Top 5 Ski Resorts in California for Beginners

When the world thinks of California, they think of beautiful beaches, delicious Mexican food, and Hollywood. However, during the winter season, many Californians choose to escape the sandy shores for a week or two and head to the slopes. Yes, the California mountains host terrains and snowfall that can keep up with the likes of Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming. Not only are the mountains covered with acres of well-groomed trails, they are also home to fantastic eating, shopping, and luxury vacationing. 

California is a big state, and many of its natives have yet to even witness snow. While being a newbie in the community of skiing and snowboarding might seem scary, it’s important to remember that everyone had to start somewhere. There is no need to fear, because among the advanced and intermediate runs in California are the runs that are suitable for beginners. Here are the top ski resorts in California that invite all levels of winter athletes to have fun. 

Bear Valley 

Bear Valley Mountain Resort rests in the central Sierra Nevada mountain range. They have 1,680 acres of terrain divided into three different terrain parks, containing a total of 75 trails. Of the 75 trails, 25% are for beginners, 40% are intermediate, and 35% are advanced. The summit provides awe-inspiring views of the valley at 8,500 feet. Lying nearby is the Bear Valley Village, featuring fine dining, lounges, and specialty cafes. Vacationing is made magnificent with 16 options of modern mountain luxury cabins and lodges located across the slopes of the Sierras.  

Northstar

Northstar California Resort is a fantastic place for all levels and abilities of skiers and riders. Northstar has a total of nine different parks stretching across 3,170 acres of Lake Tahoe mountain terrain. They operate a network of 20 lifts and a total of 100 trails. Of these 100 trails, 16% are suitable for beginner skiers, 47% for intermediate skiers, and 37% for advanced skiers. Massive jumps and smooth jibs are what make the Northstar parks and pipes so amazing. The diversity of skills required to complete the trails promotes a progressive environment for the beginner. Not only are the slopes incredible, but the Village at Northstar provides all of the luxuries you need to vacation comfortably. The Village features movie theaters, food and dining, shops, a luxurious spa, fun child care, ice skating, yoga, and much more. Northstar California Resort also offers several different options for excellent lodging in luxury hotels that deliver countless amenities. 

Heavenly Mountain 

On the south shores of Lake Tahoe resides Heavenly Mountain Resort Skiing, a resort that overlooks the pristine waters of Lake Tahoe. In addition to the beautiful scenic views, visitors can enjoy the two well-groomed terrain parks and 97 trails. Heavenly Mountain keeps each park maintained and suitable for all levels of skiers. 20% of their runs are suitable for beginners, 45% for intermediate, 30% advanced, and 5% for experts alone. Snowmakers and groomers work to maintain the resort’s unparalleled surface conditions with one of the largest snowmaking systems in the entire nation. They also have a staff of instructors who operate a ski school for people looking to learn more about the sport. Heavenly Village has several amazing features, such as fine dining, live performance venues, lounges, and casinos. Lodging options vary with over 30 available magnificent hotels in the South Lake Tahoe region. 

Mammoth Mountain

While the 3,100-foot drop at Mammoth Mountain might scare the average beginner, the truth is that 25% of their 151 trails are actually suitable for beginners. Mammoth Mountain is in Mammoth Lakes, California and rests in the eastern Sierras. Fun winter activities include skiing and snowboarding, snowmobile adventures, tubing, cross-country skiing, and Snowcat tours. They have about 3,500 acres of terrain divided into 13 terrain parks. Mammoth also has several dining options, shops, and events happening every week in the village. Four different hotel properties are available at Mammoth Mountain and each one is stunning. Each hotel has easy ski-in, ski-out access, or snowshoeing and cross-country skiing directly outside. 

Palisades Tahoe

Palisades Tahoe is consistently ranked as one of the best ski resorts in North America. In the High Sierras, Palisades Tahoe offers 6,000 acres of skiable terrain divided into four terrain parks. They also have 270 trails for all levels of skiers and riders, 25% of which rank as beginner difficulty. The summit is registered at 9,050 feet and there is a 2,850-foot vertical drop to the base. Their lift system was simply amazing. According to their website, they have 42 total lifts that have the capacity to transport up to 53,595 people per hour. The average amount of snowfall they see every year is about 450 inches. During the day, one can enjoy snowshoeing, dog sledding, cross-country skiing, the Olympic museum, rock climbing, ice skating, riding snowmobiles and aerial tram rides. A great way to keep the fun going is to try out their night activities. They offer the chance to ski, ride, go snow tubing, and ride mini snowmobiles at night. Palisades Tahoe has tons of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the base village, and the nightlife features traditional bars and restaurants. Try the 4,000-square-foot award-winning spa with a fireplace lounge that serves wine and food, or the yoga studio that offers classes all week. The Lodge in the village offers all kinds of quality rooms that feature outstanding amenities at the heart of the village within walking distance of the shops, entertainment, eateries, and facilities. 

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