Fitting securely within the growing trend towards skiing at smaller hills which are affordable and have less crowds, Mount Waterman has become a popular ski destination in Los Angeles county in California. If you look at a map of Los Angeles, Mount Waterman is barely outside of town in the Angeles National Forest, only about an hour away---which offers the possibility of an amazing vacation---half in downtown LA and half or weekends skiing Mount Waterman. Imagine visiting southern California and being able to get in some decent skiing!!
In fact, it is such a surprising concept that it is totally under the radar of most skiers. That means no lines, no crowds, and the chance to really enjoy the mountain in peace. It is only open on the weekends so play in LA and head out to ski on Saturday. The old highway there has been repaved, making it a bit less daring to drive in the winter!
This is an alluring little mountain in the San Gabriel Mountains. Although it only has 3 chair lifts, they take you to 100 trails---the easiest being found at the top and the hardest at the bottom!! So beginners get to enjoy the kind of views they rarely get to see in almost Alpine like meadows at the top.
There are ski instructors and you can take lessons, however no ski rentals so make sure to bring your own or rent in Los Angeles.
When there is new snow, the skiing here is awesome. You will be able to make fresh tracks. Since there is no snow making capability you want to try and get to the slopes after a big storm or during one. That's when you will find the best conditions. Snowboarders will find a challenge in trying to navigate the front side of the mountain, which is quite difficult. All in all, it has something for every level of skier.
After skiing head for one of the local dining establishments before driving back to LA. About 5 miles to the west you will find Newcomb's Ranch to warm up in front of a roaring fire, enjoy good food and drinks and be able to play a little pool. For a great little Italian restaurant try Café Sole in La Canada.
The wonder of booking a hotel in LA is the sheer variety and diversity of accommodations you can find. You can settle right on the beach. Or in the downtown area near the museums and shopping. Or in Burbank by the movie studios. From the ultra luxurious Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills, to the retro Venice On The Beach Hotel where you can get out and surf or do some barefoot beachcombing, to the hotels near Disneyland---you have everything you could ever want.
While in Los Angeles, if you want to rent or buy skis, ski apparel or ski accessories, visit Summit Ski & Cycle on Lincoln Boulevard. You'll be able to get your skis repaired and hot waxed ahead of your trip out to Mount Waterman. You can also rent skis from them by the day. They are also very knowledgeable about maintenance of snowboards and equipment.
Mount Waterman is an incredible place. I was in LA on business and had to check it out. I used lift 1 to access the terrain on the front side of the mountain. This is expert only and it doesn't appear to have any easy way down in the form of a catwalk. Believe me, this truly is expert only! I had such a blast. Everyone was friendly and it was a fabulous day! I will go back to Mount Waterman. Roseann Lahey
