When you think of Los Angeles, sunny beaches and warm weather might come to mind. However, just a short drive from the city, you’ll find a winter wonderland waiting to be explored. Snowshoeing is the perfect way to experience the serene beauty of Southern California’s mountains during the colder months.
Whether you’re a seasoned snowshoe enthusiast or trying it for the first time, the trails around LA offer something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the best snowshoeing routes near Los Angeles, tips for a successful outing, and how to gear up for your adventure.
Lake Arrowhead – Blue Jay Bay and North Shore Trails
Distance from LA: 80 miles Trail Distance: Varies depending on route Elevation Gain: 300–600 ft Difficulty: Easy to moderate Permit: Adventure Pass required for parking.
Lake Arrowhead’s trails offer a mix of easy, family-friendly routes and more challenging paths. Snowshoeing along the lakeshore provides stunning views of snow-dusted pines and frozen waters.
Why It’s Great for Winter: Beautiful lake views and diverse trails cater to all skill levels.
Tips for Success: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds, and bring traction devices for icy patches.
Wrightwood – Mountain High Resort Trails
Distance from LA: 60 miles Trail Distance: Varies depending on route Elevation Gain: 300–700 ft Difficulty: Easy to moderate Permit: Adventure Pass required for parking.
Mountain High Resort in Wrightwood offers snowshoeing trails for all levels, alongside other snow activities like skiing and snowboarding. The well-maintained routes provide beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.
Why It’s Great for Winter: Convenient facilities, rentals, and family-friendly trails make this a top destination.
Tips for Success: Opt for shorter trails if you’re new to snowshoeing, and take advantage of the resort’s amenities.
San Bernardino National Forest – Snow Valley
Distance from LA: 90 miles Trail Distance: Varies depending on route Elevation Gain: 500–1,000 ft Difficulty: Easy to moderate Permit: Adventure Pass required for parking.
Snow Valley offers some of the most accessible snowshoeing trails near LA, perfect for beginners and families. Surrounded by tall pines, the well-marked trails lead through serene winter landscapes.
Why It’s Great for Winter: Consistent snowfall and beginner-friendly trails make this a go-to spot for new snowshoers.
Tips for Success: Check snow conditions before visiting. Rentals are available nearby if you don’t own snowshoes.
Big Bear Lake – Bear Mountain and Snow Summit Trails
Distance from LA: 100 miles Trail Distance: Varies depending on trail Elevation Gain: 300–800 ft Difficulty: Easy to moderate Permit: Adventure Pass required for parking.
Big Bear Lake is a snowshoeing hotspot, offering trails that showcase stunning lake views and snow-covered peaks. Bear Mountain and Snow Summit are ideal starting points, with routes suitable for all experience levels.
Why It’s Great for Winter: Ample snowfall and well-maintained trails make this a favorite among locals and visitors.
Tips for Success: Rent snowshoes in Big Bear and explore the town’s charming winter activities after your hike.
Angeles National Forest – Crystal Lake
Distance from LA: 50 miles Trail Distance: 4 miles round trip Elevation Gain: ~800 ft Difficulty: Moderate Permit: Adventure Pass required for parking.
Crystal Lake is a peaceful snowshoeing destination with short but rewarding trails. The area’s quiet charm and snowy landscapes make it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude.
Why It’s Great for Winter: The high elevation ensures consistent snow cover.
Tips for Success: There are no services nearby, so pack all essentials, including food and water.
Mount Baldy – Bear Canyon to Icehouse Canyon
Distance from LA: 50 miles TrailDistance: 6–7 miles round trip Elevation Gain: ~1,500 ft Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous Permit: Wilderness permit required (available at the trailhead).
Mount Baldy is a winter wonderland for snowshoers, offering trails with panoramic views and tranquil forest paths. The Bear Canyon trail is scenic and less crowded, while Icehouse Canyon provides a more strenuous ascent with dramatic vistas.
Why It’s Great for Winter: Frequent snowfall transforms the area into a snowy paradise.
Tips for Success: Wear waterproof boots, and bring microspikes for icy sections. Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy quieter trails.
Mount Baldy - Devil's Backbone Trail
Distance from LA: 50 miles Trail Distance: 6 miles round trip Elevation Gain: ~1,000 ft Difficulty: Difficult (for experienced snowshoers) Permit: Wilderness permit required.
For thrill-seekers, the Devil’s Backbone Trail offers narrow ridges and expansive views of snow-capped peaks. The alpine atmosphere and dramatic terrain make this trail a standout winter adventure.
Why It’s Great for Winter: Snow-dusted paths and high-altitude scenery make it unforgettable.
Tips for Success: This trail is for advanced snowshoers. Be prepared for exposed conditions and high winds at elevation.
Mount Gorgonio – South Fork Trail
Distance from LA: 100 miles Trail Distance: 10–12 miles round trip Elevation Gain: ~2,500 ft Difficulty: Difficult (for advanced snowshoers) Permit: Wilderness permit required.
The South Fork Trail to Mount Gorgonio is a challenging adventure for seasoned snowshoers. The trail climbs through high-altitude terrain, offering panoramic views of the San Bernardino Mountains.
Why It’s Great for Winter: Isolated and epic, this trail offers unmatched scenery for those willing to take on its challenges.
Tips for Success: Check avalanche conditions, and prepare for a full-day hike with proper gear and supplies.
From serene lakeside trails to thrilling alpine adventures, the snowshoeing opportunities near Los Angeles offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, these trails will immerse you in the beauty of Southern California’s snowy landscapes.