What Are the Best Places for Northern CA Skiing?
From towering redwoods to picturesque vineyards to views of the Pacific Ocean, Northern California has it all. In the colder seasons, this area also offers some of the best terrains for skiing and snowboarding. If you’re a fan of winter recreational activities, then you need to experience Northern CA skiing. We’ve outlined the best spots for skiing in Northern California that are within driving distance from the Courtwood Inn in Murphys, CA.
Our rustic yet elegant Bed & Breakfast, Courtwood Inn, is the perfect place to stay when you are embarking on winter adventures. For a full list of the area’s best restaurants, activities, events, and attractions, take a look at our complimentary Vacation Guide or Guest App.
The Best Spots for Northern CA Skiing
If you want to know where to go skiing in Northern CA, we’ve got you covered. Just keep reading!
Enjoy Top Skiing Options Near Murphys, California during Your Stay
When the fresh powder falls in the Sierra Nevadas, downhill enthusiasts will find plenty of reasons to enjoy skiing resorts found near Murphys, California. This area is loved by outdoor adventurers year-round, but wintertime brings opportunities to hit the slopes in true Northern California style! Between December and March, visitors will find the terrain here prime for everything from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing alike. The good news is you don’t have to be an expert on skis to make the most of the fun. The destinations that offer ski experiences near Murphys come with options to book lessons for newcomers and those who could use a refresher too. Of course, expert skiers will find that these stops offer up just as much in the way of exciting challenges when that’s what you’re looking for. The mountains in this area enjoy ample snowfall seasonally, so having quality winter gear on hand for your outdoor adventures is always recommended. When you’re ready to hit the slopes, this is the place to be!
Bear Valley Resort
Nestled off of Scenic Highway 4, less than an hour drive from Courtwood Inn, you’ll find Bear Valley in the beautiful Central Sierra Nevada Mountains. The summit of the Bear Valley Mountain reaches 8,500 feet and receives an average natural snowfall of 359 inches annually. The terrain at Bear Valley is accessible for beginners, seasoned pros, and everyone in between. 25% of their trails are beginner-friendly, 40% are intermediate, and 35% are advanced or expert. Whatever your level, Bear Valley has everything you need to hit the slopes. You can get season passes (including the Cali Pass that’s also good at Dodge Ridge), lessons, equipment rentals, and lift tickets all in one place. After all of the excitement, grab a bite to eat in one of their eateries, perhaps the Grizzly Lounge.
Dodge Ridge
If it’s a thrill you’re hoping to find, you’ll surely discover it when you make your way to Dodge Ridge for downhill fun this winter. This winter sports area is located in the Stanislaus National Forest on Highway 108 and is an hour and a quarter from Courtwood Inn. It’s a place where challenging terrain is as easy to find as private skiing and snowboarding lessons. Lift tickets can easily be purchased in advance for Dodge Ridge, and the Cali Pass now includes Bear Valley. Plus, guests will find the mountain hosts a variety of exciting trails to discover and dining options too when savory après-ski selections are a top priority.
Sierra-at-Tahoe
If you travel a bit more north towards the Eldorado National Forest and South Lake Tahoe along Highway 50, you’ll find Sierra-at-Tahoe. Sierra-at-Tahoe is recognized as one of the largest Lake Tahoe skiing resort areas. It features 14 chairlifts, a 2000-acre terrain park, and over 2000 feet of vertical land. If you have a desire to ski, snowboard, or tube, this is the place for you. If you’d rather take in the views of picturesque landscape at a slower pace, try snowshoeing. At Sierra-at-Tahoe, you’ll find miles of snowshoe trails that wind through scenic hideaways and pristine alpine mountain environment.
Kirkwood Mountain
Kirkwood Mountain Resort, two hours from Courtwood Inn on Highway 88, is another great stop to add to your must-ski itinerary when you find yourself near Murphys. This ski area has been treating guests to wintertime fun for over 50 years and occupies pristine terrain within the Kirkwood Valley’s National Forest and Wilderness. Kirkwood Mountain boasts 2,000 feet of vertical drop and an impressive 2,300 acres of skiable terrain just waiting to be explored. From newcomer trails to those that skirt cliffs and cornices, it’s a place with something for every skier to enjoy! The average snowfall in this area is 354 inches, meaning there’s no shortage of fresh powder to go around. In total, guests will find 86 trails and 15 lifts to get them where they’re going. The longest trail here runs 2.5 miles while the terrain is split up as 12% for beginners, 30% for intermediate skiers, and the remaining 58% split between advanced and expert runs.
Stop by the Sierra Nevada Adventure Company
No matter where you stop to enjoy a ski adventure near Murphys, you’re going to want to make sure you have quality gear on-hand. The Sierra Nevada Adventure Company is a great local resource for those looking for everything from skis and snowboards to outdoor accessories and winter rentals alike. Whether you’re browsing, renting, or purchasing, it’s a fun place to spend time and a vital visit when you’re preparing to hit the slopes.
Rest Your Head at the Courtwood Inn
As you embark on your skiing adventure, you’ll need somewhere comfortable to rest your head and get a rejuvenating night of sleep. Why not do it in a spectacular cedar lodge? Our peaceful retreat, Courtwood Inn, sits on a tranquil, 5-acre hilltop and is built with our guests’ comfort in mind. Before you hit the hay after your fun-filled day, stop by our daily happy hour, which is complimentary in our Signature rate. We’ll be serving up artisanal cheeses, crackers, and fruit along with local California wine. Then, as you gear up for your day of snowy excursions, fuel up with a two-course breakfast in our dining room. Each breakfast begins with the wonderful aroma of fresh brewed, locally roasted coffee made especially for us by Gold Country Roasters. Then, you’ll be treated to a fruit course followed by either a sweet or savory breakfast entrée.
If you’re a nature lover, you can’t go wrong with our Davis Cup Room. This room comes with an additional entrance off the lower level private patio, making it the perfect spot to enjoy the view of the forested foothills. You’re sure to enjoy the fine detail to decorations, such as the cherry wood sleigh bed adorned in a light mint colored comforter. If you’re ready to start planning your next getaway to Northern California and desire to stay in the charming town of Murphys, check our availability today and book your favorite room or suite. We can’t wait to meet you!
