No one can deny it Lake Tahoe is stacked when it comes to skiing and snowboarding. With the highest concentration of ski resorts within 100 miles anywhere in North America this place punches way above its weight. And it’s not just quantity it’s variety. From the budget friendly locals favorite vibes of Donner Ski Ranch to the high end big mountain experiences at Palisades Tahoe and Heavenly there is a hill here for every kind of rider. Whether you’re in it for apres laps or chasing storm day face shots Tahoe delivers. That’s why we live here ride here and are sharing our firsthand rundown of every Lake Tahoe ski resort.
Where To Start
We’ve listed the Lake Tahoe ski areas alphabetically, not by “best” because honestly, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Which resort is perfect really depends on what you’re chasing on the mountain. Looking for affordable options with a variety of terrain? Donner Ski Ranch has you covered. Want the ultimate storm day experience? Homewood’s sheltered glades are hard to beat. After jaw-dropping views? There’s a reason why it’s called “Heavenly Mountain Resort.” And if you’re a skier or snowboarder, hitting the iconic lines at Palisades at least once is a must. Every resort has its own flavor, so scroll through our full rundown to find what you’re looking for in a mountain.
Lake Tahoe Ski Resorts Map
This interactive Lake Tahoe ski resorts map highlights all the Lake Tahoe ski areas and resorts that exist in both California and Nevada. Click on any of the markers to obtain more information about them. You can also download a printable version of the map by clicking on the button below:
Boreal Mountain
Mountain Stats
Base Elevation: 7,200 feet
Vertical drop: 500 feet
Acreage: 380 acres
Snowfall: 400 inches
Boreal Resort Website
Boreal at a Glance
- Ideal for beginners and freestyle focused riders
- Home to the region’s only all mountain terrain park
- Over 100 park features throughout the season including a half pipe
- Advanced non-freestyle skiers may get bored quickly with terrain selection
Boreal understands that it may not have the huge vertical that its siblings do, but what it lacks in elevation it more than makes up in servicing beginners and freestyle fanatics. It’s home to the region’s first and only all-mountain terrain park. Throughout out the season, its parks balloon to include more than 100 features including a half-pipe. Their terrain parks are built in a way that it offers something for first timers to seasoned vets throwing backside 720’s with ease.
Donner Ski Ranch
Mountain Stats
Base Elevation: 7,031 feet
Vertical drop: 781 feet
Acreage: 435 acres
Snowfall: 400 inches
Donner Ski Ranch Website
Donner Ski Ranch at a Glance
- Family friendly feel and famous homemade pie at Old 40 Bar and Grill
- Tickets and passes up to 75 percent cheaper than nearby resorts
- Diverse terrain (for its size) with big views and short lift lines
Nestled on Donner Summit, this charming ski area is all about positive vibes and a laid-back atmosphere. You’ll find daily tickets, season passes, and packages are at prices up to 75% lower than other regional resorts. This makes it the perfect spot for a budget-friendly family getaway. With diverse terrain, stunning 360-degree views, and minimal lift lines, your visit is sure to leave you with beaming smiles. And whatever you do, don’t miss out on a slice of homemade pie at the Old 40 Bar & Grill after your day of adventure.
Diamond Peak
Mountain Stats
Base Elevation: 6,700 feet
Vertical drop: 1,840 feet
Acreage: 655 acres
Snowfall: 325 inches annual snowfall
Diamond Peak Website
Diamond Peak at a Glance
- Panoramic views of Lake Tahoe from Crystal Ridge that rivals Heavenly’s
- Quiet, fall-line skiing without the crowds
- Low base elevation can be challenging in warm storms
In Tahoe, where many ski areas boast views of the Sierra sapphire, Diamond Peak stands out as arguably one of the best vistas in the region. Descending the iconic Crystal Ridge trail off Crystal Express, it feels as if you’ll ski right into the sparkling waters. With the panoramic view unfolding before you, you’ll understand why Mark Twain deemed it “the fairest picture the whole earth affords.” Managed and owned by the quiet hamlet of Incline Village, Diamond Peak provides fantastic fall-line skiing minus the hustle of its larger counterparts. Plus, if you stay at the Hyatt Regency in town, a convenient shuttle drops you off right at the lodge.
Granlibakken
Mountain Stats
Base Elevation: 6,350 feet
Vertical drop: 300 feet
Acreage: 74 acres
Snowfall: 200 inches
Granlibakken Website
Granlibakken at a Glance
- Mountain retreat with “Old-school” Tahoe charm
- Good introduction to skiing as well as a sledding hill
- Definition of a ski / snowboard hill – two runs
Norwegian for a hill sheltered by trees, Granlibakken isn’t just a ski area. It’s a tranquil mountain retreat offering guests the perfect setting to ski or learn to ski. While the property has added modern amenities over the years, Granlibakken retains that classic Tahoe ambiance. The ski and snowboard hill, serviced by two surface lifts, features a bunny slope accessed by a rope tow and an intermediate trail accessible by a Poma. Visitors staying at Granlibakken Tahoe can delight in a 50% discount on sledding and lift tickets at this historic Ski Hill.
Heavenly Mountain
Mountain Stats
Base Elevation: 6,657 feet
Vertical drop: 3,500 feet
Acreage: 4,800 acres
Snowfall: 251 inches
Heavenly Website
Heavenly at a Glance
- One of North America’s most beautiful ski resorts
- 2nd largest Tahoe ski area with massive vertical drop means something for EVERYONE
- Large layout can be tricky to navigate (tips here)
Heavenly stands out as one of the largest ski areas in the region. It’s the second biggest in acreage and home to the most substantial vertical drop. As such, there’s something for everyone. Experts head to Killebrew Canyon to take on steep fall-line skiing. Intermediates have their choice of what they want from the terrain around the Dipper chair to the Sky Express lift. Beginners, on the other hand, can find their haven in the Enchanted Forest next to the California Lodge. Regardless of your skill level, the name “Heavenly” makes perfect sense the moment you reach the top. Hint: It’s all about the breathtaking views.
Homewood Mountain Resort
Mountain Stats
Base Elevation: 6,230 feet
Vertical drop: 1,650 feet
Acreage: 1,260 acres (plus 750 acres of cat skiing)
Snowfall: 450 inches
Homewood Website
Homewood at a Glance
- Lake Tahoe views rivaling Heavenly’s at a fraction of the cost
- Some of the best storm skiing in Tahoe due to sheltered glades & minimal crowds
- Only Lake Tahoe resort offering cat skiing
- Peak-to-shore skiing excels in cold storms but gets tricky in warm ones
For those seeking peak-to-shore skiing in a laid-back atmosphere at the best value, Homewood is the spot. Just a few miles north of the iconic Emerald Bay, its unobstructed views of the lake rank up there with Diamond Peak’s, and its within easy reach of the charming West Shore. Homewood is renowned for some of the best sheltered glade skiing on storm days. And compared to other Tahoe resorts, you’ll likely have the powder mostly to yourself. Notably, they also offer cat skiing, the only one of its kind in the Lake Tahoe Basin. All of this makes Homewood one of the best places to ski on a powder day during your Tahoe ski trips.
Kirkwood
Mountain Stats
Base Elevation: 7,800 feet
Vertical drop: 2,000 feet
Size: 2,300 acres
Snowfall: 500 inches
Kirkwood Website
Kirkwood at a Glance
- No casinos or flashy nightlife it’s all about the snow
- One of Tahoe’s highest base elevations (7800′) lends itself when storms are warm
- Mostly advanced and expert terrain, with some options for beginners and intermediates
- Check Caltrans before stormy drives; pass can be tricky
Read our in-depth guide to Kirkwood Ski Resort to learn more
Compared to its sibling Heavenly Mountain in South Lake Tahoe, there are no big casinos. No expansive views of Lake Tahoe. No wild all nighters. What it does have is snow and lots of it. Due to it having one of Tahoe’s highest base elevations (7800′), it typically gets some of the most snow in the region. While there’s terrain catering to both beginners and intermediates, this place truly shines for experts. Over 68% of its terrain is rated advanced or expert, creating a haven for powder hounds yearning for natural playful terrain. Keep in mind, though, that the drive is no joke. In stormy conditions, it’s advisable to check Caltrans to ensure the pass is open for a smooth drive.
Mt. Rose
Mountain Stats
Base Elevation: 8,260 feet
Vertical drop: 1,800 feet
Size: 1,200 acres
Snowfall: 350 inches
Mt Rose Website
Mt Rose at a Glance
- The Chutes zone put Mt. Rose on the map, with 1,000+ feet of sustained 40–55° north-facing lines
- Base elevation sits at 8,260 ft higher than many resorts’ Tahoe Summits means snow when others get rain
- That same elevation and exposure can lead to tough wind holds during storms
- Fly & ski: Just 25 minutes from Reno-Tahoe Airport, Mt Rose offers $79 same-day flight discount lift tickets.
For years it was a cruiser’s hill with well-groomed trails that gave you a bird’s eye view of Reno’s metropolitan area. But what truly propelled this destination into the limelight is the introduction of the “Chutes” zone. With over 1,000 feet of north-facing slopes boasting sustained pitches averaging 40-55 degrees, it has become a focal point of the mountain’s allure.
Then there is its high elevation. Perched at 8,260 feet above sea level, it’s base elevation surpasses the summits of many of Lake Tahoe’s ski resorts. And when a Pineapple Express is dousing the region with heavy wet snow, this is your escape valve to ride some powder. Only 25 minutes from the Reno-Tahoe Airport, you can get off the plane, grab your skis, and be on the slopes the same day for a few laps.
Interesting fact: Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe isn’t on Mt. Rose. In fact, it sits on Slide Mountain looking AT Mt. Rose.
Northstar California Resort
Mountain Stats
Base Elevation: 6,330 feet
Vertical drop: 2,280 feet
Size: 3,170 acres
Snowfall: 350 inches
Northstar Website
Northstar at a Glance
- All-in-one resort: A pedestrian village with shops, dining, fire pits, s’mores, and an ice rink no town drive needed
- Approachable terrain: Mostly trail-cut runs with plenty of glades; the Backside’s widely spaced trees are ideal for intermediates
- Colorado-style cruising: Front Range vibes with excellent grooming and a strong lineup of high-speed lifts
- Snowfall is measured at the summit not mid-mountain or base so totals can differ significantly.
For a dollop of luxury on your family vacation, Northstar California Resort has you covered. The pedestrian village is filled with boutique shops, restaurants, outdoor fire pits perfect for enjoying s’mores, and even an ice-skating rink. Reminiscent of Keystone’s trail setup, you’ll discover primarily trail-cut runs with an impressive array of tree-skiing suitable for all skill levels. The Backside features widely spaced trees for intermediates to dip their edges into glade skiing. While there isn’t any scare your pants off terrain, for those looking for a bit of “bite”, head to Lookout Mountain. Within its 200 acres, you’ll find steep runs, tree skiing, and views of Truckee’s Martis Valley and the surrounding peaks.
Palisades Tahoe | Alpine Meadows
Mountain Stats
Base Elevation: 6,200 feet
Vertical drop: 2,850 feet
Size: 6,000 acres
Snowfall: 400 inches
Palisades Tahoe Website
Palisades at Tahoe at a Glance
- Iconic off-piste terrain that shaped extreme skiers like Shane McConkey
- Massive snowfall, steep lines, and “Squallywood” vibes ski like everyone’s watching because they are
- Powder days are fiercely competitive – get there early and have a game plan
- King of Spring: open late into July with epic skiing and lively après
What is there to say about this legend that hasn’t been already said. It’s been the beating heart of extreme skiing for decades. A place that pushed athletes like Shane McConkey to the forefront. Off piste terrain that keep iconic pros such as Jeremy Jones’ skills honed and ready for the next major adventure. There’s a reason why this place is nicknamed “Squallywood.” It has eye popping steeps, receives metric tons of snow, and you can see almost all of the terrain from the lift. Translation: Ski like everyone’s watching because they are.
Proudly proclaiming itself as the “king of spring”, it has earned this moniker. Always pushing to close when the snow melts, that can be as late as July 4th and even later in some years. What really helps solidify Palisades Tahoe’s crown is the spring party scene which ramps up during this time of year.
Sierra-at-Tahoe
Mountain Stats
Base Elevation: 6,640 feet
Vertical drop: 2,212 feet
Size: 2,000 acres
Snowfall: 400 inches
Sierra-at-Tahoe Website
Sierra at Tahoe at a Glance
- Once famed for old-growth tree skiing, Sierra-at-Tahoe lost much of its forest to the Caldor Fire but the mountain’s homey vibes remain
- Creative park lines and one of Tahoe’s few remaining halfpipes keep freestyle skiers entertained
- West Bowl for intermediates, Jack’s Bowl & Preacher’s Passion for expert thrills with glades, cliffs, and pillow-like slopes
- The Caldor Fire opened slopes, making storm skiing nearly impossible
Let’s address the elephant on the slopes – Sierra-at-Tahoe was once widely celebrated as one of the best mountains for tree skiing, thanks to its lush old-growth conifers. Unfortunately, a few years ago it got hit HARD during the Caldor Fire, resulting in the loss of most of its iconic trees. While the terrain has changed, the old vibes of our home mountain are still very much the same. And the park crew continues to make some of the most creative jump lines throughout the season, complemented by one of the few remaining half pipes still standing in Tahoe.
What awaits you now is a mountain transformed into a giant playground of natural terrain. West Bowl has become an intermediates powder mecca of waves to slash and open slopes to let ‘er rip. For the experts, Jack’s Bowl still begins with the signature glade skiing of yore but now finishes with launch-worthy cliffs. And Preacher’s Passion without its trees allows you to descend the steep terrain as if bouncing down Kootenay Pillows.
Sugar Bowl
Mountain Stats
Base Elevation: 6,883 feet
Vertical drop: 1,500 feet
Size: 1,500 acres
Snowfall: 500 inches
Sugar Bowl Resort Website
Sugar Bowl at a Glance
- Classic skiing charm with modern lifts and grooming, founded by Walt Disney but far from “disneyfied,” just chalets, a ski shop, and the Inn
- Terrain for all levels, with expert-worthy runs. Don’t miss the historic Silver Belt run from Mt. Lincoln to Steilhang
- Closest major resort to the Bay Area, can get crowded on weekends
Harkening back to an era focused solely on skiing, Sugar Bowl manages to seamlessly blend classic skiing charm with modern amenities, boasting high-speed lifts and impeccable grooming. Despite being founded by Walt Disney, don’t expect a “disneyfied” resort here. The snowbound village is simple, featuring a few ski chalets, the Inn at Sugar Bowl, a child-care center, and a ski shop – and that’s about it.
What you will discover, however, are four mountains with over 100 trails awaiting exploration. For the quintessential Sugar Bowl experience, kick off from the summit of Mt. Lincoln and descend Silver Belt to Steilhang. This route once hosted the legendary Silver Belt Giant Slalom, attracting the world’s best ski racers from 1940 to 1975. As the closest major resort to the Bay Area, it’s a good idea to visit Sugar Bowl for a mid-week getaway.
Soda Springs
Mountain Stats
Base Elevation: 6,750 feet
Vertical drop: 550 feet
Size: 200 acres
Snowfall: 400 inches
Soda Springs Resort website
Soda Springs at a Glance
- Founded in 1931, perfect for beginners and families with a cozy, welcoming vibe
- Two major lifts give easy access to 200 acres of terrain without the stress
- Home to Tahoe’s best snow play parks: Tube Town and Planet Kids
Established in 1931 as one of North America’s original ski resorts, this destination caters perfectly to both beginners and families. With a cozy atmosphere and two major lifts providing access to all its terrain, families can confidently explore the expansive 200 acres without the stress of navigating complex layouts. Moreover, it proudly boasts the title of having the best snow park in Tahoe – Tube Town and Planet Kids.
Tahoe Donner
Mountain Stats
Base Elevation: 6,750 feet
Vertical drop: 600 feet
Size: 120 acres
Snowfall: 400 inches
Tahoe Donner Website
Tahoe Donner at a Glance
- Perfect for families and first-timers, with spacious, uncrowded slopes
- 40% of terrain for beginners, the rest for intermediate to advanced skiers
- Take a break at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub, serving award-winning French–Pacific Rim cuisine
Here’s another fantastic Lake Tahoe destination, perfect for families and first-timers eager to hit the slopes. The spacious and uncrowded slopes are well-suited, with 40 percent designed for novice skiers, while the rest cater to those at the intermediate to advanced levels. Don’t forget to take a well-deserved break and refuel at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub – an award-winning, bistro-style spot offering menus influenced by both French and Pacific Rim cuisines.
Honorable Mention: Sky Tavern
Although it has lifts and trails like a ski area, it isn’t a ski area in the way most people think about it. Located on the Mt. Rose Highway, 20 minutes from Reno, Sky Tavern it is the oldest non-profit ski and snowboard training facility in America.
Embark on the perfect ski vacation with a variety of terrain, abundant snowfall, cozy lodging options, breathtaking scenery, easy accessibility, and a plethora of non-ski activities. Whether you’re seeking delectable dining options or a vibrant nightlife scene, Lake Tahoe has it all. Discover the unmatched charm of this winter wonderland – your ideal destination for an unforgettable skiing and snowboarding adventure.
