The first big snowstorm of the season follows a predictable script for Southern California families. The forecast looks promising, someone sends a group chat message about Big Bear, and before long half of Los Angeles is on the 10 Freeway with sleds strapped to the roof. By the time you reach the mountain, traffic has slowed to a crawl, the parking lots are full, and the hill you had in mind is packed shoulder to shoulder. It’s still a snow day — just not the one you imagined.
Sledding and snow play are some of the most popular winter day trips from Los Angeles, and for good reason. A few hours in the snow can feel genuinely restorative for kids and adults alike. But the San Bernardino Mountains offer more than one destination, and most LA visitors drive straight past some good options on their way to Big Bear.
Running Springs sits along Highway 18, en route to Big Bear, and it’s home to Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park and Snow Valley Mountain Resort, two of the best snow destinations in Southern California. The Forest Service also designates snow play zones along Highway 18 close to town. Nearby Arrowhead, Green Valley Lake, and the broader Rim of the World corridor add more options for families who want to explore.
This guide covers where to sled and play in the snow around Running Springs and the surrounding mountain communities, with a brief look at other options closer to and beyond LA. Wild Olive Cabins is based in Running Springs, a short distance from these snow play areas, which is why the focus starts here. That said, a few things worth saying up front: “fewer crowds” is relative, holiday weekends are busy everywhere on the mountain, and snow conditions vary significantly from year to year. Plan ahead, check conditions the morning you leave, and manage expectations for the whole family before you hit the road.
Why Go Sledding in Running Springs Instead of Big Bear?
Before diving into specific locations, it helps to understand what makes Running Springs a practical choice for snow play — not a compromise, but a destination worth choosing on its own terms.
It’s Closer to Los Angeles
Running Springs sits at the top of Highway 330, just before Highway 18 branches east toward Big Bear. In normal traffic conditions, the drive from downtown Los Angeles typically takes around 90 minutes to two hours, depending on where you’re starting and which route you take. That’s meaningfully shorter than the additional time required to continue up and over to Big Bear.
It also means less time on mountain roads. Everyone heading up the mountain on this route drives the winding climb on Highway 330, but stopping in Running Springs saves you another 30-plus minutes of mountain driving on Highway 18 each way. For families with kids who get carsick on mountain roads, that matters.
Wild Olive Cabins is in Running Springs, roughly 30 minutes from Big Bear Lake, which puts it in a useful middle position on the mountain.
Shorter Drives Mean More Time in the Snow
On storm weekends and holiday Saturdays, traffic into Big Bear can back up for hours. Vehicles queue on Highway 330 and on Highway 18, and what should be a 30-minute mountain stretch can turn into much more. Stopping in Running Springs on those days can mean several extra hours of actual snow time instead of windshield time.
That said, heavy snow days bring traffic to Running Springs too. The strategy of stopping sooner only pays off if you leave early. If you’re rolling out of LA at 10 a.m. on a Presidents’ Day weekend, expect delays no matter where you’re headed.
Snow Play Options for Different Budgets
Running Springs and its immediate surroundings cover a range of price points. Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park and the tube park at Snow Valley both charge admission. The Snow Valley snow play area is separate from the tube park, with its own ticket. And the Forest Service’s designated snow play zones along Highway 18 require only an Adventure Pass when snow is present — one of the more affordable ways to spend a snow day near LA.
The sections below cover each option in detail, but it’s worth knowing that a mix of paid and lower-cost experiences is available within a short distance of each other.
The Elevation Brings Real Snow
Running Springs sits at an elevation of roughly 6,100 feet above sea level in the San Bernardino Mountains, and Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park sits at around 6,500 feet. That elevation means reliable snow when winter storms move through — more reliable than what you’d find in the lower foothills or desert passes. Some winters start late and snowfall is inconsistent, so it’s always worth checking current conditions before you make the drive. A great snow weekend one week doesn’t guarantee the mountain will look the same the following Saturday.
Sledding vs. Snow Tubing vs. Snow Play: What’s the Difference?
LA visitors often use these terms interchangeably, but each refers to a different activity, and the distinction affects which locations you can use and what equipment you need to bring.
Sledding
Sledding means riding a sled you bring yourself — a plastic saucer, foam sled, toboggan, or similar equipment — down a snowy slope. It’s what most people picture when they think of snow play as kids. Sledding with personal equipment is permitted at the Forest Service’s designated snow play areas along Highway 18, but not at the commercial parks. Snowdrift prohibits personal sleds and any private equipment on the property, and Snow Valley doesn’t allow personal sleds or tubes in its tube park or snow play area.
Snow Tubing
Snow tubing involves riding an inflatable tube — provided by the park — down a groomed lane. The tube parks near Running Springs use lanes with defined paths, which adds structure and generally makes it safer and more predictable than open-slope sledding. Tubes are supplied at both Snowdrift and the Coyote Creek Tube Park at Snow Valley, so you don’t need to bring anything except warm clothes.
Snow Play
Snow play is the broader category: building snowmen, throwing snowballs, making snow angels, and generally messing around in the snow. At Snow Valley, the Snow Play area is a ticketed zone separate from the tube park. Buying a Snow Play ticket doesn’t include access to the tubing lanes, and a tubing ticket does include snow play access. Personal sleds aren’t allowed in the Snow Play area, but the resort provides a limited supply of shared snow play items on a first-come, first-served basis. That distinction is useful for families deciding how to allocate their budget.
Which One Is Right for You?
| Activity | Equipment | Where | Best For |
| Sledding | Bring your own sled | Forest Service snow play areas | Flexible visitors, budget-conscious families |
| Snow Tubing | Tubes provided at the park | Snowdrift, Snow Valley Coyote Creek | Structured experience, all ages, group outings |
| Snow Play | Nothing required | Snow Valley Snow Play area, Forest Service areas | Toddlers, casual visits, snowman builders |
| Nordic/Snowshoeing | Rentals available | Rim Nordic | Adults, older kids, quieter snow experience |
Best Places for Sledding and Snow Play Near Running Springs
This section covers the main snow play options in and around Running Springs. Each location offers a different experience; the right choice depends on your family’s priorities, budget, and how much structure you want.
Snow Valley Mountain Resort Snow Play Area & Coyote Creek Tube Park
Snow Valley Mountain Resort is located on Highway 18, roughly five miles east of Running Springs at 35100 CA-18. It’s operated as part of Big Bear Mountain Resort and holds the distinction of being Southern California’s oldest continually operating ski resort — a history that gives it a certain credibility among mountain regulars who’ve been bringing their families here for generations.
For families primarily interested in snow play, Snow Valley offers two separate experiences worth understanding before you book. The Coyote Creek Tube Park runs timed sessions on groomed lanes where tubes are provided. It’s the classic tubing experience — climb, ride, repeat — with the structure of defined lanes and session windows keeping things orderly even on busy days. Prices and session availability vary by date and demand, so it’s worth checking and booking online before you make the drive. Sessions can sell out on peak weekends, and showing up without a reservation on a holiday Saturday is a gamble.
The Snow Play area sits at the base of the tube park and is sold as a separate ticket, priced at 20–29 depending on the date. A Snow Play ticket doesn’t include access to the tubing lanes, but a tubing ticket does include the Snow Play area. For families with a mix of ages — younger kids who want to build a snowman and older kids who want the tube park — it’s worth factoring that into how you purchase tickets. Same-day tickets are sold on-site if spots remain, but the area can sell out, so booking online is the safer bet on busy days.
Dogs aren’t allowed on the snow at Snow Valley’s snow play and tubing areas, though leashed dogs are welcome in the base area. Season passes for the resort don’t include complimentary or discounted tubing or snow play access, so pass holders should check what applies to them separately.
For families with older kids who want to make a full day of it, Snow Valley Mountain Resort also offers ski lessons, and pairing a morning of tubing with an afternoon beginner ski lesson is a practical way to extend the day without driving anywhere new.
Check Snow Valley’s current opening dates and hours for the 2026–27 season directly on the Big Bear Mountain Resort website before your trip, as dates and hours vary by season.
Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park
Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park is the other major tubing destination in the Running Springs area, and it has its own loyal following among LA families who’ve discovered it. Located on Highway 18 roughly four miles past Running Springs toward Big Bear — on the right side of the road at the start of the passing lane — it operates at 34600 CA-18. Snowdrift describes itself as Southern California’s largest and oldest snow tubing park, and it operates under a special use permit from the U.S. Forest Service within the San Bernardino National Forest.
The park has beginner, intermediate, and advanced slopes, which makes it genuinely workable for families where the five-year-old and the twelve-year-old want to tube at the same time but at different intensity levels. Tubes are provided, and they come equipped with belly straps and handles — a detail that matters for younger or less confident riders who want something to hold onto. Personal sleds and any private equipment are not allowed anywhere on the property. That rule is firm, so don’t plan on bringing your own gear.
One detail that consistently surprises first-time visitors: Snowdrift is cash only. There is an ATM on site, but it may charge a fee. More importantly, tickets cannot be purchased online or in advance. If you’re the type to plan ahead and book everything before leaving LA, Snowdrift requires a different approach — you pay at the window on arrival. Bring enough cash for your group, and factor in the ATM fee if you’re planning to use it.
Admission is priced per person per hour. Last season, children 36 inches tall or under were admitted free with a paying adult, and parking was charged per vehicle. Treat these as a reference point for last season’s pricing rather than current rates; check Snowdrift’s current season information before your visit, since pricing and policies can change.
Last season, Snowdrift operated from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Last tickets were sold 60 minutes before closing, and those hours were subject to change based on weather and road conditions. Arrive early. The parking lot may close when the park reaches capacity, which happens on busy snow weekends. Getting there at opening on a Saturday is noticeably different from arriving at noon.
Every visitor is required to have a signed release form on file, and minors need a parent or guardian’s signature. The form can be printed and signed at home before you go, which speeds up the entry process considerably on a crowded morning.
One more planning note: Snowdrift may close during rain or active snow forecasts. Closures are announced on the park’s social media channels, so following them and checking the morning of your visit is the most reliable way to know if the park is open. Driving two hours only to find a closed gate is a genuinely frustrating experience that’s easy to avoid with a quick check before you leave.
The per-hour ticketing model actually works in families’ favor — you can buy an hour, see how the kids are doing, and decide whether to add more time rather than committing to a half-day block upfront. For families with very young kids who may only last 45 minutes before getting cold and tired, that flexibility is worth noting.
Rim of the World Snow Play Areas (San Bernardino National Forest)
For families who want a more open-ended snow experience and don’t mind bringing their own sleds, the Forest Service’s designated snow play zones along the Rim of the World corridor are a practical and more budget-friendly option.
The San Bernardino National Forest designates several stretches of forest along Highway 18 as snow play areas when conditions allow:
- From Crest Park Picnic Area to Switzer Picnic Area
- East of Santa’s Village to just east of Heaps Peak / Allison Ranch Road
- From Green Valley Lake Road to the east highway gates at Snow Valley
That last stretch — from Green Valley Lake Road to Snow Valley — runs directly adjacent to Running Springs and is the most convenient for visitors based in town. It’s unstructured snow play: find a safe, open slope in the forest well away from the road and the cars, set up, and spend however long you want. These zones are forest land near the highway — not the highway shoulder itself, where snow play is illegal.
An Adventure Pass is required when snow is present. The current rates are $5 per day or $30 per year, and Interagency Annual Passes are also accepted at these areas. Check the current rates and any updates directly through the Forest Service or the store where you purchase the pass, since fees can change.
A few practical notes for these areas: there is no potable water available, and restroom access isn’t guaranteed, so plan accordingly. Vehicles must be parked legally — not on the highway shoulder, not blocking turnouts. Bring your own sleds and pack out everything you pack in, including any broken equipment.
These areas are best suited to visitors who are comfortable with a less structured experience — families who are happy to scout a good hill, set up on their own, and enjoy the flexibility that comes without timed sessions or lane assignments. The Forest Service lists current conditions for the Rim of the World Snow Play Area on its website, so check before you go to confirm there’s actually snow and that the area is open.
A Note on Rim Nordic
Rim Nordic sits on Highway 18 directly across from Snow Valley and deserves a mention, though it’s worth being clear about what it is. Rim Nordic is a cross-country ski and snowshoe area — it describes itself as Southern California’s only cross-country ski area, with machine-groomed trails set for classic and skate skiing. It’s not a sledding or snow tubing location.
What it does offer is one of the quieter snow experiences in the area. Nordic skiing, skate skiing, and snowshoeing are all available, with rentals and lessons on offer (confirm availability before arriving, since it depends on conditions and staffing). Rim Nordic only opens when there’s enough snow, so check its website for current hours before you go. Dogs are not permitted on the trails during winter.
For adults or older kids who want a break from the crowd dynamics of a tubing park, or who want to try something different after a morning of sledding, Rim Nordic is worth considering as a complement to the day.
More Winter Fun Near Running Springs
SkyPark at Santa’s Village
SkyPark at Santa’s Village is located in Skyforest, near Lake Arrowhead, and it’s a worthwhile add-on for families who want to pair a snow day with holiday programming. The Christmas season at SkyPark returns November 7, 2026 — verify the end date and any post-holiday programming on SkyPark’s own website before planning around it.
Ice skating at Silver Bells Arena is one of SkyPark’s winter highlights. In past seasons, the park has also offered weekend Winter Wonderland programming after the holidays, including Fantasy Forest Nights evening skating sessions. Treat those as past examples rather than confirmed 2027 offerings; check the current schedule to see what’s available when you plan to visit.
SkyPark does not make artificial snow, so any snow on the grounds depends entirely on the weather. It’s a great complement to a snow day — not a replacement for it.
Sledding Spots Near LA: Quick Comparison
Not every family needs a full deep-dive before deciding where to go. Here’s a condensed look at the main options covered in this guide.
Use this as a starting point, then visit each location’s current website for up-to-date pricing, hours, and availability before your trip.
| Location | Type | Tubes/Sleds Provided? | Cost Type | Payment | Best For |
| Snow Valley (Coyote Creek Tube Park) | Resort tubing + snow play | Tubes provided | Per-session tickets | Online booking | Families wanting resort experience; online planning |
| Snow Valley Snow Play Area | Open snow play | Shared snow play items (no personal sleds) | Separate snow play ticket (20–29) | Online, or same-day on-site if available | Families with young kids; add-on to tubing |
| Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park | Dedicated tubing park | Tubes provided | Per-person, per-hour | Cash only (no advance purchase) | All ages; flexible families; cash-ready visitors |
| Rim of the World Snow Play Areas | Open unstructured sledding | No — bring your own | Adventure Pass ($5/day) | Online or from local vendors, in advance | Budget-conscious families; flexible visitors with own sleds |
Other Places for Snow Play Near Los Angeles
Running Springs and the Rim of the World corridor aren’t the only options within reach of LA. If you’re considering a broader snow day, here are a few alternatives worth knowing about.
Big Bear
Big Bear is the most well-known snow destination near LA, and for good reason — it has more infrastructure, more lodging, and more options for a full ski trip than most other mountain communities in Southern California. For snow play and tubing specifically, Big Bear Snow Play and the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain are popular choices. Grizzly Ridge Tube Park at Snow Summit is another option, though it doesn’t have a separate snow play area.
Big Bear is worth considering for families who want a larger resort experience or who are combining snow play with a ski or snowboard day. Just factor in the longer drive and the heavier traffic on storm weekends. Running Springs is a natural stopping point on the way up if you want to check the conditions before committing to the extra mileage.
Mountain High (Wrightwood)
Mountain High in Wrightwood has the geographic advantage of being accessible from LA without the mountain driving on Highway 330 or 18 — it’s reached from Interstate 15 via Highway 138 and Highway 2, which is a different approach entirely and can make sense depending on where in LA you’re starting from.
Yeti’s Snow Play at Mountain High offers tubing and sledding, with an opening date for the 2026–27 season listed as November 27, 2026. Kids must be at least 36 inches tall to sled on their own. Parking is listed at $30 per vehicle per day. Check the current season details on Mountain High’s website, since hours, pricing, and opening dates are subject to change.
Mt. Baldy
Mt. Baldy is often described as the closest snow to Los Angeles, which makes it a frequently searched option for families who want a quick hit of winter weather without a long drive. The resort runs a tubing park at the top of the Sugar Pine Chairlift, with a projected opening of November 27, 2026 — snow permitting, so verify what’s operating before making the trip.
Night Tubing Near LA
If a standard snow day doesn’t fit your schedule, a late-afternoon session is a genuinely different experience worth considering.
Snow Valley extends its snow play hours on Night Session dates. For the 2026–27 season, Night Sessions start December 12 and run on select dates through March 13, 2027 — mostly weekends, plus a stretch of consecutive nights over the Christmas and New Year holidays. On those dates, the Snow Play area stays open until 6 p.m. instead of the usual 4 p.m., so think of it as a dusk session rather than late-night tubing. Check the Big Bear Mountain Resort website for tube park hours on Night Session dates, since schedules can change with conditions.
Big Bear Snow Play has offered after-dark tubing on select nights in past seasons. Check the current schedule directly, as dates vary and aren’t always announced far in advance.
Tubing as the sun goes down is colder than a daytime session — significantly so, especially once you add wind chill from riding the lanes. Bring extra layers beyond what you’d pack for a day trip, and make sure kids have dry gloves to swap into for the drive home. Night driving on mountain roads also requires more care than daytime travel, particularly after fresh snow or when roads are refreezing. If you’re tubing late in the day, staying overnight nearby removes that pressure entirely.
When Is the Best Time to Go Sledding Near LA?
Snow Season in the San Bernardino Mountains
Snow in the San Bernardino Mountains typically arrives sometime between late November and early spring, though the season varies considerably from year to year. Some winters deliver consistent snow from December through March. Others start late, run light, or dry up entirely after one good storm. The mountains at elevation — Running Springs, Big Bear, Wrightwood — generally see more reliable snow than lower communities, but nothing is guaranteed.
Some resorts supplement natural snowfall with snowmaking when conditions allow, which can extend the season or fill in gaps during dry spells. Check each resort’s snow report rather than assuming the mountain will look the same as it did the weekend before.
Go Right After a Storm (But Not During One)
The best conditions come in the day or two following a good snowstorm, once the roads have been cleared and the snow has had a chance to settle. The slopes are full, the air is cold enough to keep the snow from turning slushy, and the experience is as close to ideal as it gets in Southern California.
Going during an active storm is a different story. Roads can close, chain controls go up with little notice, and tubing parks including Snowdrift may shut down when conditions become unsafe. Driving into a storm on mountain roads is also significantly more demanding than a normal mountain drive. The sweet spot is the morning after.
Weekdays vs. Weekends
If you have any schedule flexibility, weekdays are noticeably quieter at every snow destination near LA. Lines are shorter, parking is easier, and the overall experience is more relaxed. If a weekday visit isn’t possible, getting to the mountain as early as the road conditions allow on a weekend morning can make the difference between a good day and a frustrating one.
Holiday weekends — the stretch from Christmas through New Year’s, MLK Weekend, and Presidents’ Day weekend — are the busiest periods of the snow season. If those are your only available dates, set realistic expectations and leave extra early.
Arrive Early
Parking fills fast on busy snow weekends. Snowdrift may close its parking lot at capacity before midday, and timed tubing sessions at Snow Valley can sell out well in advance. Arriving when the parks open — or, for the Forest Service areas, before the regular day-trip crowd arrives — gives you the best shot at a smooth morning.
How to Check Snow Conditions Before You Go
One of the most common disappointments of a snow day near LA is driving up to find no snow, or arriving to find conditions much worse than expected. These resources help avoid that:
Resort snow reports. Snow Valley publishes snow conditions through the Big Bear Mountain Resort website. Rim Nordic has its own snow report page. Check both if you’re considering either location.
The Forest Service conditions listing. The San Bernardino National Forest maintains a current conditions page for the Rim of the World Snow Play Area that shows whether snow is present. This is the most direct way to know before you drive whether the Highway 18 snow play zones have usable snow.
Snowdrift’s social media. Snowdrift announces same-day closures on its social media channels. Follow them before your visit and check the morning you plan to leave. A closure announcement posted at 7 a.m. can save you a two-hour drive.
Caltrans QuickMap. For road conditions, chain control levels, and any closures on Highway 330, Highway 18, or Interstate 15 (for Wrightwood), Caltrans QuickMap is the most current resource available. Check it the night before and again the morning of your trip.
The morning-of check matters. Mountain conditions can change quickly — a sunny day after a storm can reduce snow coverage significantly within a few hours. What looked great the Friday before may be slushy and patchy by midday Sunday. Build the morning check into your routine.
How to Get to Running Springs From LA
The most direct route from Los Angeles to Running Springs is via Highway 330 out of Highland, which becomes a mountain highway and connects directly to Running Springs. From there, Highway 18 branches east toward Big Bear and west toward Crestline and Lake Arrowhead.
An alternative route runs via Interstate 15 to Highway 138, then Highway 18 through Crestline and Lake Arrowhead before reaching Running Springs from the west. This route is longer in distance but can sometimes move better when Highway 330 is backed up — worth knowing about on storm weekends.
From downtown Los Angeles, the typical drive to Running Springs in normal traffic runs around 90 minutes to two hours. Add more time for storm traffic, chain control stops, and the slower pace that snowy conditions require. Check Caltrans QuickMap before leaving for road status and any chain control requirements on your chosen route.
Snow Play Safety and Mountain Etiquette
A snow day goes sideways fast when safety basics get overlooked. These aren’t filler tips — they’re the things that get people hurt or ticketed on the mountain.
Never Park or Sled Along the Highway
Snow play on or alongside the highway is illegal in San Bernardino County mountain communities, and the Sheriff’s Department and CHP actively enforce it. Violations can bring fines of $150 or more, and vehicles parked on highway shoulders are frequently towed. Beyond the legal issues, roadside snow play is genuinely dangerous. Snowplows move fast on mountain roads, shoulders are narrow, and curves can hide oncoming traffic until it’s too late. The rule exists for a reason.
The Forest Service’s designated snow play zones are described as being “along Highway 18,” but that refers to forest land near the road — not the shoulder or the pavement. Park legally, then head well into the forest to find your slope.
Choose Safe Sledding Spots
The Forest Service advises choosing sledding locations well away from roads and highways, with no nearby obstructions like rocks and trees. This is consistently good advice that gets ignored more often than it should be. Slope injuries happen regularly on the mountain — not because people are being reckless, necessarily, but because a slope that looks clear from the top can have obstacles at the bottom. Scout any hill before sending kids down it, keep a clear view of the run-out zone, and stay well clear of frozen lakes, which can be unstable underfoot.
Respect Private Property and Residents
Mountain communities deal with a significant influx of snow day visitors, and the frustration of finding your lawn torn up or your driveway blocked is real and understandable. Don’t park on private property, and don’t let kids sled into yards or across private land. Pack out all trash, including broken sleds — leaving debris on the mountain is both disrespectful and in violation of Leave No Trace principles.
Snowball Safety
Throwing snowballs at moving vehicles is illegal and genuinely dangerous. Avoid it entirely, and talk to kids about it before arriving. Packing ice balls instead of loose snow is also an easy way to turn a fun moment into a painful one — keep it soft and keep it away from faces and cars.
What to Wear Sledding
Dressing for a snow day requires more thought than most LA families give it, particularly for kids who aren’t used to cold weather for more than a few minutes at a time.
Dress in Layers
The layering system works well in snow because activity level changes throughout the day. A moisture-wicking base layer keeps sweat from staying against the skin (critical for kids who run hot while sledding but get cold fast when they stop). A warm mid-layer — fleece is a reliable choice — provides insulation. A waterproof outer layer, jacket and snow pants both, keeps everything underneath dry when kids inevitably sit, fall, or roll in the snow.
Avoid Jeans and Cotton
Cotton jeans are probably the single biggest mistake LA families make on snow days. Denim absorbs water quickly and stays cold and wet for hours. Once a kid’s jeans are soaked through, the day is effectively over for them. If jeans are all you have, consider layering waterproof pants over them.
Keep Hands, Feet, and Heads Warm
Waterproof gloves or mittens are essential — not just warm ones. Bring a spare pair per child, because kids’ gloves get wet fast and there’s nothing worse than a crying five-year-old with frozen fingers. Waterproof boots and wool or synthetic (not cotton) socks are equally important; wet feet end snow days quickly. A beanie covers a significant amount of surface area and is easy to pack. A neck gaiter adds warmth without bulk.
Don’t Forget Sun Protection
Snow reflects sunlight, and the combination of altitude and reflective snow surface means UV exposure is higher than most people expect on a cold day. Sunglasses and sunscreen — applied before you get out of the car — are worth the effort even when it feels cold enough that sunburn seems impossible.
Pack a Full Change of Clothes
For the drive home, bring a complete dry set for every person, including socks and shoes. Wet kids in cold clothes on a mountain drive are miserable, and the extra bag in the trunk is worth every inch of space it takes.
Choosing a Sled for Forest Service Snow Play Areas
Personal sleds are welcome at the Forest Service’s designated snow play zones along Highway 18, so choosing the right one before you leave the city matters. Trying to find a sled at a mountain store on a busy snow weekend is a frustrating experience — inventory goes fast, prices spike, and you may end up with whatever’s left.
Plastic saucers are the classic choice. Lightweight, cheap, and easy to carry, they spin as you ride, which kids love and adults tolerate. They’re harder to steer, so they’re better for open slopes without too many obstacles.
Foam sleds are soft, flexible, and good for younger kids or gentler slopes. They’re slower than hard plastic but more forgiving if someone takes an unplanned tumble.
Toboggans are longer, can carry multiple riders, and tend to go straight rather than spinning. They’re better for consistent slopes where you can predict the path.
Inflatable tubes (personal, not the park kind) are comfortable but bulky to transport and can be hard to steer. If you’re planning to use the Forest Service areas, they work fine on open slopes.
For young kids, sleds with steering handles or some kind of braking mechanism are a better choice than fast-and-loose saucers. Bring a spare in case one cracks or breaks mid-day — and whatever breaks, pack it out. Don’t leave damaged sleds on the mountain.
A reminder that personal sleds and equipment are not allowed at Snowdrift or at Snow Valley’s tube park and snow play area. If you’re splitting your day between a Forest Service area and either park, leave the sled in the car.
Sledding and Snow Play With Kids
Families with children are the core audience for most of the snow destinations near Running Springs, and the experience can be genuinely excellent with a little preparation.
Age and Height Rules
Height minimums vary by location and activity. At Snowdrift, last season’s policy admitted children 36 inches tall or under free with a paying adult, and the park has beginner slopes well-suited to younger riders. Mountain High’s Yeti’s Snow Play requires kids to be at least 36 inches tall to sled independently.
Always verify current rules directly with each location before your trip, and before promising kids a specific activity. Rules and policies change between seasons, and a child who just misses a height requirement is much easier to manage when the possibility was mentioned before leaving home.
Tips for Toddlers and Young Kids
Small children can have a fantastic time in the snow, but short sessions work better than long ones. Most toddlers are done within an hour — sometimes less — and trying to push past that point usually results in cold, tired, overwhelmed kids and a difficult drive home.
Plan for breaks. A warm car with dry clothes is a useful reset point. Bring snacks and hot drinks in a thermos; warm chocolate or cider after a cold session goes a long way. Snowdrift’s beginner slopes are genuinely gentle and appropriate for small kids who want a tame intro to tubing.
Keep Everyone Safe
Supervise children closely, and keep them well away from roads and the flow of parking lot traffic, which can be chaotic on busy days. Sled feet-first and sitting upright rather than headfirst — headfirst sledding increases the risk of serious head and neck injury on impact. Watch the bottom of the hill for other sledders before sending anyone down, and give faster or larger riders plenty of clearance.
Helmets aren’t required at most locations, but they’re worth considering for younger kids, particularly if you’re at a Forest Service area with less controlled conditions.
Managing Expectations
An hour of tubing is enough for many families with young children. Walking back uphill in snow gear is tiring, and the cumulative effect of cold, excitement, and physical effort catches up fast. Holiday weekends mean lines and full parking lots even at the best-managed locations. Talk honestly with kids about what to expect before you arrive, and build in the possibility of a shorter day than planned.
Snow Play on a Budget
A snow day near LA doesn’t have to be expensive, and with a little planning, you can keep costs reasonable even for a larger family.
The Forest Service’s designated snow play areas along Highway 18 are the most budget-friendly option for unstructured sledding. The only cost when snow is present is an Adventure Pass — currently $5 per day or $30 per year — and Interagency Annual Passes are accepted. The $30 annual pass is worth buying if your family plans multiple mountain or forest visits through the year. Bring your own sleds from home rather than buying or renting on the mountain, where selection is limited and prices are inflated.
At Snowdrift, last season’s policy admitted small children (36 inches and under) free with a paying adult, which can significantly reduce the entry cost for families with young kids. Treat that as last season’s policy and check current rates; the park’s pricing structure can change.
Pack your own food, snacks, and hot drinks rather than relying on mountain restaurants or concession stands. Lunch for a family of four at a ski resort concession adds up fast, and having a thermos of soup and a bag of sandwiches in the car is both cheaper and more practical on a busy day.
If your schedule allows, weekday visits are generally less expensive in terms of parking and can sometimes mean lower ticket prices at resort-based locations. Check whether weekday pricing differs from weekend pricing when you book.
Carpool if possible. Gas for a mountain drive adds up, and splitting it between two families makes the day meaningfully more affordable. Bring cash if you’re going to Snowdrift — the on-site ATM may charge a fee, so having the right amount before you leave avoids the extra cost.
What to Bring for a Snow Day
| Item | Notes |
| Tire chains | Even if the forecast looks clear; required when chain controls are active |
| Cash | Essential for Snowdrift; bring enough for your whole group plus ATM fee buffer |
| Waterproof jackets and snow pants | For every person in the car |
| Gloves or mittens | Bring a spare pair per child |
| Waterproof boots | Plus wool or synthetic socks |
| Extra socks and a full change of clothes | For the drive home |
| Sunglasses and sunscreen | Snow reflects more UV than most people expect |
| Sleds | Only for Forest Service snow play areas; not allowed at Snowdrift or anywhere at Snow Valley |
| Adventure Pass | Required when snow is present at Forest Service areas |
| Water, snacks, and a thermos of hot drinks | Mountain food is expensive; pack your own |
| A bag for wet clothes | Keep the car dry |
| A phone charger | Cold drains phone batteries faster than usual |
Tire Chains and Winter Driving
Caltrans uses three levels of chain control on California mountain roads:
- R1: Chains are required, except on vehicles with snow tires on the drive axle.
- R2: Chains are required on all vehicles except four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles with snow tires on all four wheels.
- R3: Chains are required on all vehicles, with no exceptions.
Check Caltrans QuickMap before leaving home and again before heading up the mountain, since controls can be activated quickly when conditions change.
Practice installing your chains before the trip. A parking lot or driveway at home is a much better place to figure out your chain setup than the shoulder of Highway 330 in the dark with a line of cars behind you. Even families with four-wheel-drive vehicles should check current control levels and carry chains, since four-wheel drive doesn’t exempt you from chain requirements at higher restriction levels.
Mountain driving itself requires a different approach than freeway driving — slower speeds, earlier braking, and greater following distance.
Sample Snow Day Plans
These are starting frameworks, not schedules with guaranteed times. Adjust based on your family’s pace, conditions, and how the day is actually going.
A Snow Day Trip From LA
| Time | Activity |
| Early morning | Check conditions, road status, and Snowdrift’s social media; pack the car the night before |
| Before sunrise (or just after) | Depart LA to get ahead of weekend traffic |
| Morning | Arrive at Snowdrift or Snow Valley’s tube park for an opening session |
| Midday | Lunch break — packed food or a stop in Running Springs |
| Early afternoon | Snow play at a Forest Service area or a second tubing session |
| Mid-afternoon | Start heading down before traffic builds and before dark |
A Snow Weekend in Running Springs
| Day 1 | Arrive in the early afternoon, get settled, spend a couple of hours at a Forest Service snow play area while the day-trip crowd thins out; warm up at the cabin that evening |
| Day 2 | Early morning session at Snowdrift or Snow Valley’s tube park before the day-trippers arrive; lunch in Lake Arrowhead or in Running Springs; afternoon at Lake Arrowhead Village |
| Day 3 | Snowshoeing at Rim Nordic or a beginner ski lesson at Snow Valley; head back to LA after lunch |
Staying overnight at Running Springs cabin rentals means you can be at the snow before the day-trip crowd arrives and stay later without worrying about a long evening drive back to the city. Wild Olive Cabins is in Running Springs, putting Snowdrift and Snow Valley within a few minutes of your door.
Make It a Weekend: Where to Eat and What Else to Do
Warm Up After Sledding
Running Springs has coffee and a handful of casual dining spots within easy reach of the snow play areas. Lake Arrowhead, about 15 minutes away, offers more variety — from lakeside cafés to sit-down restaurants that hit well after a cold morning outside. The best places to eat in Lake Arrowhead span a range of styles, from quick lunch spots to full dinners worth lingering over.
More Winter Activities Nearby
Snow Valley’s ski and snowboard runs are available for families with older kids or adults who want to add a mountain sport to the weekend. If you’re new to skiing, the best ski resorts for beginners near Los Angeles covers options across the region, including what to expect at resort-level instruction for first-timers. The broader Running Springs and Lake Arrowhead area has enough to fill a full winter weekend — a guide to Running Springs and the surrounding areas is a good starting point for planning beyond the snow.
Sledding Near LA FAQ
Where can I go sledding near Los Angeles?
The main options within a two-hour drive of LA include the Rim of the World corridor in the San Bernardino Mountains (Running Springs, Arrowhead, Big Bear), Mountain High in Wrightwood, and Mt. Baldy. Running Springs specifically offers Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park, Snow Valley’s tube park and snow play area, and the Forest Service’s designated snow play zones along Highway 18.
Is there free sledding near LA?
The Forest Service’s designated snow play areas along Highway 18 in the San Bernardino National Forest don’t charge admission, but an Adventure Pass is required when snow is present. Current day pass rates are $5; annual passes run $30. Bring your own sled, since no equipment is provided.
Do I need an Adventure Pass to sled in the San Bernardino Mountains?
Yes, when using the Forest Service’s designated Rim of the World snow play areas and snow is present, an Adventure Pass or Interagency Annual Pass is required. Commercial tubing parks like Snowdrift and Snow Valley have their own admission fees and don’t require a separate Adventure Pass.
What’s the difference between sledding and snow tubing?
Sledding uses personal equipment (a sled you bring yourself) on open slopes. Snow tubing uses inflatable tubes provided by the park on groomed, defined lanes. At the Forest Service’s snow play areas, you can sled with your own equipment. At Snowdrift and Snow Valley, the park provides the equipment and personal sleds aren’t allowed.
Can I bring my own sled to Snowdrift?
No. Personal sleds and all private equipment are prohibited at Snowdrift. Tubes are provided, and the rule applies to the entire property.
Does Snowdrift take credit cards?
No. Snowdrift is cash only. Tickets cannot be purchased online or in advance. There is an ATM on site, but it may charge a fee, so bringing enough cash before you arrive is the better approach.
Does Snow Valley have a snow play area?
Yes. Snow Valley has a dedicated Snow Play area at the base of the tube park. It’s ticketed separately from the tubing lanes — a Snow Play ticket doesn’t include tubing, but a tubing ticket does include snow play access. Personal sleds aren’t allowed, but the resort provides some shared snow play items.
What age can kids go snow tubing near LA?
It depends on the location. At Snowdrift, last season’s policy admitted children 36 inches tall or under for free with a paying adult. Mountain High’s Yeti’s Snow Play requires kids to be at least 36 inches tall to sled independently. Always check each location’s current rules before your visit, and before making promises to kids.
How long should I plan to sled?
An hour of tubing is plenty for many families, especially with young children. Snowdrift’s per-hour ticketing makes it easy to buy one hour, see how the day is going, and add more time if everyone’s still having fun. Walking back uphill in snow gear is tiring, and small kids get cold and worn out faster than they expect.
What should I wear sledding?
Layer up: a moisture-wicking base layer, a warm fleece mid-layer, and a waterproof jacket and snow pants on top. Avoid jeans and cotton, both of which soak through quickly and stay cold. Waterproof boots, wool or synthetic socks, waterproof gloves (with a spare pair per kid), and a beanie are all essential. Don’t skip sunglasses and sunscreen — snow reflects sunlight at altitude more than most people account for.
Can you go snow tubing at night near LA?
Sort of. Snow Valley extends its snow play hours until 6 p.m. on Night Session dates, which start December 12, 2026 and run on select dates through March 13, 2027. Big Bear Snow Play has also offered evening tubing in past seasons. Check current schedules before planning an evening trip, since dates and hours can change. Late sessions are colder and require extra layers.
How do I know if there’s snow in Running Springs right now?
Check the San Bernardino National Forest’s current conditions page for the Rim of the World Snow Play Area, Snow Valley’s snow report through the Big Bear Mountain Resort website, and Snowdrift’s social media for same-day status. Caltrans QuickMap tells you about road conditions and any chain controls that are active.
Is Running Springs less crowded than Big Bear?
Often, yes — but not always. Running Springs is closer to LA, which means you reach it before traffic fully backs up into the mountains. On regular snow weekends, that distance advantage is real. On major holiday weekends, busy days at Snowdrift and Snow Valley can be genuinely packed. “Less crowded” is a tendency, not a guarantee.
How far is Running Springs from Big Bear?
Approximately 30 minutes by car under normal conditions, heading east on Highway 18.
How far is Running Springs from Lake Arrowhead?
Approximately 15 minutes by car heading west on Highway 18.
When does it snow in Running Springs?
Snow season in the San Bernardino Mountains generally runs from late November through early spring, though the timing and quantity vary significantly year to year. Running Springs sits above 6,000 feet, which means it sees more consistent snow than lower communities, but dry winters do happen. Check current conditions and resort snow reports rather than assuming based on the calendar.
Are dogs allowed at snow play areas?
Not on the snow at Snow Valley (leashed dogs are allowed in the base area), and not on Rim Nordic’s trails during winter. The Forest Service’s designated snow play areas don’t specifically prohibit dogs, but check current guidelines for any updates. Always verify each location’s pet policy before bringing a dog, since rules can change between seasons.
Do I need snow chains to go sledding in Running Springs?
Possibly, depending on conditions that day. Chain controls on Highway 330 and Highway 18 are activated based on current road conditions and can change quickly. Check Caltrans QuickMap before you leave and again before you head up the mountain. Even if no chain controls are active, carrying chains is strongly recommended on storm days or whenever there’s any chance of snow on the road.
Can you sled on the side of the road in the mountains?
No. Snow play on or alongside the highway is illegal in San Bernardino County mountain communities, and violations can bring fines of $150 or more plus towing. Beyond the legal issue, roadside snow play is genuinely dangerous — snowplows, narrow shoulders, and blind curves create real hazards. Park legally and use the Forest Service’s designated snow play areas (which are forest land near the highway, not the shoulder) or a commercial tubing park.
Stay Close to the Snow in Running Springs
Skip the Day-Trip Traffic
Staying overnight in Running Springs changes the math on a snow day completely. You can be at Snowdrift or Snow Valley when they open, before day-trippers have left the freeway, and you don’t have to cut your afternoon short to get back to LA before dark. A cabin gives families a warm place to dry off between sessions, rest during the midday lull, and head back out for an afternoon run without the time pressure of a round-trip drive.
Cabins in Running Springs through Wild Olive Cabins put you a few minutes from both Snowdrift and Snow Valley’s snow play areas, and a short drive from the Forest Service snow play zones along Highway 18.
Explore More of the San Bernardino Mountains
A snow weekend in Running Springs connects easily to Lake Arrowhead, Big Bear, and the broader Rim of the World corridor. Whether that means a morning at SkyPark at Santa’s Village in Skyforest, lunch at Lake Arrowhead Village, or a first ski lesson at Snow Valley, the mountain offers more than one good day’s worth of winter activities for families willing to explore.
Your Running Springs Snow Day Starts Here
The hills around Running Springs have been drawing mountain families for generations — long before Big Bear became the default answer to “where should we go for snow?” Snowdrift, Snow Valley, and the quiet stretches of forest along Highway 18 covered in fresh powder offer everything you need for a good snow day, and they’re all within reach of LA without the full push to Big Bear. Pack the chains, bring cash if you’re heading to Snowdrift, check conditions the morning you leave, and get an early start. The mountain rewards people who plan ahead and show up ready.
