The Sierra Nevada Mountains and Lake Tahoe are calling!
A Lake Tahoe Epic Pass Roadie, who’s up for that? Our snow holiday expert, Kate, that’s who! Plus, she was looking for an excuse to get out of the office 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.”
Kate’s Tahoe road trip was so good, Nick and Laura couldn’t resist doing it all again the following year, so the photos you’ll see here are a mash-up of both trips.
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, Snow Holiday 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. Fun fact: this whole mountain used to be a tree farm before the resort formed back in 1972, and Northstar’s logo still nods to that history today. It’s built on the slopes of Mt. Pluto, an extinct volcano that last erupted more than two million years ago, and because the terrain sits almost entirely below the treeline, Northstar tends to stay open and skiable even when storms shut down more exposed peaks around the lake.
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, Snow Holiday Expert
The Tost Experience is very on brand for Northstar. Every winter afternoon at 2pm, a line forms at the top of the Comstock Express for a complimentary glass of bubbly (or cider, for the kids and non-drinkers), served with mountain views over the Martis Valley. It’s been a daily tradition since 2014, and locals will tell you to get in line by 1:30pm if you want to be sure of a glass. Just down the road, Truckee is worth the detour on its own, a genuine gold rush and railroad-era town with a historic Commercial Row still lined with saloons-turned-restaurants and a proper Sierra character that the purpose-built resort villages can’t quite replicate.
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, locals call it the “K-Factor,” a geographical quirk that funnels some of the lightest, driest and most plentiful snow anywhere in the Tahoe region, with an average that regularly tops 600 inches at the higher elevations. Sitting at a 7,800ft base, Kirkwood is also the highest starting point of any major resort in Lake Tahoe, which only adds to the reliability of that snow.
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, including the resort’s steep double black terrain and its famous run simply known as The Wall, marked at the top with a skull and crossbones sign for anyone who needs the warning. The resort’s rugged beauty and laid-back atmosphere make it a favourite among dedicated snow sports enthusiasts, and locals still affectionately call the place “the Wood,” a mountain with no interest in glitz, just serious terrain.
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.
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, and at 10,067ft it’s also the highest resort around the lake. 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 an amazing 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 snow enthusiasts. Three resorts, three completely different personalities, and every one of them just a road trip apart, that’s the real appeal of a Tahoe basin epic.
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.
Ready to Hit the Road?
Three resorts, three personalities, one epic road trip, Lake Tahoe has a way of turning a ski trip into a proper adventure. Whether it’s champagne at 2pm on the mountain, chasing the K-Factor, or watching the sun set over the lake from a Nevada casino deck, this is a trip built for making memories with your crew.
To book an ultimate snow holiday to Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada in the USA – connect with Snow Holiday Experts at Travel & Co Toll-Free: 0800 555 035 or click here to see our latest featured offers.
