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The Mountains are calling

Patricia Perdomo

March 10, 2016

Riders arriving mid-day load onto a shuttle taking them to Snow Summit. Photo credit: Patricia Perdomo

It is finally feeling a bit more like winter again thanks to El Niño’s recent storms. Which means it is the perfect time to try out some snow sports. Whether it is skiing, snowboarding or sledding, these local mountains offers options for some powdery fun.

Brandon Torricer an intermediate rider, from Maui, Hawaii, plans out his ride on Snow Summit's trail map. Photo credit: Patricia Perdomo

1. Big Bear Mountain/Snow Summit — Located just two and half hours away in Big Bear Lake. These neighboring mountains are just minutes away from each other. One-Day lift tickets are $79 for adults 23 and over, and $68 for young adults up to 22 years old. For those in a group, Costco offers a bargain deal of four lift tickets for about $190. The tickets are interchangeable between both mountains. Bear Mountain offers higher elevation and more acres for the more experienced rider. Snow Summit offers more trails for beginners and night boarding. A nearby low-cost rental shop is Blauer Ski & Board Rentals where board/boots packages start at $24.50 per day and select snow apparel is also available to rent.

The Broadway Express chairlift at Mammoth Mountain takes riders halfway up the mountain to intermediate trails. Photo credit: Patricia Perdomo

2. Mammoth Mountain — Located almost 5 hours away in Mammoth Lakes. A visit would be best planned for an overnight stay. One-Day lift tickets are $125 for adults 23 and older, and $98 for young adults up to 22 years old. If riding with a group, a bargain deal for four lift tickets can be found at Costco for about $300. Mammoth Mountain is one of the largest resorts in the country and offers the best snow conditions available to Southern Californians. A nearby low cost rental shop is Ski Renter where board/boots packages start at $30 per day and select snow apparel is also available to rent.

Rides make their way to the chair lift before strapping in their bindings at Snow Summit. Photo credit: Patricia Perdomo

3. Snow Valley — Located 2 hours away in Running Springs. One-Day lift tickets are $59 for adults 22 and older, and $49 for young adults up to 21 years old. A nearby low-cost rental shop is Blauer Ski & Board Rentals where board/boots packages start at $24.50 per day and select snow apparel is also available to rent.

Brandon Torricer, from Maui Hawaii, rides toe side on his snowboard at Snow Summit. Photo credit: Patricia Perdomo

Tips: To make the most of your day, start early to beat the crowds and ride some fresh runs. Relax at the bar or have lunch at the lodge in between. Check the road conditions before the trip just in case tire chains are required. Most importantly have fun.