Badger Pass Ski Area Yosemite National Park
Yosemite's historic Badger Pass offers affordable skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and snowshoeing amidst stunning national park scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier rentals
Badger Pass Ski Area Yosemite National Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier rentals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Yosemite's historic Badger Pass offers affordable skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and snowshoeing amidst stunning national park scenery.
"An excellent ski area for beginners and for someone who is looking to ski on a budget."
🚗 Bring Tire Chains
Essential for most vehicles in winter! Check conditions before you go.
⏰ Arrive Early for Rentals
Weekend rental lines can be long. Aim for opening or rent elsewhere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Family-Friendly Slopes
Main Ski Area
Perfect for beginners and families, with gentle slopes and a dedicated kiddie area.
Scenic Tubing Hill
Tubing Area
Enjoy a safe and fun downhill sledding experience with breathtaking Yosemite views.
Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
Surrounding Trails
Explore the winter wonderland on groomed trails, with free ranger-led snowshoe walks available.
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Planning Your Visit
Winter Access & Chains
Beat the Rental Rush
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Bring Tire Chains
Essential for most vehicles in winter! Check conditions before you go.
⏰ Arrive Early for Rentals
Weekend rental lines can be long. Aim for opening or rent elsewhere.
💰 Budget-Friendly Pricing
Affordable lift tickets and rentals make it great for learning.
📵 No Cell Service
Download offline maps and inform others of your plans.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Bring Tire Chains
Essential for most vehicles in winter! Check conditions before you go.
⏰ Arrive Early for Rentals
Weekend rental lines can be long. Aim for opening or rent elsewhere.
💰 Budget-Friendly Pricing
Affordable lift tickets and rentals make it great for learning.
📵 No Cell Service
Download offline maps and inform others of your plans.
🎒 Pack Your Own Snacks
The on-site restaurant closes early; bring your own food.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Badger Pass for its affordable pricing, friendly staff, and beginner-friendly atmosphere, making it a great spot for families and those on a budget. While the scenic beauty is a major draw, some find the rental process slow on weekends and note the early closing time of the on-site restaurant. +2
"Affordable pricing, beginner-friendly. Despite the weekend crowds and a full shuttle, the rental process took longer than expected. Lessons are served on a first-come, first-served basis, so be prepared accordingly. Additionally, please carry tire chains, although they are not required for 4x4 vehicles with snow tires. Overall, I am satisfied with the experience."
Laxmi Ag
"Staff is super friendly and helpful. Our friends took lessons from some great teachers. The ski area is small but wasn't crowded and we enjoyed skiing all day. They won't let you drive a snow cat, so don't bother asking. Lift and rental prices are super reasonable."
Chad Berryhill
"Went to ski here yesterday. For being a Saturday it was not too crowded. Took about 2 hours to get the rental part situated though and we arrived right at 9. Other than that the skii area was great. They have different levels so people who are learning can start out in the kiddie area and then move to the bigger slopes. You will need chains if you do not have a 4x4/AWD. You will have no cell service. They have a place to get food but we brought our own so can't speak on that but overall for it being my first time skiing it was a good experience. Didn't feel rushed or worried about there being an excessive amount of people."
Johanna Jimenez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Badger Pass Ski Area is located about 17.6 miles (approx. 30-minute drive) from Yosemite Valley. During winter, you'll need to check road conditions and carry tire chains, as they are often required unless you have a 4x4 vehicle with snow tires. +1
Yes, a shuttle service is typically available from Yosemite Valley to Badger Pass Ski Area during the winter season, though it can get crowded on weekends.
Tire chains are often required for vehicles driving to Badger Pass in winter, even for 4x4s unless they have snow tires. It's crucial to check the latest road conditions and chain requirements before heading up.
Winter driving conditions can be challenging with snow and ice. Roads are regularly plowed, but always be prepared for delays and carry tire chains.
Yes, there is parking available at Badger Pass Ski Area. However, it can fill up quickly on busy days, especially on weekends.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lift ticket prices are very reasonable, with options for beginners starting around $30 for access to the lower chairlift. Full-day access is typically around $64, making it a budget-friendly choice. +1
Yes, children aged 6 and younger often ski for free at Badger Pass, making it an excellent option for families.
While not always mandatory, booking lift tickets in advance is recommended, especially for weekend visits, to secure your spot and potentially avoid long queues.
Badger Pass Ski Area typically operates from mid-December through mid-March, with hours usually from 9 AM to 4 PM. The restaurant also closes at 4 PM.
Yes, ski and snowboard rentals are available on-site. However, the rental process can take up to two hours on busy days, so arriving early is advised.
🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience
Absolutely! Badger Pass is renowned for being very family-friendly and beginner-oriented, with gentle slopes and a dedicated area for learning. +2
Beyond downhill skiing and snowboarding, Badger Pass offers tubing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Free ranger-led snowshoe walks are also a popular option.
Weekends can get crowded, particularly with shuttle services and rental queues. Weekdays are generally much less crowded and offer a more relaxed experience.
Yes, snowboarding is permitted at Badger Pass Ski Area, and it's suitable for various skill levels.
The scenery is breathtaking, offering majestic views of Yosemite National Park's winter landscape. It's a truly magical setting for a day on the snow.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a place to get food on-site, but it closes at 4:00 PM. Many visitors opt to bring their own snacks and meals to enjoy throughout the day. +1
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is a common practice among visitors, especially since the on-site dining closes relatively early.
While not explicitly mentioned, the scenic nature of the area suggests opportunities for picnicking, especially if you bring your own food.
📸 📸 Photography
Anywhere with a view of the surrounding Yosemite peaks and valleys offers stunning photo opportunities. The tubing hill and various ski trails provide scenic backdrops.
Yes, winter in Yosemite offers unique photographic opportunities with snow-covered landscapes. Be sure to protect your camera from the cold and moisture. +1
The general vistas from the ski slopes and the tubing area offer panoramic views. The drive up to Badger Pass itself also presents scenic overlooks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The tubing hill offers a different kind of snowy fun that kids absolutely love. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as the on-site food service closes early. 💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and drinks will also help keep expenses down. 🏂 First-Time Skiers & Snowboarders
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Historic Gem: Badger Pass Ski Area
The resort has seen many visitors over the decades, evolving from its early days to offer a range of winter activities suitable for all ages and skill levels. Its historical significance adds a layer of charm to the experience, making it more than just a ski hill. Despite its historical roots, Badger Pass maintains a focus on accessibility and affordability. It's particularly lauded for its beginner-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for those new to skiing or snowboarding. The presence of a dedicated learning area and reasonably priced lessons contribute to its reputation as a welcoming destination for families and budget-conscious travelers.
Beyond the Slopes: Winter Activities in Yosemite
+1 The park also offers free ranger-led snowshoe walks, a fantastic opportunity to learn about the winter ecology from knowledgeable naturalists. For those seeking a different kind of thrill, the snow tubing hill at Badger Pass provides guaranteed fun for all ages.
Beyond the immediate vicinity of the ski area, exploring Yosemite Valley itself in winter offers its own magic. Hiking trails like the Mist Trail (conditions permitting) can be stunning with snow, though caution is advised due to icy conditions. Navigating Winter in Yosemite: Practicalities
When it comes to gear, renting equipment can be a time-consuming process, especially on weekends. Many visitors suggest renting in nearby towns like Fresno to save time and potentially money.
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