Key Takeaways
- Mt. Shasta Ski Park offers 635 acres, 2,036 feet of vertical, and 38 trails, plus twilight skiing. Great for groups with mixed experience levels.
- Buy lift tickets early. The mountain uses a $5 reusable RFID card and has clear age brackets and multi-day flexibility.
- Hours vary by day and season, so always check the current Hours of Operation before driving up.
- Reserve rentals and lessons ahead of time; clothing and goggles aren’t rented.
- Winter driving is common; watch Caltrans QuickMap for chain controls on I-5/CA-89 and plan for snowy parking lots.
- Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort is open year-round, offering cabins, houses for easy warm-ups after skiing.
Mt. Shasta Ski Park at a Glance
Mt. Shasta Ski Park is a welcoming mountain that’s easy to navigate and great for families, first-timers, and returning skiers alike. Here’s the quick snapshot:
- 635 skiable acres
- 2,036 feet of vertical
- 38 trails: 20% beginner, 45% intermediate, 35% advanced
- Lifts: 1 quad, 3 triples, 2 carpets
- Longest run: Over 2 miles
The mountain also runs twilight skiing on select days, with 14 lit trails across two lifts. It’s a fun way to stretch your ski day without the crowds you’ll see midday.
Before you go, take a moment to review the trail map, especially if you’re skiing with a mixed group. Beginners often start near the carpets and easier groomers, while intermediates can head higher for wide cruisers and viewpoints. Terrain park riders will also find features laid out by ability level.
Tickets & Passes: What to Know (and How to Save)
RFID & Age Brackets
Mt. Shasta Ski Park uses RFID cards for all lift access. Your first one costs $5 and can be reloaded season after season (and is included with 5-Day and Season Passes).
Age brackets are:
- Pup: 7 and under
- Junior: 8-12
- Adult: 13-64
- Senior: 65+
Capacity & Refunds
The Ski Park can sell out on busy weekends and powder days. Buying tickets early helps ensure you get on the mountain.
Refund windows follow a simple schedule:
- 10+ days out: Full refund/transfer
- 4-9 days: Transfer only
- 0-3 days: No refund
Multi-Day Flexibility
Planning a longer stay? Multi-day tickets offer flexibility; for example, a 3-day ticket may allow you to ski any two days within the designated window.
Military Discount
U.S. military members with a valid ID can access $50 lift tickets (check the website for blackout dates or details).
Season Pass Perks
Season Pass holders typically receive partner-resort benefits that change each year, so always confirm the current list if you’re planning destination trips.
When to Go: Hours, Season & Conditions
Typical lift hours are:
- 9 am-4 pm Sunday through Thursday
- 9 am-5 pm Friday and Saturday
Twilight operations run on select evenings, so checking the Hours of Operation page is essential, especially after storms or during shoulder season.
The season normally runs from December through April, though snowfall varies year to year. The Ski Park posts daily conditions, webcams, and snow reports so you can time your visit with fresh powder or sunny groomer days.
Rentals, Lessons & Tubing
Rentals
Book online ahead of time for ski, snowboard, and junior packages. Keep in mind that clothing and goggles aren’t available to rent, but the retail shop carries essentials if you forget something.
Lessons
The Learning Center offers everything from first-timer lessons to progression programs for growing confidence across the mountain. Checking availability ahead of time is especially helpful on weekends and holidays.
Tubing
Tubing operates seasonally, often on weekends. Verify the schedule before you arrive if it’s on your list.
Getting There, Parking & Winter Roads
From downtown Mount Shasta, the drive to the Ski Park is 20-25 minutes (~7-8 miles).
Parking at the mountain is free and walk-up friendly, but lots can be snowy, so wearing waterproof shoes is recommended.
Winter weather on I-5/CA-89 can change quickly. Check Caltrans QuickMap, CHP updates, and chain-control alerts before and during your trip. For a single hub of road cams, parking status, and maps, the Ski Park’s Roads & Parking page is a great resource.
Warm-Up Spots On-Mountain (and Après)
Food and beverage options vary by day but generally include:
- Mud Creek
- BC Pizza
- Powder Hound
- Black Diamond Grill
- Ray’s Place Bar
A helpful tip: If you’re skiing twilight, consider an early or late lunch to avoid peak cafeteria crowds and save time for more mountain laps.
Staying Warm at Lake Siskiyou (Cabins, RV Sites)
Just a short drive from the Ski Park, Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort serves as an easy, cozy winter basecamp.
Cabins & Houses
Open year-round, Lake Siskiyou’s cabins and houses include kitchenettes or full kitchens, both great for drying gear, making breakfast before first chair, or warming up after twilight skiing.
RV Sites
Winter-ready RV travelers will appreciate full-hookup and 30/50-amp electric options. Bring insulated hoses and cold-weather gear if you’re camping in below-freezing conditions.
What to Pack (Winter Warmth Checklist)
Bring:
- Moisture-wicking layers, including waterproof jacket and pants
- Insulated, waterproof boots (gaiters for storm days)
- Hand and foot warmers
- Tire chains plus gloves, scraper, shovel, and headlamp
- Waterproof tote for wet gear
- Extra socks and gloves
- RFID card, if you already have one, since they are reloadable
- Printed/digital confirmations for tickets, rentals, and lodging
Sample One- or Two-Day Game Plans
Option A: Day Trip + Twilight
- Morning drive to the mountain
- Pick up rentals/tickets early
- Ski 9-2
- Warm up at Mud Creek or BC Pizza
- Twilight laps 3-6 (on applicable days)
- Dinner at Lake Sis Grill
Option B: Weekend Cabin & Lessons
- Friday: Check into your cabin or house at Lake Siskiyou
- Saturday: Morning lesson + full-day skiing
- Sunday: Tubing (if open) or scenic cruising on groomers
- Late checkout and a relaxed drive home
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much terrain and what difficulty mix does Mt. Shasta offer?
635 acres with a 20/45/35 beginner-intermediate-advanced split and 2,036 feet of vertical.
Is there night or twilight skiing?
Yes, there is twilight skiing on select days on 14 trails and 2 lifts. Make sure to check the calendar to see which days it’s available.
Do I need to buy an RFID card?
First-time visitors will purchase a $5 reusable RFID card. However, if you already have one, they are reloadable.
Are there military discounts?
Yes! U.S. military members receive $50 lift tickets with a valid ID.
When is the season?
Typically, December through April, depending on the weather.
How far is Lake Siskiyou from the Ski Park?
It will approximately take 20-25 minutes by car from the Mount Shasta area to the Ski Park.
What about chains/road conditions?
You should always check Caltrans QuickMap for chain controls on I-5/CA-89 during storms.
Can I rent clothing or goggles at the Ski Park?
No, only hard goods are available for rental. Apparel and goggles can be purchased on-site.
Ready to Plan Your Winter Basecamp at Lake Siskiyou?
Book your cabin, house, or RV site, then pack your layers, charge your RFID card, and get ready for a cozy lakeside basecamp paired with plenty of time on the mountain.