Do You Want to Build a Snowman?

Terhific Recommendation on where to find snow in San Diego 

Can you believe it, but local folks here in Southern California might just get a chance to play in the snow this coming weekend? We are so lucky to live within easy drive to the local mountains with high elevations! I take advantage of this situation and head over to Cuyamaca and Laguna Mountains as soon as I hear about the possibility of snow!

I might have to ditch all the holiday party plans and start packing our winter gear into the car! There is a winter storm warning that promises two to five inches of snow accumulation from 3,000 to 5,000 feet and up to a foot of snow is expected above 5,000 feet. This means that both Cuyamaca and Laguna Mountains will provide wonderful winter fun for families.

Each year, our local mountains have a chance of getting a snow blanket a few times between November and March. The snow never stays on the ground for many days, so you should pay attention to the weather forecasts. When I plan our trips, I always check Laguna Mountain Lodge's Facebook pages and Mt.Laguna Webcam and Local Weather Info for Mt. Laguna before we leave. That way I know for sure whether there is snow in the ground. I only go as far into the mountains as I can without chains. I usually drive through the Cuyamacas. If there is not enough snow there, then I head over to the higher elevations at Laguna Mountains.

Here are our favorite spots for snow play in our local moutains:

1. Green Valley Falls Area Campground at Cuyamaca Mountains Green Valley sits at an elevation of 4,000 feet. The day use fee is $8 per vehicle. It is a great place for a snowball fight!
   
2. Paso Picacho Campground at Cuyamaca Mountains Paso Picacho Campground sits at an elevation of 5,000 feet. The day use fee is $8 per vehicle. We like to play both in the fields and in the hills. Bring your toboggans and snowshoes and have fun!
   
3. Laguna Mountain Lodge Area at Laguna Mountains Stop by the Laguna Mountain Lodge to get tips where to park and play in the snow in Laguna Mountains. You will need an Adventure Pass if you plan on playing in the fields along Sunrise Highway. The Adventure Passes are available in the Lodge.

Make sure you bring a change of clothes for everyone as the kids get cold after getting wet in the snow. The close by mountain town of Julian also looks great with a blanket of snow! Palomar Mountain is yet another place that receives snow in San Diego.

Enjoy and make sure you take pictures of your snowmen! I'd love to hear if I inspired anyone to go and play in the snow!