Northstar is a favourite for Kiwis who love a cruisy, well‑groomed mountain with a village that keeps everything simple. It offers 3,170 acres of terrain, loads of intermediate runs, and a relaxed Lake Tahoe vibe that works well for families and progression‑focused skiers. The resort delivers immaculately groomed trails and beautiful tree skiing. Add in dining, ice skating, and California sunshine, and it all just clicks.
A smooth, easy Tahoe experience from first chair to last.
Overview
Northstar California sits in the Martis Valley near Lake Tahoe and offers a polished, easygoing mountain experience that suits a wide range of Kiwi travellers. The resort has 3,170 acres of skiable terrain, a 2,280 ft vertical drop, and a trail breakdown that heavily favours intermediates — perfect if you’re looking to build confidence or simply enjoy long, well‑groomed cruisers.
With 100 trails served by 20 lifts, including high‑speed gondolas and quads, it’s straightforward to get around, and snowmaking covers a huge portion of the mountain for consistently reliable conditions through the season.
The pedestrian village adds a lot to the experience. Think outdoor fire pits, an ice‑skating rink, easy dining options, and that classic relaxed Tahoe atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can wrap up the ski day with a glass of wine or take the kids for a hot chocolate without needing to plan anything.
With our first‑hand knowledge and long‑standing relationships across the region, Travel & Co can help you find the best‑fit lodging, from slopeside condos to spacious family stays. Northstar is a smooth, enjoyable winter holiday option — especially for skiers who want a hassle‑free trip with plenty of variety.
At A Glance
| Top Elevation | 2,624 Metres |
| Base Elevation | 6,330 Metres |
| Vertical Drop | 695 Metres |
| Skiable Terrain | 3,170 acres |
| Lifts | 20 lifts |
| Runs | 100 |
| Ave Annual Snowfall | 900cms |
| Terrain Beginner | 13% |
| Terrain Intermediate | 60% |
| Terrain Advanced | 27% |
| Ski in / Ski out | Yes |
At Northstar there is more on offer than just world-class skiing and snowboarding with amazing adventures adding to your ski/board winter experience including:
Northstar California Resort is a 1 hour shuttle from Reno-Tahoe International Airport (57 km) or a 3.5 hour drive from San Francisco International Airport (320 km).
Northstar has a variety of accommodation options to choose from.
Contact our Active Travel Experts for insider tips on where to stay and tailor-made ski/board experiences.
