7 Cool Spots for Playing in the Snow near San Diego
by Bonnie Taylor
Thanks to an earlier-than-normal winter storm, finding snow near me is more than just a fantasy
It may not snow in San Diego, but when the weather gets chilly you don’t have to go far to find it. There’s so much fun for kids (both little and big) to have in the nearby mountains that goes beyond just skiing and snowboarding—see below for a few of our favorite go-to spots that will surely make your winter bucket list. Here you’ll find the best snow tube parks and sledding, magic carpets and gondolas to ride. So get your winter gear in order, grab some chains—now’s the time for an unforgettably fun day in the snow in Southern California.
1. Big Bear
Slide into fun at Grizzly Ridge Tube Park at the top of Snow Summit in Big Bear. The whole family young and old alike will love whizzing down the snowy hills on high-speed tubes. Ride the magic carpet up to the top before sliding down one of three 300-ft tubing lanes. Ride again and again during your 1.5-hour time slot.
Snowmobile adventures, tubing, and cross country skiing await you on Mammoth Mountain. Cruise through tree-lined meadows on a guided snowmobile excursion or catch a lift to the top for Woolly's Tube Park and snow tube your way back down. You can click into some Nordic skis or snowshoes to get a workout exploring Lakes Basin on a cross country adventure.
Your little snow angels will squeal with delight at Yeti's Snow Play. Here you'll find some of SoCal's best snowtubing, sledding, and snow play...as well as a friendly Yeti who's willing to pose for pics. The snow play area is open only for kids 36” tall and under, while those over 36” tall can go sledding, tubing, and ride the gondola up to the top! Kids between 32” and 36” can snow tube with a paid parent on a separate tube.
You’ll be able to cool down on top of this mountain about an hour due east of San Diego. When you head up, there are plenty of turn-off spots, but it does get crowded. Along with your boots and mittens, you’ll want to bring some snacks, a full tank of gas, and some snow chains.
You’ll have to wait for just the right time, but every year a good northern storm can drop snow in Julian. Watch the weather reports, then drive up right after it snows. Google "snow sled near me" and you'll find this is the best place to tackle small snow hills and then warm up with some hot apple pie in town. Remember, the snow melts quickly around Julian.
Good to Know: Please only park in designated lots and not on residents’ yards and sides of the road. Also please pack out what you bring in. Many times the town has to clean up after visitors. This is a problem every year, so please be considerate in this small town.
Find the magic of snow on Palomar Mountain just North of San Diego. Bundle up to make snowmen and snow angels or toboggan down a snow hill. Dress warmly and you may want to pack an insulated thermos of hot water and cocoa packets to enjoy on the way home.
Whether you take the day or a weekend trip, you’ll be glad you drove (about two hours) up to Idyllwild. Here, you’ll find a cute mountain town where you can take a winter hike, sled, or just walk around the town after fresh snow. There are plenty of cute shops to look at and places to eat too.
