PLAN YOUR PERFECT
TAHOE
SKI DAY
The ultimate Tahoe ski guide, curated by local experts
PLAN YOUR PERFECT
TAHOE
SKI DAY
The ultimate Tahoe ski guide, curated by local experts
PLAN YOUR PERFECT
TAHOE
SKI DAY
The ultimate Tahoe ski guide,
curated by local experts
Start your adventure
Gain expert guidance for an amazing day on the slopes
Trail Planner
Map out your perfect ski day with trail recommendations for every ability level.
Start your adventure
Gain expert guidance for an amazing day on the slopes
Trail Planner
Map out your perfect ski day with trail recommendations for every ability level.
Start your adventure
Gain expert guidance for an amazing day on the slopes
Trail Planner
Map out your perfect ski day with trail recommendations for every ability level.
Find Your Mountain
Uncover the best of Tahoe’s ski resorts, from trail maps to parking tips. Choose your resort and plan your ultimate ski experience with ease.
Heavenly
Ski above the stunning blue of Lake Tahoe with breathtaking views and a vibrant après-ski scene at Heavenly.
Northstar
Enjoy world-class grooming, luxurious amenities, and family-friendly terrain at Northstar’s cozy mountain village.
Sugar Bowl
Steeped in history and known for its deep powder, Sugar Bowl offers classic slopes and uncrowded terrain.
Kirkwood
Experience big-mountain terrain and legendary snowfall. Perfect for adventurous skiers and snowboarders.
Palisades Tahoe
Home to challenging steeps and scenic ridge lines, Palisades Tahoe offers an Olympic legacy and thrilling ski experiences.
Mt. Rose
At the highest base elevation in Tahoe, Mt. Rose boasts incredible snow and some of the region’s best views.
View All Tahoe Resorts
With 13 ski resorts in the area, Tahoe has something for every skier and snowboarder.
Find Your Mountain
Uncover the best of Tahoe’s ski resorts, from trail maps to parking tips. Choose your resort and plan your ultimate ski experience with ease.
Heavenly
Ski above the stunning blue of Lake Tahoe with breathtaking views and a vibrant après-ski scene at Heavenly.
Northstar
Enjoy world-class grooming, luxurious amenities, and family-friendly terrain at Northstar’s cozy mountain village.
Sugar Bowl
Steeped in history and known for its deep powder, Sugar Bowl offers classic slopes and uncrowded terrain.
Kirkwood
Experience big-mountain terrain and legendary snowfall. Perfect for adventurous skiers and snowboarders.
Palisades Tahoe
Home to challenging steeps and scenic ridge lines, Palisades Tahoe offers an Olympic legacy and thrilling ski experiences.
Mt. Rose
At the highest base elevation in Tahoe, Mt. Rose boasts incredible snow and some of the region’s best views.
View All Tahoe Resorts
With 13 ski resorts in the area, Tahoe has something for every skier and snowboarder.
Find Your Mountain
Uncover the best of Tahoe’s ski resorts, from trail maps to parking tips. Choose your resort and plan your ultimate ski experience with ease.
Heavenly
Ski above the stunning blue of Lake Tahoe with breathtaking views and a vibrant après-ski scene at Heavenly.
Northstar
Enjoy world-class grooming, luxurious amenities, and family-friendly terrain at Northstar’s cozy mountain village.
Sugar Bowl
Steeped in history and known for its deep powder, Sugar Bowl offers classic slopes and uncrowded terrain.
Kirkwood
Experience big-mountain terrain and legendary snowfall. Perfect for adventurous skiers and snowboarders.
Palisades Tahoe
Home to challenging steeps and scenic ridge lines, Palisades Tahoe offers an Olympic legacy and thrilling ski experiences.
Mt. Rose
At the highest base elevation in Tahoe, Mt. Rose boasts incredible snow and some of the region’s best views.
View All Tahoe Resorts
With 13 ski resorts in the area, Tahoe has something for every skier and snowboarder.
Get Your Weekly Tahoe Ski Update
Get Your Weekly Tahoe Ski Update
Get Your Weekly Tahoe Ski Update
FAQs: Get the Inside Scoop on Tahoe’s Best Ski Resorts
Which Tahoe ski resorts are best for beginners?
Family Friendly Beginner Resorts:
Northstar California Resort: Known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent ski school, Northstar is a favorite for families with kids. The beginner terrain is well-groomed and easy to navigate, and there’s a great progression from gentle slopes to intermediate runs. Plus, the village at the base offers plenty of dining and après-ski options to keep everyone entertained.
Heavenly Mountain Resort: Heavenly is perfect for families wanting to mix skiing with stunning views of Lake Tahoe. The resort has a great ski school and a variety of beginner-friendly terrain. Heavenly also offers plenty of non-skiing activities, like gondola rides and tubing, making it a great all-around destination for families.
Sierra-at-Tahoe: A more laid-back and family-oriented resort, Sierra-at-Tahoe boasts excellent beginner terrain and one of the best ski schools in the region. The staff is friendly, and the vibe is perfect for families wanting a relaxed day on the mountain.
Budget-Friendly Beginner Resorts:
Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area: If you’re looking for an affordable and low-key spot to learn, Tahoe Donner is a great choice. It’s smaller than other resorts, but it offers wide, gentle slopes perfect for beginners—and at a fraction of the cost of larger resorts.
Boreal Mountain Resort: Boreal is one of the most budget-friendly resorts in Tahoe, offering affordable lift tickets and rentals. With its easy-to-access location off I-80, it’s a great spot for a quick day trip. Their beginner terrain is straightforward, and the lessons are reasonably priced.
Diamond Peak: This hidden gem is a favorite for beginners on a budget. The resort has stunning views of Lake Tahoe and excellent beginner-friendly terrain. Diamond Peak’s smaller size and affordability make it a perfect option for those just starting out.
Which Resorts Have the Best Lake VIews?
When it comes to breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe, a few ski resorts truly stand out for their panoramic vistas:
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Heavenly offers some of the most iconic lake views in Tahoe, especially from its Sky Express chairlift and the top of Ridge Run. The dramatic contrast between the snow-covered slopes and the deep blue waters of Lake Tahoe is absolutely stunning, making it a must-visit for scenery lovers.Homewood Mountain Resort
Nestled on the western shore of Lake Tahoe, Homewood is renowned for its unbeatable views of the lake. From almost every run, you’ll feel as though you’re skiing right into the water. It’s a smaller, less crowded resort that provides a truly serene and picturesque experience.Diamond Peak Ski Resort
Located in Incline Village, Diamond Peak offers jaw-dropping, unobstructed views of Lake Tahoe. The views from Crystal Ridge are especially noteworthy, providing an incredible backdrop as you carve your way down the slopes.
These resorts offer not just great skiing but also unforgettable sights that remind you why Tahoe is one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Where Can I Find the Best Powder Skiing in Tahoe?
Tahoe’s west slope of the Sierra Nevada mountain range is legendary for delivering some of the best powder skiing in the country, and three resorts stand out for their epic powder days: Palisades Tahoe, Sugar Bowl, and Kirkwood.
Palisades Tahoe: Located near the crest of the Sierra, Palisades Tahoe gets hammered with storms that roll in from the Pacific, often dumping feet of snow in a single storm cycle. With its expansive terrain, including legendary bowls like Silverado and KT-22, Palisades is a powder skier’s dream. The resort’s advanced and expert runs let you chase deep stashes long after the storm clears. Plus, the steep terrain holds snow exceptionally well, offering thrilling lines for days.
Sugar Bowl: Sugar Bowl’s location on Donner Summit places it directly in the path of incoming storms, making it one of the snowiest resorts in Tahoe. This resort is known for its friendly vibe and incredible advanced terrain, with plenty of spots to find untouched powder after a storm. Its smaller size compared to other major resorts means less competition for fresh tracks, making it a local favorite for powder days.
Kirkwood: Nestled on the Sierra Crest, Kirkwood is renowned for its deep, dry powder and jaw-dropping terrain. Its high elevation and remote location mean the snow quality stays pristine, even as other resorts begin to thaw. With steep chutes, open bowls, and powder-filled trees, Kirkwood offers a more rugged and adventurous powder experience.
These resorts, thanks to their prime locations on the west slope of the Sierra, get hammered with storm after storm, making them the go-to spots for powder hounds looking to score some of the deepest snow in Tahoe.
What’s the Best Time of the Year to Visit Tahoe for a Ski Trip?
The best time to visit Tahoe for a ski trip depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re trying to avoid crowds and enjoy more relaxed slopes, or if your priority is hitting the mountain during peak snow conditions, here are a couple of ideal timeframes:
Less Crowds: Early January and Late March/Early April
After the holiday rush in December, the first few weeks of January tend to be quieter, with fewer crowds on the slopes and shorter lift lines. Similarly, late March into early April can be a hidden gem, as many people shift their focus to spring activities, leaving the mountains less busy. Bonus: spring skiing often comes with great deals on lift tickets and lodging.Most Snow: February and Early March
Tahoe typically receives the bulk of its snowfall in February and early March, making this the sweet spot for powder seekers. The snowpack is usually at its deepest, and fresh snowstorms are common. This is the time to experience Tahoe’s legendary powder days and the full range of terrain that resorts have to offer.
For a combination of both less crowds and great snow, midweek trips in February or early March are a perfect choice. You’ll get to enjoy Tahoe’s winter magic without the weekend rush!
Which Tahoe Resorts Are Less Crowded on Weekends?
If you’re looking to escape the weekend crowds in Tahoe, independent resorts are a great choice compared to the larger resorts associated with the popular Epic and Ikon season passes. Here's why:
Independent Resorts: A More Relaxed Atmosphere
Resorts like Diamond Peak, Donner Ski Ranch, Sugar Bowl Resort, and Mt. Rose typically see fewer visitors on weekends. These independent resorts are not part of the Epic or Ikon networks, which means they don’t attract the same large crowds of passholders. Plus, they offer a more laid-back vibe and shorter lift lines, making for a more enjoyable and stress-free skiing experience.Epic and Ikon Resorts: Popular but Crowded
Resorts like Heavenly, Northstar, Palisades Tahoe, and Kirkwood are part of the Epic or Ikon pass systems, which draw a high number of passholders, especially on weekends. These resorts are world-class and offer incredible terrain, but the popularity of these passes means they can get quite busy, particularly during peak times.For a quieter weekend on the slopes, consider checking out one of Tahoe’s independent resorts. You’ll still find great snow, stunning views, and plenty of terrain to explore—just with fewer people sharing the mountain!
FAQs: Get the Inside Scoop on Tahoe’s Best Ski Resorts
Which Tahoe ski resorts are best for beginners?
Family Friendly Beginner Resorts:
Northstar California Resort: Known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent ski school, Northstar is a favorite for families with kids. The beginner terrain is well-groomed and easy to navigate, and there’s a great progression from gentle slopes to intermediate runs. Plus, the village at the base offers plenty of dining and après-ski options to keep everyone entertained.
Heavenly Mountain Resort: Heavenly is perfect for families wanting to mix skiing with stunning views of Lake Tahoe. The resort has a great ski school and a variety of beginner-friendly terrain. Heavenly also offers plenty of non-skiing activities, like gondola rides and tubing, making it a great all-around destination for families.
Sierra-at-Tahoe: A more laid-back and family-oriented resort, Sierra-at-Tahoe boasts excellent beginner terrain and one of the best ski schools in the region. The staff is friendly, and the vibe is perfect for families wanting a relaxed day on the mountain.
Budget-Friendly Beginner Resorts:
Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area: If you’re looking for an affordable and low-key spot to learn, Tahoe Donner is a great choice. It’s smaller than other resorts, but it offers wide, gentle slopes perfect for beginners—and at a fraction of the cost of larger resorts.
Boreal Mountain Resort: Boreal is one of the most budget-friendly resorts in Tahoe, offering affordable lift tickets and rentals. With its easy-to-access location off I-80, it’s a great spot for a quick day trip. Their beginner terrain is straightforward, and the lessons are reasonably priced.
Diamond Peak: This hidden gem is a favorite for beginners on a budget. The resort has stunning views of Lake Tahoe and excellent beginner-friendly terrain. Diamond Peak’s smaller size and affordability make it a perfect option for those just starting out.
Which Resorts Have the Best Lake VIews?
When it comes to breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe, a few ski resorts truly stand out for their panoramic vistas:
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Heavenly offers some of the most iconic lake views in Tahoe, especially from its Sky Express chairlift and the top of Ridge Run. The dramatic contrast between the snow-covered slopes and the deep blue waters of Lake Tahoe is absolutely stunning, making it a must-visit for scenery lovers.Homewood Mountain Resort
Nestled on the western shore of Lake Tahoe, Homewood is renowned for its unbeatable views of the lake. From almost every run, you’ll feel as though you’re skiing right into the water. It’s a smaller, less crowded resort that provides a truly serene and picturesque experience.Diamond Peak Ski Resort
Located in Incline Village, Diamond Peak offers jaw-dropping, unobstructed views of Lake Tahoe. The views from Crystal Ridge are especially noteworthy, providing an incredible backdrop as you carve your way down the slopes.
These resorts offer not just great skiing but also unforgettable sights that remind you why Tahoe is one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Where Can I Find the Best Powder Skiing in Tahoe?
Tahoe’s west slope of the Sierra Nevada mountain range is legendary for delivering some of the best powder skiing in the country, and three resorts stand out for their epic powder days: Palisades Tahoe, Sugar Bowl, and Kirkwood.
Palisades Tahoe: Located near the crest of the Sierra, Palisades Tahoe gets hammered with storms that roll in from the Pacific, often dumping feet of snow in a single storm cycle. With its expansive terrain, including legendary bowls like Silverado and KT-22, Palisades is a powder skier’s dream. The resort’s advanced and expert runs let you chase deep stashes long after the storm clears. Plus, the steep terrain holds snow exceptionally well, offering thrilling lines for days.
Sugar Bowl: Sugar Bowl’s location on Donner Summit places it directly in the path of incoming storms, making it one of the snowiest resorts in Tahoe. This resort is known for its friendly vibe and incredible advanced terrain, with plenty of spots to find untouched powder after a storm. Its smaller size compared to other major resorts means less competition for fresh tracks, making it a local favorite for powder days.
Kirkwood: Nestled on the Sierra Crest, Kirkwood is renowned for its deep, dry powder and jaw-dropping terrain. Its high elevation and remote location mean the snow quality stays pristine, even as other resorts begin to thaw. With steep chutes, open bowls, and powder-filled trees, Kirkwood offers a more rugged and adventurous powder experience.
These resorts, thanks to their prime locations on the west slope of the Sierra, get hammered with storm after storm, making them the go-to spots for powder hounds looking to score some of the deepest snow in Tahoe.
What’s the Best Time of the Year to Visit Tahoe for a Ski Trip?
The best time to visit Tahoe for a ski trip depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re trying to avoid crowds and enjoy more relaxed slopes, or if your priority is hitting the mountain during peak snow conditions, here are a couple of ideal timeframes:
Less Crowds: Early January and Late March/Early April
After the holiday rush in December, the first few weeks of January tend to be quieter, with fewer crowds on the slopes and shorter lift lines. Similarly, late March into early April can be a hidden gem, as many people shift their focus to spring activities, leaving the mountains less busy. Bonus: spring skiing often comes with great deals on lift tickets and lodging.Most Snow: February and Early March
Tahoe typically receives the bulk of its snowfall in February and early March, making this the sweet spot for powder seekers. The snowpack is usually at its deepest, and fresh snowstorms are common. This is the time to experience Tahoe’s legendary powder days and the full range of terrain that resorts have to offer.
For a combination of both less crowds and great snow, midweek trips in February or early March are a perfect choice. You’ll get to enjoy Tahoe’s winter magic without the weekend rush!
Which Tahoe Resorts Are Less Crowded on Weekends?
If you’re looking to escape the weekend crowds in Tahoe, independent resorts are a great choice compared to the larger resorts associated with the popular Epic and Ikon season passes. Here's why:
Independent Resorts: A More Relaxed Atmosphere
Resorts like Diamond Peak, Donner Ski Ranch, Sugar Bowl Resort, and Mt. Rose typically see fewer visitors on weekends. These independent resorts are not part of the Epic or Ikon networks, which means they don’t attract the same large crowds of passholders. Plus, they offer a more laid-back vibe and shorter lift lines, making for a more enjoyable and stress-free skiing experience.Epic and Ikon Resorts: Popular but Crowded
Resorts like Heavenly, Northstar, Palisades Tahoe, and Kirkwood are part of the Epic or Ikon pass systems, which draw a high number of passholders, especially on weekends. These resorts are world-class and offer incredible terrain, but the popularity of these passes means they can get quite busy, particularly during peak times.For a quieter weekend on the slopes, consider checking out one of Tahoe’s independent resorts. You’ll still find great snow, stunning views, and plenty of terrain to explore—just with fewer people sharing the mountain!
FAQs: Get the Inside Scoop on Tahoe’s Best Ski Resorts
Which Tahoe ski resorts are best for beginners?
Family Friendly Beginner Resorts:
Northstar California Resort: Known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent ski school, Northstar is a favorite for families with kids. The beginner terrain is well-groomed and easy to navigate, and there’s a great progression from gentle slopes to intermediate runs. Plus, the village at the base offers plenty of dining and après-ski options to keep everyone entertained.
Heavenly Mountain Resort: Heavenly is perfect for families wanting to mix skiing with stunning views of Lake Tahoe. The resort has a great ski school and a variety of beginner-friendly terrain. Heavenly also offers plenty of non-skiing activities, like gondola rides and tubing, making it a great all-around destination for families.
Sierra-at-Tahoe: A more laid-back and family-oriented resort, Sierra-at-Tahoe boasts excellent beginner terrain and one of the best ski schools in the region. The staff is friendly, and the vibe is perfect for families wanting a relaxed day on the mountain.
Budget-Friendly Beginner Resorts:
Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area: If you’re looking for an affordable and low-key spot to learn, Tahoe Donner is a great choice. It’s smaller than other resorts, but it offers wide, gentle slopes perfect for beginners—and at a fraction of the cost of larger resorts.
Boreal Mountain Resort: Boreal is one of the most budget-friendly resorts in Tahoe, offering affordable lift tickets and rentals. With its easy-to-access location off I-80, it’s a great spot for a quick day trip. Their beginner terrain is straightforward, and the lessons are reasonably priced.
Diamond Peak: This hidden gem is a favorite for beginners on a budget. The resort has stunning views of Lake Tahoe and excellent beginner-friendly terrain. Diamond Peak’s smaller size and affordability make it a perfect option for those just starting out.
Which Resorts Have the Best Lake VIews?
When it comes to breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe, a few ski resorts truly stand out for their panoramic vistas:
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Heavenly offers some of the most iconic lake views in Tahoe, especially from its Sky Express chairlift and the top of Ridge Run. The dramatic contrast between the snow-covered slopes and the deep blue waters of Lake Tahoe is absolutely stunning, making it a must-visit for scenery lovers.Homewood Mountain Resort
Nestled on the western shore of Lake Tahoe, Homewood is renowned for its unbeatable views of the lake. From almost every run, you’ll feel as though you’re skiing right into the water. It’s a smaller, less crowded resort that provides a truly serene and picturesque experience.Diamond Peak Ski Resort
Located in Incline Village, Diamond Peak offers jaw-dropping, unobstructed views of Lake Tahoe. The views from Crystal Ridge are especially noteworthy, providing an incredible backdrop as you carve your way down the slopes.
These resorts offer not just great skiing but also unforgettable sights that remind you why Tahoe is one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Where Can I Find the Best Powder Skiing in Tahoe?
Tahoe’s west slope of the Sierra Nevada mountain range is legendary for delivering some of the best powder skiing in the country, and three resorts stand out for their epic powder days: Palisades Tahoe, Sugar Bowl, and Kirkwood.
Palisades Tahoe: Located near the crest of the Sierra, Palisades Tahoe gets hammered with storms that roll in from the Pacific, often dumping feet of snow in a single storm cycle. With its expansive terrain, including legendary bowls like Silverado and KT-22, Palisades is a powder skier’s dream. The resort’s advanced and expert runs let you chase deep stashes long after the storm clears. Plus, the steep terrain holds snow exceptionally well, offering thrilling lines for days.
Sugar Bowl: Sugar Bowl’s location on Donner Summit places it directly in the path of incoming storms, making it one of the snowiest resorts in Tahoe. This resort is known for its friendly vibe and incredible advanced terrain, with plenty of spots to find untouched powder after a storm. Its smaller size compared to other major resorts means less competition for fresh tracks, making it a local favorite for powder days.
Kirkwood: Nestled on the Sierra Crest, Kirkwood is renowned for its deep, dry powder and jaw-dropping terrain. Its high elevation and remote location mean the snow quality stays pristine, even as other resorts begin to thaw. With steep chutes, open bowls, and powder-filled trees, Kirkwood offers a more rugged and adventurous powder experience.
These resorts, thanks to their prime locations on the west slope of the Sierra, get hammered with storm after storm, making them the go-to spots for powder hounds looking to score some of the deepest snow in Tahoe.
What’s the Best Time of the Year to Visit Tahoe for a Ski Trip?
The best time to visit Tahoe for a ski trip depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re trying to avoid crowds and enjoy more relaxed slopes, or if your priority is hitting the mountain during peak snow conditions, here are a couple of ideal timeframes:
Less Crowds: Early January and Late March/Early April
After the holiday rush in December, the first few weeks of January tend to be quieter, with fewer crowds on the slopes and shorter lift lines. Similarly, late March into early April can be a hidden gem, as many people shift their focus to spring activities, leaving the mountains less busy. Bonus: spring skiing often comes with great deals on lift tickets and lodging.Most Snow: February and Early March
Tahoe typically receives the bulk of its snowfall in February and early March, making this the sweet spot for powder seekers. The snowpack is usually at its deepest, and fresh snowstorms are common. This is the time to experience Tahoe’s legendary powder days and the full range of terrain that resorts have to offer.
For a combination of both less crowds and great snow, midweek trips in February or early March are a perfect choice. You’ll get to enjoy Tahoe’s winter magic without the weekend rush!
Which Tahoe Resorts Are Less Crowded on Weekends?
If you’re looking to escape the weekend crowds in Tahoe, independent resorts are a great choice compared to the larger resorts associated with the popular Epic and Ikon season passes. Here's why:
Independent Resorts: A More Relaxed Atmosphere
Resorts like Diamond Peak, Donner Ski Ranch, Sugar Bowl Resort, and Mt. Rose typically see fewer visitors on weekends. These independent resorts are not part of the Epic or Ikon networks, which means they don’t attract the same large crowds of passholders. Plus, they offer a more laid-back vibe and shorter lift lines, making for a more enjoyable and stress-free skiing experience.Epic and Ikon Resorts: Popular but Crowded
Resorts like Heavenly, Northstar, Palisades Tahoe, and Kirkwood are part of the Epic or Ikon pass systems, which draw a high number of passholders, especially on weekends. These resorts are world-class and offer incredible terrain, but the popularity of these passes means they can get quite busy, particularly during peak times.For a quieter weekend on the slopes, consider checking out one of Tahoe’s independent resorts. You’ll still find great snow, stunning views, and plenty of terrain to explore—just with fewer people sharing the mountain!