Alta Sierra, aka Shirley Meadows, located in the Sequoia National Forest, in the Greenhorn Mountains, is approximately 50 miles east of Bakersfield. The area is used primarily as a day resort, catering to the beginner and intermediate skiers.

In October 1982, Shirley Meadows Ski Area began operations under the leadership of Mr. Lew Forbes. In 2003, Shirley Meadows was purchased by a group of Bakersfield businessmen committed to keep skiing alive and prospering in the Kern County section of the Sequoia National Forest.

The name of the resort was changed to Alta Sierra in 2006 to reflect the progressive attitudes and improvements being made on a regular basis to this jewel of Kern County.

Some major improvements include building additions and renovations, upgraded ski and board rentals and complete area snowmaking becoming operational in 2007-2008 season.