While Alpine County's two ski resorts offer the facilities and amenities to fulfill any ski and snowboard enthusiasts dream, Alpine County also beckons adventurous backcountry skiers, 'boarders and snowshoers to the same beautiful public lands available other times of the year. With miles of snow covered meadows and forests, as well as more challenging mountain slopes, Alpine County offers great access for a day or overnight winter excursion.

For Nordic skiers and snowshoers, Hope Valley Outdoor Center located at Pickett’s Junction offers top quality cross country ski rentals and instruction. Hope Valley is one of the most popular and easily reached areas for enjoying these winter sports. Access to this beautiful area is at the Blue Lakes road SNO-PARKs off of Highways 88.

Adjacent to Kirkwood Mountain Resort, the Mokeumne Wilderness provides miles of great backcountry snowriding. Access is available from the Carson Pass SNO-PARKs area along Highway 88 near Kirkwood. Near Bear Valley, the SNO-PARKs at Lake Alpine, Round Valley, Bear Trap Valley and other locations are popular with off trail enthusiasts.

Note: A SNO-PARK permit is required for each vehicle parked at a SNO-PARK site from November 1 through May 30 of each year. Permits are sold as Day Permits or Seasonal Permits by permit vendors throughout northern California. Day permits are sold for $5.00 and are valid for one single day. Season permits are sold for $25.00 and are valid for the entire SNO-PARK season from November 1 through May 30. Visit the SNO-PARK Website to find ticket outlets