thousands of trees to protect against wind while expanding glade skiing opportunities.
– Sugar Bowl entered phase two of a $100-million development plan that includes restaurant upgrades at Village Lodge Hotel as well as improved locker facilities and terrain parks.
– Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort debuts a newly constructed lodge with better lift access plus family-friendly events throughout the season.
Season passes can offer savings for frequent visitors. Some passes grant access across multiple resorts: Epic Pass covers Heavenly, Northstar California, and Kirkwood; Ikon Pass works at Palisades Tahoe, Mammoth Mountain, June Mountain, Big Bear Mountain Resort, and Sierra-at-Tahoe; Cali Pass provides entry to Bear Valley Mountain Resort, Dodge Ridge, China Peak, and Mountain High.
Opening dates may change depending on weather conditions.
