Where to Ski and Snowboard
Beat the crowds at Tahoe and find budget-friendly and adventurous ski hills in Plumas County. Plumas County offers several locations for downhill skiing and snowboarding. From Lassen Volcanic National Park to the Lakes Basin Recreation Area. There are many opportunities for downhill skiing and snowboarding as well as excellent backcountry skiing. Read on for two ski bowls that are best for downhill skiing and snowboards (bring your sled too).
Photo by Carrie Hawthorne
Coppervale Ski Hill
Lassen Community College owns and operates a ski area located just west of Susanville. Coppervale Ski Hill is about 19 miles east of Chester. The area has trails of various skill levels, a face and a bowl and a newly created terrain park. Some popular activities include downhill and cross-country skiing, as well as snowboarding.
Grromed Run waiting for Skiers at Coppervale 
Skiers getting ready for first run of the day 
Top of ski lift at Coopervale Eureka Ski Bowl
The Eureka Ski Bowl, also known as the Johnsville Historic Ski Bowl, is known worldwide for the longboard races. The area is home to the first downhill skiing competition in the western hemisphere, starting in 1861.
The Eureka Ski Bowl and the nordic trail to Eureka Lake are great for people interested in trying out backcountry skiing. While a lift has been in operation in the past, and there may be one in the future, currently skiing at the historic ski bowl requires skins and/or hiking to enjoy a downhill ride. The trek to the false peak of Eureka Peak is a more advanced backcountry route for adventurous splitboarders and backcountry skiers.
Directions: From Highway 89 in Graeagle, take Johnsville Road (County Road A-14) about five miles, continue through the village of Johnsville a half mile until the road ends at the ski area parking lot.
Historic Longboard Revival Series
The Plumas Ski Club organizes the Historic Longboard Ski Series Races. The annual Longboard Revival Series continue to be staged here on the third Sundays of January, February and March, depending on snow. These colorful races highlight pioneer longboard skiing and the birthplace of ski racing and ski clubs in America dating back to the 1850’s. Spectators and new racers are welcome.
For more information visit the Plumas County Ski Club’s website.
