Northern California is known for its always-sunny weather, and a white Christmas is a very rare thing for most folks in the state. But many people don’t know our Golden State does see snow in some parts. If you’re looking for a place in NorCal to go skiing, snowboarding, or picture-taking, check out these five places in Northern California that actually see snow.
- Donner Pass
Bill Couch/Flickr Nestled in the Sierra Nevada, this mountain pass is located just nine miles from the town of Truckee. The Donner Pass is one of the snowiest places in the entire contiguous United States. The Boreal Ski Resort is right nearby for those who want to swish their way down the mountains.
- Bear Valley
Phil King/Flickr Whether you’re a skier, snowboarder, tuber, or just someone who likes to play around in the snow, Bear Valley has something for everyone. Every winter, it attracts tourists from all over California.
- Soda Springs
m anima/Flickr In Nevada County sits this prime winter destination that is well known among NorCal residents. Many California natives likely spent a childhood winter break skiing and sledding on the slopes here. It’s also located very close to Donner Pass, so you can visit both in one trip!
- Echo Lake
USFS Region 5/Flickr This snowy destination is located off Highway 50, not far from the Pacific Crest Trail. You’ll likely find hikers braving the cold to see majestic views, and skiers practicing their swish on the slopes.
Drew Jacksich/Flickr
- Yosemite
farmboyted/Flickr California’s favorite national park can look pretty different at different times of year. Head there in the winter, and there’s a chance you’ll see snow up in the mountains.
There may not be a whole lot of snow in Northern California, but we’d argue that the places that do see snow are pretty spectacular. Want more amazing destinations to visit? Check out these.
Bill Couch/Flickr
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada, this mountain pass is located just nine miles from the town of Truckee. The Donner Pass is one of the snowiest places in the entire contiguous United States. The Boreal Ski Resort is right nearby for those who want to swish their way down the mountains.
Phil King/Flickr
Whether you’re a skier, snowboarder, tuber, or just someone who likes to play around in the snow, Bear Valley has something for everyone. Every winter, it attracts tourists from all over California.
m anima/Flickr
In Nevada County sits this prime winter destination that is well known among NorCal residents. Many California natives likely spent a childhood winter break skiing and sledding on the slopes here. It’s also located very close to Donner Pass, so you can visit both in one trip!
USFS Region 5/Flickr
This snowy destination is located off Highway 50, not far from the Pacific Crest Trail. You’ll likely find hikers braving the cold to see majestic views, and skiers practicing their swish on the slopes.
Drew Jacksich/Flickr
farmboyted/Flickr
California’s favorite national park can look pretty different at different times of year. Head there in the winter, and there’s a chance you’ll see snow up in the mountains.
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