I adore a good snow day from time to time but the past few years they have been scarce around Southern California.  For those of you confused, yes, we do have mountains and get snow in the LA area.  The local mountains got about 2′ of snow early last week and I was so eager to get up and play in the powder!  We spent our Sunday at the top of the Palm Springs Tram where we rented snow shoes (so fun!) and enjoyed a Hot Toddy at the lodge before heading back to the desert, it reminded me of winters in Lake Arrowhead playing in the snow for hours on end (minus the hot toddy).  If you are visiting Southern California and looking for other places to get some snow play I suggest:

Palm Springs Aerial Tram – Take the tram from the Palm Springs Valley up to 8,500 feet at the Mountain station.  Once you are on the mountain you can create your own adventure between sledding, taking a walk on the numerous trails, or renting snow shoes or cross country skis to experience the back country.  The best part is ending the day with a Woodland Warmer while taking in the views.

Big Bear – Big Bear is an actual city in the San Bernardino Mountains with a plethora of AirBNB options plus quaint cafes and diners.  There are 2 ski resorts, Bear Mountain and Snow Summit, if hitting the slopes is what you have in mind.

Lake Arrowhead – Same mountains as Big Bear but at an elevation of 5,000 they get less snow than Big Bear.  Plan to spend your day wandering the Lake Arrowhead Village shops in the snow, enjoying Begian Waffles overlooking the lake, or taking a scenic, snowy cruise on the Arrowhead Queen (hot toddy optional).

Happy Travels!

XO, Niki

Jacket // Sweater // Scarf // Jeans // Boots // Bag // Sunnies // Gloves // Beanie