Lake Tahoe Ski Mountains and Resorts

Guide to Ski Mountains and Ski Resorts in and around Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is one of North America’s premier winter destinations, offering world-class skiing, dramatic alpine scenery, and reliable snowfall. Located along the California–Nevada border, the Lake Tahoe region features a diverse mix of ski resorts and ski mountains that cater to beginners, families, and expert skiers alike. One of North America’s most legendary ski destinations, offering a remarkable variety of terrains, breathtaking alpine views, and world-class snow. Straddling the California–Nevada border, the Tahoe region boasts resorts for every level of skier and rider from family-friendly hills to big-mountain powder bowls and thrilling terrain parks.

From massive, iconic resorts with expansive terrain to smaller, community-focused ski hills with unbeatable lake views, Lake Tahoe delivers a skiing experience unlike anywhere else in the West. This guide breaks down all the major ski areas around Lake Tahoe, what makes each unique, what to expect on the slopes, and tips for planning your trip.

Heavenly Mountain Resort (South Lake Tahoe, CA)

Heavenly Mountain Resort is Tahoe’s largest ski area and is famous for its breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe from the slopes. Spanning both California and Nevada, the resort offers a wide variety of terrain and easy access to South Lake Tahoe’s dining, nightlife, and lodging.

• Approximately 4,800 skiable acres
• Wide range of beginner to expert terrain
• Iconic gondola with panoramic lake views
• Après & nightlife in South Lake Tahoe has lively après and dining

Northstar California Resort (Truckee, CA)

Northstar is known for its polished grooming, family-friendly atmosphere, and upscale village. The resort features excellent tree skiing, terrain parks, and a walkable base area with shops and restaurants.

• Ideal for families and intermediate skiers
• Well-maintained terrain parks
• Modern village amenities
• Tree skiing gladed runs
• Village base with shops, restaurants, ice skating
• 8,610 ft highest elevation, 6,330 ft, base elevation, 3,170 Acres of skiable terrain, 20 lifts 20, 3 miles (East Ridge-Logger's Loop--Woods) longest ski run, 10 terrain parks, and 100 trails at Northstar.

Palisades Tahoe (Olympic Valley, CA)

Palisades Tahoe combines two legendary mountains into one expansive ski destination. Famous for hosting the 1960 Winter Olympics, it offers some of the most challenging and varied terrain in the region.

• Large vertical drops and steep terrain - one of Tahoe’s largest vertical drops
• Advanced bowls, chutes, and ridgelines
• 26 lifts with lift-connected access between both mountains
• Base Elevation: 6,200', Peak Elevation: 9,050',Vertical rise: 2,850' / 869 m

Kirkwood Mountain Resort (Kirkland, CA)

Kirkwood is renowned for its consistent snowfall, rugged terrain, and uncrowded slopes. It is a favorite among advanced skiers and snowboarders seeking deep powder and challenging lines.

• High snowfall totals
• Steep and technical terrain
• Quiet, laid-back mountain atmosphere
• 2,000 feet of vertical drop and over 2,300 acres of terrain ranging from calm, groomed, beginner runs to hair-raising cornices and cliffs

Mt. Rose (Reno, NV)

Located on the Nevada side, Mt. Rose is one of the highest base elevations in Tahoe. Mt. Rose features one of the highest base elevations in Lake Tahoe, which often results in excellent snow conditions and a long season. Located in Reno, it offers expansive views and diverse terrain.

• High-elevation snow reliability
• Strong intermediate terrain
• Views of both Lake Tahoe and Reno
• 1,200+ acres of ski runs for all levels, complete with multiple lifts & snowboard parks
• Snow tubing park at Mt. Rose, offers up to 20 thrilling lanes

Sugar Bowl Resort (Norden, CA)

Sugar Bowl delivers a classic ski experience with a historic lodge atmosphere and excellent snow conditions. Located on Donner Summit, it is easily accessible from Interstate 80.

• Traditional ski lodge feel
• Great terrain for intermediates and advanced skiers
• Strong early- and late-season conditions
• 12 Lifts - 5 High-Speed Express Quads, 3 Fixed Grip Quads, 1 Fixed Grip Triple, 1 Gondola, and 2 Surface Lifts

Diamond Peak Ski Resort (Incline Village, NV)

Diamond Peak is a community-owned ski resort in Incline Village that offers some of the best lake views in Tahoe. It is especially popular with families and intermediate skiers.

• Stunning Lake Tahoe views
• Smaller crowds
• Beginner and intermediate-friendly terrain
• 6 chairlifts, 27 runs, and 14 open glades/tree skiing on its 655 acres of terrain

Homewood Mountain Resort (Homewood, CA)

Homewood Mountain Resort is a quieter ski area located on Tahoe’s west shore. It is known for scenic runs overlooking the lake and a relaxed, uncrowded environment.

• Exceptional lake views
• Laid-back atmosphere
• Great for intermediate skiers
• Ski & snowboard runs along with terrain parks, 2 lodges and on-mountain dining options.
• 67 runs and 8 lifts, surrounded by splendid forests and gorgeous views of lake

Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort (Truckee, CA)

Tahoe Donner is a smaller, community-focused ski area near Truckee. It is well-suited for beginners, families, and those learning to ski.

• Affordable lift tickets
• Gentle learning terrain
• Family-friendly environment
• 5 ski lifts and 14+ trails

Best Time to Visit Lake Tahoe for Skiing

The peak ski season typically runs from February through early March when snow conditions are most consistent. Early season conditions can vary, while spring skiing offers sunny days and softer snow with fewer crowds.

Planning Your Lake Tahoe Ski Trip

Popular lodging areas include South Lake Tahoe for nightlife and entertainment, Truckee and North Lake Tahoe for easy resort access, and Incline Village for quieter lakefront stays. Booking accommodations and lift tickets early is recommended during peak season and holidays.

Why Ski Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe offers an unmatched combination of scenic beauty, diverse terrain, and resort variety. Whether you’re chasing powder, planning a family ski trip, or seeking breathtaking mountain and lake views, the ski resorts around Lake Tahoe deliver a memorable winter experience.

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