Do It. Go to Mammoth Mountain and Bear Mountain.

For us sunny-weather-spoiled Angelenos, Thanksgiving weekend is what often marks the beginning of the 'cold' season. And what we've been blessed with this year is a round of rainstorms just prior to it. Why so fortunate? Because rain down here just happens to mean that a couple thousand feet up, in Big Bear and Mammoth Mountain, is fresh, fluffy snow -- and the perfect getaway for your long weekend.

So hurry up and pack those skis, snowboards and big coats -- the mountain resorts are sure to be busy. Mammoth Mountain officially opened up just last week, but will also open the Canyon and Eagle Lodges beginning today. Buy your lift tickets here; they're likely to sell out. Same goes for Bear Mountain in Big Bear, which will be celebrating its opening day today. Get your tickets here.

Some notes: when buying your lift tickets, snoop around for deals -- like buying a hotel package, or Bear Mtn.'s deal for free ticket on your birthday. Travel with a big group: not only will it be more fun (and safe), but you'll save on carpooling and hotel stays. And this is a good time to start considering investing in your set of skis or your own snowboard, instead of opting to pay to rent each time.

Stay warm up there!

For Mammoth Mtn. directions, click here; for Bear Mtn., click here.

-- Chau Tu

Photo credit: Bear Mtn.