Florida might be known as the 'Sunshine State' but when it comes to a summer holiday in the United States, California runs it pretty close…

Thanks in no small part to the stunning beaches that line the coast, plenty of people elect to head for California every summer - with the likes of Malibu, Santa Monica and Long Beach amongst the stretches of sand where people flock to make the most of the sun.

However, California is far from just a summer state and each winter, welcomes plenty of visitors who are looking for an altogether different kind of holiday experience.

Whilst there are plenty of festive events taking place in the big cities - with San Francisco, San Diego and Los Angeles all more than worthy of a visit - it is some of the more mountainous areas inland that you might want to consider for a winter adventure.

Although it may not be the first state that comes to a mind when considering where to go to sample snow sports, California is actually home to more than 30 resorts where skiers of all grades can take to the slopes for plenty of fun against some of the most stunning backdrops available.

Mammoth Lakes, located in the Sierra Nevada mountains, is arguably one of the premier destinations in America for winter sports with well in excess of one hundred different runs - ranging from blues for beginners right through to more challenging black options for those with a greater level of experience.

Given the high altitude of the resort, Mammoth Lakes benefits from good levels of snow each winter with the main season running from December through to April.

With plenty of different accommodation options and a lively apres-ski scene with a wide selection of bars and restaurants, it’s a resort that also delivers when you leave the slopes.

The area around Lake Tahoe - sitting on the border with Nevada - is popular with visitors throughout the summer who want to embrace the scenic surroundings, but when winter arrives, the area takes on a whole new look.

With heavy snowfall being the norm, the region is transformed into a winter wonderland for ski fans who can take to the slopes during the day or sample a huge range of different winter activities before spending the evening relaxing with a drink back at your hotel or in one of the bars in the various resorts.

Chief amongst them is the aptly-named Heavenly, which sits on the southern side of Lake Tahoe right on the state border. Like Mammoth Lakes, the resort offers options of skiers of all levels, with plenty of easier options on the lower slopes before things get trickier at higher altitude.

One of the largest resorts in California, Heavenly is a great place to learn the ropes on the nursery slopes before then moving up to the next level and you can expect to do so on some of the best powder snow around.

Just as importantly, the family-friendly resort has plenty to offer aside from the actual skiing itself, with a range of other activities for all ages to enjoy.

Northstar and Squaw Valley are two other resorts in the Tahoe region but with over 30 resorts in the various Californian mountain ranges, there are plenty of options should you wish to visit in the 'wrong' season - simply contact our team for more information.