The Sierra Nevada Mountains and Lake Tahoe are calling!
A Lake Tahoe Epic Pass Roadie – who’s up for that? Our ski travel specialist, Kate – that’s who! Plus, she was looking for an excuse to get out of the office. It was late March 2023 – the borders were back open and March is a great time to be heading to the Sierra Nevada mountains.
And as Kate puts it, “there’s nothing quite like the freedom and adventure of a road trip, especially when the destination is as breathtaking as Lake Tahoe.”
Split between California and Nevada, the Lake Tahoe basin offers dozens of ski resorts to get your vertical drop on. But as with everything else, Nevada always finds a way to stand out in a crowd. Expect friendly and relaxed vibes, crowdless runs, and some of the best terrain in Tahoe.
FACT: Lake Tahoe is located on the border of California and Nevada. About two-thirds of the lake is in California, with about one-third extending into Nevada at the north and south ends of the lake, and the entire eastern shore.
Kate flew to Los Angeles and drove from there – but that’s just one option, you can always fly to San Francisco and drive back to L.A. on the way home.
If you are departing from San Francisco, it is a place where you can soak up the cultural diversity and iconic landmarks before embarking on your ski trip. Located approximately 320km east of San Francisco, Lake Tahoe can be conveniently reached by road and with a car hire you can make stops along the way. The journey takes around three and a half to four hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. As you drive eastward, prepare to be captivated by the changing scenery, from the rolling hills of Napa Valley to the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
“Tahoe receives a huge amount of snow which makes the skiing fantastic, but navigating the roads was also easily done. I went during one of the biggest storms and still made it through the area easily. The roads are constantly being monitored and cleared so it was not an issue travelling from one side of the lake to the other.” Kate, Ski Travel Expert
Arriving at the northern shore of Lake Tahoe, you’ll find Tahoe City, a charming lakeside town. Stretch your legs, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy panoramic views of the azure lake. Explore the town’s boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafés before continuing your journey to Northstar Ski Resort.
NorthStar Ski Resort
A gem nestled amidst the picturesque Martis Valley. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and exceptional amenities, Northstar attracts skiers of all levels. Beginners can take advantage of the excellent ski and snowboard schools, while more experienced riders can explore the diverse terrain, including perfectly groomed trails and exhilarating tree runs. Northstar also offers a charming village with a variety of shops, restaurants, and ice skating rinks, creating a delightful après-ski atmosphere for the whole family.
“Get ready to experience the thrill of their fantastic terrain park. Don’t miss out on the unforgettable Tost Experience a great way to celebrate the excellent skiing on offer with your fellow ski buddies and while you’re there, make sure to take a short drive to Truckee, a charming ski town with great restaurants and bars.” Kate, Ski Travel Expert
Kirkwood Mountain Resort
For those seeking an authentic and adventurous skiing experience, Kirkwood Mountain Resort is the place to be. Situated on the Sierra Crest, Kirkwood receives abundant snowfall, creating a haven for powder hounds. With its challenging steeps, deep bowls, and epic back-country access, Kirkwood is a paradise for advanced skiers and snowboarders. Don’t miss the exhilarating Cornice Express lift, which provides access to a variety of advanced and expert-only runs. The resort’s rugged beauty and laid-back atmosphere make it a favourite among dedicated snow sports enthusiasts.
Heavenly
On the southern shore of Lake Tahoe lies Heavenly Village, the gateway to the Heavenly Ski Resort and a vibrant hub of entertainment and activities. Arriving at Heavenly Village, the resort’s charming base area, you’ll find yourself immersed in a picturesque alpine village. The village offers a blend of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, creating a lively atmosphere that perfectly complements the mountain setting. Heavenly offers something for everyone, if it’s the nightlife of Nevada you are after or a more relaxing experience you will find it all here. The California side offers great daily live music and après to enjoy in the sun where the Nevada side offers the buzz of casinos. The Views from Heavenly are incredible, you have Lake Tahoe on the California side as well as Desert on the Nevada side.
Skiing and Snowboarding:
Heavenly Ski Resort is unique – skiers and snowboarders float fresh powder and weave through trees on nearly 100 runs, some crisscrossing the Nevada-California state line. It also boasts an impressive 4,800 acres of skiable terrain, making it one of the largest ski resorts in California. With a wide range of slopes catering to all skill levels, from gentle beginner runs to challenging black diamonds, there is something for everyone. Breathe in the crisp mountain air as you carve your way down the slopes, surrounded by impressive panoramic views of Lake Tahoe.
Après-Ski Delights:
After a day of exhilarating adventures on the slopes, it’s time to unwind and indulge in the après-ski scene. Heavenly Village offers a myriad of options for relaxation and entertainment. Treat yourself to a soothing spa session, sip on a warm drink by a cozy fire pit, or enjoy live music and entertainment at one of the lively bars or restaurants.
Off-Slope Activities:
Heavenly Ski Resort isn’t just about skiing and snowboarding. If you’re looking to explore beyond the slopes, there are plenty of off-slope activities to keep you engaged. Try your cross-country skiing on the resort’s groomed trails or snowshoe the lake shore or relax and take a boat ride on the lake. For the adventurous souls, consider exhilarating activities like snowmobiling or tubing.
Explore the South Shore of Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe has you more than covered when it comes to alpine adventure. The fun never stops at Nevada’s lineup of famous California border-hugging South Lake Tahoe casinos—home to world-class gaming, all manner of eats, and party-hardy bars and clubs. While you’re in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the captivating beauty of Lake Tahoe. Just a stone’s throw away from Heavenly Ski Resort, Lake Tahoe offers so many outdoor recreational opportunities. Take a scenic drive around the lake, go snowshoeing along its shores, or simply unwind and soak up the serene ambiance.
Overall, Lake Tahoe is a comprehensive winter ski holiday destination that offers a wide range of attractions and activities. The combination of bustling nightlife, excellent ski resorts, and breathtaking natural beauty makes it a sought-after location for winter enthusiasts.
If you’re looking to add in more adventures, Nevada is easily the nation’s most diverse wintertime destination. No matter how you break up your days up on the mountain, you’ll be sure to find the adventure you’re looking for. Check out our other Winter Nevada blog HERE.
And if you are ready to plan, view our Tahoe Epic Pass Roadie package and talk to one of our expert ski consultants 0800 555 035 about your ski holiday to the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains.
