Winter storms have already brought early snow to California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, prompting several ski resorts to announce opening dates for the 2025–2026 season. Mammoth Mountain will open first 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 averaged a season length of 140 days, which is about 24 percent longer than the national average at U.S. resorts. In preparation for this season, many resorts have made upgrades such as improved snowmaking equipment, revamped dining facilities, more efficient shuttle services, and enhanced parking systems.
“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.
At Badger Pass in Yosemite National Park, skiers can return after last year’s closure. Shuttle service from Yosemite Valley lodgings will be available when the resort opens on December 13.
Bear Valley Mountain Resort has introduced a more efficient shuttle system and updated its dining options at Bear Valley Lodge. The Grizzly Lounge now features Cajun-inspired dishes while Creekside Bistro offers a modern steakhouse menu. The resort is scheduled to open on November 28.
Big Bear Mountain Resort continues improvements across its three mountains—Snow Valley, Snow Summit, and Bear Mountain—with night skiing available at Snow Valley and Snow Summit starting December 13.
China Peak near Huntington Lake has invested in new shuttles and a dedicated beginner area with an affordable “First Turn” program. Two new food venues have been added and live music will be featured every weekend once it opens on November 21.
Heavenly in South Lake Tahoe celebrates its 70th anniversary this season with events including the Toyota Air & Après competition from February 27 to March 1. The resort’s anniversary celebration is set for December 20 and other events are planned throughout the winter. Parking reservations are required during busy periods.
Homewood on Lake Tahoe’s West Shore returns after being closed last winter. All lifts will operate as plans continue for a new gondola in future seasons. Homewood opens December 12 with improved grooming equipment and guided terrain access.
Kirkwood has upgraded Timber Creek Lodge and will implement reservations-based parking during peak times. Events include freeride competitions and seasonal celebrations; opening day is December 5.
Mammoth Mountain has spent nearly $9 million upgrading snowmaking capacity this year. New programs include skill camps for older skiers and expanded activities at Woolly’s Adventure Summit. Mammoth opens November 14.
Mountain High Resort invested over $500,000 in snowmaking upgrades and refurbished its Discovery Chairlift serving beginner terrain with views of the Pacific Ocean; opening date is yet to be announced.
Mt. Shasta Ski Park constructed elevated porches for backcountry cabins to improve accessibility; it opens December 12.
Northstar California brings back its afternoon Tōst tradition at East Ridge slope-side bar and continues its paid parking program during peak periods; opening day is November 21.
Palisades Tahoe has improved snowmaking capabilities and expanded its Mountaineer shuttle service. The Apex Club lounge debuts this season with concierge services for members only, while drivers carpooling with four or more passengers receive a $20 voucher under a new incentive program. The Rahlves Bonzai Tour returns April 10–12 after a decade-long absence; Palisades opens November 26.
Sierra-at-Tahoe added two trails this summer—Pika and Skipper—and planted thousands of trees for wind protection while increasing glade skiing opportunities; it reopens November 28.
Sugar Bowl enters phase two of its $100-million development plan with upgraded dining at Village Lodge Hotel and expanded terrain parks among other improvements; it opens November 21.
Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort unveils a new lodge featuring better lift access and expanded facilities along with family-friendly events throughout the season beginning December 19.
For those planning multiple visits this winter, various season pass options provide savings compared to daily lift tickets. Epic Pass holders can access 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 grants entry to Bear Valley Mountain Resort, Dodge Ridge, China Peak, and Mountain High.
