Kirkwood

Tucked away in the rugged beauty of northwest California, Kirkwood Mountain Resort is a picturesque mountain retreat where no one is in a rush and everyone is friendly. Kirkwood offers a mixed variety of riding experiences, with mostly deep and steep runs and a few runs of easy-going terrain, all complemented by sweeping views that'll leave you breathless. Because of its location, the West Coast precipitation funnels into a narrow canyon at Kirkwood, making for ideal snow conditions and a comparatively uncrowded experience, especially during the week.

With some of the best snowfall in the region and virtually no lift lines, Kirkwood is a snowy paradise. Although there isn't much novice terrain in Kirkwood, with more than 80% of the runs suited for intermediate and expert skiers, it is nonetheless varied. There is an excellent learning section apart from the expert runs in the Timber Creek Base Area. Here there are twenty-five blue intermediate runs and nine green beginner runs on the mountain. You will find the snow conditions early in the season can be slippery, as the snow melts during the day and then freezes overnight. As the temperatures rise above freezing later in the season, slush accumulates; make sure to wax your skis on these warm days. Kirkwood welcomes families too and has a highly regarded ski school that is ready to make your holiday easy.

Kirkwood is more of a mountain town than a resort, and as such, it doesn't really have any nightlife. So although there isn't much of an apres-ski scene, there are a few bars and grills at the base that offer happy hour specials, and the terrace with mountain views is a fantastic spot to relax. The Mountain Village base area has a cafeteria-style restaurant, The Wall Bar & Grill, 7800 Bar & Grill, and The Cornice, a sometimes open pizza restaurant, throughout the ski day. The 7800 Bar & Grill will be the only location that is open when you’ve finished your day on the mountain. 

Springtime brings a laid-back vibe, perfect for soaking up the California sun and enjoying the slopes. And come summer, Kirkwood is a high alpine playground, offering all sorts of adrenaline-pumping activities. From world-class rock climbing to scenic hiking trails and mountain biking adventures, there's no shortage of thrills to be had amidst fields of wildflowers and golden aspens. 

With stops at Red Cliffs Lot, Red Cliffs/East Meadows, Cornice (west bound), Village (east bound), and Timber Creek, the Shuttle system provides convenient transportation around the Kirkwood base area. Kirkwood Mountain Resort offers a range of lodging options, with most grouped around the Mountain Village base area. For lodging the convenience of the Mountain Club with its hot tub, gym, and slopeside access is unbeatable. Also a great value is Sun Meadows. You just have to cross the street to get to lifts 5 and 6 or get on the shuttle for a quick ride to the Timber Creek base. With reasonable lodging options, satisfying dining experiences, and breathtaking scenery, Kirkwood promises an unforgettable mountain escape.