Tahoe Region Summer 2025 Tip Sheet
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Lake Tahoe is world-renowned for its natural beauty, from the crystal-clear lake to the dramatic Sierra peaks. The three Epic Pass resorts in the region – Heavenly, Northstar, and Kirkwood – each offer a unique way to experience it all. Whether you're seeking lakeside energy, high alpine adventure, or laid-back luxury, every resort brings its own personality, community, and connection to the outdoors.
These mountains shine well beyond winter, offering lift-served hiking and biking, scenic gondola rides, family activities, and mountaintop moments all summer long. Tahoe is a destination worth visiting in every season –and with so much to explore at Heavenly, Northstar, and Kirkwood, there’s always a reason to come back.
If you're already looking ahead to winter, Epic Pass options are now available to purchase for the 2025/26 ski and ride season. If you love to ski Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood, Whistler Blackcomb, Stevens Pass, Breckenridge, and more great resorts, there has never been a better time to be an Epic Pass Holder. Plus, summer in the mountains provides a variety of exhilarating experiences for all ages, from mountain biking and hiking to sightseeing and mountain coasters. With Epic Mountain Rewards, Pass Holders can save 20% on bike rentals, golf (at select resorts), and on-mountain food and beverage, in addition to lodging. Summer Scenic Gondola rides at participating resorts are free with next season’s Epic Pass (excluding Epic Day Pass).
Heavenly Mountain Resort Summer Operations, Activities, and Fast Facts
Instagram: @skiheavenly. Facebook: Heavenly Mountain
Perched high above the shores of Lake Tahoe, Heavenly offers a one-of-a-kind summer experience where adventure meets jaw-dropping views. Split between California and Nevada, the resort gives guests double the scenery: think deep-blue lake vistas on one side and miles of high desert beauty on the other. Ride the Gondola to the top, where warm-weather thrills await at 10,000 feet. From the gravity-fueled Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster and Hot Shot Zip Line to gem panning, summer tubing, and the Granite Peak Climbing Wall, there’s no shortage of mountaintop fun for all ages. Hiking trails wind through alpine terrain, and unbeatable panoramic overlooks make it easy to pause and take it all in. Just minutes from the vibrant beaches and dining of South Lake Tahoe, Heavenly is the ultimate summer launchpad. Whether you’re chasing adventure, enjoying a family escape, or simply soaking up the Sierra sunshine –you’ll see why Tahoe is Heavenly.
Summer Operating Dates
Opening Day: May 23, conditions permitting
Hours:
- May 23 – June 8: Weekends only (Fri – Sun + Memorial Day) 10a.m. – 5p.m.
- June 13 – September 1: 10a.m. – 5p.m. daily
- September 5 – 28: Weekends only (Fri – Sun)
Heavenly Gondola
- The Heavenly Gondola opens on May 23 for scenic rides and hiking access throughout the summer.
Summer Activity Details*
Important note for all summer activities at Heavenly – it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance online to save and guarantee access to the Gondola and additional activities. While tickets will also be available on-site at our ticket windows, the best way to ensure access is to purchase in advance.
Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster
This gravity-powered alpine coaster will exhilarate you and your family as it coasts through forest and natural rock formations. As always, the views are incredible, and the memories will be too! The coaster sleds fit up to two riders, so you can enjoy this activity with others. To experience this mountain ride, drivers must be at least 16 years old (if accompanied by a passenger) and between 54 – 84″ tall. Make sure to wear or pack closed-toed athletic shoes as they’re required to take part in the downhill coaster fun! Planned opening: May 23.
Scenic Gondola Rides and Hiking
A 2.4-mile ride up in the Heavenly Mountain Gondola of Lake Tahoe will leave you breathless as you take in panoramic views of the lake. On your way up, stop at the Observation Deck for photos, a latte at Cafe Blue or a unique Heavenly souvenir at The Gondola Sports shop. Once you get to the top, head up the Tamarack Express chairlift with your Scenic Gondola ticket for some of the best views of Lake Tahoe and access to a series of hiking trails, ranging from beginner to expert. Hiking trails will open as the snow melts and trails dry.
Gem Panning
Gemstone Panning is an interactive activity simulating the gold panning that made the gold rush such a fascinating historical phenomenon in the 1800s. Many may not know that the California Gold Rush began in El Dorado County where Heavenly is located, with almost 300,000 people travelling to pan the waters of the Sierra Nevada, and just like back in 1800s, if you find it (unique gems, fossils, arrows, and more) you keep it! Planned opening: May 23.
Granite Peak Climbing Wall
The Climbing Wall is an exhilarating man-made rock wall inspired by the legendary rock climbing available in the Sierra Nevada Mountain range. The permanent rock-climbing wall is 25-feet-tall with 15 defined climbing routes varying in difficulty. A unique feature of the wall is the quick-jump, a 35-foot rapid descent that emulates free-falling, accessed by an adventurous climb up the Goat Trail. Planned opening: June 20.
Hot Shot Zip Line
The Hot Shot Zip Line is a thrilling 1000-foot zip line that will have you reaching speeds up to 40mph! Four lines run parallel to each other making this the perfect activity to do alongside family or friends. You must be 8 years or older, at least 42” tall, and between 55 and 275 pounds to access the Hot Shot Zip Line. Planned opening: June 20.
Summer Tubing
Breeze down the tubing hill with no snow or water! The summer tubing surface will keep you gliding all summer long with smiles abounding. Planned opening: July 1.
Winter Tubing
We’ll take advantage of any leftover snow while it lasts! Planned opening: May 23.
Mountaintop Yoga Series
Breathe in, breathe out. Take advantage of the free summer Mountaintop Yoga Series at Blue Sky Terrace! Sessions will take place every Sunday at 10 am starting July 6. Experience yoga in the serenity of the mountains — free with a 2025-26 season pass or Scenic Gondola ticket.
Discovery Day Camp
Give the kids a day of adventure they’ll never forget! Heavenly’s Discovery Day Camp is a full day of exploration for kiddos aged 5-12 years old. Featuring activities, lunch, and views of Lake Tahoe, it’s the perfect way to ensure your children are entertained while you explore Heavenly or South Lake Tahoe. Opens June 30.
*All summer operational dates/hours of operation are subject to snowmelt + conditions
Heavenly Resort Fast Facts
Address
4080 Lake Tahoe Blvd.,
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Website
GM
Shaydar Edelmann
Owner
Vail Resorts
Elevation/Terrain
Summit Elevation: 10,067 ft (3,068 m)
Vertical Rise: 3,500 ft (1,067 m)
Accessibility
Heavenly Village:
Miles from Reno-Tahoe International Airport: 56 miles
From Downtown South Lake Tahoe, CA: 2 miles
Social
Instagram: @skiheavenly
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SkiHeavenly
Northstar California Resort Summer Operations, Activities, and Fast Facts
Instagram: @northstar_california, Facebook: @northstar
Summer at Northstar California offers a unique blend of excitement and tranquility, where the majestic trees in the Martis Valley and proximity to Lake Tahoe make it feel like home away from home. Seeking new adventures in the downhill Bike Park, perfecting your swing on the golf course, exploring scenic hiking trails, roller skating to fun live music after a yummy meal and shopping your favorite brands in the Village – all these experiences on and off the mountain add up, and they leave you with endless unforgettable memories, making it a must-visit stop on any Lake Tahoe itinerary – or the main reason to plan a mountain escape in the first place.
Summer Operating Dates
Northstar Bike Park
- June 13 – June 15; Friday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
- June 19 – July 6; Thursday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
- July 10 – September 1; Thursday – Monday, 10am – 5pm (Friday Twilight Hours 5 – 7pm)
- September 4 – September 28; Thursday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
All dates and operating hours dependent on snowmelt/conditions allowing.
Northstar Golf Course
- June 5 – October 12
- Tee Times and other details available here
Scenic Lift Rides and Hiking
The Big Springs Gondola, Tahoe Zephyr Express, and Vista Express will be open for scenic lift rides, hiking, and bike hauling from:
- June 13 – June 15; Friday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
- June 19 – July 6; Thursday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
- July 10 – September 1; Thursday – Monday, 10am – 5pm (Friday Twilight Hours 5 – 7pm)
- September 4 – September 28; Thursday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
All dates and operating hours dependent on snowmelt/conditions allowing.
Summer Activity Details
Northstar Bike Park
The mountains aren't just for winter. Northstar's Bike Park is where riders of all styles and levels come to progress, explore, and play all summer long. Known for its commitment to skill-building and progression, Northstar will continue evolving its Bike Park with expanded trail access and new builds this season, alongside a lineup of thoughtfully designed programming that helps riders build confidence and community. With everything from flowy singletrack and technical descents like Sticks N’ Stones, to jump lines like Livewire and the revamped Toyota Jump Park, and everything in between – there’s something for everyone seeking a bit of adventure on two wheels. Pro tip: the Gatorade Skills Park is the perfect place to dial in your technique before heading up the mountain. Kickstart your weekend with golden-hour laps and good vibes during Friday Twilight Hours, when the Bike Park stays open from 5 – 7 pm. Winter 2025/26 Epic Pass Holders save 10% off the Summer 2025 Unlimited Bike Park Season Pass.
Northstar’s Bike School
The Northstar Bike School is the place for all riders – newer to mountain biking or seasoned – looking to improve their techniques, step-up their riding skills, and enhance their overall riding. Northstar’s Bike School offers a variety of group and private lessons/clinics as well as camps throughout the season to help bring you to the next level. Two of the new fan-favorite programs focused on progression will return this year due to high demand after their successful debuts last summer:
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Progression on Pedals: A clinic series that offers women of varying levels the chance to come together for a night of learning and fun at the Northstar Bike Park and encourages female leadership and participation within the mountain biking community. These sessions will be facilitated by Northstar’s top-tier female Bike School coaches during Friday Twilight Hours from 5 – 7pm, kicking off July 11 – August 29. These are perfect for any and all women looking to get better acquainted with downhill trails, learn new skills, and just shred the park with friends – both old and new.
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Sunday Mountain Bike Program: This seasonal development program is for those looking to set their children (7 – 17yo) up with fun and serious progression this summer, where they will have the opportunity to ride with a professional Mountain Bike coach of the Northstar Bike School alongside a group of passionate mountain bikers. This is the perfect program for intermediate riders who want to focus on skill development and terrain progression.
For more information about bike lessons and programs, visit our website.
Summer Kids’ Camps
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Art and Exploring, ages 4 – 6: Campers will go on hikes, learn about the natural environment, and participate in Village Activities. Campers will showcase their creative side through arts and crafts, learning and refining techniques in painting and drawing, and will take home a portfolio of their projects. Northstar mountain offers countless opportunities for fun and inspiration!
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Wilderness Adventure, ages 7 – 12: Campers will learn basic first aid, backcountry preparedness, take part in a mountain tour including Ski Patrol Huts and the Northstar Fire Station, and participate in on-mountain rescue scenarios. Campers will also have the chance to explore the outdoors on scenic hikes and learn (and practice) photography techniques.
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Kids Mountain Bike Camp, 9 – 17: Campers will learn a variety of mountain biking skills geared towards development, utilizing the Northstar Bike Park’s lift access bike trails, Toyota Jump Park, and Gatorade Skills Zone. One day will also be dedicated to special guided water sports adventures with other campers and campers. With four days of group lessons providing an unrivaled opportunity for progression and memorable experiences for riders of all abilities, plus a bonus water sports day, this will be an unforgettable summer camp!
For more information about kids' camps and other activities, visit our website.
Northstar Golf Course
Northstar’s Golf Course is known as the “Tale of Two Nines” with a links-style front “Meadow Nine,” and tree-lined fairways and small greens of the famous back "Mountain Nine.” Offering over 6,700 yards, 4 tee locations, and a 72.4 NCGA rating – all nestled within Martis Valley at 6,000 feet – the golf course has something for everyone to enjoy. Visit our website for more information about Unlimited Golf Season Passes and to book your tee time.
Hiking and Scenic Chairlift Rides
Get above it all – literally. With miles of scenic hiking trails and chairlift access to 8,610 feet, Northstar makes it easy to explore the Sierra in a way that’s as mellow or as challenging as you want. Discover old growth red fir forests, enjoy sweeping views of Lake Tahoe, or connect directly into the expansive North Lake Tahoe trail system, including the iconic Tahoe Rim Trail. For a high-alpine experience without the climb, scenic lift rides offer a bird’s-eye view of wildflower meadows and rugged peaks. Leashed dogs are welcome on lifts and trails, making it a fun adventure for the whole family. Bonus: 2025/26 Epic Pass Holders ride free during summer 2025.
- Foot-powered hiking: 7-days (June 13 – September 28)
- Lifts providing mountain access will spin:
- June 13 – June 15; Friday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
- June 19 – July 6; Thursday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
- July 10 – September 1; Thursday – Monday, 10am – 5pm (Friday Twilight Hours 5 – 7pm)
- September 4 – September 28; Thursday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
For more information about scenic chairlift rides, visit our website.
All dates and operating hours dependent on snowmelt/conditions allowing.
Roller Skating in the Village
Northstar’s 9,000-square-foot skating rink is located in the heart of the Village and is free for all, so grab the skates and helmets and enjoy the fun! Both classic roller skates and in-line blades are available for rent as well as optional helmets. Along with skate rentals, the rink is surrounded by restaurants and bars, fire pits, heat lamps, and other seating for when breaks in between laps are needed to recharge.
Shopping in the Village
Stop into one of your favorite shops like Patagonia, The North Face, Oakley, Burton, and True North all summer long for seasonal fashions and gear to get you on and around the mountain.
Summer Events at Northstar
Northstar Downhill Race Series
This summer, join us to celebrate the 25th anniversary of one of the longest standing downhill race series in America! The downhill terrain at the Northstar Bike Park offers the perfect venue for our exciting and challenging downhill race series with 20 divisions for men, women, and juniors to compete in. The top 3 racers in each division will receive awards after every race and an after-party will be hosted in the Village at Overlook Bar with drink specials for competitors to enjoy. These downhill mountain bike races are guaranteed to be an event of a lifetime for adventure seekers! For more information about the Northstar Downhill Series and registration, visit our website.
Northstar Junior Downhill Race Series
These new competition events are tailored for young riders (12 and under) who are excited to compete and demonstrate their talents. In the morning of the race, Northstar Bike Coaches will conduct a skills clinic, offering tips and tricks on how to tackle a mountain bike course. Participants will have the opportunity to complete a practice lap followed by one timed lap. Awards and fun prizes will be presented after each race. For more scheduling and course information, visit our website.
Northstar Mini Enduro Race Series
Whether you’re looking for even more races to compete in or maybe the Northstar Downhill Race Series just isn’t quite your speed, the Mini Enduro Race Series is a community-centric experience that returns after a successful debut last summer – it takes the most exciting sections of your favorite trails and pairs them with some uphill climbs and lift rides. If you’re looking for a fun way to put your skills (and endurance) to the test, grab all your friends and family and register now to book your spot. For more scheduling and course information, visit our website.
California Enduro Series at Northstar
The annual California Enduro Series (CES) is a rider-driven operation focused on delivering world-class events that highlight California’s premier mountain biking terrain. Returning to Northstar California on August 23–24 as the fourth stop on the series schedule, CES brings two days of racing that challenge both endurance and technical skill across some of the most demanding trails in the Bike Park. Whether you're a pro or passionate amateur, this stop promises high-intensity competition in a world-class setting. For more information, visit our website.
Tahoe Trail 100 at Northstar
Ride 50K or 100K of rocky summits, breathtaking pine forests, and beautiful Lake Tahoe views in the unforgettable mountain bike race known as the Tahoe Trail MTB, a LifeTime event. Northstar will play host to this Leadville Trail 100 MTB qualifier again this year on July 19 – 20. More information can be found on our website.
Northstar Cross-Country Race
New to the Northstar race lineup is the Cross-Country Race on September 13. This exhilarating and demanding race challenges riders to traverse diverse terrains, ranging from steep ascents to tricky descents, all while maintaining their speed and endurance. With stunning scenery and an adventurous spirit, this event promises to be enjoyable for riders of all ages. More information can be found on our website.
NICA Cross Country at Northstar
Northstar is proud to partner with the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) to host a regional cross-country bike event on September 6, welcoming young riders from across California. With a shared mission to get more kids on bikes and help them grow both on and off the bike, this new partnership is a natural fit. It’s more than just a race – it’s about building confidence, community, and a lifelong love of the sport. More information can be found on our website.
Northstar Village Summer Live Music Series
Whether guests are looking to relax after countless laps in the Bike Park or want to get their live music fix, the Northstar Village hosts DJs and live bands Friday – Sundays all summer at Rink Stage. Grab a drink from the Cabana Bar and soak up the California sun while the kids burn off their energy dancing and skating in the roller rink.
*All event dates are conditions-dependent and subject to change.
Weddings
Say “I do” surrounded by towering pines, sweeping mountain views, and the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada. Northstar’s mountaintop Zephyr Lodge, perched at 8,000 feet and accessed by scenic gondola, offers a stunning all-inclusive venue for up to 300 guests. From welcome parties to farewell brunches, your Tahoe wedding weekend can be filled with adventure and connection: think hiking, biking, golf, shopping, and live music in the Village. Group lodging discounts are also available. For more information, visit our website.
Northstar California Resort Fast Facts
Address
5001 Northstar Drive
Truckee, CA 96161
Website
https://www.northstarcalifornia.com/
GM
Tara Schoedinger
Owner
Vail Resorts
Elevation/Terrain
Base Elevation: 6,330 ft. (1,929 m)
Mid-Mtn Elevation: 6,800 ft. (2,073 m)
Summit Elevation: 8,610 ft. (2,624 m)
Vertical Rise: 2,280 ft. (695 m)
Accessibility
Northstar Village:
Miles from Reno-Tahoe International Airport: 42.7
From Downtown Truckee, CA: 7.4
Social
Instagram: @northstar_california
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Northstar
Kirkwood Mountain Resort Activities, Events, and Fast Facts
Instagram & Facebook: @kirkwoodmtn
A mere stone's throw from Tahoe, yet a world apart, Kirkwood is a hidden gem for those seeking outdoor adventure and mountain solitude. While known for its abundant snowfall, steep lines, and community-feel during the winter, the rugged terrain that skiers and riders love turns into an adventure-seeker's haven in the summer. Come get your adrenaline pumping on our extensive network of self-powered mountain biking trails, hike through wildflowers in our high-alpine meadows, or test your skills on our 18-hole disc golf course – all are open to the public and free to use. Whether you join us for a mountain getaway, wildflower peeping, or to test your bike skills on our trails, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience. If you’re looking for serenity and adventure in a stunning, high-alpine setting, Kirkwood is the place for you this summer.
Summer Operating Dates
- Hiking and Mountain Biking Trails will open in June (snowmelt/conditions dependent) and are free to use.
- Discwood (disc golf course) will also open in June (snowmelt/conditions dependent) and are free to use.
- The General Store is open daily from 8am-4pm.
Summer Activity Details
Mountain Biking Trails
Our slopes aren’t just for skiing – they’re also home to a robust network of mountain biking trails that are open to the public, free to use, and cater to riders of all abilities. With trails winding through stunning alpine scenery, you'll want to keep coming back for more. Ranging from beginner to technical, single-track to wider service roads, there's something here for every type of rider. Grab your bike and get ready to explore Kirkwood like never before!
Hiking Trails
During the summer months, Kirkwood’s famous big-mountain terrain turns into world-class hiking trails. Whether heading out for a quick day trek or a multi-day backpacking mission in the expansive backcountry of the Eldorado National Forest, our trail network offers incredible variety in length, difficulty, and scenery. Kirkwood's trails are also home to some of the most beautiful and diverse wildflowers in Northern California, including some rare and endangered species. Blooming from early June through mid-July, these flowers are a major draw for many hikers. Among our most popular routes are the Upper and Lower Corral Loops, which wind through alpine meadows beneath the Cirque, our famous, permanently closed terrain.
Discwood
Praised as one of the most challenging courses in the area, our Discwood Golf Course will put your skills to the test. Beginning at the Timber Creek Base Area, the course weaves through beautiful sections of pine forest and rocky mountain meadows for all 18 holes. Pick up a scorecard and map at the General Store, The Lodge, or download the online version from our website. As one of the fastest growing sports in the world, disc golf brings people from far and wide to experience the beauty of Kirkwood during the summer.
Weddings
Is there any better place to say “I do” than at 7,800 feet? Surrounded by rugged peaks, alpine meadows, and fresh mountain air, Kirkwood offers a stunning, secluded setting for destination weddings. With a variety of on-site lodging options, sweeping vistas, and that unbeatable mountain charm, Kirkwood delivers an unforgettable wedding experience deep in the heart of the Sierra.
Summer Events at Kirkwood
- Saturday, July 5: Kirkwood Firefighters Fundraiser
- Saturday, July 12: The Death Ride® Tour of the California Alps
- Friday, August 29 - Monday, September 1: Flynn Creek Circus
*Continue checking the Kirkwood website for the latest!
Kirkwood Resort Fast Facts
Address
1501 Kirkwood Meadows Dr
Kirkwood, CA 95646
Website
GM
Fredrick Newberry
Owner
Vail Resorts
Elevation/Terrain
Summit Elevation: 9,067 ft. (2,987 m)
Vertical Rise: 2,000 ft. (1,067 m)
Accessibility
Miles from Reno-Tahoe International Airport: 80.3
From Downtown South Lake Tahoe, CA: 34.3
Social
Instagram: @kirkwoodmtn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KirkwoodMtn