The Closest Snow Day To L.A. Is Only 60 Minutes Away — Here’s How To Go Skiing And Snowboarding Without A Major Road Trip

Los Angeles may be known for its nearly perennial sunny weather, but it turns out you don’t have to plan a major road trip to experience a winter snow day. Nearby Mount Baldy , the highest point in the San Gabriel Mountains, is easily visible from many locations in L.A. It’s also a popular and convenient winter destination for anyone who wants to lean into the spirit of the season — and you cna reach it in just an hour by car. Have you ever made the drive out to Mount Baldy? Keep reading to learn more. Winter activities at Mount Baldy -------------------------------- Mt. Baldy offers a mix of snow play, alpine activities, and dining centered around Mt. Baldy Resort. After enjoying a scenic 20-minute ride on the Sugar Pine Chairlift to the 7,800-foot Top of the Notch Area, guests can enjoy a range of attractions and recreation. The All-Day Snow Play Park is a popular option, providing all necessary equipment, including sleds and snow tubes. When conditions allow, the resort also opens up its lifts for skiing and snowboarding. The Sugar Pine Chairlift also gives visitors direct access to the popular Top of the Notch restaurant , serving a range of deliciously hearty food, including burgers and craft beer. It’s worth the trip just to enjoy a cozy meal with beautiful panoramic views of the Inland Empire and the surrounding San Gabriel Mountains. Some guests also take advantage of Mt. Baldy’s non-resort, backcountry snow play areas , such as the ones near Manker Flat. These free snowy landscapes are open to the public, but you’ll need a National Forest Adventure Pass for parking. Of course, Mt. Baldy is also a major destination for serious hiking and mountaineering. While the 10,064-foot summit is a popular challenge in the summer, winter conditions require proper gear and mountaineering experience. Some trails are also still closed due to recovery efforts from the 2024 Bridge Fire. Visiting Mount Baldy in 2025 ---------------------------- Even though Mount Baldy is easy to reach from L.A., it is an alpine area prone to icy and snowy conditions. Visitors are recommended to check the latest road conditions via the Caltrans Quickmap, and always carry chains even if you have a 4WD or AWD vehicle. Winter passes are now available for skiing and snowboarding at Mt. Baldy during the 2025-2026 season. 🌐 Learn more : Mt. Baldy Resort Source: https://secretlosangeles.com/mount-baldy-california-closest-alpine-escape-los-angeles/