Badger Pass, California Snowboarding Zone
Riders Guide - In total there are ten runs, 35% beginner, 50% intermediate and 15% advanced. There is also nearly 100 acres, 800 feet of vertical and the resort normally receives around 300’ of powdery snow each season. The ski area is small by west coast standards but the quality of terrain, the abundance of snow and the small crowds more than make up for its size. It is ideal for beginner and intermediate riders, but everyone’s guaranteed to find terrain that is challenging.
Parks and Pipes - Badger Pass proudly boasts two terrain parks. The upper terrain park is the smaller of the two with features perfect for children, beginner and intermediate riders. There are a wide variety of unthreatening boxes, jumps and rails to enjoy. The lower terrain park caters more toward the intermediate and advanced rider and freestyle skier with larger jumps, longer rails and bigger boxes.
Out of Bounds - The most popular activity is to cross country ski in the area. The hundreds of miles of trails make it possible for guests to explore some of the best views the park has to offer and to really enjoy a true backwoods experience. There is also a sizeable skating track, full moon snowshoe walks and other guided and unguided adventures to explore.
Hangout & Hookup - The Snowflake Room is the ski area’s pub on the slopes and is a great meeting place during and after a fantastic day of riding. There is a lovely assortment of cuisine and an extensive drink menu. The Snowflake Room features great views of the ski area and inside it houses many amazing pictures of the first skiers on Badger Pass which serves as something of a museum and homage to the history of snow sports. The area also has several great accommodations which house their own bars and make great après ski locations perfect for relaxing and unwinding with friends and family. Yosemite is not renowned for its nightlife and is low-key in comparison to bigger ski resorts, but there are plenty of options for those looking for a mellow end to the day.
The Deal - The Bay Area is approximately 200 miles from the resort. Take Interstate 580 east to Manteca. Head south on Highway 99 to Modesto. Take Highway 108 east from Modesto to Highway 120. Head east on Highway 120 to Badger Pass Ski Area. Sacramento is nearly equidistant. Take Highway 99 south to Modesto. Take Highway 108 east from Modesto to Highway 120. Head east on Highway 120 to Badger Pass Ski Area. The roads leading to Yosemite are well-maintained throughout the winter which means riders and skiers will have access to the ski area all winter long.
