Colorado and Utah aren’t your only options when it comes to an unforgettable ski vacation this winter. Located in the Sierra Mountains on the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is beloved for its famous blue waters and deep snows.
Where To Ski
You’ve got several options when it comes to Lake Tahoe ski slopes — all of them spectacular and filled with fresh powder. The season usually stretches from mid-November through mid-April.
- Heavenly: This aptly named mountain resort features 97 runs and 30 lifts, delivering ski and snowboard experiences that range from mellow, wide-open cruisers to intense 1,600-foot chutes. Tip: Get an Epic Day Pass at Heavenly and save up to 65 percent compared to the cost of lift tickets.
- Kirkwood: They say that Kirkwood offers a “lifetime of terrain.” And it’s true: the resort’s diversity means that it has something to offer for everyone, from the newbie to the die-hard.
- Mt. Rose-Ski Tahoe: Conveniently located just 25 minutes from Reno (or 10 minutes from Tahoe’s north shore), Mt.Rose-Ski Tahoe is home to 1,200 acres of snowy excitement, with fun runs galore.
- Northstar: With an average annual snowfall of 350 inches, you’ll be set up nicely for Lake Tahoe ski adventures at Northstar. Good to know — the resort’s family learning zones are great for teaching your young kids the ins and outs of skiing and snowboarding.
Off-Slope Activities
The slopes are winter’s main draw, but Lake Tahoe has much more to offer.
- SnowFest (Feb. 29-March 10, 2024): Consider planning your trip around this annual festival. Celebrating its 42nd anniversary in 2024, SnowFest is a 10-day winter carnival, including polar bear plunges, fireworks displays, a festive parade, great local food & drink, and much more.
- Heavenly Village: This alpine-style village lights up beautifully during the winter months, creating a warm atmosphere even when the temperature drops. Enjoy an array of boutiques, craft beer taphouses with apres-ski happy hours, a movie theater, and an ice skating rink.
- Marcus Ashley Fine Art Gallery: If you and the family love Dr. Seuss (and what family doesn’t?), this Lake Tahoe art gallery is a must-visit. Marcus Ashley Fine Art Gallery is home to dozens of original pieces by the author/illustrator, alongside other whimsical artworks.
- Harrah’s Casino: Just over the border in Nevada, Harrah’s is an ideal spot for gaming, offering a wide selection of table games and slot machines. The casino also hosts live music concerts, featuring plenty of big names.
Where To Eat in Lake Tahoe
Before or after a day enjoying Lake Tahoe’s skiing and snowboarding offerings, dig into the area’s best food & drink (and enjoy some lakefront views while you’re at it!).
- Bourbon Pub Northstar: Helmed by acclaimed chef Michael Mina, Bourbon Pub offers classic pub fare — burgers, fish and chips, steak & potatoes — all with a fine dining twist. Save room for dessert: the S’More Milk Chocolate Custard is divine.
- Kirkwood Inn & Saloon: Serving up delicious eats in a log cabin since the 19th century, this no-frills watering hole is a great place for amazing BBQ (the housemade sauces are incredible), chicken wings, and fresh-baked cornbread.
- Fire Sign Café: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day — especially before a day on the slopes. Tucked away on Lake Tahoe’s western shore, Fire Sign Café is a down-home option for extremely tasty morning staples: eggs Benedict, fluffy pancakes, fresh-brewed coffee, and Bloody Marys.
- Heavenly Donuts: Another breakfast option — donuts! Located right next to the Heavenly Mountain Gondola, Heavenly Donuts’ bite-sized offerings are virtually irresistible.
Where To Stay
- Marriott’s Timber Lodge Tahoe: Just steps from Heavenly Mountain and the Heavenly Gondola, Marriott’s Timber Lodge Tahoe provides luxury, location, and rustic charm along the scenic shore of South Tahoe.
- Marriott Grand Residence Club – Lake Tahoe: Also at the base of Heavenly Mountain, Marriott Grand Residence Club boasts an outdoor heated pool for year-round soaks and spacious villas with fully equipped kitchens and separate living spaces.
- Northstar Lodge by Welk Resorts: Offering easy ski-in/ski-out access to Northstar Mountain, Northstar Lodge is an alpine escape in the Sierras, with charming cobblestone walkways and luxurious accommodations.
Start planning your Lake Tahoe timeshare resort vacation now.
