Summer may be officially here, but there are some places in Northern California that are definitely not acting like it. In fact, snow is still falling in one region, in particular—the Sierra Nevadas. Are you the type of person that loves winter weather? Then you are definitely in luck because it doesn’t look like the snow is going anywhere anytime soon in this breathtaking region of the state. Pack your snowshoes and throw on a coat. Winter in summer is just a short drive away!
Feel like taking a snow day? Plan a visit to the Sierra Nevada Mountains, where snow is STILL falling. In fact, it's been a record-breaking year for snowfall in Northern California and snow is expected to last well into the summer.
So far, snowpack in the Sierra Nevada region of Northern California is among the heaviest its been during this time of year since 2001. The sheer amount of snow covering the region is even more than the 2017 snowpack that pulled California out of its infamous five-year drought.
The heaviest snowpack can be found in the southern Sierra Nevada, in regions like Mammoth Lakes and Woodlake. This area boasts a whopping 135% of its usual mid-June average. This is good news for places like Mammoth Mountain, which expects to stay open into August.
The rest of the Sierra is still above average, and you're bound to find some snow when you venture into these areas for at least a few weeks, if not months, longer. The next time you feel like escaping the heat, a brief road trip into the Sierras may be the answer!
If you're a skier or snowboarder, you're definitely in luck. Mammoth Mountain currently boasts 90-inches of snow at its summit. Even Squaw Valley Ski Resort in Lake Tahoe expects to stay open until at least July 4. If you've ever dreamed of spending Independence Day skiing down a mountain, this year is your chance!
However, there is one major downside to the plethora of snow we've experienced this year. The extra snow is expected to cause issues during wildfire season. With more vegetation growing from the extra rain and snowpack, this means there will be more fuel for fire in lower elevation areas.
This year is turning out to be pretty good news for snow enthusiasts. Although we'll have to be extra careful this year regarding wildfires, the extra snow also means a gorgeous escape from the summer heat is just a short drive away.
Can you believe how much snow can still be found in the Sierra Nevadas? It’s turning out to be an incredible year for snow enthusiasts, that’s for sure. For those who enjoy our summer attractions, be sure to check out these 12 Things Everyone In Northern California Should Do This Summer.
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