If you've ever skied a "blue" run at one Tahoe resort and felt great, only to be rattled on a "blue" at another resort, you're not imagining things. Run ratings—green, blue, and black—aren't standardized across resorts. Each mountain uses its own system based on the steepness and difficulty relative to that specific resort. Here's what you need to know about why a blue at Northstar might feel like a green elsewhere, and how to choose the right runs for your ability level.

Understanding Run Ratings

Most resorts use the same general categories:

• Green Circle – Easiest

• Blue Square – Intermediate

• Black Diamond – Advanced

• Double Black Diamond – Expert Only

But the key is: these ratings are only relative to the terrain at that mountain. A green at Kirkwood isn't necessarily the same as a green at Diamond Peak, and a black at Palisades Tahoe could feel like double black terrain somewhere else.

How Some of Tahoe Resorts Differ

Northstar California

Northstar is known for its groomed trails, gentle pitches, and beginner-friendly vibe. Here, some "blue" runs—like Vista or Logger's Loop—could easily feel like easy greens at steeper mountains. It's a fantastic choice for skiers building confidence or moving up from green to blue or blues to black terrain.

Heavenly Mountain Resort

Heavenly offers a mix. Some of the greens—like Easy Street—are truly mellow, but certain blue runs can have steeper pitches than you might expect. Always double-check the trail map and maybe scope a run before committing.

Palisades Tahoe (Olympic Valley & Alpine Meadows)

Palisades is a bigger, steeper mountain with serious Olympic history. Their blues can feel like other resorts' blacks, and their greens might feel more challenging too. It's part of what makes Palisades thrilling—but it’s something beginners should be mindful of. (But don’t let the mountain intimidate you.)

Kirkwood Mountain Resort

At Kirkwood, even the greens can have a little spice. Snowkirk and Buckboard are beginner runs, but they still offer more elevation change than a typical green at, say, Soda Springs. Kirkwood's blues can get steeper quickly.

Boreal and Soda Springs

These resorts offer some of the most forgiving greens and blues in Tahoe. Perfect for true beginners or families, the trails here tend to be a bit softer and more consistent.

Tips for Picking the Right Runs

• Ask locals or lift attendants – They often know which runs are truly beginner-friendly.

• Use the trail map wisely – Some maps mark learning areas, slow zones, or progression zones separately from the standard ratings.

• Start easier than you think – Especially if you're new to a resort, warm up on a green to get a feel for how the mountain grades its trails.

• Pay attention to elevation changes – Steeper resorts will naturally have more aggressive greens and blues.

Final Thought: Trust Your Instincts

Run ratings are guidelines—not rules. Ski and ride where you feel comfortable, and don't feel bad about dialing it back if a "blue" turns out to be more than you bargained for. Every mountain is different, and that’s part of the Tahoe adventure!