We live in California and we’re here to tell you about California’s snow. So, does it snow in California? Yes, it does snow in California. California’s weather is often dry, especially in the areas around Los Angeles and San Diego.
However, some places in California experience cold weather and even snow. These may be found throughout the northern and southern regions of California, including San Francisco and the surrounding mountain ranges of the Sierra Nevada.
Average Temperatures In California
The average temperature in California typically varies from 30.2°F (-1°C) to 86°F (30°C) throughout the year. But it is constantly changing depending on the month. The record shows that 39.2°F (4°C) is California’s lowest temperature this year.
Currently, Kirkwood is at the top of the list that gets the most snow during the year. It has a snow score of 82.7 and receives an average of 459 inches of snow during winter.
When Does It Snow In California
During the winter, snowfall may be expected in the northern part of California. It begins in November and continues through February.
You can expect the most snowfall during the months of January and February. The month of November marks the beginning of California’s winter season, which lasts until the end of February.
The snowfall in November and December is low-medium, unlike the snowfall in January and February when it’s heavier. February is usually the snowiest month of winter.
Best Places For Snow In California
There are some places where you can enjoy the snow in California during the winter. These places can be found in both the Northern and Southern parts of California.
Most of these places have activities like snowboarding, skiing, and tobogganing. These cities in California are the most popular during the winter:
- Big Bear Lake
- Lake Tahoe
- Lake Arrowhead
- Yosemite National Park
- Frazier Park
- Mammoth Mountain
- Lassen Volcanic National Park
- Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Best Mountain Resorts In California
During the winter season, snow activities are some of the best things to do and ski and mountain resorts are the best places to do them! The most popular ones are:
Mammoth Mountain
A wonderful winter playground, Mammoth Mountain is bordered by some of the most stunning mountain views in the state.
The mountain resort offers a wide variety of activities for visitors, including skiing and hiking to Mammoth Lakes while taking in the surrounding natural beauty.
Kirkwood Mountain Resort
Kirkwood Mountain Resort is the greatest ski resort in terms of snow quality and advanced terrain.
Both residents and visitors may have a good time at this resort, as it offers a variety of exciting activities to choose from. Some include step-tree runs, challenging cliff jumps, and gnarly Snowcat skiing.
Big Bear Mountain Resort
This resort offers a variety of fun activities, including snowboarding, skiing, and various terrains that are good for beginners to advanced users, while watching Big Bear Lake’s beauty.
Mt. Shasta Ski Park
This ski park is famous for its majestic, life-affirming night skiing activities. You will have a great time enjoying nature on a budget since it is less expensive than any other ski resort nearby.
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Located in Lake Tahoe, Heavenly Mountain Resort is the biggest ski resort in the region. It is known for being the venue of most bachelorette parties since it offers casinos and other activities, such as skiing, to the guests.
What Should I Pack For A California Winter
During the winter, both locals and tourists love to visit California’s national parks and ski resorts. But it’s best to be prepared before visiting these places during the winter.
The most common winter necessities that you need in your bag when packing for a trip to California are full-sleeved tops, pants, jackets, winter shoes, toiletries, and medication.
Make sure to pack winter accessories (hats, gloves, etc.) to help you protect yourself from the harsh weather and activities you do in California.
Tips For Driving In Snow
Snow sometimes leads to disasters on the road. People must be careful while driving to avoid accidents. Follow these tips to keep you away from danger while driving in the snow:
1. Slow Down
Driving on snow reduces the traction of your tires. Drive slowly and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
2. Choose the right vehicle.
When traveling on the road in winter, try to get a vehicle with all-wheel drive and pre-collision braking to avoid any inconvenience while driving.
3. Keep in touch
Letting your family and/or friends know where you are is the best thing you can do during your trips on winter roads.
4. Know how to handle a skid
You will probably experience some slipping when driving on a snowy road. Learn beforehand what to do when your car skids and always remain calm.
5. Pack a winter weather kit
It’s best to prepare a winter kit in your car to be ready when something bad happens on the road. The kit should have a backup phone battery or charger, a blanket, some food, water, a flashlight, a rope, and a radio.
Need a car to get around California? Here’s all you need to know about renting a car in California.
Best Tours In California For Snow
Looking for tours in these snowy California destinations? Check out these top-rated and reviewed tours in Viator:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is snow rare in California?
Some areas in California always experience snow during the winter season. But snow is rare in some areas, mainly in Southern California.
Does it snow in Los Angeles?
The chance of snowfall in Los Angeles is rare. This city only gets heavy rainfall rather than snowfall during the winter months.
How cold does it have to be to snow in California?
For measurable snow to form, ground-level temperatures must be at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or 0 degrees Celsius.
Final Thoughts
Locals and tourists alike love California because of its beautiful weather. Most people know that California is a very sunny place where you can enjoy beaches and picnics at the park.
Yet, it also snows in California and this state offers exciting snow activities that can be experienced on the northern side of the state.
It has some of the best snow resorts in the country so it’s worth checking out the state during the winter season.
