Heavenly brings together big‑mountain terrain, sweeping lake views, and the rare thrill of skiing between California and Nevada. With 4,800 acres to explore, a mix of cruisy blues and steeper chutes, and easy gondola access from South Lake Tahoe, it suits travellers who want variety. Add tubing, sightseeing, and lively après, and the whole place comes alive with options.
Heavenly delivers big terrain and iconic Lake Tahoe views.
Overview
Heavenly Mountain Resort sits on the California–Nevada border and offers one of the most scenic ski experiences in North America, thanks to its views over Lake Tahoe. With 4,800 acres, 111+ trails, and a summit of 10,067 ft, it’s one of the biggest resorts in the region, giving Kiwi skiers plenty of room to explore. The terrain mix leans towards intermediates, with long groomers, rolling tree runs, and iconic viewpoints like Ridge Run, while advanced riders can head for the steeper double‑black canyons on the Nevada side.
The mountain connects to four base areas, including a gondola that rises directly from South Lake Tahoe — ideal if you want cafés, dining, and après right at your doorstep. Snowmaking coverage is extensive, helping keep conditions reliable across the season. Families also enjoy Adventure Peak, home to tubing lanes, gentle learning zones, and easy access for non‑skiers.
With our first-hand knowledge of Tahoe and long-standing partnerships across the region, Travel & Co can help you choose the right base area — Nevada for quieter stays, or South Lake for convenience and energy. Heavenly is big, scenic, and extremely versatile, making it a strong choice for groups with mixed abilities or travellers wanting both mountain time and lakefront living.
At A Glance
| Top Elevation | 3,068 metres |
| Base Elevation | 2,029 metres |
| Vertical Drop | 1,067 metres |
| Skiable Terrain | 4,800 acres |
| Lifts | 28 lifts |
| Runs | 97 |
| Ave Annual Snowfall | 6.5m |
| Terrain Beginner | 2% |
| Terrain Intermediate | 80% |
| Terrain Advanced | 18% |
| Ski in / Ski out | No |
At Heavenly there is more on offer than just world-class skiing and snowboarding with amazing adventures adding to your ski/board winter experience. Guided UTV Tours, Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster, gondola rides, snow tubing and mini tubing, back-country skiing, dog-sledding, and more.
Enjoy the peaceful oneness that is achieved by skiing among the spectacular surroundings. Please be sure to contact the U.S. Forest Service at for maps, trail guides, safety guidelines, and to check weather and snow conditions, before heading out. There are a few areas in the Tahoe basin where back country trails can be accessed.
Experience the thrill of the wind in your face as a team of huskies takes you on a winter adventure.
Relax those tired ski muscles in the soothing waters of natural hot springs! Amenities differ at each establishment, so be sure to pick the one which best suits your tastes! Treat yourself to the natural hot springs and spa atmosphere! A complete workout facility and on-site massage therapist are available at some facilities.
Enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe and its surrounding snow-capped peaks by taking a cruise on the lake! Take a two hour cruise to Emerald Bay, or opt for a special evening of dinner and dancing on one of the Dinner/Dance cruises with Lake Tahoe Cruises!
What better way to accent your Heavenly vacation than to tour Tahoe’s wondrous winter scenery in a horse drawn sleigh? Take a one-hour tour over the meadows and through the woods, to one of the most spectacular views of Lake Tahoe.
Guided wilderness tours will take you places you never expected to go! These tours take you into the heart of Tahoe’s forest lands, to the top of Tahoe!
Heaps of fun on the ice Open-air skating every day and every night at the Heavenly Village.
Year-round you can enjoy some of the most beautiful and unique balloon adventures in the world. Float silently over the jewel of the Sierra enjoying views of this incredible alpine setting.
Learn about the early days of Lake Tahoe, including its development of the Lake Valley Railroad and the famous passenger steamers. Be amazed by artifacts found in the surrounding areas.
Located in Markleeville, south of Lake Tahoe, this museum includes a one-room schoolhouse built in 1882 and an old log jail constructed in the mid-1800s. The jail is said to be the only one of its kind, with two hand-riveted iron cells, heavy iron bar doors, vertical log walls and a log foundation. Other farming, mining and lumbering tools and artifacts are also displayed in the jail.
Three of Tahoe’s grand old homes including the Baldwin, Pope and Heller Estates. Each is a focal point of Tahoe’s arts and music community. Visitors can stroll through the estates, which have been turned into museums.
Getting to Heavenly from the Reno/Tahoe Airport
A shuttle service operates between Reno-Tahoe International Airport and the main South Lake Tahoe Resorts. Several daily departures are offered each way to meet with most flights.
Getting to Heavenly from South Lake Tahoe
A complimentary Shuttle Service operates frequently from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm between most major lodging properties in South Lake Tahoe & Stateline and Heavenly Resort.
The buses pick up at each of the bus stops as frequently as road and weather conditions permit, typically every 20 to 30 minutes. Look for the blue “Shuttle Bus Stop” signs or check with your lodging property for Heavenly Ski Shuttle details.
Connect with our Snow Holiday Experts who can organise all the best options for you.
Heavenly offers a range of comfortable places to stay, from cozy lodges and mountain condos to boutique hotels.
Many properties offer ski-in/ski-out access, so you can hit the slopes with ease every day. Some accommodations also include kitchens, laundry facilities, and hot tubs for extra comfort and convenience.
Ready to find your perfect Heavenly base? Our Snow Holiday Experts are here to help you lock in the ideal stay.
