For skiers, January is a sweet spot. There are literally hundreds of miles of snow-covered mountainside in the area just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re wanting a chair to take you to the top of a ski run, or are willing to earn your turns, this winter is looking promising for skiers and snowboarders alike. 

Mt. Ashland: Perhaps the most skied mountain in Southern Oregon, Mt. Ashland is an inexpensive local favorite that offers great terrain and beautiful views. With 220 acres, 4 chair lifts, and 23 runs, Mt. Ashland has plenty to offer. If you’re a beginner needing some pointers, or an advanced skier looking to polish the finer aspects, the Mt. Ashland Ski School has incredible personnel that offers lessons for groups and individuals. 

Mt. Ashland (back country): Want to get some powder in before work? Head up to the south side of Mt. Ashland off the ridges of Grouse Gap. Plenty of fun aspects make finding good snow relatively easy. The runs are a bit shorter but the views are well worth it.

Mt. Shasta Ski Park: 425 acres of skiable terrain, 32 trails, and 1,435 vertical feet make Mt. Shasta a great place to carve some California turns. If going big is your thing, hit one of three separate terrain parks of varying difficulty. Oh, and you’re skiing on Mt. Shasta—which is pretty awesome!

Mt Shasta (back country): Considered to be world class back-country, the massive amounts of vertical and huge snow drops allows back-country skiers the chance to carve turns eight months (or more) out of the year. Slides do occur so be cautious and educated once you get above tree line. Bunny Flat is the easiest access point.  

Brown Mountain: A great place for people of all skill levels. There are glades and mellow terrain and a bowl higher up, though the bowl can slide so be careful. A north facing slope makes for excellent snow. Find the right path and you can get about 2,500’ of vert. 

Mt McLaughlin: With lots of routes and great views, Mt. McLaughlin makes for a great day trip. Skiers should be cautious of avalanche danger—the safest snow can be found on the south facing slopes which can be really good as a spring ski. Long descents make this an awesome choice!