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SkiingYour Guide to Skiing in Tahoe
Discover the Best Ski Resorts at Lake Tahoe
With its crystal-clear lake views and majestic Sierra Nevada peaks, Lake Tahoe is a premier destination for ski enthusiasts of all levels. From the expansive terrain of Heavenly Mountain Resort to the family-friendly slopes of Diamond Peak, Tahoe offers something for every kind of skier or snowboarder.
Whether you’re craving the adrenaline of steep chutes and backcountry bowls, the thrill of perfectly groomed trails, or the fun of gentle beginner slopes, Lake Tahoe’s resorts deliver an unparalleled variety of experiences.
Beyond skiing, Tahoe’s resorts feature vibrant villages, lakeside dining, and world-class amenities that make for a memorable winter getaway. Ready to hit the slopes? Discover and book your perfect Tahoe vacation on Lake.com and start planning an adventure to remember.
Top Ski Resorts
Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Phone: (775) 586-7000
Season: November to April
Day Pass: Starting at $159 USD
Heavenly Mountain Resort is one of Lake Tahoe’s most famous ski destinations, spanning over 4,800 acres and straddling the California-Nevada border. With 97 trails, Heavenly offers a mix of terrain for all skill levels, including expansive beginner slopes, challenging black diamonds, and scenic tree runs. The resort is well-known for its breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and its vibrant après-ski scene in South Lake Tahoe. Heavenly’s gondola takes visitors from the base up to the summit with panoramic stops along the way, and guests can enjoy on-mountain dining at Tamarack Lodge. For a blend of excitement, skiing, and nightlife, Heavenly offers an unforgettable winter experience.
Northstar California Resort, Truckee, California
Phone: (530) 562-1010
Season: November to April
Day Pass: Starting at $149 USD
Located on Tahoe’s North Shore, Northstar California Resort is a family-friendly destination known for its laid-back atmosphere and well-groomed trails. The resort has over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, with trails for all levels and an extensive terrain park for freestyle skiing and snowboarding. The Village at Northstar provides a charming base with cozy fire pits, ice skating, and upscale shopping and dining options. Northstar is particularly popular with families due to its ski school and Kids Adventure Zones, making it a go-to choice for visitors with young children. The resort’s scenic beauty and varied offerings make it a North Lake Tahoe favorite.
Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, Olympic Valley, California
Phone: (800) 403-0206
Season: November to May
Day Pass: Starting at $169 USD
Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, one of the largest resorts in the Tahoe area, spans 6,000 acres and offers over 270 trails, making it a paradise for serious skiers and snowboarders. As the site of the 1960 Winter Olympics, Squaw Valley has a unique history and high-energy atmosphere with legendary terrain, from wide-open bowls to expert chutes. Alpine Meadows provides a quieter experience with diverse trails and family-friendly areas. Both resorts are connected by a 15-minute shuttle, allowing visitors to explore two incredible mountain experiences in one day. The European-inspired Village at Squaw Valley features après-ski dining, events, and shopping, making it a must-visit destination.
Kirkwood Mountain Resort, Kirkwood, California
Phone: (209) 258-6000
Season: December to April
Day Pass: Starting at $129 USD
Known for its challenging terrain and impressive snowfall, Kirkwood Mountain Resort attracts serious skiers and riders looking for steep runs and untouched powder. Located about 35 miles southwest of South Lake Tahoe, Kirkwood offers a more rugged, remote experience with over 2,300 acres of skiable terrain, including bowls, steep chutes, and plenty of backcountry options. The resort has a friendly, laid-back vibe and is ideal for adventure seekers. With fewer crowds and a quiet village atmosphere, Kirkwood is the perfect escape for those looking to experience Tahoe’s wilder side. Limited on-site dining and rental shops make it easy to gear up and refuel before heading back out.
Budget Friendly Skiing
Homewood Mountain Resort, Homewood, California
Phone: (530) 525-2992
Season: December to March
Day Pass: Starting at $64 USD
Homewood Mountain Resort, located on Tahoe’s West Shore, offers an intimate skiing experience with stunning views of Lake Tahoe from nearly every run. Known for its friendly, low-key atmosphere, Homewood has 1,260 acres of skiable terrain with a balanced mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced trails. The resort’s lakefront setting provides one of the most scenic skiing experiences in Tahoe, perfect for families and those seeking a quieter, less crowded option. Homewood also offers affordable day passes, on-site dining, and rentals. This resort is loved for its relaxed vibe and focus on preserving the natural beauty of Tahoe’s West Shore.
Diamond Peak Ski Resort, Incline Village, Nevada
Phone: (775) 832-1177
Season: December to April
Day Pass: Starting at $79 USD
Diamond Peak Ski Resort is a family-friendly, budget-friendly resort with spectacular lake views from its North Lake Tahoe slopes. With 655 acres and 30 runs, Diamond Peak caters to beginners and intermediates, offering terrain that is easy to navigate and ideal for learning. The resort also has advanced trails for seasoned skiers and a well-equipped terrain park. Diamond Peak’s laid-back vibe, friendly staff, and affordable prices make it a local favorite, especially for families. Guests can enjoy cozy dining at Snowflake Lodge, perched mid-mountain with one of the best lake views in Tahoe.
Frequently asked questions
Lake Tahoe is renowned for its world-class skiing and has a wide variety of terrain to suit all skill levels. With over a dozen ski resorts on both the California and Nevada sides, Tahoe offers everything from powder-filled backcountry slopes to meticulously groomed runs.
January and February are typically the best months for reliable snow conditions in Lake Tahoe. These months often bring consistent snowfall, with many resorts averaging several feet of snow during peak season. March can also be excellent, with slightly warmer temperatures and plenty of snow coverage. Some years, Lake Tahoe sees a long season that stretches into April, giving skiers a spring skiing experience.
Absolutely, Lake Tahoe is very beginner-friendly, with several resorts offering dedicated beginner areas and gentle slopes. Heavenly and Northstar are both excellent choices for newcomers, as they have wide, easy-to-navigate green runs and dedicated ski schools. Heavenly even offers spectacular lake views from beginner-friendly runs, adding to the experience. Most resorts in the area have rentals and lessons available, so new skiers can feel comfortable and well-prepared.
Lake Tahoe skiing can be pricey, especially at larger resorts like Palisades Tahoe, Heavenly, and Northstar. Lift tickets at these resorts can range from $150 to $200 per day for adults, with discounts available for purchasing in advance or for multi-day passes. Smaller resorts, like Homewood and Diamond Peak, tend to offer more affordable lift tickets, often around $70 to $100 per day. Many resorts also offer rental packages, and prices vary based on the equipment and duration.
Night skiing at Heavenly is included with the Epic Day Pass, which ranges from $80 to $100 per day, depending on whether you choose a restricted or unrestricted pass and when you purchase it. Prices increase closer to the ski season, so buying early (April to November) offers the best value.
Equipment rentals in Lake Tahoe typically cost between $40 and $60 per day for standard skis or snowboards, with premium options often ranging from $70 to $100. Many resorts, including Heavenly, Northstar, and Palisades Tahoe, offer on-site rentals, making it easy to pick up equipment right at the base. Some local rental shops around the lake may offer multi-day discounts if you’re skiing for several days.
Both sides of Lake Tahoe have unique advantages. South Lake Tahoe is home to Heavenly Resort, known for its views of both the lake and Nevada desert, plus an active nightlife and casino scene. North Lake Tahoe, on the other hand, includes popular resorts like Northstar, Palisades Tahoe, and Alpine Meadows, which offer diverse terrain and a more laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. North Lake Tahoe is often preferred by those seeking a quieter experience, while South Lake Tahoe attracts visitors looking for more entertainment options after a day on the slopes.
Yes, the Lake Tahoe area has several scenic cross-country skiing options. Tahoe Donner Cross Country Center and Royal Gorge Cross Country Resort are two popular locations, with hundreds of kilometers of groomed trails, ranging from beginner-friendly routes to challenging loops. These locations offer rental equipment and lessons, making it easy for newcomers to enjoy the quiet beauty of Tahoe’s forests and meadows in winter.
In addition to cross country skiing, Lake Tahoe offers a variety of winter activities. Snowshoeing and winter hiking are popular, with dedicated trails in Tahoe Donner and at Spooner Lake. Snow tubing, snowmobiling, and ice skating can be found at multiple resorts, including Heavenly and Northstar. Finally, South Lake Tahoe has vibrant après-ski options with restaurants, bars, and casinos, perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes.