The author, splitboarding on Esha Peak - April 24, 2025 Photo: Joe Crawford
2025-04-26 | Bishop Creek, McGee Creek, Mammoth Lakes, the Dana Plateau, Lee Vining Canyon, Lundy Canyon, and Virginia Lakes Areas | California
The spring ski mountaineering season In the Eastern Sierra is ON! It's snowing outside as I write this, and this little pulse of precipitation should freshen up the backcountry conditions nicely. Coverage is still excellent above 10,000 feet, and today's fishing opener in Inyo county affords access to previously inaccessible high-elevation trailheads.
Putting in the staircase high in a classic Eastern Sierra couloir. Skier: Jack Frost Photo: Blackbird Guide Bob Newcomb
Kindergarten Chute and the Checkered Demon, Bishop Creek area - April 22, 2025.
The recent weeks have been dominated by clear skies, which has accomodated some spectacular days of backcountry skiing. Early starts have been effective for timing the best skiing on some days, although cloud cover and afternoon winds on many days kept the skiing quality high well into the afternoon.
Another beautiful day in the Mono Lake basin. Skier: Renee Elsdon Jacobs | Photo: Chris Cloyd
Bloody Couloir, Mammoth Lakes area - April 22, 2025. Photo: Bob Newcomb
Although certain classics (like the Bloody Couloir) still require a bit of dirt walking to approach, recent road openings have changed the game. Tons of incredible skiing is accessible now, with many skiing-back-to-the-car being realistic for many objectives!
Joe Crawford on Esha Peak, McGee Creek area - April 24, 2025. Photo: Chris Cloyd
Classic California corn skiing on Mt Baldwin - April 19, 2025. Photo: Bob Newcomb
Recent sunny days have created some world-class corn skiing conditions lately. Getting the timing right is critical, and hiring a guide can ensure you nail it!
Morning light on Esha Peak. Which line is calling your name? Photo: Chris Cloyd
Jack Frost getting walled in the High Sierra, Lee Vining area - April 18, 2025. Photo: Bob Newcomb
Whether you're looking for alpine bowls or steep couloirs, the Eastern Sierra has what you're looking for. We offer trips for backcountry skiers and riders of all ability levels, winter and spring.
The Dana Plateau offers some incredible steep skiing terrain with even better views of Mono Lake. Skier: Jack Frost | Photo: Bob Newcomb
Renee Elsdon Jacobs climbing Mount Warren - April 22, 2025. Photo: Chris Cloyd
Ski mountaineering skills are sometimes required to reach the best ski objectives. Build those skills working with one of our guides in the Eastern Sierra!
Joe Crawford and Ashley Dawson climbing Dunderberg Peak, Virginia Lakes area - April 23, 2025. Photo: Chris Cloyd
Ashley Dawson reaping the rewards of her climb. North Couloir, Dunderberg Peak, Virginia Lakes area - April 23, 2025. Photo: Chris Cloyd
As we head into May, the longer days and warmer temps should set up some of the best skiing of the spring. Stay posted here for more information as roads melt out and new terrain becomes accessible!
Trailhead Status Across the Range
✅ Sonora Pass / CA108 - Closed
✅ Tioga Pass / SR120 - Closed
✅ Upper Rock Creek Trailhead 10,000' - Open
✅ South Lake Trailhead 9700' - Open
✅ Lake Sabrina Trailhead 9700' - Open
✅ Onion Valley Trailhead 9200' - Open
Take advantage of the excellent skiing conditions and book an Eastern Sierra adventure with one of our expert Guides today!
About the Author:
Chris Cloyd is a Splitboard Guide and AIARE Avalanche Instructor based in June Lake, CA. He works as Blackbird's Program Manager, helping put together trips into the backcountry from the Eastern Sierra all the way up to the North Cascades in Washington.