While Southern California is known for its sunny beaches and palm-lined streets, locals and visitors alike often find themselves yearning for a taste of winter wonderland. Fortunately, despite the region's reputation for warm weather, there are several spots where you can experience the magic of snow without venturing too far from home. With all the rain we had here in the Temecula-Murrieta-French Valley areas, the mountains just recently got a bunch of snow!
Make sure to check out the Caltrans website for road conditions before heading to the mountains so you know whether or not you need chains to get to the mountains safely or not.
Don't have Snow Gear (snow boots, snow jacket, snow pants, sled)? A great place to look is on the Facebook Marketplace or ask moms in your local Facebook groups. You may be able to find some gear in your family's sizes for a cheap price or even for free!
Big Bear Lake: Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake is a beloved destination for winter enthusiasts. With its scenic alpine landscape and ample snowfall during the winter months, Big Bear offers a wide range of activities for snow-seekers. From skiing and snowboarding at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain to snowshoeing, sledding, and even snow tubing, there's no shortage of snowy adventures to be had in this charming mountain town.
Mount Baldy: Just a short drive from Los Angeles, Mount Baldy (officially known as Mount San Antonio) is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains and a prime spot for snow lovers. During the winter season, this picturesque mountain offers opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, as well as scenic hiking trails for those looking to take in the snowy vistas.
Mount High: Located in the San Gabriel Mountains near Wrightwood, Mountain High is a popular destination for snow sports enthusiasts of all skill levels. With three separate resorts – East, West, and North – Mountain High offers a variety of terrain for skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing, making it an ideal destination for a day of snowy fun with family and friends.
Idyllwild: Tucked away in the San Jacinto Mountains, the charming mountain town of Idyllwild offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking a snowy escape. With its rustic charm and stunning natural beauty, Idyllwild provides the perfect backdrop for winter activities such as sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Plus, the town's quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants make for a delightful après-ski experience.
You could also head to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway which takes you up to the San Jacinto Mountains where during the winter you can go snow shoeing and sledding.
Lake Arrowhead: Situated in the San Bernardino Mountains, Lake Arrowhead is a scenic mountain resort community known for its picturesque surroundings and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. During the winter months, visitors can enjoy activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing at nearby resorts like Snow Valley and Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park, or simply admire the snow-covered landscape from the comfort of their lakeside cabin.
You could also head to the SkyPark at Santa's Village which is not far from Lake Arrowhead for some fun in the snow.
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Whether you're a seasoned snow sports enthusiast or simply looking to experience the magic of a winter wonderland, Southern California offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the snowy season. So grab your mittens, bundle up, and head to one of these snowy destinations for a memorable winter adventure close to home.
When visiting events and local businesses, be sure to tell them Macaroni KID sent you... and don't forget to tell all your friends!
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