California’s ski season is getting closer, and fresh snowfall has arrived in the Sierra Nevada ahead of the 2026-27 winter season. Mammoth Mountain recorded more than 6 inches of snow at its 11,053-foot summit this week, while several Lake Tahoe ski areas also saw fresh snow, according to SFGATE.
The snowfall comes as resorts prepare to welcome skiers and snowboarders, with the first openings scheduled for November.
When do California ski resorts open?
Several major resorts have announced their projected opening dates for the 2026-27 season. All dates are weather-dependent and may change depending on snow coverage and temperatures.
- Mammoth Mountain: November 13
- Heavenly: November 20
- Northstar California: November 20
- Palisades Tahoe: November 25
- Sugar Bowl: November 27
- Kirkwood: December 4
- June Mountain: December 19
For Southern Californians planning a mountain getaway, Big Bear Mountain Resort has yet to announce opening dates for Snow Summit, Bear Mountain and Snow Valley. The resorts typically begin operating in late November or early December.
What could this winter look like?
The early snow arrives as forecasters anticipate a potentially strong El Niño, which could bring above-average precipitation to California. However, a wetter winter doesn’t necessarily mean more snow on the slopes.
Temperatures will play a major role in determining whether storms bring snow or rain, particularly at lower elevations. The Lake Tahoe area is also expected to experience warmer-than-average temperatures, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s winter outlook.
A strong El Niño alone cannot guarantee an exceptional ski season. The amount of snow will depend on individual storms, freezing levels, and how much precipitation falls as snow rather than rain.
