Does it snow in Redding California? Redding has become a popular destination for outdoor recreation in Northern California because of its stunning natural landscapes.
The city usually experiences hot and dry summers, along with mild and wet winters typical of a Mediterranean climate.
However, when winter arrives, a lot of people visiting Redding often wonder, “Does it snow in Redding, CA?”
Let’s find out more about it now!
Yes, it does snow in Redding, but it is usually nothing more than a light dusting, so you need to go to nearby places for winter sports.
Where Does It Snow in Redding California?
Although it does not snow much in the city of Redding, there are plenty of nearby mountain ranges where you can enjoy a snowy winter.
In most years, the lower elevations around Redding usually experience a light dusting of snowflakes that do not stay for very long.
- If you are looking for larger amounts of snow measured in inches or feet instead of flurries, you must drive a short distance outside of town.
One of the popular places to go for snow sports is Mount Shasta Ski Park. It is situated approximately 70 miles north of Redding, just off Highway 5.
Mount Shasta stands at an elevation of 7,536 feet, typically receiving around 300 inches of snow yearly. This consistent snowfall ensures fantastic skiing and snowboarding conditions from November all the way to April.
If you are looking for even more amazing snowfall, you should head about 47 miles northeast of town to Mount Lassen Volcanic National Park.
The park becomes a magical winter wonderland, where you can enjoy activities like snowshoeing, sledding, and building snowmen. Make sure you do not miss out on Lassen’s incredible 30-foot snow walls that can last all the way into summer.
Fact: The mountains in Mount Lassen Volcanic National Park have peaks that reach above 8,000 feet, and they receive an impressive amount of snowfall at the summit.
How Much Does It Snow in Redding CA?
Okay, so how often does it snow in Redding California? Well, snowfall is not very common in Redding.
Redding is situated at the northern end of California’s largest valley. Sometimes, it gets snow because of the lingering winter storms from the Gulf of Alaska.
Typically, it snows about once a year on the valley floor. However, the snow does not stick around for long – it usually melts within a few hours to a day.
Redding might get a few inches of snow from these storms about every five years. Sometimes, the mountains around here can create a sort of bowl shape that keeps cold air trapped in the valley.
This can cause the snow to stick around for a day or two.
History of Snowfall in Redding CA
Sometimes, about every 20 years or so, Redding can actually get a lot of snow. It does not happen often, but when it does, the snow can pile up to about a foot deep because of a bunch of storms.
In Redding, the average amount of snowfall each year is 15.8 inches. This is considered to be relatively low compared to other areas in California. For instance, Mount Shasta gets more than 400 inches of snow every year.
It is worth mentioning that Redding has been experiencing snowfall in the month of March since 1894.
In fact, the highest recorded snowfall in March was a whopping 7 inches on March 2, 1976.
Typically, the city gets around 1 inch of snow each year. However, there have been instances where the city has had up to 9 days in a single year with measurable snowfall.
An Important Consideration
In Redding, the average high-temperature changes throughout the year.
In January, the average high is around 53.1°F, while July is the hottest month with an average high temperature of about 96.9°F.
Because Redding is close to the ocean, it experiences some intense weather conditions. This includes heavy rain, strong winds, and sudden shifts in temperature. These factors can cause accumulated snow to transform into hazardous ice.
Fact: In 1988, Redding, California had an impressive 17 inches of snowfall throughout the year, which made it a great year for snow plow contractors in the city.
Is Redding a Good Place for Winter Vacations?
Even though Redding does not get much snow, it is still a perfect place to escape during winter.
The city has lots of beautiful outdoor attractions and a festive holiday atmosphere. You can drive for just an hour and reach snowy Mt. Shasta, where you can enjoy excellent skiing and snowboarding until spring.
You can also experience the enchantment of strolling amidst breathtaking light displays that beautifully illuminate Turtle Bay Exploration Park after sunset.
Take some time to explore delightful craft fairs filled with festive creations and indulge in delicious seasonal treats offered by local vendors.
In Redding, you can enjoy plenty of refreshing walks in the parks and trails, where you can also spot various wildlife. During the cooler months, you will notice fewer crowds at popular sites such as Sundial Bridge and the Sacramento River.
Overall, visiting Redding in winter is a great idea, as it has beautiful natural surroundings and a charming small-town atmosphere that can help you relax and feel refreshed.
Can You Ski in Redding California?
Although there are no downhill ski areas in Redding, great places to ski and snowboard are easily accessible.
As mentioned already, Mt. Shasta Ski Park is a great place to be for ski lovers. It is a popular winter destination due to its outstanding slopes and abundance of fresh powder.
The 4,322-foot height of Mt. Shasta’s base ensures consistent snowfall from November to April.
About 2 hours from Redding, you can reach the resorts of Mt. Ashland and Willamette Pass.
Despite the lack of in-town skiing, Redding’s convenient position allows for quick travel to some of the best slopes in the Sierra Nevada range.
Fact: Even though Redding does not get a lot of snow, even a small amount can cause problems with travel and transportation.
Best Ski Resorts in Redding, California
Once you have landed in Redding, finding the right place to stay is important, especially when you are interested in arranging day tours to nearby places for skiing.
Here are some good options to consider:
#1. Sheraton Redding Hotel
When planning a winter getaway to Redding, California, the Sheraton Redding Hotel at the Sundial Bridge is a great option because of its proximity to Mount Shasta.
This pet-friendly hotel has spacious rooms and convenient access to outdoor pursuits including golf, horseback riding, and cycling.
Mount Shasta is around 70 miles from the hotel, making it easily accessible for skiers and snowboarders.
There are three distinct ski areas accessible by chairlifts in the ski area:
Over 1,390 vertical feet and 425 skiable acres, the resort offers a wide variety of terrain that caters to skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.
In addition to its 14 slopes and two lifts, the ski area boasts two terrain parks of varied difficulties and is open for night skiing.
Whether you are a seasoned skier or just starting out, the winter beauty of Mount Shasta is just a short drive from the Sheraton Redding Hotel.
Fact: Mount Shasta Ski Park is located in the Cascade Mountains of the Pacific Northwest, precisely 6 miles south of the 14,162-foot-tall stratovolcano of the same name in California.
#2. Thunderbird Lodge
The Thunderbird Lodge is conveniently situated just one mile from Turtle Bay Exploration Park and only half a mile from Redding Amtrak.
Additionally, the hotel is conveniently located within a two-mile radius of popular attractions such as the Lake Redding Golf Course and the Mount Shasta Mall. Moreover, it is only six miles away from Shasta College.
One of the things that makes it a fantastic place to stay is how close it is to Sugar Bowl Resort, which is an absolute paradise for skiing.
Sugar Bowl-Royal Gorge is a fantastic winter destination with four beautiful peaks, a wide range of cross-country trails, an excellent ski team and academy, and a delightful snow-covered village.
This place is a paradise for people who love skiing or snowboarding on fresh powder. It gets an average of 500 inches of snowfall each year, which is why it is considered one of the hidden gems in the Tahoe area.
If you are looking for amazing ski slopes and stunning scenery, you absolutely have to visit Sugar Bowl.
If you are thinking about going on a day trip or staying for a longer period of time, this resort is perfect for skiers of all skill levels. They have something for everyone, whether you are a beginner or an expert.
Fact: The hotel is conveniently located just a short drive away from other well-known Tahoe resorts, making it a great central location for winter adventures.
#3. Oxford Suites Redding
This hotel is in a great location, only 7 km away from Simpson University. It is also easy to get to Redding Municipal Airport, which is 11 km away.
One of the great things about this hotel is that it is really close to the Mt. Ashland Ski Area, only 135 miles away.
Mt. Ashland is situated slightly north of the California border. It is in a great spot between San Francisco and Portland, which makes it a convenient destination for people who love winter sports.
Mt. Ashland might not seem like much at first glance, with only four chairlifts and a vertical drop of 1,150 feet.
However, it manages to impress visitors with its tough terrain, particularly a massive glacial bowl that is famous for its steep and demanding double-black runs.
The ski area has runs and lifts that are named after Shakespearean plays and characters. You can enjoy breathtaking views from the Balcony and Upper Balcony, which are located at an elevation of 7,500 feet.
How Cold Does It Get in Redding California?
Redding has the pleasure of enjoying all four seasons throughout the year.
In winter, the mountains get covered in beautiful snow, creating a scenic view. Summer brings the opportunity to engage in various outdoor activities.
Spring and fall bless the city with picturesque landscapes that are truly captivating.
- In the winter, the average temperatures range around 45°F.
- In the summer, they can reach up to 85°F.
The humidity levels in the city change throughout the year. August has the lowest humidity, with a relative humidity of 22%.
On the other hand, December is the most humid and wettest month, with a relative humidity of 61.7%.
Precipitation in Redding
In Redding, the average annual precipitation is about 20 inches. The months of January and February tend to have the highest amount of rainfall.
In March, the cloud cover tends to be the highest, reaching around 42%. The weather in the region is influenced by the Gulf of Alaska, which leads to a variety of different conditions.
Here is what to expect in terms of weather in Redding:
| Month | Average High Temp (F) | Average Rainfall (inches) | Average Snowfall (inches) | Average Humidity (%) |
| January | 45.0 | High | Highest snowfall month | High |
| July | 96.9 | Low | None | Moderate |
| August | 85.0 | Low | None | Low |
| December | 56.8 | Highest rainfall month | Moderate snowfall | High |
Although Redding is usually sunny, there are times when it may experience some rain or cloudiness.
Fact: January is known for having the most snow, while July is the hottest month, with an average high temperature of 96.9°F.
Things to Explore in Redding During Winter
While skiing continues to be the star of the show, you can still find much more to see and do during your visit to Redding, California.
For instance:
Try Sledding
If you are planning to visit Redding during the winter, make sure to visit Eskimo Hill for some fun snow activities.
This amazing sledding hill is conveniently located just a short 15-minute drive from town. It is the perfect spot for people of all ages to enjoy some thrilling sledding fun.
You can have a fantastic experience by sliding down the slopes using an inner tube, sled, or even a cafeteria tray you can borrow from the lodge.
Children can also have fun in the snowman building area and on the beginner’s slope.
Siskiyou Ice Rink
Siskiyou Ice Rink is located in Shastice Park in Mt. Shasta City. It provides a one-of-a-kind winter experience with a stunning view of the snow-covered Mt. Shasta in the background.
The rink is designed to be just like the ones used in the National Hockey League, so you can expect a professional skating experience. As it is 85 feet wide and 185 feet long, you will get to explore nature for long enough.
The excitement of skating outdoors is made even more thrilling by the beautiful scenery that surrounds you. From late November to mid-February, you can enjoy a variety of activities here, including public ice skating, skate lessons, hockey programs, and special events.
Enjoy Dazzling Light Displays
Turtle Bay Exploration Park deserves a visit when in Redding in the winter. Their spectacular light shows use more than 1.5 million lights to create a mystical atmosphere in the gardens.
Stroll through a winter wonderland of lighted trees, bubbling fountains, and dimensional Christmas sculptures. Enjoying hot chocolate in the cozy winter garden while listening to live music is a great way to celebrate the holiday season.
The light shows are on every night during the winter and are sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Fact: Turtle Bay is an integral element of your Redding winter since it truly captures the mood of the season.
Polar Express Ride
During the winter, everyone should take a trip on the Polar Express from Redding.
Through festive music, hot chocolate, cookies, and a reading of The Polar Express, this train excursion to the “North Pole” brings the classic narrative to life.
The Polar Express is a beloved wintertime tradition for families in Redding, and it departs multiple times throughout the holiday season. So, put on your most at-home jammies and fuzzy socks so you can take in the magic in comfort.
What is the Best Time to Plan Your Visit to Redding?
The months of April through June, as well as September and October, are prime times to visit Redding, California.
Temperatures are high, and there is little chance of rain throughout this time.
However, if you are mainly interested in skiing and winter sports, you may want to plan your visit in late November.
Takeaway
Does it snow in Redding California? Mild winters and scorching summers characterize Redding, California’s Mediterranean climate. Light snowfall occurs rarely in January.
But, Mount Shasta Ski Park and Mount Lassen Volcanic National Park are two nearby sites with plenty of snow for winter sports. For great accommodation, you can go with the Sheraton Redding Hotel at the Sundial Bridge.
Moreover, you may experience Redding’s distinct four seasons by traveling there in late November for winter sports or between April and June for lovely weather.
