Mountain High

Overview

Mountain High is one of the most visited ski resorts in Southern California, drawing crowds from across the greater Los Angeles region thanks to its convenient location in the San Gabriel Mountains near Wrightwood. The resort operates three separate base areas — West Resort, East Resort, and North Resort — each offering a distinct experience. With 290 skiable acres and 59 runs spread across its three peaks, Mountain High delivers solid variety for a Southern California destination.

The resort sits at the intersection of the Angeles Crest and San Gabriel mountain ranges, benefiting from storm systems that track across the Transverse Ranges. It averages around 130 inches of natural snowfall per season, supplemented by an extensive snowmaking operation that keeps key runs open throughout the winter.

Terrain

Mountain High’s terrain is split across its three resort areas. The West Resort is the largest and most popular, featuring a good mix of intermediate cruisers and beginner-friendly runs. The East Resort caters more to advanced riders with steeper pitches and a dedicated terrain park. The North Resort focuses on family-oriented tubing and beginner terrain.

Intermediate skiers will find plenty to enjoy on the groomed blue runs at West, which offer consistent pitch and well-maintained surfaces. Advanced riders tend to gravitate toward East Resort, where the steeper terrain and park features provide more challenge. The resort maintains multiple terrain park setups with features ranging from small progression elements to larger jumps and rail combinations.

The 25% beginner terrain allocation provides ample room for newcomers, with dedicated learning zones and gentle slopes served by surface lifts and slower chairs.

Facilities

Mountain High’s base lodge at West Resort serves as the main hub, with a cafeteria, rental shop, ticket windows, and gear store. The East Resort has its own smaller lodge with food service and restrooms. Rental equipment is available at both main base areas, and the ski school operates group and private lessons throughout the season.

Night skiing is a major draw, running on select evenings with a good portion of the West Resort illuminated. The tubing hill at North Resort is popular with families and groups looking for a non-skiing winter activity.

Getting There

Mountain High is approximately 90 minutes from downtown Los Angeles via I-15 North to Highway 138. From the Inland Empire, the drive is about 45 minutes. The resort maintains a large parking area at each base, though the West Resort lot fills quickly on weekend mornings. Arriving early is strongly recommended during peak periods, and chains may be required during or after storms.