This guide covers the best things to do in Lake Arrowhead in winter, from festive December traditions to snowy January weekends and late-season February getaways. You’ll also find practical advice on winter driving, what to pack, how to plan a weekend, and why staying a little higher up the mountain in Running Springs can put you in the middle of it all.

This guide covers six beginner-friendly ski resorts within reach of Los Angeles, from the closest (Mountain High, about 90 minutes away) to the most ambitious weekend destination (Mammoth Mountain, about five hours). Two of them — Snow Valley Mountain Resort and Snow Summit — sit in the San Bernardino Mountains and are worth particular attention for beginners.

Just 10 minutes from the heart of Running Springs, Snow Valley Mountain Resort stands as one of Southern California’s most accessible and beginner-friendly ski destinations. This historic resort attracts skiers and snowboarders from across the region, offering a relaxed mountain experience without the crowds and long drives associated with larger resorts.