Looking for the ultimate winter getaway that blends breathtaking scenery with thrilling outdoor sports? The Yosemite ski and snowboard season is your ticket to unforgettable alpine adventures. Nestled in the heart of California's Sierra Nevada, Yosemite National Park offers a pristine backdrop for snow-filled fun, whether you're carving fresh powder at Badger Pass or gliding cross-country through frosty forests. From family-friendly tubing to backcountry ski tours with panoramic views, every cold-weather explorer will find something to love.
At The National Park Shops, we’re passionate about helping adventurers discover the best ways to experience each season in America’s most iconic parks. That’s why we’ve crafted this in-depth guide to the top Yosemite ski and snowboard activities to try. Read on to find out how to gear up, where to go, and why winter in Yosemite might just be the best-kept secret in the Sierras.
Overview of Yosemite Ski & Snowboard Area
Yosemite National Park transforms into a snow-covered wonderland each winter, drawing snow lovers from around the world to experience its iconic Yosemite ski and snowboard adventures. At the center of this winter playground is Badger Pass Ski Area, one of the oldest ski resorts in California and the only one located entirely within a national park. This charming, low-key destination offers downhill runs for beginners and intermediates, alongside access to serene cross-country routes and snowshoe trails. The Yosemite ski and snowboard offerings are framed by sweeping Sierra Nevada vistas, giving every descent and glide a cinematic backdrop. With friendly staff, well-maintained facilities, and an unhurried atmosphere, it’s a destination that embraces both excitement and tranquility in equal measure.
10 Winter Activities in Yosemite National Park
Looking to make the most of the Yosemite ski and snowboard season? Whether you're new to snow sports or a seasoned pro, Yosemite National Park offers a wide range of thrilling activities framed by breathtaking alpine scenery. From the gentle slopes of Badger Pass to backcountry adventures and serene cross-country routes, there's something for every snow lover to enjoy.
Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding at Badger Pass
Downhill skiing and snowboarding at Badger Pass Ski Area is the flagship winter experience in Yosemite National Park, drawing visitors with its ideal mix of accessibility, scenery, and affordability. The resort encompasses over 90 acres of skiable terrain and features 10 designated runs that accommodate both new learners and those with intermediate skills. What sets the Yosemite ski and snowboard experience here apart is the consistently well-groomed trails and a friendly, inclusive vibe that welcomes individuals and families alike. Badger Pass stands out for its relaxed pace and lack of overcrowding, offering guests the chance to enjoy snow sports without the stress and steep costs of major commercial resorts. Whether you're seeking a weekend getaway or an introduction to winter recreation, this corner of Yosemite delivers both adventure and serenity in equal measure.
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Terrain Park Features
While modest compared to mega-resorts, the terrain park at Badger Pass offers an inviting and creatively designed space for freestyle skiers and snowboarders of all levels. It features beginner-friendly elements such as small jumps, rollers, and low-profile rails, allowing riders to safely develop new tricks and refine their style. The terrain park is a highlight of the Yosemite ski and snowboard experience, especially for younger guests and those eager to move beyond traditional alpine skiing. Whether you're practicing your first jump or experimenting with balance and control on rails, the space is maintained daily for optimal performance and safety. Its approachable layout makes it a valuable part of Badger Pass, enhancing the diversity of options available during the Yosemite ski and snowboard season.
Ski & Snowboard Rentals and Lessons
Yosemite ski and snowboard adventures are made even more accessible with full-service rental facilities at Badger Pass. Visitors can rent skis, snowboards, boots, and helmets for both adults and children. The rental shop is conveniently located near the base lodge, allowing for quick transitions between gear fitting and slope time. In addition to rentals, Badger Pass offers group and private lessons led by experienced instructors who focus on safety and foundational technique. Whether you’re a first-timer or brushing up on your skills, these services enhance your experience on the snow.
Cross‑Country Skiing on Groomed Trails
Cross-country skiing is one of the most scenic and tranquil ways to enjoy Yosemite ski and snowboard season. The area features over 90 miles of marked cross-country ski trails, many of which are groomed and maintained for classic and skate skiing. Skiers can explore routes that wind through snow-covered meadows, along forested ridgelines, and up to dramatic vistas. Beginners can stick to gentle, looped trails near the Badger Pass base area, while more advanced skiers can take on longer excursions. It’s a peaceful, low-impact way to immerse yourself in Yosemite’s winter beauty.
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Guided Backcountry and Glacier Point Trips
For a truly immersive Yosemite ski and snowboard experience, guided backcountry trips offer access to pristine, untouched snow. Professional guides lead small groups into Yosemite’s backcountry, providing both safety and insight into the natural history of the region. One of the most rewarding routes is the ski trip to Glacier Point, approximately 10.5 miles one way, where skiers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley. These trips require a moderate to high fitness level and backcountry awareness, but they provide unmatched solitude and scenery. Permits and reservations are typically required, so plan ahead.
Snowshoeing Adventures
If skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, snowshoeing offers a fantastic alternative that still immerses you in Yosemite’s snowy wonderland. Guided snowshoe walks are available from Badger Pass and are tailored to various fitness levels. This Yosemite ski and snowboard alternative is especially popular among photographers and wildlife watchers, as it allows for quiet travel through less-visited areas. Popular snowshoe trails include Dewey Point and the Old Badger Summit, offering panoramic views and a true sense of winter wilderness. It’s an excellent option for those seeking exercise and exploration without skis.
Snow Tubing Hill
Snow tubing at Badger Pass adds a fun, family-friendly element to the Yosemite ski and snowboard lineup. The designated tubing hill features groomed lanes and soft landings, perfect for younger children and parents alike. Tubes can be rented on-site, and a walk-up lane makes it easy to enjoy multiple runs without lifts. It’s a great introduction to snow activities for kids and a stress-free way to play in the snow. Safety staff monitor the area, ensuring a safe and exciting experience for everyone.
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Ice Skating
Yosemite ski and snowboard experiences don’t end with the slopes, ice skating at the Curry Village Ice Rink is a magical way to enjoy the winter evenings. This outdoor rink sits beneath towering granite cliffs and often features evening skate sessions under twinkling lights. Skate rentals are available on-site, and warming huts provide a cozy retreat between laps. Whether you're gliding across the ice or sipping cocoa on the sidelines, this is a quintessential Yosemite winter memory. The rink is weather-dependent, so always check the schedule before planning your visit.
Scenic Winter Cross‑Country Routes
Scenic cross-country ski routes like the Crane Flat Road and Bridalveil Creek Trail showcase the untouched beauty of Yosemite in winter. These lesser-known paths offer quiet, serene exploration away from the main resort area. Along these trails, you might spot animal tracks in fresh snow or stumble upon frozen waterfalls and snowy granite outcrops. The Yosemite ski and snowboard season wouldn’t be complete without discovering these hidden gems on skis. Always carry a trail map and check conditions with rangers before heading out.
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Overnight Ski Hut Experience
One of the most unique Yosemite ski and snowboard adventures is the overnight stay at the Glacier Point Ski Hut. After skiing over 10 miles from Badger Pass, visitors arrive at a rustic hut equipped with bunk beds, hearty meals, and unbeatable views. The journey is as rewarding as the destination, offering a backcountry challenge with all the comforts of guided support. Trips must be booked well in advance and are best suited for intermediate to advanced skiers. This hut stay is the ultimate way to combine adventure, community, and the splendor of Yosemite in winter.
Essentials for Winter Sports
Preparing for your Yosemite ski and snowboard trip requires the right gear, safety precautions, and park awareness. Start with waterproof and insulated layers, including moisture-wicking base layers, a down or synthetic insulated jacket, and a breathable waterproof shell. Don’t forget gloves, a hat or helmet liner, and goggles with UV protection. Renting equipment on-site is convenient, but frequent skiers may prefer to bring personal gear suited to their skill level and preferences. Always carry hydration, high-energy snacks, and a trail map or GPS device.
The Yosemite ski and snowboard season also demands awareness of park conditions and safety guidelines. Always check weather forecasts, avalanche warnings, and road closures via the National Park Service. Cell service is limited in many areas, so download offline maps and inform someone of your plans. For backcountry activities, carry avalanche beacons, shovels, and probes, and consider booking a certified guide. Whether you’re on the groomed slopes or deep in the wilderness, preparation ensures a safe and memorable winter experience.
Conclusion
The Yosemite ski and snowboard season delivers far more than just downhill thrills, it’s an invitation to explore a snow-covered national treasure in countless unforgettable ways. From gentle cross-country trails to adrenaline-pumping terrain parks, every type of winter enthusiast can find joy in Yosemite’s frosty embrace. Badger Pass and surrounding areas create a welcoming, low-key environment that balances recreation with conservation. Add in the majestic views, peaceful forests, and unique activities like snowshoeing and overnight hut trips, and it’s clear why this destination remains a favorite for winter adventurers. Whether it’s your first time in the snow or your hundredth, Yosemite in winter is where ski and snowboard memories are made.
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