The resort features more than 50 marked trails and a summit elevation of just over 8,700 feet, all about 70 miles from Fresno.
Opened in 1958, China Peak continues to be a popular and easily accessible destination for Californians. Now locally owned and operated, this resort is a great option for beginners thanks to its variety of green-circle slopes and availability of skiing and snowboarding lessons. But that doesn’t mean those with more experience won’t find what they’re looking for here. China Peak features plenty of challenging runs, including four double black-diamond trails. And as of the 2020/21 season, those who need a break from their skis or snowboards can get a thrill on the Mighty Mountain Tube Hill, serviced by a fourth magic carpet.
Spending the day (or several days) at China Peak is made more enjoyable by the resort’s dining options, and the slope-side Inn at China Peak. The resort also has rental facilities should traveling with equipment prove difficult.
The season at China Peak Mountain Resort generally runs from early December to late March. Because it is a popular destination, it’s a good idea to avoid holidays and weekends if possible. While January is normally the coldest month, February through March are your best bet for good snow and California’s famous bluebird days.
For the 2022/2023 season, full-day and half-day lift tickets at China Peak Mountain Resort can be purchased online or at the resort. However, to save money and avoid lines, consider purchasing your tickets online in advance.
Adult (30–64) Full-day adult lift tickets at China Peak Mountain Resort range from $113 to $131 depending on whether or not you visit on a holiday, or if you purchase your ticket online. Half-day tickets range from $96 to $100, and are valid from 12:30–4 pm every day the resort is open. Half-day tickets are not available for purchase online.
Senior (65+) Seniors are offered a discounted lift ticket rate at China Peak Mountain Resort. Full-day lift tickets cost between $102 and $113 depending on whether or not it’s a holiday, and whether the ticket is purchased online or at the window. Half-day tickets range from $84 to $88.
Youth (13–29) China Peak Mountain Resort lift tickets for teenagers and young adults range from $86 to $99 for the full day, and $73 to $76 for a half day.
Child (6–12) Children over the age of 6 can ski at China Peak Mountain Resort for the full day for $46 to $48. Half-day children’s lift tickets cost between $30 and $32. Children under the age of 5 can ski for free.
China Peak Mountain Resort is part of the Indy Pass and Powder Alliance season pass programs. If you purchase a China Peak Black Pass, you will have access to resorts throughout the western United States, British Columbia and several other international ski destinations.
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Trail Information
Lift Details
Trail Map
China Mountain has a ski and snowboard school offering private and group lessons for kids and adults, as well as an adaptive snow sports program. Make sure to reserve a place at the ski school in advance of your visit to ensure availability, and arrive with plenty of time before your lesson to make sure you’re equipment is all set up.
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Where to stayThe Inn at China Peak is China Peak Mountain Resort’s slope-side lodging option and home to the The Inn’s Restaurant and JW’s Original Bar – an après-ski hot spot on the mountain. About 15 minutes from the ski area is Huntington Lake Resort , which has 10 rustic cabins with dining and living room areas and patios with views to the lake. In the nearby village of Shaver Lake, the Elliott House Bed & Breakfast has luxurious feather beds with goose-down comforters, not to mention jetted tubs. Guests are treated to a gourmet breakfast, as well as California wines and homemade treats after coming off the slopes.
How to get thereIt takes about an hour and a half to drive to China Peak Mountain Resort from the Fresno International Airport. There is a China Peak Express Bus that offers round-trip rides from Fresno, as well as San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles, during the season, although the schedule is subject to change. The Sequoia Brewing Company in Fresno also has a party bus that has round-trip rides to China Peak on select dates through March as well, with a bus ride and lift ticket package option.
Mammoth Mountain
|
June Mountain | Badger Pass | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vertical Drop (ft) | 3,100 | 2,590 | 800 |
| Skiable Area (ac) | 400 | 250 | 300 |
| Number of Trails | 175 | 41 | 10 |
| READ MORE | READ MORE | READ MORE |
