Experiences at Badger Pass Ski Area

Downhill Skiing

Badger Pass Ski Area offers ten well-groomed ski runs—two tailored for beginners and children, five designed for intermediate enthusiasts, and three reserved for those seeking a more advanced challenge. All runs converge in Monroe Meadow, a broad expanse located next to the ski lodge, and where each of the five ski lifts start. While descending the slopes, skiers can take advantage of several “turkey trails,” handy detours that allow them to switch from one run to another for variety and exploration.

A short walk from the meadow brings you to the ski lodge, also known as the Day Lodge, where rental equipment, lockers, food services, dining tables, and restrooms are conveniently available. Adjacent to the lodge is a parking lot spacious enough for 600 cars. With its family-friendly atmosphere and comfortably laid-out terrain, Badger Pass stands out as an ideal spot for newcomers looking to build their confidence on the snow, as well as for more experienced skiers looking to refine their skills.

Shown below is a live image of the current conditions at two ski lifts in the ski area. At the foreground is the Bruin Lift with its chairs rising to the upper right, and in the background is the Badger Ski Lift with its chairs rising to the upper left. The image updates automatically every 30 seconds.

For more details see our article “Downhill Skiing Experience at Badger Pass.”

Cross-Country Skiing in and around Badger Pass

For those seeking a quieter, more immersive winter experience, cross-country skiing in Yosemite National Park offers a vast and scenic landscape to explore. The three most popular and easily accessible areas for cross-country skiing are Badger Pass, Crane Flat, and Mariposa Grove, each providing a unique setting and a variety of trails suited for different skill levels. However, skiers are not restricted to these areas and may venture into the wilderness, though overnight trips require a wilderness permit for winter camping.

The park ensures that skiers of all skill levels—from seasoned experts to complete beginners—can enjoy its snowy trails. Beginners can start with groomed, relatively flat trails that are easier to navigate, while more experienced skiers may opt for challenging, unmarked routes that venture deep into the wilderness. Visitors can choose from guided tours led by expert Yosemite Mountaineering School ski guides or venture out independently. Whether you’re looking for a quick excursion of a few hours, a half-day or full-day journey, or even an overnight backcountry adventure, Yosemite has options to fit your schedule and interests.

For those seeking overnight cross-country ski experiences, a Wilderness Permit is required. These permits are free and can be obtained at the Badger Pass Ranger Station or through the government website “recreation.gov.” Some trails even connect with historic and rustic ski huts, providing shelter and charm for multi-day trips. Among the park’s many trails, Glacier Point Road stands out as a groomed trail that begins at the Badger Pass Ski Area and leads to the iconic Glacier Point, offering smooth skiing with incredible vistas along the way.

The cross-country skiing season at Yosemite generally lasts from mid-to-late December through mid-March, depending on snow conditions. Equipment rentals, lessons, and trail maps are available at the Cross-Country Ski Center, also known as the Nordic Center, located next to the Ski Lodge in the Badger Pass Ski Area. While many of the ski trails are marked with metal signs and tree markers, some trails remain unmarked, and snow can obscure markers, making route-finding a skillful endeavor on ungroomed paths. Visitors should be prepared for wilderness travel and keep safety in mind, especially when venturing off marked routes. Pre-existing ski or snowshoe tracks may not lead in the desired direction, so it is always wise to check with the Nordic Center or the Ranger Station for guidance on current trail conditions.

Let's now take a closer look at what Badger Pass, Crane Flat, and Mariposa Grove have to offer, and then look at how to navigate and plan for those trails.

Badger Pass: A Cross-Country Skiing Haven

Badger Pass boasts an extensive network of 12 cross-country ski trails, covering 43.9 miles (70.7 km). The area accommodates all experience levels, offering both groomed and ungroomed trails, with some being predominantly flat for leisurely single-day outings and others featuring steep terrain ideal for experienced skiers and extended treks. For those looking for a guided experience, the Yosemite Mountaineering School offers expert-led tours that range from a few hours to multi-day excursions.

One of the most rewarding cross-country ski experiences from Badger Pass is the journey to Glacier Point Ski Hut, operated by Yosemite Hospitality. This rustic yet cozy lodge provides food, water, sleeping accommodations, a wood buring stove, and a toilet. The hut’s location offers spectacular views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley, making it a highlight for many skiers.

Another remote option is the Ostrander Ski Hut, maintained by the Yosemite Conservancy. Unlike Glacier Point, this hut requires skiers to bring their own food and collect water from a hole in the frozen Ostrander Lake. Both huts provide a communal atmosphere where skiers can meet fellow adventurers, share stories, and enjoy the warmth of a roaring fire after a long day on the trails.

For more details see our article “Cross-Country Skiing Experience at Badger Pass.”

Crane Flat: A Serene Winter Retreat

Crane Flat offers a peaceful cross-country skiing experience with a network of eight ungroomed trails, covering 17.9 miles (28.8 km). While primarily a backcountry destination, there are reports of two groomed trails that require verification. The area’s gentle terrain and serene setting make it an excellent choice for skiers looking for a relaxing day in the snow. Subscribe to our news letter to learn when the article about this topic is published.

Mariposa Grove: Skiing Among Giants

For a truly unique winter experience, cross-country skiing through Mariposa Grove allows visitors to glide among towering Giant Sequoias. The grove features 8.2 miles (13.2 km) of ungroomed trails, providing a tranquil setting to experience the majesty of these ancient trees in winter’s embrace. Subscribe to our news letter to learn when the article about this topic is published.

Navigating the Trails

Some cross-country trails are marked with tree-mounted indicators, while others require careful navigation. The National Park Service publishes three free maps detailing the cross-country skiing routes, all of which are available through this website’s cross-country skiing articles.

Planning Your Skiing Adventure

Guided ski tours are available for those looking for an enhanced experience. Expert guides from the Yosemite Mountaineering School can be retained for short excursions or extended overnight trips, offering valuable insights into the park’s winter landscapes. For more details, see our article "Cross-Country Skiing Experiences at Badger Pass."

Snowboarding

Snowboarding is a winter sport that combines elements of skiing, surfing, and skateboarding, where riders descend snowy slopes on a single board while shifting their weight to steer and control speed. At Badger Pass Ski Area, snowboarding is permitted but restricted to the designated ski area boundaries. Riders can enjoy all ten ski runs, ranging from beginner-friendly slopes to more challenging terrain for experienced snowboarders. With its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere and well-maintained runs, Badger Pass provides an excellent environment for both newcomers learning the basics and seasoned snowboarders looking to refine their skills.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a winter activity that allows visitors to hike across snow-covered terrain using specialized footwear that distributes weight, preventing them from sinking into deep snow. It provides a unique way to explore Yosemite's winter landscape at a slower pace, offering access to areas that might be difficult to reach on foot in deep snow.

While snowshoeing is generally allowed anywhere in the park, it is not permitted on the downhill ski slopes within the Badger Pass Ski Area. However, there is a designated snowshoe trail that follows the perimeter of the ski area. Known as the Historic Snowshoe Trail, this groomed 3.21-mile (5.1 km) loop provides a scenic and accessible route for snowshoers looking to enjoy the winter beauty of Badger Pass.

For those venturing beyond designated trails, overnight snowshoe treks require a wilderness permit. Additionally, the National Park Service requests that snowshoers follow proper etiquette when sharing trails with cross-country skiers—staying to the shoulder of the trail rather than the center helps preserve the smooth surface needed for skiing. Whether taking a short stroll or embarking on a backcountry adventure, snowshoeing in Yosemite offers a peaceful and rewarding way to experience the park’s winter wonderland.

Snowtubing

Snowtubing is a thrilling winter activity where participants ride an inflatable tube down a snowy slope, gliding effortlessly over the surface while bouncing and spinning. It’s a fun and carefree way to enjoy the snow, requiring no prior experience—just a sense of adventure.

At the time this article was published, Badger Pass Ski Area has only one designated slope for snowtubing—Turtle, a gentle run that is also shared with beginner skiers and children. This slope provides a safe and enjoyable environment, making it an excellent option for families and those looking for a lighthearted winter adventure. With its smooth, snowy surface and just the right amount of incline, Turtle delivers a hilariously bouncy ride that guarantees laughs and lasting memories.

Sledding

Sledding is a classic winter pastime where riders slide down snowy slopes on a lightweight sled, often enjoying the rush of speed and the thrill of navigating small hills. It’s a favorite activity for families and children, offering simple, carefree fun in the snow.

Unfortunately, sledding is not permitted within Badger Pass Ski Area, and it is generally not allowed anywhere else in Yosemite National Park, except in one special place.

In the vicinity of Crane Flat, sledding is permitted in the Snow Play Area next to the Crane Flat Campground. The play area located about 1,600 ft (487 m) from the intersection of Big Oak Flat Road and Tioga Road, where the Crane Flat gas station is located. To get to the snow play area from the intersection, go west on Big Oak Flat Road for about 880 ft (268 m) where it then intersects with Yosemite National Park Road, then turn onto that road and go about 660 ft (201 m). There is no street sign which tells you it is Yosemite National Park Road, and there is a gate. If the gate is locked, the Snow Play Area is probably closed, but you should seek verification from a park ranger, or from a park employee located at one of the park entrances.

Ski School and Lessons

For those looking to learn or refine their skiing skills, the Badger Pass Ski School provides expert instruction for all ages and experience levels. Located next to the downhill skiing base and ski lodge, the school offers daily lessons taught by professional instructors, many of whom are certified members of the Professional Ski Instructors of America® (PSIA). Whether you are a beginner learning the fundamentals or an experienced skier looking to improve technique, the school has structured programs to suit a range of skill levels.

Types of Skiing Taught

The Ski School teaches four primary types of skiing, each offering a unique experience:

• Downhill Skiing: The most common form of skiing, where skiers use lifts to access groomed slopes and descend using controlled turns and edges. Ideal for speed and precision, this style is the foundation of alpine skiing.
• Cross-Country Skiing: Unlike downhill skiing, cross-country skiing relies on the skier’s own movement to travel across flat or rolling terrain, making it a great option for endurance and exploring the backcountry.
• Telemark Skiing: A mix of downhill and cross-country techniques, telemark skiing uses a free-heel binding, allowing for fluid, lunging turns on steeper terrain. This style requires more balance and agility than standard downhill skiing.
• Skate Skiing: A fast-paced form of cross-country skiing that mimics ice skating, where skiers push off the edges of their skis to glide forward efficiently. This technique is widely used for fitness and competitive racing.

Lesson Structure and Packages

Lessons at Badger Pass Ski School are offered daily and typically held twice a day, once in the morning and once in the afternoon. Classes are categorized into the following skill levels:

• Kids’ Lessons: Designed for young learners, focusing on basic techniques in a safe and encouraging environment.
• Introductory Lessons: Perfect for first-time skiers, covering essential skills like stopping, turning, and balance.
• Intermediate Lessons: For those who have mastered the basics and want to build confidence on more challenging terrain.
• Advanced Lessons: Tailored for experienced skiers looking to refine technique, explore steeper runs, or learn specialized skills.
• Private Lessons: One-on-one instruction for personalized coaching and faster skill development.

Many of these classes are available as lesson packages, which often include equipment rentals and lift tickets, making it easy for beginners to get started.

For a full breakdown of lesson options, pricing, and scheduling, see our article “Ski School and Lessons at Badger Pass” that will be published later this year.

NASTAR Public Ski Racing

NASTAR (NAtional STAndard Race) is the world’s largest public grassroots ski racing program, offering recreational skiers the chance to compete and compare their race times against friends, family, and other participants nationwide. Founded in 1968, NASTAR uses a handicap system that allows skiers to measure their performance regardless of when or where they race.

At Badger Pass Ski Area, NASTAR has historically been associated with the Chipmunk Ski Run, where two race shacks were positioned—one at the top and one at the bottom of the run. However, as of the time this article was published, it is unclear whether NASTAR is still operating at Badger Pass or if these race shacks remain in use. Skiers interested in NASTAR’s current operations can visit their official website at nastar.com for the latest updates.

The Yosemite Winter Club has had a connection with NASTAR at Yosemite, promoting alpine ski racing for children and fostering amateur and recreational Nordic and Alpine skiing, snowboarding, and skating competitions. More details about the club’s programs and activities can be found at yosemitewinterclub.com. Until further research clarifies the present status of NASTAR at Badger Pass, no additional information can be provided.

Dining at the Ski Area

For a convenient meal between runs, visitors at Badger Pass Ski Area can stop by the Skier’s Grill, a simple, no-frills restaurant located inside the ski lodge. Open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, it provides a casual and welcoming atmosphere with a menu that caters to a variety of tastes, including both conventional and vegan options.

As of 2024, the breakfast menu features classic morning favorites, including breakfast sandwiches on a pretzel bun (available with sausage, bacon, or soy sausage), a breakfast burrito, an egg and cheese bowl with hash browns and a choice of meat, oatmeal, and gluten-free buns. A selection of hot and cold beverages is also available.

For lunch, Skier’s Grill offers burgers (including veggie burgers), hot dogs, grilled cheese sandwiches, burritos, chili, nacho chips with cheese, bacon, vegetables, and a choice of chicken or beef, French fries, salads, and an assortment of beverages, including beer.

Visitors can enjoy their meals indoors under the lodge’s vaulted ceiling or take in the fresh mountain air while dining on the back porch, which offers scenic views of the ski area. Whether refueling for the slopes or simply relaxing, Skier’s Grill provides a convenient and satisfying dining experience for all visitors.

Shopping at Badger Pass

For visitors in need of winter gear, souvenirs, or essentials, the Badger Ski Area Sport Shop, located inside the ski lodge, is the only retail store at Badger Pass Ski Area. Though shopping options are limited, the store is well-stocked with a selection of winter clothing, souvenirs, toiletries, and more.

Whether you’re looking for an extra layer to stay warm, a keepsake to remember your visit, or a last-minute necessity, the Badger Ski Area Sport Shop provides a convenient stop for skiers, snowboarders, and winter enthusiasts alike.

Views and Vistas in and around Badger Pass

Badger Pass Ski Area offers a variety of scenic views, from sweeping panoramas of the ski slopes to breathtaking sights of Yosemite’s iconic landscapes. Whether you're skiing, snowshoeing, or simply taking in the winter beauty, there are several vantage points to enjoy.

Within the ski area, there are two primary views:

• From the back of the ski lodge, visitors can see the entire ski area, including all the ski lifts and slopes, creating a perfect spot to watch the action on the mountain.
• From the top of the Eagle ski run, skiers are treated to an elevated perspective of the lower portions of the ski area and the surrounding mountain terrain.

For those venturing beyond the ski area on cross-country skis or snowshoes, even more spectacular vistas await:

• Glacier Point provides a stunning panoramic view of Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and the surrounding Sierra Nevada peaks.
• The southern rim of Yosemite Valley offers two remarkable viewpoints: Dewey Point and Taft Point, both of which showcase dramatic overlooks of the valley below.

Whether you are exploring the groomed slopes or venturing into the backcountry, Badger Pass and its surroundings offer some of the most rewarding winter views in Yosemite National Park.