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Follow This Map to the Closest Snow Play Spots

Written by Shelley D. FargoPublished Feb. 25, 2023 • 5:00am
A tourist sleds in the Sierras. | Getty Images

It’s a huge week for snow all over California. But if you’re reading this article from anywhere near the Bay, getting to Tahoe is not likely in the cards.

Fear not! There are plenty of lower high-elevation spots near the SF Bay Area that are accessible by major roads where you can spend a day throwing snowballs and sledding ‘til your fingers freeze.

Check out The Standard Guide to all the snowy areas near the city, from higher hills immediately surrounding the Bay to snow play areas in the Sierra Foothills and Gold Country to proper snow parks run by the less expensive, smaller ski resorts near Donner Lake and Tahoe. 

Just be sure to check the latest road conditions before heading for these snowy hills.

Where to Find Snow Near San Francisco

Shelley D. Fargo can be reached at [email protected]


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