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10 Awesome Places to Snowshoe in California

Winter outings in the Golden State.

By: Sara Sheehy + Save to a List

Snowshoeing is a sport for everyone, whether you're hard-core into the outdoors or a casual dabbler. The adventure can challenge your legs and lungs to their max, or be a gentle cruise through the evergreen trees. The choice is yours.

So grab a pair of warm boots, rent a pair of snowshoes, and head out into the snowy wonderland of California's foothills and mountains this winter.

Adventure by Cambrey Knapp

This 1.5-mile snowshoe is perfect for beginners, or anyone looking for a snowy trip into Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Adventure by Kira Minehart

Interested in winter camping? Check out this 15-mile loop, and keep your eyes open for winter wildlife and plenty of snow-covered peaks.

Adventure by Tim Mena

Snowshoe 4 miles into Peter Grubb Hut in the Tahoe Basin for warmth and great views. The hut sleeps 15 people if you're keen to stay.

Adventure by Breanne McNitt

You'll really earn your dinner on this 10-mile snowshoe that gains 2,700 feet in the Yosemite Valley. But it'll be worth it!

Adventure Added by The Outbound Collective

Get a new, winter-frosted perspective of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls on this 21-mile round trip snowshoe in Yosemite National Park.

Adventure by Spencer Williams

This family-friendly snowshoe has a gentle grade and great views of Obsidian Dome and Wilson Butte.

Adventure by Spencer Williams

Easy access and gentle terrain make this park perfect for beginners, families, and anyone who wants to enjoy the experience without too much intensity.

Adventure by Spencer Williams

This outing to Grand View Point is an ideal all-day adventure. At 6.1 miles and with 1,200 feet elevation gain, you'll feel delightfully exhausted when you're done.

Adventure by Spencer Williams

Think all the snowshoeing is in northern California? Think again. The 2.5-mile Buckhorn Ridge Trail is just a short drive from Los Angeles.

Adventure by Michael Wigle

When it starts to snow in the San Gabriel Mountains, it's time to get yourself to Lightning Ridge for a snowshoe or snowy hike.

Cover photo by Spencer Williams

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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