Best Skiing in Lake Tahoe

If you are searching for the best skiing in Lake Tahoe, look no further. There are several ski resorts located in the Lake Tahoe and Truckee area, and each offers something unique. Whether you are looking for challenging terrain or sloping hills that the entire family can enjoy, Lake Tahoe offers it all. Below you will find information about the ski resorts that serve the North Lake Tahoe and Truckee area.

Northstar California

Northstar California offers a sophisticated ski atmosphere with a European flair. On my scale of best skiing in Lake Tahoe, I rate Northstar at the top. Skiers and snowboarders will find virtually every type of terrain, including world-class tree sking. This resort was originally called Northstar at Tahoe in the 1970's, and was a popular destination for Bay Area residents. In the 2000s, it was transformed into a 5 star, luxury development, putting Northstar on the map as a premier, worldwide resort destination.

At the center of Northstar, visitors will find unique shops, restaurants and a skating rink. The Ritz Carlton opened during this time, and added an upscale feel to the entire mountain. Northstar is an excellent choice for those in need of ski or snowboard lessons, and iss also a great place to bring the kids during ski skate week. Be sure to read my blog about the Northstar Master Plan, detailing the many changes that will increase the ski terrain and lifts for Northstar California. This is a large resort with plenty of terrain to meet all levels of skiing. Click here to download a trail map for Northstar California.

Squaw Valley

The Squaw Valley mountain hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics, which put California skiing on the world map. Although Squaw Valley competes with Northstar for challenging terrain, it does have one of the longest and easiest runs. Skiers and snowboarders use Mountain Run to travel from the upper mountain to the lower mountain. What makes Squaw Valley  a great place to buy a season pass is that you also get access to neighboring Alpine Meadows. Together guests can enjoy 6000 acres of terrain with 14 mountain zones.

During the last decade, Squaw Valley invested almost $100 million in improvements. Guests will find a beginner ski area at the top of the mountain and of course, KT-22 and Headwall are popular for those with advanced skills. A shuttle takes guests in between the two mountains, where Alpine Meadows and Squaw offer two very different  skiing experiences. Visitors will find shops and restaurants at the base of Squaw Valley, with many condos that offer a ski in and ski out experience. Known as the Spring Skiing Capital, there are many festive events with live music throughout the season. Click here to download trail maps for Squaw Valley.

Alpine Meadows

As the sister property of Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows is more of a quaint mountain. It offers chalet style restaurants located mid mountain and at the base of the resort. Conveniently located in between Truckee and Tahoe City, Alpine Meadows is a perfect playground for families or those looking for unique trails. Alpine Meadows has always been a popular resort among locals because it is less congested than the other mountains. While Alpine Meadows offers advanced skiers vertical terrains, it also has many runs that meander along the hillside and throughout the mountain. With more than 100 trails winding through 2400 acres, you are sure to find the perfect skiing or boarding experience. Riding the lifts at Alpine Meadows will take you over mountain vistas unparalleled by other resorts. Click here to download trail maps for Alpine Meadows.

Homewood Mountain Resort

If you are new to skiing or introducing young children to  the sport, Homewood Mountain Resort is an ideal choice. This mountain rises above the West Shore of Lake Tahoe and is the closest ski resort to the actual lake. The views are exquisite. The resort opened in 1961 and is known as Tahoe's classic, family-friendly resort. This is an excellent choice for ski skate week, but lessons book quickly so sign up well in advance. Homewood Mountain Resort offers 1260 skiable acres, so it is much smaller than other ski areas. What it lacks in challenging terrain, it makes up for in charm and breathtaking views. There are 8 lifts with 67 runs. Click here to download a trail map for Homewood Mountain Resort.

Sugar Bowl

As one of the older ski resorts, Sugar Bowl sits on top of Donner Summit. I have it on the list of Best Skiing in Lake Tahoe because of its close proximity to Hwy 80. Sugar Bowl is a popular day skiing destination for Sacramento and Bay Area day skiers. Sugar Bowl boasts 'more snow - less crowds' and has a Bavarian atmosphere. The ski area isn't as large as the other resorts, but Sugar Bowl has ties to Austrian culture. It also has a link to Hollywood and Walt Disney. Known for California's first chairlift and ski gondola, Sugar Bowl has a rich history and offers an authentic, community-based experience. 17% of the runs are beginner hills, while 45% are intermediate, and 38% are advanced runs. Sugar Bowl has 12 lifts and 1650 ski-able acres. Click here to download trail maps for Sugar Bowl.

I can help you find the special property that will allow you to experience the amazing skiing that this area offers. Contact me today for  more information.