Kirkwood
Kirkwood is an alpine village and ski resort nestled in the Sierra Nevada, known for deep snowfall and challenging terrain. Originally a logging community, today it offers world-class winter sports and access to nearby Sierra backcountry. A seasonal base for skiing, mountain biking, and alpine camping, Kirkwood is best reached via California State Route 88 from Sacramento and Lake Tahoe.
Learn More
Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | California |
| Subregion | Western United States |
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | El Dorado County |
| District | Sierra Nevada |
| City | Kirkwood |
| Postal Code | 95612 |
| Timezone | AmericaLos Angeles |
| Latitude | 38.695 |
| Longitude | -120.064 |
| Maps |
6:15 PM LOCAL TIMEKirkwood sits at the heart of the Sierra Nevada, rising from about 7,000 ft (2,134 m) at its lowest valley points to nearly 9,700 ft (2,956 m) on its upper ski runs. The resort and village originated in the mid-20th century as a modest alpine area before evolving into a noted ski destination famed for high annual snowfall, often exceeding 50 inches (1.27 m) per season, and steep, lineup-ready terrain. The surrounding region offers access to sharp bowl ski lines, gladed tree runs, and backcountry routes, making it popular among experienced skiers and snowboarders. In summer, high-elevation trails support mountain biking, hiking, and alpine camping. Its isolation — lacking extensive pedestrian facilities — underscores the importance of vehicle-based access and safety planning for backcountry travel.
All content was written by our AI and may contain a few mistakes. We may earn commissions on some links. Last updated: Sun Dec 14, 2025, 2:55 AM