If it ever snows in the city of Los Angeles, it'll either be a freak event or a sign of some seriously dangerous global climate change. But that doesn't have to mean you go all winter without touching any snow. There are plenty of opportunities for fake snow in the city, from parks and special events to faux-flurries at shopping malls or even the zoo, but when you're ready to bundle up and get the real thing, here are the best places to explore within a quick drive.
The area surrounding Lake Arrowhead offers extensive opportunities for outdoor winter recreation. For skiing or snowboarding, check out Snow Valley Mountain Resort. To make your snow day adventure as magical and holiday-perfect as possible, you can’t beat a quick detour to the Skypark at Santa’s Village.
Driving up a snowy mountain is cool and all, but zooming up a mountain in a glass tram, taking in soaring views from every direction is even better. When you arrive at the 8,516-foot elevation, you’ll be treated to pristine scenery of the San Jacinto Mountains, which you can explore by snowshoe or on foot. There are areas for family snow play and facilities for overnight snow camping if you’re of particularly hearty stock.
Lots of areas around Big Bear are designated for skiing (Snow Summit, Big Bear Ski Resort), but if you just want to get your boots wet playing in some snow, the Big Bear Snow Play area will fit the bill. Grab an inflatable tube for low-key sliding; after dark on weekends they turn on colored lights for "glow tubing." Don’t worry about trudging back up after each run, either. They offer a lift service that scoots you up to the top through a clear, enclosed tube.
This small, mountain town doesn’t allow skiing or snowboarding facilities, so you can focus on a more relaxed, quaint winter experience. Walk around the pine and cedar trees, duck into a cute shop or restaurant and enjoy a day of escape from your usual busy lifestyle.
At less than 90 minutes from Downtown L.A., Mount Pinos might offer the closest area for casual snow play, if you catch the weather on the right day. There may not be a thick layer of powder like you’ll find at the higher elevations or manicured ski resorts, but you can get in your glimpse of winter here.
Wrightwood is a charming mountain community in the San Gabriel Mountains, with snowy peaks and tall trees. The town itself offers places to eat and explore, hike around the Angeles National Forest, or make your way a bit outside to the Mountain High resort for skiing, snowboarding and other snow activities.
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