Lake Tahoe Skiing
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Skiing at Lake Tahoe



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Alpine Skiing & Boarding Near Lake Tahoe


Ski Areas Located Near South Lake Tahoe, California
& Stateline, Nevada

Skier with map of ski areas at Lake Tahoe


Heavenly Mountain Resort

Heavenly Ski Resort Location Icon Heavenly Resort at Lake Tahoe is one of the largest ski areas in the United States, offering expansive terrain and some of the most spectacular lake views anywhere in the Sierra Nevada. With a summit elevation of 10,067 feet and a massive 3,500-foot vertical drop on the California side, Heavenly delivers a dramatic alpine experience overlooking the bright blue waters of Lake Tahoe and the high-rise skyline of Stateline's casinos.

Modern high-speed lifts, including the famous Heavenly Gondola, make it easy to explore the resort's wide variety of terrain. Skiers and riders enjoy everything from gentle beginner slopes to challenging steeps, tree skiing, and long cruising boulevards. Heavenly also maintains an extensive snowmaking system, one of the largest in the West, ensuring reliable conditions throughout the season. With the lively Heavenly Village at the base, visitors are only steps away from dining, shopping, nightlife, and year-round entertainment.

Even non-skiers can enjoy Heavenly's Scenic Gondola Ride. The nearly 2.5-mile journey up the mountain includes a stop at the Observation Deck, where panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains create unforgettable photo opportunities. Gondola operations vary by weather and season, so checking availability ahead of time is recommended.

Our Experiences at Heavenly

We enjoy Heavenly Mountain Resort in all seasons and treasure our memories of skiing with friends and riding the Gondola with family. Sharing the sweeping views of Lake Tahoe with our mom as we rode to the top together is something we will never forget. Although our downhill skiing skills remain mostly beginner level, we love introducing friends to the slopes and exploring the trails that wind across the mountain. From High Meadows to Powerline and Star Lake, Heavenly's network of hiking and biking routes keeps us coming back year after year. It is truly a Must Do for anyone who loves mountain scenery, skiing, and year-round outdoor adventure.

-- Your hosts,
Tom and Mary Kay

Alpine Ski Information for Heavenly:

Acres: 4,800 Elevation: 6,540 - 10,067
Snowmaking: Extensive coverage
Phone for Ski Conditions and Prices: (775) 586-7000

To get to Heavenly from Reno, head south on U.S. 395, then west on Hwy. 50. It's about 58 miles. From Sacramento, head about 100 miles east on Hwy. 50. Major airlines serve Reno Tahoe International Airport, with rental cars and shuttle services available.


Diamond Peak Ski Area

Diamond Peak Ski AreaLocated above Incline Village on Lake Tahoe's north shore, Diamond Peak is known for its stunning lake views, family-friendly atmosphere, and uncrowded slopes. The resort offers a relaxed, community-oriented feel with terrain well-suited for beginners, intermediates, and skiers who appreciate a quieter mountain experience. Diamond Peak's commitment to sustainability and its efficient snowmaking system help ensure reliable conditions throughout the season.

With its approachable layout, well-groomed runs, and convenient access from Incline Village, Diamond Peak is a favorite for families and locals. The resort features excellent ski school programs, scenic ridge-top trails overlooking Lake Tahoe, and a welcoming vibe that makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a more intimate ski experience.

Alpine Ski Information for Diamond Peak:

Acres: 655    Elevation: 6,700 - 8,540 ft
Snowmaking: Extensive coverage
Phone for Ski Conditions and Prices: (775) 832-1177

To get to Diamond Peak, take Hwy. 28 to Incline Village on Tahoe's north shore. From Reno, follow Hwy. 431 (Mt. Rose Highway) to Incline Village. Parking is available at the base area, and local shuttle services may operate during peak periods.


Northstar Ski Area

Northstar Ski AreaLocated west of Lake Tahoe near Truckee, Northstar California Resort is known for its upscale village, meticulously groomed runs, and family-friendly atmosphere. The resort offers a polished experience with excellent intermediate terrain, modern lifts, and a wide variety of dining and shopping options in its pedestrian village. Northstar's extensive snowmaking system helps ensure reliable conditions throughout the season.

Northstar is especially popular with families and skiers who enjoy smooth groomers, terrain parks, and a relaxed, high-quality mountain environment. The resort features great ski school programs, scenic trails through sheltered forests, and a well-developed base area that makes it easy to spend a full day on and off the slopes.

Alpine Ski Information for Northstar:

Acres: 3,170    Elevation: 6,330 - 8,610 ft
Snowmaking: Extensive coverage
Phone for Ski Conditions and Prices: (530) 562-1330

To get to Northstar, take Hwy. 267 between Truckee and Kings Beach. From Interstate 80, exit at Hwy. 267 and follow signs south toward the resort. Parking and shuttle services are available at the main base area.


Sierra-At-Tahoe Ski Area

Sierra at Tahoe Ski AreaOnly 20-30 minutes from South Lake Tahoe, Sierra-at-Tahoe continues to be a beloved resort known for its friendly atmosphere, excellent tree skiing, and strong intermediate terrain. Following the 2021 Caldor Fire, Sierra-at-Tahoe has rebuilt and reopened much of its terrain, with ongoing improvements and a renewed focus on sustainable forest management.

Sierra's high-speed lifts, terrain parks, and naturally playful terrain make it a favorite for families, locals, and riders who enjoy a relaxed, welcoming mountain environment. The resort continues to offer great beginner areas, long cruisers, and exciting advanced runs, along with a strong snowboard culture and terrain park heritage.

Alpine Ski Information for Sierra-At-Tahoe:

Acres: 2,000 Elevation: 6,640 - 8,852
Snowmaking: Select coverage
Phone for Ski Conditions and Prices: (530) 659-7453

To get to Sierra-at-Tahoe from Sacramento, head east on Hwy. 50 about 83 miles. From South Lake Tahoe, take Hwy. 50 west 12 miles. Shuttle services may be available during peak season. 


Kirkwood Ski and Summer Resort

Kirkwood Ski and Summer ResortKirkwood is a scenic 40-minute drive from South Lake Tahoe, just over Carson Pass. The route winds through Hope Valley, a broad meadow with peaceful streams and stunning winter scenery.

Kirkwood is famous for its deep snow, high base elevation, and rugged terrain. With some of the most challenging steeps and chutes in the region, it attracts expert skiers and riders seeking adventure. Intermediates enjoy wide-open bowls and groomed runs, while beginners appreciate the quieter learning areas. Kirkwood's remote location gives it a unique, uncrowded feel compared to other Tahoe resorts.

Kirkwood often records some of the highest snowfall totals in North America, thanks to its 7,800-foot base elevation and favorable storm patterns. Its cross-country center offers an extensive network of groomed trails with classic and skate tracks, warming huts, and beautiful views of the surrounding peaks.

Alpine Ski Information for Kirkwood:

Acres: 2,300 Elevation: 7,800 - 9,800
Phone for Ski Conditions and Prices: (209) 258-6000

Cross-Country Ski Information for Kirkwood:

Trails: Up to 22 trails depending on grooming and conditions
Phone for Cross Country at Kirkwood: (209) 258-7248

To get to Kirkwood from South Lake Tahoe, take Hwy. 50 south, then Hwy. 89 south, and turn west on Hwy. 88. Kirkwood is 14 miles south over Carson Pass. From Reno, take U.S. 395 south then Hwy. 88 west.


Tahoe Ski Resorts > Contact Info. At-a-Glance


Alpine Meadows
2600 Alpine Meadows Rd.
Tahoe City, CA
Phone: (800) 403-0206

Boreal Ski Area
I-80 at Castle Peak
Phone: (530) 426-3666

Clair Tappaan Lodge
19940 Donner Pass Rd.
Soda Springs, CA
Phone: (530) 426-3632

Donner Ski Ranch
19320 Donner Pass Rd.
Norden, CA
Phone: (530) 426-3635

Homewood Ski Area
Hwy. 89 in Homewood
Phone: (530) 525-2992

Kirkwood Ski Resort
Highway 88 Carson Pass
Phone: (209) 258-6000

Mount Rose Ski Area
Mount Rose Highway
Phone: (775) 849-0704

Northstar-at-Tahoe
Highway 267 & Northstar Dr.
Truckee, CA
Phone: (530) 562-1010

Heavenly Ski Resort
South Lake Tahoe, CA
Phone: (775) 586-7000

Sierra-at-Tahoe
Highway 50 on Echo Summit
Phone: (530) 659-7453

Ski Incline - Diamond Peak
Incline Village, NV
Phone: (775) 832-1177

Soda Springs Ski Area
19455 Boreal Ridge Rd.
Soda Springs, CA
Phone: (530) 426-1010

Sugar Bowl
750 Mule Ears Ct.
Norden, CA
Phone: (530) 426-9000


Terrain Parks at Lake Tahoe


North Lake Tahoe > Boreal Mountain Resort > Woodward Terrain Parks

Boreal Mountain Resort Boreal's terrain parks are now part of the Woodward Mountain Park experience, offering a fully integrated progression system with small, medium, and large features across the mountain. Riders can expect creative rail lines, sculpted jump zones, and constantly refreshed setups designed for all ability levels. The resort continues to emphasize all-mountain freestyle terrain with features accessible from every lift.

Woodward's coaching-driven environment supports beginners through advanced riders with dedicated learning zones, including small-feature parks ideal for first-time freestyle progression. Lessons, rentals, and Woodward-style clinics remain a core part of Boreal's freestyle program.

Available on Amazon

North Lake Tahoe > Homewood Mountain Resort Terrain Parks

Homewood Homewood is preparing for a major transformation with the installation of the new Homewood Gondola, but continues to offer family-friendly terrain with natural-feature freestyle zones. While traditional terrain parks are limited during redevelopment, riders will find playful side-hits, rollers, and natural jibs across sheltered tree runs with unmatched lake views.

The resort's focus remains on approachable terrain and progression, with expanded grooming and improved access routes enhancing flow across the mountain for the season.

North Lake Tahoe > Northstar-at-Tahoe Terrain Parks

Northstar at Tahoe ski resort Northstar continues to rank among North America's top terrain-park destinations, offering meticulously built jump lines, innovative jibs, and one of the region's most consistent halfpipes. The resort's park network includes the Burton Progression Park for beginners, Pinball for rail-focused riders, and The Straits for large-feature jump lines.

Northstar's parks emphasize progression, with features designed to help riders advance from small boxes to advanced rails and large jumps. The resort's reputation for world-class shaping and maintenance continues into the season.

North Lake Tahoe > Palisades Tahoe Terrain Parks

Palisades Ski Area Location Icon Palisades Tahoe offers multiple freestyle zones across both the Palisades and Alpine sides, including Belmont Park for beginners, Riviera for intermediate riders, and advanced parks near High Camp. The resort is known for creative setups, high-elevation parks, and consistent shaping.

The terrain-park program emphasizes safety and progression through the Park SMART framework, encouraging riders to build skills gradually while enjoying a wide variety of jumps, rails, boxes, and natural-style features.

South Lake Tahoe > Heavenly Terrain Parks

Heavenly Ski Resort Location Icon Heavenly's terrain-park lineup now includes Mombo (extra small), Lakeview (small/medium), and Groove Park (medium/large). These parks offer more than 40 combined features, including beginner-friendly boxes, technical rails, and sculpted jumps. The parks are designed to support smooth progression from first-time freestyle riders to advanced park skiers and snowboarders.

Groove Park, located near Lakeview Lodge, features over 20 obstacles with a skate-inspired flow, making it a favorite for riders looking to push their skills. Heavenly no longer operates a superpipe, focusing instead on diverse park zones with strong flow and creative lines.

South Lake Tahoe > Sierra-at-Tahoe Terrain Parks & Pipes

Sierra-at-Tahoe Terrain Parks Location Icon Sierra-at-Tahoe continues to operate one of Tahoe's most beloved freestyle programs, featuring eight terrain parks with a mix of small, medium, and large features. The resort is known for innovative rail design, creative boxes, and constantly refreshed park layouts.

Recent mountain restoration efforts have expanded terrain access and improved flow into park zones. Sierra remains a top destination for freestyle riders, consistently ranked among the best parks and pipes in California.


Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing at Lake Tahoe


Auburn Cross Country Ski Center

Auburn Ski ClubAuburn Ski Club for cross country skiers is up North in Truckee, at the top of Lake Tahoe, ASC does a great job with their steep and twisty-turny and up and down trails! Their programs include a full winter full of events for children and adults. Auburn is a Nordic athletic center, with programs for cross country ski racing, biathlon and other recreational opportunities. There are not miles and miles of trails here, but if you are looking for an athletic training center and racing programs, this is the Lake Tahoe Truckee area club for you.

Located on Interstate 80 at Boreal Ridge Road, west of Truckee
Phone: (530) 426-3313


Warm Winter Hats for Your Tahoe Visit

beanie hats ski apparel on Amazon

Blue Lakes Road (It's FREE!)

Blue Lakes RdAt Blue Lakes Road, you can find groomed-for-skating trails on the way up to Carson Pass near Kirkwood. This isn't a commercial concession for cross country skiing, and you will have to share the trails with snowmobiles, but it's a regular haunt of XC skiers. (If you have even the slightest antipathy toward snowmobiles, then you will want to go somewhere else.) The road leads up to Blue Lakes, and it's a fun screamer downhill on the way back!

Skiing here is FREE and the road is groomed by the State of California or a snowmobile tour concession that operates here. Therefore, the grooming can be ideal for ski skating. However, grooming varies year to year depending on funding and snowmobile club activity

The four-strokes swarm pretty thick here on weekends. However, if you can get onto the packed snowmobile trails mid-week or before 10 a.m. (when snowmobilers wake up) you'll usually find the green traffic light for cross country skiing on the Blue Lakes Road. We try to maintain friendly relations by stepping off into the powder at the side while the sleds pass. Smile and wave. Most sledders smile and wave back, proving they're decent folk who just happen to be deluded into thinking that squeezing a throttle and going like hell is fun, which is exactly what we used to do as motorcycle racers in a former childhood! So, enjoy the same great groomed trails and outdoors as the riders do.

Blue Lakes Road and the terrain on the sides can be a great location for spring skiing. Once the snow firms up, you can skate on top and go everywhere fast!

The road itself is basically a long gradual climb out and a downhill back. Views are magnificent. Once you make a short climb up through a canyon leading from the valley floor, the terrain on either side opens up into rolling hills with scattered forest.

Spring skiing here on packed crust in the morning, going in any direction whim dictates, is a delight beyond words. Try it, you'll see.

Blue Lakes Road is located on Hwy. 88 just South of Picketts Junction, where Hwys. 88 and 89 intersect.


Camp Richardson (A Small & Charming Place on The Lake)

Camp RichardsonCamp Richardson Resort sometimes offers a very nice little trail system in the woods for a serene and casual ski outing. The skiing here is mostly for skaters of tour skiers who like untracked snow, but one loop is sometimes tracked for classic skiing. All amenities at South Lake Tahoe and Stateline, NV are nearby. Call ahead to see what's open during the winter. Visitors must check year-to-year because winter operations have become intermittent.

Rentals: Touring, skating, snowshoes. Call ahead to confirm, because Camp Richardson no longer consistently operates Nordic grooming, rentals, or lessons every winter
Lessons: 1/2-hour beginners group lesson for a fee.
Food: Great restaurant and cafe
Christmas Gift Shop through the Holidays, most years.
User fees are required.

State Route 89
(2 1/2 miles North of the "Y" in South Lake Tahoe)
P.O. Box 9028
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96158
Phone: (530) 494-2228
For reservations: (800) 544-1801


Hope Valley Cross-Country

Hope ValleyHope Valley cross country ski is mostly for backcountry skiers, and it's near the Blue Lakes road. The trails are sometimes tracked with a snowmobile. Sorenson's Lodge, which has rustic lodging and a cozy charming restaurant, was purchased by Wylder Hotels and is now Wylder Hope Valley. Therefore, the cross country ski concession there has changed, and ski rentals and lessons are not always offered. Grooming is inconsistent and often not available.So, call ahead or check online if you do not have your own skis. We visit Hope Valley whenever we want some backwoods classic skiing. It's a long climb via a snow covered road to the lake at the top, and a screamer (challenging fun!) downhill back when the snow is icy! The trails get good afternoon sun, so you don't have to fear the downhill on a sunny spring afternoon. Hope Valley is a favorite of many local ski shufflers.

Rentals: Touring, backcountry
Google for Wylder Hope Valley

Located at Pickett's Junction where Hwys. 88 and 89 intersect.


Kirkwood Cross Country

Kirkwood XCA variety of fun trails part of the big Kirkwood ski empire up there above Carson Pass. Try the Schneider Camp parking lot for wide open skiing on the most lovely of high-mountain plateaus! You will have to do some climbing here, but just think of the effort as your way of earning the thrills offered by Kirkwood's many exciting downhill trails. There are also gentle meadow trails in the Kirkwood Meadow, near the cross country ski center. This is a reliable place for skiing, and you can get everything you want from ski rentals and lessons at the nordic center, to apres ski lunch and dinner, and even cross-over to ski downhill at Kirkwood Ski Resort right next to the meadow.

Kirkwood XC has reduced operations in recent years. Groomed trail mileage is often far less than their 65 km of mapped-out trails, depending on staffing and snow. Some seasons, the Nordic Center has limited or no grooming. So, check conditions before heading out.

Rentals: Touring, skating, telemark, showshoes
Lessons: Group lesson & trail pass & equipment rental available
Food: At the Kirkwood Day Lodge and at the Cabin next to the nordic center
Trail fees are required.

Highway 88 near Carson Pass
Kirkwood, CA
Phone: (209) 258-7248


Nevada Nordic

Nevada NordicOn the Mt. Rose Highway between Incline Village and Reno, Nevada, Nevada Nordic offers free, groomed cross-country ski trails at one of the highest-elevation cross country ski areas in the Tahoe region, with reliably good snow and a relaxed, locals' feel.

Location and Setting

The trail system sits directly off the Mt. Rose Highway (NV-431), between Incline Village and Reno.

Primary access is from roadside pullouts roughly 1.4 miles past the Scenic Viewpoint when driving up from Incline Village.

Additional access points are near the Ophir Creek Trailhead and the start of Tahoe Meadows.

With elevations over 8,500 feet, the area holds snow well and often skis nicely into spring.

Trail System

The network includes about 20 km of groomed Nordic trails, maintained by the nonprofit Nevada Nordic.

Grooming typically happens several days per week, depending on weather and snow conditions.

Terrain ranges from short, rolling loops to longer routes such as the Lakeview Trail up toward Chickadee Ridge, where you can catch big views of Lake Tahoe.

The trails are open to skate skiing, classic skiing, snowshoeing and fat biking, with posted etiquette to protect the grooming.

Experience and Difficulty

Because the trails sit significantly higher than many other Tahoe XC areas, the altitude may make the skiing feel more demanding, even on moderate terrain.

Access, Amenities and Use

Use of the trails is free, though donations are encouraged to support grooming, equipment and operations.

There is no lodge, rental shop or on-site restrooms. Therefore, visitors should come self-sufficient.

Dogs are allowed in certain sections, with rules that vary slightly between Nevada Dept. of Transportation managed and U.S. Forest Service managed areas. Signs and online info outline where dogs are appropriate at Nevada Nordic.

The area is intended for daytime use only.

What Makes Nevada Nordic Special

Nevada Nordic is a rare groomed cross-country ski venue in the state of Nevada.

Its high elevation delivers excellent snow quality and often a longer season than many nearby Nordic centers.

Quiet forest loops, open alpine meadows and occasional Lake Tahoe viewpoints give it a peaceful, backcountry feel without sacrificing the comfort of groomed tracks.


North Tahoe Regional Park

North TahoeNorth Tahoe Regional Park offers 11 K of tracks, mostly for beginner skiers - when it's a good year for snow. Grooming is not guaranteed every winter.
Trail fees are required.

National Ave. off State Route 28
Tahoe Vista, CA
Phone: (530) 546-7248


Northstar-at-Tahoe

Northstar at Tahoe Location IconIf you want to alpine ski and skinny ski all in one place, Northstar may be just the place for you. This is a good place for XC skiing if you are looking for a break from the usual snowboarding and downhilling. Well-groomed and well laid out trails. A very nice XC ski experience that rounds out the offerings at Northstar.

After your ride up the hill on the tram, hike through the alpine ski school to get to the nordic center, there you are at Northstar Cross Country Ski Area.

Operations at Northstar, like all Tahoe area cross country ski resorts, vary significantly year to year.

Rentals: Touring, skating, telemark, snowshoes
Lessons: One and one-half hour group lesson & trail pass & equipment rental
Food: At the cross-country center and Northstar Village
Trail fees are required.

Hwy. 267 South of Truckee
Phone: (530) 562-2475

Cross Country Skier at Royal Gorge

Get stoked for skiing and shredding at Lake Tahoe! Choose your favorite snow sport to find out more about it at Tahoe area ski resorts and backcountry.

Discover the best places for cross-country skiing around Lake Tahoe, from groomed Nordic centers to scenic backcountry trails. As Nordic skiers, we share tips, favorite resorts, routes and training insights. That's Mary Kay racing at the U.S. Cross Country Ski Nationals at Royal Gorge. She loves ski racing and writes about how to train for cross country ski season in her cross-country ski training blog.

 

Read Mary Kay's Blog

North Tahoe Regional Park

North Tahoe Regional Park Location IconNorth Tahoe Regional Park offers 11 K of tracks, mostly for beginner skiers.
Trail fees are required.

National Ave. off State Route 28
Tahoe Vista, CA
Phone: (530) 546-7248


Palisades Tahoe Cross-Country

Palisades ski area location iconThe Palisades Tahoe cross-country trails wind through the spectacular Squaw Valley meadow and the hills beyond. The XC center at the Resort at Everline Resort (formerly Squaw Creek) has reduced operations, and grooming is not guaranteed and often limited.

Rentals: Touring, skating
Lessons: One hour group lesson & trail pass & equipment rental available
Food: Five restaurants
Trail fees are required.

Palisades Tahoe
Olympic Valley, CA
Phone: (530) 583-6300


Best of Tahoe AwardRoyal Gorge Cross Country

If we lived closer, we would ski at Royal Gorge every day! This cross country ski area is a favorite for Bay Area skiers who head up Hwy. 80 on the weekends.

Royal Gorge at Sugar Bowl is the highest altitude of the Tahoe area cross country ski centers, so when there's snow you should find it here! Royal Gorge features unbelievably fabulous terrain and beautiful grooming for any skier! Over 328 kilometers of trail that is impeccably tracked for both classic and skate skiing. Complete amenities as you might expect for a world class place like this truly is. New ownership by Sugar Bowl and a friendly staff has made Royal Gorge a very friendly and accommodating place to enjoy as much coss country skiing as you can handle - and then some!

Rentals: Touring, skating, telemark, snowshoes, sleds
Lessons: Group lesson & trail pass & equipment available
Food: Two restaurants, four cafes
Trail fees are required.

Old Highway 40
Exit off 1-80
Soda Springs, CA
Phone: (530) 426-3871


Spooner Lake Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing

Spooner Lake Cross Country Ski Location IconThe Nevada State Park at Spooner is a place you can go for backcountry cross country skiing and snowshoeing, plus groomed tracks are often available at Spooner Lake Nevada State Park.

About cross-country skiing at Spooner

Cross-country skiing at Spooner Lake State Park is supported through public-access grooming rather than a full-service commercial resort.

Nevada State Parks, in partnership with Nevada Nordic, provides groomed cross-country ski trails at Spooner when snowpack allows. The park typically offers about 5 km of groomed trails that wind through forest, meadows, and around the lake. Grooming is free to use, though a park entry fee is required.

Grooming is not guaranteed every day and depends on storms, snow conditions, and volunteer capacity. Trails are open to the public without an additional trail fee beyond park entrance. Dogs and snowshoers are allowed, with standard etiquette requested to protect the ski surface. Current conditions and grooming updates are usually posted by Nevada Nordic.

The grooming at Spooner is a community-supported system. There is no lodge, no rental shop, and no formal resort infrastructure. Yet, skiers can enjoy groomed trails in a low-key, state-park setting.

What to expect at Spooner

Visitors can expect roughly a 5 km groomed loop with intermediate terrain, passing through forest and meadow areas around Spooner Lake. Access is public, with no extra trail fee beyond the standard park entry fee, which is typically higher for out-of-state vehicles than for Nevada vehicles.

There are no rentals or full-service amenities on site, so skiers need to bring their own gear. The experience is more about quiet, scenic skiing in a state park environment than a resort-style outing.

Grooming reliability compared to higher elevations

Spooner sits at a lower elevation than other cross country ski areas at Lake Tahoe, such as Mt. Rose Meadows and similar high-elevation Nordic areas. As a result, its snowpack can be less consistent, since grooming is more weather-dependent. In many winters, Nevada Nordic's Mt. Rose trails are groomed more frequently and hold snow longer due to higher elevation and colder temperatures.

For skiers planning a trip, Spooner can be a great option when storms have recently refreshed the snowpack, but Mt. Rose Meadows and other higher-elevation zones may be more reliable for consistent cross-country skiing throughout the season.

Spooner Summit is near the Northeast shore of Lake Tahoe at the intersection of Hwy. 50 and State Route 28, 12 miles south of Incline Village, NV. Here's a link to the Nevada State Parks: Spooner Lake...


Backcountry Ski Routes

A one-of-a-kind guidebook for those who are in search of mellow backcountry ski routes to minimize avalanche exposure in the Lake Tahoe area. This book is for anyone who has an interest in finding enjoyable terrain for making turns while avoiding high-consequence avalanche slopes.

Backcountry Ski Routes at Tahoe guidebook


Best of TahoeTahoe Donner

At Tahoe Donner, you can find trails for everyone plus amenities like a nice cafe and rentals. After a cruise through the mellow flat areas, you can climb sky-high and seemingly forever, or drop down into the Euer Valley, which provides a romantic countryside tour reminiscent of the world-class ski trails in Winthrop, WA. This cross country ski area is located in Truckee, California. It's just about a 20 minute drive north of Lake Tahoe. It's also near Reno, which is a 45 minute drive. San Franciscans frequent Tahoe Donner because it's only 3 and a half hours away.

The trail system offers 79 trails with over 100 kilometers of cross country ski and snowshoe trails. You can enjoy beautiful views of the Sierras at Tahoe Donner! The elevation is 6,650 feet to 7,729 feet at the highest point of the trail system. On your ski outing you will find consistently great trail grooming and four warming huts. Snowmaking ensures there will be good grooming, as well.

Professional ski instruction and guides are available at the base lodge.

The Alder Creek Cafe offers breakfast and lunch, and we can recommend this cafe for delicious repas. You can also enjoy fine dining at The Lodge Restaurant and Pub, including locally sourced meat and produce.

Off Donner Pass Road
11509 Northwoods Blvd.
Truckee, CA
Phone: (530) 587-9484


Best of Tahoe Award IconTahoe XC

We think Tahoe XC is the absolute best Cross Country Ski Area at Lake Tahoe. This is our first choice for when we want to track ski. The grooming has always been great on the large kilometer trail system. There's a spectacular panoramic view of Lake Tahoe. We also love the wide variety of terrain, varying from flat meadows to extreme climbs, so any skier can get whatever experience they are out for. And, also there are the really nice people who run the place and the locals who ski there regularly! Family friendly! Day lodge. Ski shop. Cafe. Special events! Lodging, vacation rentals, motels and hotel resorts are very nearby in Tahoe City. And, Seniors 70 years-of-age and older, you get to ski for a discount. The same goes for youth under 19; your ski pass is super discounted at Tahoe XC. Get details at TahoeXC.org


cross country ski training

Cross Country Ski Training

Interested in training for cross country ski racing? Want to ski the trails faster or easier? Check out my training blog.



We hope you have enjoyed this skiing and snowboarding page in our activities guide to Lake Tahoe, the High Sierras and Northern Nevada. Please support our Lake Tahoe website by patronizong our sponsors when looking for Tahoe lodging or other products. Thank you for visiting and enjoy your skiing at Lake Tahoe and Beyond!


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