Since the 1960 Winter Olympics, this beautiful area has been a world-class hub for all kinds of winter adventures. You can embrace the season by skiing through fresh powder, exploring serene trails on cross-country skis, or snowshoeing along the shores of Lake Tahoe. This time of year has something for every pace and passion. We’ve rounded up a list of the top activities that make North Tahoe a haven for winter sports and a “must visit” destination when the snow flies.

 

Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding

Photo: Diamond Peak

The Tahoe basin is home to the largest concentration of ski resorts in North America! If you’re here to ski or ride, you’ve come to the right place. North Lake Tahoe offers an unforgettable experience, with powder-filled runs, panoramic lake views, and fresh mountain air fueling each turn. Tahoe’s largest ski resort, Palisades Tahoe, offers 6,000 skiable acres of legendary terrain. Northstar is known for its family-friendly vibe and perfectly groomed trails. If you’re looking for a relaxed resort with amazing views of shimmering Lake Tahoe, look no further than Diamond Peak. For a classic, laid-back experience, make your way to Sugar Bowl. And the list of great resorts goes on! Whether you’re a first timer headed to the rental shop and ski school or you’re a seasoned rider looking for steep and deep turns, Tahoe has something for everyone.

 

Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country skiing is a peaceful and exhilarating way to explore winter’s beauty. With miles of pristine, groomed trails winding through North Lake Tahoe’s handful of cross-country ski areas, this sport is a fantastic way to experience winter’s natural splendor. 

Grooming trails since 1974, Tahoe XC is a fantastic Tahoe City spot to get out and enjoy the snow on their 65-kilometer trail system. Royal Gorge’s claim to fame is being the largest cross-country ski area in North America with 92 trails and 8 warming huts, plus they offer lessons and equipment rentals. Another fantastic family-friendly destination is the Tahoe City Winter Sports Park, where you can enjoy cross-country skiing on their 4 kilometers of groomed trails, followed by sledding and ice skating for a full day of winter fun!

 

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing allows you to get outside into quiet forests, scenic meadows, and along frozen lakes with a very small learning curve. This winter sport provides a great way for everyone to get outside to enjoy the beauty of the season. While some places we’ve mentioned – like Royal Gorge and Tahoe City Winter Sports Park – offer groomed trails and rentals, if you already have snowshoes you can trek through snow-covered woods or explore the snowy shores of Lake Tahoe on your own. Just head out your front door! This tranquil sport will immerse you in Tahoe’s natural beauty, away from the hustle and bustle of the ski slopes.

December in North Tahoe is a season of celebration – the holidays are coming, ski season is here, and everything is covered in snow! This time of year is packed with family-friendly fun, fireworks, live music, and lots of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re watching world-class mogul skiers in action or sharpening your own skills at a weekend ski camp, you’ll have lots of ways to have fun in the snow. With so much to explore and enjoy, this is the perfect time to embrace the season and create unforgettable memories in North Tahoe.

 

Northstar California Resort

The Village at Northstar knows how to celebrate the holidays with daily happenings – nightly Après, s’more o’clock at 4:00pm, Friday Fun Nights and Live Music on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays! While you’re there, lace up your ice skates (or rent some) for some laps around the ice rink or simply kick back by a fire pit with a warm beverage!

For the women winter enthusiasts, the annual Women Only Weekend is back this year. For intermediate women skiers and riders looking to take their sport to the next level, the weekend of learning will feature a supportive atmosphere with Northstar’s best instructors. 

 

Tahoe City

This little lakeside town knows how to do winter right! This year, mark your calendar for the 43rd annual North Lake Tahoe SNOWFEST! February 28-March 9th there will be 40 events to celebrate winter. March 1st there will be a Tahoe City Block Party, Garwood’s Annual Polar Bear Swim for those that are brave enough, Tahoe Art Haus & Tahoe Tap Haus Brewfest, Tahoe City Fireworks and so much more! You can also sign up for a Milk Jug Curling competition, the Tahoe XC Center’s Great Ski Race, bring your aloha spirit to the Sunnyside Luau, or even sign your 4-legged friend up for the Tahoe City Dog Pull. On March 8th, Kings Beach joins in on the action with their annual SNOWFEST! Parade. 

 

Palisades Tahoe

Celebrating it’s 75 anniversary season, Palisades Tahoe has lots on the calendar! Kicking off the season – Lil Wayne & Diplo will hit the stage December 14th and 15th. For a unique dinner date, book a Snowshoe Tour & Chalet dinner at Alpine Meadows. After a 15-minute guided snowshoe to the mid-mountain chalet, celebrate with a glass of bubbly and a four-course Bavarian-inspired meal. And, check the official Santa calendar for lots of fun chances for the kids to see Santa. 

For Advanced Intermediate to Expert Skiers, Palisade Tahoe is teaching you how to ski hard and hit the whole mountain with their 3-Day All Mountain Experience Camp January 15-17. Gain expertise on how to ski within control and read the day’s conditions plus enjoy fun après events.

In exciting news, this year, Palisades Tahoe will host the Toyota U.S. Mogul Freestyle Championships. March 28-30 make your way to Red Dog Face to watch top men and women competitors compete in the Moguls and Dual Moguls events featuring high-flying aerials. Cheer on the U.S. Mogul Freestyle team at this exciting event!

The first hints of winter have arrived in Tahoe and everyone is getting excited for the season ahead! Whether you’re all about powder turns or are just looking for some relaxation next to a cozy fire, this time of year is full of anticipation. With resorts announcing opening days, it’s the time of year to dust off your ski gear and make plans for a Tahoe winter escape. And, while you’re here, check out the snowy fun on offer at Tahoe Sports Park!

 

North Lake Tahoe Resort Openings

As many of you know, skiing in Tahoe brings it all: stunning lake views, powdery turns, and a lively après-ski scene. From wide-open groomers to hidden tree runs, and steep black diamonds to cruisy blues, our resorts have something for everyone. With November marking the start of the ski season, it’s almost time for the lifts to start spinning. While all these dates are weather dependent, we can’t help but get excited!

With the highest base elevation in Tahoe, Mt. Rose is projected to open on November 8^th. Next up is Boreal with a November 15^th opening. Family-friendly Northstar and family-owned Sugar Bowl will open later in November with their matching announcements of an expected November 22^nd opening. Switching hikers and scenic tram riders to skiers and snowboarders, Palisades Tahoe comes next with an opening date of Wednesday, November 27^th just in time for Thanksgiving. Rounding out the list, both Tahoe Donner and Diamond Peak will open in December.

 

Winter Means Outdoor Fun 

This winter, along with skiing, why not try some new ways to get out and enjoy the snow? A great place to start is the Tahoe Sports Park in Tahoe City, with an opening day of November 30^th this year. Keep in mind that advanced reservations for all of these activities are available in 1.5-hour time slots and are strongly recommended.

Ice Skating – This winter sport is a great way to get the whole family outside. It combines a bit of exercise with a beautiful outdoor setting. Tahoe Sports Park offers ice skates and skating aides for rent, so the whole family can enjoy this fun winter sport regardless of skill level.

Sledding Hill – Once enough snow falls, the fun really starts! Their family-friendly slope is perfect for families and kids under 10 years old. And, you don’t need to bring your own sled because the park provides snow disc rentals with each sled hill session.

Snowshoeing –With snowshoes in a variety of sizes, you can bring the whole crew for a scenic winter walk. Whether you snowshoe along the shores of Lake Tahoe or head for a trail through snow-covered trees, you’ll love your time outside.

Cross-Country Skiing – The park offers 4km of groomed cross-country trails with both traditional and wide lane skate skiing. Enjoy the meadow terrain, lake views…and the workout.

 

Summer days are in full swing in Tahoe. Sunny SUP adventures on Lake Tahoe, exhilarating downhill mountain bike rides, shady forest hikes, and slow Tahoe City strolls are all waiting for you. A rewarding cool off is the best way to cap off a day of summer fun. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or shopping ‘til you drop, we’ve got some great ideas!

Bike and Swim Lake Tahoe’s East Shore

Incline Village is home to one of the most scenic bike rides in the nation – dubbed “America’s Most Beautiful Bikeway”. Don’t have your own wheels? Rent a bike (or try an ebike) for your cruise down the 3-mile paved trail. Flume Trail Tahoe offers rentals right behind the Tunnel Creek Cafe, so you can grab a coffee before your cruise. Flume Trail Tahoe also offers mountain bike rentals and shuttles in case you want to add some downhill riding on the Flume Trail to your day of biking.

The picturesque Tahoe East Shore Trail hugs the east shore of Lake Tahoe from Incline Village to Sand Harbor. Once you get to the state park, it’s time to kick back and enjoy the water and views. Cool off in the crystal-clear water, walk the long sandy beach, or enjoy snacks at one of the picnic tables nestled under the shade of cedars and Jeffrey pines.

Hike, Dip, and a View

A fun and scenic hike in the Olympic Valley is a great way to take advantage of summer’s beautiful weather. The Shirley Canyon trail offers a mix of shaded forest and open sky sections, with plenty of cool spots to take a break. If you’re hiking with the whole family – including your furry 4-legged friend – you can opt for a short hike along Shirley Creek. Stroll along to pick the best shady spot to kick off your shoes and dip your feet in the refreshing water.

If you really want to break a sweat and gain some elevation, we recommend tackling the challenging 3-mile hike up to Shirley Lake. Be sure to bring lots of water and snacks for the trek. At the lake, dip your toes in the water or dive right in for a refreshing break. Next up, you can push through the final two miles to reach High Camp. Once there, toast your hike with a cold beverage before riding the scenic tram back down to the village, enjoying spectacular views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierras along the way.

Tahoe City Cool

With lots of shopping, restaurants, and beautiful views, Tahoe City is a great basecamp for a summer day and offers lots of ways to cool down. Take a refreshing dip in Lake Tahoe at Commons Beach, after a picturesque stroll along Tahoe City’s lakeside trail. Hop on a cruiser bike for a ride along the peaceful and paved Truckee River Bike Trail. Head indoors to beat the heat at the Tahoe Art Haus for an afternoon or evening showing of the latest movie. Or, with an ice cream cone in hand, find a shady spot to simply kick back, relax, and take in the lake view.

July in Tahoe means long sunny days stretched out before you in the ultimate summer playground. Whether you’re visiting for a family summer vacation, a fun-filled friend weekend, or just escaping solo, there’s no shortage of things to do. Race downhill on a mountain bike, SUP on Lake Tahoe, stroll and shop in Tahoe City, or just enjoy the view from your deck, summer here is simply the best! We’ve put together our idea of the “Perfect Tahoe Summer Day” – from morning until night.

 

Hello Sunshine

 

Good morning! First things first, breakfast! Whether that means a morning cup of joe with a view on the deck of your vacation rental, a quick caffeine and pastry run to Tree House Cafe in Kings Beach or a visit to Sugar Pine Cakery & Cafe with a pitstop for some morning lake views from Skylandia Park, or a long leisurely breakfast at Fire Sign Café, let your stomach be your guide.

 

Dive into Fun

 

Let’s head to Kings Beach and get out on the water! Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Adrift Tahoe and spend a few hours exploring Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters. Stop at a beach, practice some SUP yoga, and enjoy the sun. Or, for those looking for more of a thrill, North Tahoe Water Sports offers parasailing. You’ll get a unique and memorable bird’s eye view of the lake and the beautiful Sierras.

If biking is more your speed, Northstar California has miles of single track, cross-country, and downhill trails. You can rent bikes and gear on-mountain, plus you can take lessons if you’re new to the sport. Whether you take a leisurely bike ride through the beautiful surrounding forest or if you get your adrenaline pumping through the downhill course full of technical descents and jumps, it will be a day well spent.

Hungry after all that biking? Head to the Village at Northstar to grab some food and a well-deserved cold beverage at one of the many restaurant options or add another activity to the day with some roller skating in their 9,000 square foot rink.

 

Relax and Unwind (or Add One More Adventure)

 

As the shadows get longer and the day starts to wind down, maybe you’ll choose a leisurely stroll or bike ride? Cruise along the lake or the slow-moving Truckee River on Tahoe City’s Multi-Use Trail System, offering miles and miles of fun. End the evening with some food and a drink with a view at Jake’s on the Lake as the sun goes down.

Or, why not take in the beautiful sunset from the middle of Lake Tahoe? Take a Tahoe Adventure Company Sunset Kayak Tour or join an other-worldly Kayak Star Tour where you’ll meet up with award-winning astronomer Tony Berendsen at a viewing spot to learn about the night sky. What a perfect way to end a summer Tahoe day!

We might be biased, but we think Tahoe is the ultimate summer destination! This time of year means endless adventures under the summer sun – from mountain biking and hiking our beautiful trails to SUP and kayaking explorations on Lake Tahoe. But beyond the natural beauty and fantastic activities, summer brings an exciting lineup of live outdoor entertainment. Read on for some of our favorite music and theater offerings. 

 

Music by the Lake

As anyone that’s spent time in Tahoe in the summer will tell you, Sundays mean free music lakeside at Commons Beach. Tahoe City is host to one of our favorite parts of summer – the 12-week Concerts at Commons Beach concert series happening every Sunday afternoon from June 16 through September 8. Check out the amazing lineup and then mark your calendar. When Sunday arrives, all you need to do is bring your beach chairs and then sit back and enjoy the show.

Sand between your toes and live music make for the perfect combination to end a summer week in Tahoe. Every Friday night, June 14 through August 30th, head to Kings Beach for their free weekly Music on the Beach series. We recommend that you spend at least one Friday night watching the sun setting over Lake Tahoe with free live music providing the soundtrack.

 

Make Mountain Music Memories

The lake isn’t the only spot to be in the summer time, the mountains bring the music, too! Palisades Tahoe, which opens for summer operations on June 7th, has a couple summer music series of its own. From June 18th to August 27th, make your way to the mountains for the Bluesdays concert series every Tuesday evening. Bring your dancing shoes and low back chair for a night of free music capped off with dinner at one of the village restaurants.

After a Friday of hiking Shirley Canyon, get ready for an amazing après-hike scene. The Sunsets Live Music Series runs every summer Friday in July and August in the Village at Palisades Tahoe.

 

Lakeside Theater

For the ultimate summer lakeside entertainment, get your tickets to one of the amazing Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival performances on Lake Tahoe! This summer see the battle of the sexes play out in Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor. Or, bring the whole family to one of the free one-hour Young Shakespeare program performances. 

The Sand Harbor lakeside venue also hosts an exciting Showcase Series that sells out quickly.  The 2024 lineup features evenings with the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra, the Sierra Nevada Ballet and other fantastic nights of music. Here’s to another spectacular summer in Tahoe!

The sunny weather has arrived and this beautiful time of year makes getting outside extra exhilarating. One of our favorite activities to take advantage of warm weather is stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Lake Tahoe is an idyllic setting for both beginners and experienced paddlers with its crystal-clear water and the views of the surrounding Sierras. We’ve put together some local spots to rent or buy a SUP, where to get out on the lake, and where to unwind après-paddle with views of Lake Tahoe. Let’s dive in!

Get your SUP

It probably won’t come as a surprise that Tahoe has plenty of spots to rent or buy SUP gear for a day on Lake Tahoe. Kings Beach’s Adrift Tahoe is “Tahoe’s Original Surf Shop” with a curated selection of SUP boards for rent or purchase plus all the gear and sun protection you need. Another stop in Kings Beach is Wild Society which is the first clear SUP rental company in the area and offers exciting guided SUP adventures.

Heading out on the water along the West Shore? Tahoe City Kayak & Paddleboard has you covered with rentals, retail and (calling all beginners!) lessons. If your crew needs to grab some boards and hit the lake, Willard’s Sport Shop offers SUP rentals including paddles, life jackets & whistles. With three locations along the west shore – Homewood, Sunnyside & Sugar Pine Point State Park – West Shore Sports offers rentals and retail to get you out on the water.

 

Time to Paddle!

Now that you’re all set up it’s time to get out on the water! While there are countless spots to launch your SUP, did you know that there are SUP “trailheads” on Lake Tahoe? The Lake Tahoe Water Trail is a 72-mile route with public launch and landing sites. One especially beautiful launch spot is Sugar Pine Point State Park. You can SUP and then relax on the beach or head out on the miles of hiking and nature trails.

Ready for something new? Try SUP Yoga! If you have a group of friends that want to give it a try, call Tahoe Adventure Company for a custom SUP tour and SUP yoga lesson. When summer arrives, Mountain Lotus Yoga in Tahoe City offers SUP Yoga 7 mornings a week. Along Lake Tahoe’s north shore, Tahoe Waterman offers SUP Yoga classes in Carnelian Bay.

 

Après SUP

After a day of paddling, you might be ready head back to your vacation rental with a view. Or, maybe you want to make a stop for an après beverage by the water? Some lakeside warm-weather après spots we love are grabbing a drink on Sunnyside’s fantastic deck or ending the day with a Chambers Punch at Lake Tahoe’s oldest bar, Chambers Landing. If you want to relax with the sound of running water, après at a riverside deck. River Grill in Tahoe City has fantastic outdoor seating and live music or lounge by the Truckee River at River Ranch Lodge.

 

The days are getting longer, the snow is starting to melt, and we are all dusting off our spring gear. But that doesn’t mean it’s time to put away the ski gear! It just means you have more outdoor options when spring arrives in Tahoe. While the skiers and snowboarders make slushy turns in the sun, the trails are being revealed and the lake is ready for fun. From skiing to hiking to kicking back in the sun, spring means fun in Tahoe!

 

Spring Skiing & More

In case you didn’t know, Palisades Tahoe is the “Spring Skiing Capital”! Fast morning groomers give way to slushy snow mid-day and you’ll see goggle tans and smiles all around. From Alpine Bowl to Sun Bowl and down to the lively village below, this resort knows how to do spring skiing right. From there, it’s just a leisurely bike ride along the Truckee River to Lake Tahoe where you can end your day with a sunset view from Commons Beach.

Or, if you want to get your two sports as close as possible, head to “where the mountains meet the lake”! Not only does Homewood offer great skiing, but it is just 280 steps from lift-to-lake. After a day of skiing with unparalleled views of Lake Tahoe, take the short stroll to Lake Tahoe for some SUP boarding or kayaking. After your two-sport day, make your way to Sunnyside and kick back for drink on the lake’s biggest deck!

Another option is to squeeze in two winter sports in one day before the season ends. Spend the first half of the day skiing at Northstar, then stop at 2:00pm to grab a free glass of champagne and enjoy a Tōst with a view, before making your way to the village for some ice skating with the whole family. Finish off your dual day with some live music and s’mores around one of the rink-side firepits.

 

Sail on Lake Tahoe

As the temps get higher and May arrives, make plans to get a different view of this beautiful area. For locals and visitors alike, nothing beats getting out in the middle of Lake Tahoe on a beautiful spring day. With multiple departures from Tahoe City each day, Tahoe Sailing Charters offers an exhilarating way to take in the breathtaking views of North Lake Tahoe from the middle of the lake on a 50’ sailboat. Book a calm and serene morning cruise, an afternoon cruise with the sun high overhead or a sunset cruise to watch the alpenglow over the mountains with a drink in hand.

 

Lakeside Dining

If you want to skip all of the sports and just enjoy some food, North Lake Tahoe has you covered. From Californian and Hawaiian flavors at Jake’s on the Lake to mouthwatering BBQ at Moe’s Original BBQ to the iconic Gar Woods to an evening of fine dining at Lone Eagle Grille, all of these restaurants shine once the warm weather hits with their delicious food, outdoor dining and epic views of the lake. Enjoy!

March in North Lake Tahoe offers a unique blend of winter with the first hints of spring, creating an ideal backdrop for snowy family fun. Our area has lots of activities for the entire family, especially when the snow flies. From learning how to snowshoe to drinking hot cocoa by a crackling fire to speeding down the slopes (on skis or a sled) together, you’ll be making lasting memories with lots of smiles and laughter. All that outdoor fun usually works up an appetite, so whether you’re ready for some lakeside dining, grab and go meals or a family-friendly outdoor table, Tahoe has the spot for you. Read on for our list of family activities and meals to fuel you along the way.

Skiing & Eats at Alpine Meadows

If you run out of time to feed everyone before you head out the door for a day of skiing on the Alpine Meadows side of Palisades Tahoe, we’ve got you covered! On your way up Alpine Meadows Road make a quick pit stop at The Crest Café for some coffee and breakfast burritos to go or sit down and enjoy fluffy pancakes and waffles. If you’re hungry after a morning of powder turns, our favorite family-friendly spot for lunch is The Chalet. After a lap on Yellow Chair, grab an outdoor picnic table and delicious Bavarian-style lunch. Enjoy the sun slopeside with giant pretzels, Bratwurst and a cinnamon roll for dessert.

Family Sledding & Hot Cocoa at Granlibakken

Did you know Granlibakken has some seriously amazing sledding? While Tahoe is known for some great sledding spots, Granlibakken’s sled hill takes the cake. With perfectly groomed snow, two slopes to choose from (green for young kids & black for teens), and a helpful staff, you’ll all have a fantastic time. Book a 90-minute session for the whole crew – sledding saucer rental is included – get bundled up and hit the slopes. After your sledding session, head into Cedar House Pub for a cozy dinner or kick back with a hot chocolate or a beer next to the wood-burning fireplace at Rusty’s, with views of the ski and sledding areas.

The Perfect Family Après Does Exist

After a day of skiing at Northstar, maybe you aren’t ready for the winter action to end? The perfect spot to make memories and keep the outdoor fun going is in the Village at Northstar. From gathering around firepits to grabbing pizza to playing with the kids at the family snow play zones to ice skating under the lights, there is lots of après fun to be had. If you’d like to kick back while the kids speed around on the ice, you can do it right next to the rink on a comfy couch in a cabana with an après drink in hand. Looking for some more adventure as the sun goes down? Book tickets for a sunset Mountain Family Dinner, complete with a gondola ride, live music, kid’s indoor activities and a chef-prepared dinner followed by a movie and popcorn. 

February in Tahoe means powder turns, après ski fun and cozy fireplaces. The mountains are covered in snow and the winter season is in full swing. Whether you’re relaxing with a good book as the snow falls outside or hitting jumps in the park or breaking a sweat on a cross-country trail, this time of year is full of snowy adventures. With Valentine’s Day in the middle of the month, it’s also the perfect month to indulge in some sweet treats. From pastries before first chair to dessert at your favorite restaurant, we’ve got the cure for your February sweet tooth.

Sunrise Sweets in Tahoe City

If you’re headed out early for an outdoor Tahoe adventure, why not sweeten up your morning? Tahoe City has you covered with two delicious options. The Tahoe House Bakery & Gourmet has been a morning tradition since 1977. With everything baked right in house, you’ll have your pick of chocolate croissants, muffins, apple strudel and more, plus your favorite caffeinated hot beverage. Or, make a morning pitstop at locally-owned Sugar Pine Cakery & Cafe. Get there early because their fresh baked pastry offerings are limited and delicious…and don’t forget to add a breakfast burrito or veggie frittata to your order.

Midday Goodies at Palisades Tahoe

After a morning of carving turns at Palisades Tahoe, it’s time to fuel up with some lunch. The perfect sweet ending to any lunch (or breakfast or really any time of day) is waiting for you at Wildflour Baking Company. Everything they make is delicious, but don’t leave without trying at least one of their heavenly chocolate chip cookies. OR, if you want to keep things cold, swing into Euro Sweets for a gelato or frozen yogurt.

Après Ski at Northstar

Maybe you want to drink your dessert instead? There’s no better way then a free glass of sparkling wine (or apple cider) at Northstar Ski Resort’s daily Tōst. Get in line at 1:30pm and then by 2:00 you’ll be kicked back on the snow enjoying the view and your free glass of bubbly. Or, if you want to ski all day, just make your way to the village for a tasty glass of wine next to the outdoor fire pit at Petra Wine Bar. Cheers to February!

Evening Indulgences along the West Shore

Something sweet after dinner might just be the perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth. Tahoe City Chocolates has a huge selection of handmade chocolates and other sweet treats. Or, if you’re going out to eat, might we suggest ending your meal with the Sticky Toffee Pudding at Sunnyside or try the Dark Chocolate Truffle Medallions at Spoon or head down to Tahoma’s The Dog and Bear to end the night with a glass of red wine and their Salted Caramel Panna Cotta and Oysters!