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Does It Snow In California? Find Out How Much, When and Where

Does it snow in California? If that’s what you’re wondering, you’re about to find the answer.

does it snow in California

California is one of the most beautiful states in the USA. It’s also a great place to visit during your winter holiday.

There are plenty of fun things to do in California. I mean, the state is home to both Hollywood and Disney World which is exciting enough as it is.

However, is California the best place to find a winter wonderland? Let’s find out!

Does it Snow in California?

So, let’s answer the question that we’re all asking. Does it snow in California? Well, it completely depends on where you go.

Some areas in California experience snowy seasons while others don’t. Unfortunately, the majority of California is too hot for snow.

This is primarily due to the fact that it has a famous coastline. However, there are still a few places where you can go to see snow in California.

So, let’s start looking at some of these winter wonderlands.

Does it Snow in Southern California?

does it snow in California

Is Southern California the place where you can find your winter wonderland? The good news is that it is!

Although it doesn’t snow in all parts of Southern California, the region still experiences up to 60 inches of snow per year.

So, when does it snow in Southern California? You are most likely to see snow if you visit Southern California during January and February.

So, unfortunately, you won’t be able to have a white Christmas like you’d see in the movies since you aren’t likely to encounter any snow during December.

However, you’ll still be able to have a snowy holiday if you stay in Southern California until January. So, don’t get disheartened just yet.


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Where Does it Snow in Southern California?

1: Big Bear Lake

does it snow in California

If you’re looking for a snow-filled holiday, be sure to make a pit stop at Big Bear Lake.

This is a truly magical place during winter. The snow falls thick enough for you to build a snowman or have snowball fights with your family and friends.

On top of that, the lake freezes over which is great for those who want to do some ice fishing. Just be sure to tread carefully.

The ice might be thin in some areas and you don’t want to crash into the freezing water below. Big Bear Lake receives more than 60 inches of snow per year.

So, get your sleds and snow shoes ready if you plan of visiting this winter wonderland. You’ll stand in awe at the beauty of the snow-covered forests and icy lakes.

If you’re looking for a place to stay near Big Bear Lake, you can rent a cabin to stay in.

The cabins are warm and cozy on the inside. So, at least you’ll have a place to warm up after waking through the snow.

2: Frazier Park

FRAZIER PARK

If you love mountains as much as I do, you simply have to visit Frazier Mountain when it snows.

The mountain is a sight to behold when it isn’t covered in snow. However, it turns into an awe-striking spectacle during winter when it starts to snow.

You can grab your snow boots and hike up the mountain to reach the “peak” of excitement during your holiday.

The higher you climb, the colder it gets, and the colder it gets, the more it snows. Frazier Mountain is located inside Frazier Park which is a small town.

The town itself receives snow, but not enough for those who want to build snowmen.

If you’d like to see the snow while visiting Frazier Park, you need to climb up Frazier Mountain.

Otherwise, you can also hike up Mount Pinos which also receives heavy snowfall.

Are you looking for a place to rejuvenate your energy while you explore the snowy mountains in Frazier Park?

If you are, you can head over to Chula Vista Campground. Here, you’ll encounter enough snow to even go snow sledding or snowboarding.

The facility has a variety of campsites available where you can pitch your tent and rest for the night.

Otherwise, you can stay at the Los Padres National Forest campgrounds if Chula Vista isn’t what you’re looking for.

The options are endless and the snow is limitless!


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3: Idyllwild

When does in snow in California

You’re going to go wild when you see Idyllwild in the winter! This is another town in California that receives quite a lot of snow.

As a matter of fact, many people go skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing in Idyllwild. Idyllwild is the perfect place for those who want to have a white Christmas just like you’d see in the movies.

The small town receives roughly 60 inches of snow per year. This means that snowball fights aren’t out of the question.

Since Idyllwild is a mountain town, you can expect to see lovely views of the snow-covered mountains.

Just be sure to bring along some warm clothes since the temperature can quite literally become freezing.

If you’re looking for a cozy place to rest your head and warm your feet, Idyllwild Inn is the way to go.

The inn has cozy rooms and friendly hosts that will make your stay pleasant. On top of that Idyllwild Inn also has free wifi.

So, you’ll be able to share your winter experience on social media. You won’t even need to worry about running out of data.

4: Green Valley Lake

does it snow in California?

Green Valley Lake is another small town in Southern California that you simply have to visit.

The town is beautiful enough as it is in the summer when the grass is green and flowers blossom.

However, it becomes even more of a sight to behold during the winter season.

You’ll see lush trees that are laden with snow as well as snow-covered roofs and pavements.

During the snowy season, Green Valley Lake also freezes over which makes it the perfect place to go ice fishing.

You can glide down the town’s snowy hills or watch the snowflakes dance in the breeze while you sip away at a warm cup of coffee. T

he town receives roughly 25 inches of snow per year. So, you’ll definitely be able to get the full winter package in Green Valley Lake.

Are you looking for a luxurious way to rest your head while you prepare for the next day’s activities? If you are, be sure to book a room at Sleepy Forest Resorts.

This is a 3-star hotel that won’t let you down. There are beautiful rooms for you to stay in that are guaranteed to make you feel at home.

Measures are also taken to ensure that the interior of your room is fully protected from the cold. Plus, you’ll be living right by Green Valley Lake.

What a bonus!

5: Wrightwood

does it snow in California

Does it snow in California in the mountain town called Wrightwood? It sure does!

As a matter of fact, you’ll find quite a lot of snow in this town.

Wrightwood receives an average of 64 inches of snow per year which makes it the perfect winter wonderland.

You can engage in a variety of winter activities in this town. As a matter of fact, Wrightwood is home to one of the best ski resorts in California.

So, if you’re looking for snow and fun, Wrightwood is the way to go. You can brave the snowy hills by going on a skiing adventure.

Otherwise, you can try making some snow angels. The options are endless in this winter wonderland.

Does it Snow in Northern California?

When does in snow in California?

So, does it snow in California in the Northern regions? The short answer is yes. However, it depends on which towns you decide to visit.

Northern California is popularly known for its snow and snow sports.

As a matter of fact, this region of California experiences more snowfall than the Southern regions of California.

That’s what makes Northern California the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a winter wonderland.

You can go skiing, snowboarding, or have snowball fights.

There will definitely be enough snow for those who want to build snowmen or participate in other winter sports.

So, in a nutshell, if you’re looking for snow in California, Northern California is the perfect holiday destination for you.


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Where Does it Snow in Northern California?

1: Kirkwood

Skiers enjoying the lovely snow slopes

Are you still asking: “does it snow in California?” If you are, you simply have to make a pit stop in Kirkwood.

There is plenty of snow in Kirkwood. As a matter of fact, Kirkwood is considered to be the snow capital of California.

This means that it snows more in this town than it does anywhere else.

Due to the high levels of snowfall, Kirkwood is also known as a top destination for winter sports.

So, if you want to go skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, or engage in other winter sports, you can find all of that and more at Kirkwood.

Do you need a warm place to stay in this snowy town? If you do, be sure to book your stay at The Mountain Club By Kirkwood Resort.

This is a 3-star resort that is situated right next to spectacular mountain views.

The best part is that you’ll get to see breathtaking views of snow resting on the mountaintops. How awesome is that?

2: Mount Shasta

where does it snow in California

Mount Shasta

There’s nothing better than snowy mountain views. Thankfully, you can get that and more at Mount Shasta.

his is a breathtaking mountain that reaches high elevation levels. This means that the mountain is laden with snow during the winter season.

You can put on your snowshoes and take a hike up the mountain if you want to get closer to the snow.

Otherwise, you can take in the beautiful views from the bottom of the mountain. Don’t worry. There will still be snow at the bottom of the mountain.

So, even if you don’t climb the mountain, you’ll still be able to build your snowman at the bottom. Did I mention that Mount Shasta is a volcano?

A snowy volcano might sound a bit contradictory, but it’s still a unique sight to behold. Mount Shasta experiences snowfall between November and April.

So, be sure to schedule your trip accordingly if you don’t want to miss out on your snowy adventure.

There are a few great places to stay that are near Mount Shasta. Mount Shasta Resort is probably the best way to go.

This is a 3-star resort that will give you all of the luxuries you need. The resort even has its own spa for those who are looking for some pampering.

The rooms are warm and cozy and have heating systems to protect you from the cold. Plus, you’ll get to see breathtaking mountain views from the resort.

What more could you ask for?

3: Lake Tahoe

Does it snow in California

If you’re familiar with Northern California, you’ve probably heard of Lake Tahoe.

However, did you know that it turns into a winter wonderland between November and April? It sure does!

As a matter of fact, Lake Tahoe is one of the most popular destinations for those who are interested in winter sports.

This means that you can go on a snowy hike, a skiing adventure, or a snowboarding adventure. You can even make some snowballs or do some ice fishing in the lake.

Lake Tahoe is a sight to behold during the winter season. The lake freezes over and the trees are covered in snow.

It actually looks like something that you’d find in a fairytale movie.

Visiting the lake and taking in the breathtaking views is an adventure in itself that you can’t afford to miss out on.

Now, where can you stay if Lake Tahoe is on your holiday bucket list?

Granlibakken Tahoe is a great place to start if you’re looking for accommodation that comes with a touch of luxury.

This is also a 3-star hotel. So, it might not be one of the most budget-friendly options out there.

However, it does have state-of-the-art rooms, beautiful interior décor, and a spa where you can spoil yourself.

If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation, you can rather book your stay at America’s Best Value Inn Lake.

This one may not be as luxurious, but you’ll still get free parking. You’ll also be close to Lake Tahoe which is a bonus!

4: Yosemite National Park

when does it snow in California

Here’s one for all of the adventure junkies out there. Yosemite National Park receives a lot of snow during the winter season.

That’s why it became one of the top tourist destinations for winter activities. You can hike through the snow with your family and friends.

Just be sure to dress warmly so you don’t freeze to death. Skiing is also a popular activity at Yosemite National Park.

So, remember to bring along your skis if you’re looking for an epic winter adventure in Northern California.

Yosemite National Park encounters snow from November to May. So, be sure to schedule your trip during these months if you want to see this winter wonderland.

There are plenty of fun things to do in Yosemite National Park. Especially when it’s snowing.

Naturally, you’ll need a place to relax and get some rest after an adventurous day out.

White Wolf Lodge is the perfect option if you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation. As an added bonus, you’ll have access to free wifi.

This means that you’ll get to upload pictures of your trip to Facebook to show off to your friends. It’s also a very cozy place to stay.

So, be sure to book your room before somebody else does!


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5: Lassen Volcanic National Park

Walking on the snow in snow gear

Northern California seems to love its snowy volcanoes.

So, if you would like to have fun in the snow and see a volcano, be sure to head over to Lassen Volcanic National Park.

The park has plenty of trails where you can hike through the snow while taking in the stunning views that surround you.

On top of that, Lassen Volcanic National Park experiences high levels of snowfall.

So, if you’re looking for a place that has enough snow to build some snowmen or have a snowball fight, this is also the perfect place to be.

If you’re looking for an extra touch of adventure, you can go cross-country skiing. Otherwise, you can go snowshoeing.

If you’re still looking for more adventure, you can add snowboarding to your to-do list. The options are endless.

So, if you’re looking for a winter wonderland that comes with scenery and thrill, Lassen Volcanic National Park is the way to go.

Besides, who doesn’t want to see a volcano that is laden with snow? Are you looking for places to stay near Lassen Volcanic National Park?

There are quite a few options available. However, in my opinion, Highlands Ranch Resort takes the cake.

The resort has a farm-like atmosphere with cozy cabins and rooms that you can rent for the night.

On top of that, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.

The best part is that the mountains will be covered in snow which will add to the spectacle. It’ll be like a holiday within a holiday.


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Conclusion

So, does it snow in California? It sure does! As a matter of fact, there is quite a lot of snow to be found in California.

You can visit Northern California if you’re looking for a winter wonderland where you can participate in epic winter sports.

Otherwise, you can visit Southern California for breathtaking mountain views. Are you ready for your snowy holiday? I sure am!