Ignorant question: Is skiing possible if high temp is 43 deg

[Anonymous]

Sorry for the dumb question, but we get our 3rd chance ever to ski in California this weekend, and I don't know whether to go or not. Is it possible to ski if the daytime high temperature is 43 degrees? Forty degrees is forecast for one day this weekend, and 43 for the other. We're novice skiers with kids, and were hoping to go to Tahoe Donner. Advice, please?!

 

[Tony Crocker]

It's an odd question to me, as I've skied SoCal local and the Sierra as late as July 15 in a T-shirt with temps in the 60's and maybe even 70's a couple of times. The Sierra's 10-15 foot base isn't going away for a long time.

The more serious answer is that flat novice terrain will tend to transition to spring conditions sooner. So the snow will be there but it might be a bit hard in the morning and slushy midday. One way to combat that would be to go somewhere the novice terrain is at higher elevation and the snow more likely to remain dry. Kirkwood is the Tahoe area that first comes to mind. Squaw's novice area is high up and very scenic, but I would only consider that with novices midweek as it's very hectic on the weekends. Mammoth and particularly June Mt. would be good choices, but a much longer drive if you're from Northern California.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks very much for such a complete and thoughtful answer. I learned a lot, and certainly won't give up on next weekend. Thanks!

 

[Sharon]

Best bet is to get out early before it all turns mushy.

If you get there when the lifts open, you'll likely be tired by lunch time anyway. Then bask on the deck sipping a beverage. Don't forget the sun block.

It was 50 degrees here (in the east) this weekend. I skied and it was wonderful, though the stuff in the sun got pretty mushy after 2pm.