Soda Springs is officially California's snowiest town. At 6,768 feet, Soda Springs gets tons of snowfall each year. This might explain why it’s a top ski and snowboarding destination in California.
This census-designated place in Northern California is right off of Highway 80. If you’ve driven to Truckee from Sacramento or the Bay Area, you passed Soda Springs.
It’s located high in the mountains near the Donner Summit.
The Zephyr Train that runs from Chicago to San Francisco passes through Soda Springs. Riders get breathtaking views of the snowy peaks and beautiful forests.
There are several small communities in Soda Springs but overall it’s a vacation destination. The Soda Springs population is less than 100 people. But you won’t find it empty if you visit, especially in the winter months.
Soda Springs is home to the Soda Springs Mountain Resort and the Royal Gorge Cross Country Ski Resort.
Right next to Soda Springs are two famous ski resorts: Sugar Bowl Resort and Boreal Ski Resort These ski resorts attract visitors from all over the world.
At Soda Springs Mountain Resort you can ski, snowboard, and tube. They have bunny hills and a kids area, too. There are multiple lifts to take you up the mountain.
If you’re new to skiing or you’re a bit rusty, they offer lessons.
If you want to be as close as possible to the slopes, there are also several lodges in town and rental cabins nearby. This cozy cabin near the resort sleeps eight people.
A hill for sledding is two blocks away from this cabin, and the downhill ski slopes are only 15 minutes away.
Soda Springs has one general store, a gas station, and ATM. There is a cafe inside the Royal Gorge Cross Country Ski Resort that is well-known for its fish tacos. Other than that, you’ll have to drive just a few minutes to the other resorts and nearby towns for cafes and fine dining.
If you’re staying in Soda Springs, you might want to end a long day of skiing by cooking some food in your cozy cabin. But if you want to go out to eat, a popular choice is Old 40 Bar & Grill, which is located 5 minutes from Soda Springs.
Have you visited this snowy destination in Northern California? Do you stay in Soda Springs? Tell us in the comments.
Wondering what to pack on a winter trip to Soda Springs? We can help!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!