Tahoe Region Winter Tip Sheet 2025-26
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Lake Tahoe is a world-renowned destination with some of the most incredible scenery on the planet. From the lake itself to the surrounding mountains, awe-inspiring views can be found every direction you turn. The unique geography of the region is profound at all three of our Tahoe resorts, yet each one offers its own special experience for all who visit. Tahoe is a must-experience destination, and Heavenly, Northstar, and Kirkwood each offer something different. The skiing and riding, community, out-of-this-world location, and culture all make Tahoe an ideal location for a winter getaway.
Make Your Trip to Tahoe EPIC
Unlock your access to Heavenly, Northstar, and Kirkwood in Lake Tahoe, plus some of the best resorts in the world like Whistler Blackcomb, Vail and more, with the Epic Pass. Epic Passes offer the hands-down best value on skiing and riding in Tahoe and beyond with a variety of season-long and day-pass options that are on sale now for a limited time this fall. Epic Pass Holders also get the best benefits including 20% off on-mountain food and beverage, lodging, group ski and ride school lessons, equipment rentals and more with Epic Mountain Rewards. Plus, Epic Pass Holders can now be the friend with the benefits with half-off lift tickets for friends and family via the new Epic Friends Tickets. Grab your friends, round up your family, and rally your crew to Tahoe this winter and make it Epic. Learn more about pass options and benefits at www.epicpass.com.
Your Phone is Your Access to the Lifts with the My Epic app
Don’t scramble to find your Pass in the morning or worry about which jacket pocket you left it in because with Mobile Pass and Lift Tickets in the My Epicapp your phone is now your access to the slopes. The ultimate in ease and convenience to get you ready to go and on the snow, the Mobile Pass feature of the app uses low-energy Bluetooth technology that lets you scan at the lift hands-free. Just open the app, secure your phone in your pocket, and ride! In addition to Mobile Pass, the app also offers features including real-time lift line status, interactive trail maps, and more.
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Instagram: @skiheavenly. Facebook: Heavenly Mountain
Media Contact: Cole Zimmerman cole.zimmerman@vailresorts.com
Heavenly sits in two states nestled within the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, providing a one-of-a-kind skiing experience where its iconic, breathtaking views are met with unbeatable fun. Tahoe is Heavenly, and you’ll certainly feel it while skiing or riding the Sierras and absorbing views of Lake Tahoe’s deep blue, high alpine water. Whether you are taking in the panoramic views of Lake Tahoe on the California side, or seeing the Carson Valley extend for miles on the Nevada side, Heavenly is sure to take your breath away. With nearly 5,000 acres of skiable terrain and 97 trails ranging from groomers to glades, and an array of events and DJ music, there is a ton of high-energy fun to explore on the mountain. From the summit to the shores of South Lake Tahoe, the energy continues in the vibrant community, where après-ski and entertainment options keep the party going well after lifts have closed. Heavenly isn’t just a place to ski and ride – it’s a destination where both the otherworldly beauty and adventure collide with nonstop fun.
70TH ANNIVERSARY
Age is just a number! And while Heavenly Mountain Resort turns 70 this winter, we are just getting the party started. Heavenly opened with one chairlift and one heck of a view of Lake Tahoe in December 1955. 70 years (and quite a few capital investments) later, we’re excited to celebrate the occasion this winter with a 70th Anniversary Party, a Celebrity Banked Slalom, and plenty of DJ activations to highlight the social and scenic atmosphere that makes Heavenly, well, Heavenly! For 70 years, Heavenly has been more than a destination — it’s a place where guests forge personal connections to the terrain, the Tahoe region, and the celebratory moments and killer views that make it special.
HEAVENLY EVENTS AND ACTIVATIONS
70th Anniversary Party, December 20: Happy Birthday to us! We are celebrating, and you are invited. Ski through time at Heavenly’s Lakeview Lodge with vintage vibes, DJ sets with music from throughout the decades, celebratory food and beverage, and so much more. Of course, the star of the party will be that view of Lake Tahoe that will never get old, even though it’s older than our resort.
Toyota Air and Après, Feb. 27 – March 1: Back for its fourth season, Air and Après is a thrilling big-air event at the base of the World Cup. Skilled athletes demonstrate gravity-defying stunts on a 45-foot jump with Heavenly Mountain as the canvas for a light show. Air and Après is a three-day event featuring DJ sets and a Village offering an array of vendors, food, and beverages.
Celebrity Banked Slalom, April 3-4: Inspired by the legendary John Denver Classic of the 80’s at Heavenly, the Lake Tahoe Celebrity Banked Slalom promises an unforgettable experience with celebrities, athletes, action spots icons, and influencers competing on a dual banked slalom course on our World Cup run.
DJ Cat: Party with your friends as rotating guest DJs play some of your favorite songs out of a snowcat on the mountain. Your dance moves always look better in ski boots! Last year featured appearances by John Summit, Hayden James, Vandelux, What So Not, and more. Who will grace the snowcat this year?
Brews and Views: Brews and Views is an après experience on select days throughout the season overlooking unbeatable views of Lake Tahoe at Lakeview Lodge with food, beverage, and music. This season, we’re bringing it back and adding more beer sampling, more live music, and more opportunity to experience après the way it should be. Soak in the Brews and Views and keep an eye out for some breweries that may join in on the fun with tastings and offerings!
LAKE VIEWS, LIMITLESS LIKES
Every turn at Heavenly Mountain Resort is a can’t-miss moment featuring jaw-dropping views and photo ops you’ll be itching to share. From stunning views of Lake Tahoe to expansive sights of the Carson Valley, your friends will be double tapping and wondering why they aren’t there. Head to the top of Sky Express and ski down Ridge Run to feel like you’re skiing directly into Lake Tahoe, or ride to the top of Tamarack Chair to see the scenic contrast between lush, green trees and various shades of blue, and sprawling desert vistas. This season, the resort will also feature two iconic Heavenly signs to show off your location if the views of Lake Tahoe didn’t give it away. But don’t stress about finding the perfect Instagrammable spot too much – the best view at Heavenly can be found wherever you are standing.
FOUR BASE AREAS, TWO STATES, ONE RESORT
With 4,800 skiable acres of terrain, Heavenly features four different ways to start your adventure. Nevada features Stagecoach and Boulder base areas, while California features the famous Gondola and California Base Area. Heavenly’s California side serves iconic lake views and wide-open cruisers, perfect for soaking in the scenery. Take Skyline Trail over to the Nevada side and you’ll find expansive views of the Carson Valley, our longest run off of Olympic Express, and some sneaky steeps to keep the adrenaline pumping. Two states, two unique vibes. If you want to follow the sun, start your day in Nevada at our Stagecoach and Boulder base areas to find some seriously cool and underutilized terrain off North Bowl or Olympic and make your way to California after lunch!
SPRING AT HEAVENLY
There is nothing quite like spring skiing in Tahoe, and we make the most of it. Spring skiing at Heavenly is in a league of its own - bluebird skies, corn snow cycles, and those famous lake views that make every lap feel like a postcard. Add in patio après, sun-soaked decks, and an exciting event series and you’ve got the perfect mix of skiing and springtime vibes you won’t find anywhere else. Our spring-loaded event series includes Gunbarrel 25, where skiers lap Heavenly’s iconic mogul run 25 times in this long-standing tradition, plus a Pond Skim. These competitions are designed to highlight the fun-loving, adventure-seeking vibe that epitomizes spring skiing in Tahoe.
HEAVENLY FAST FACTS
Elevation
- Base Elevation: 6,255 ft.
- Summit Elevation: 10,067 ft.
- Vertical Rise: 3,812 ft.
Avg. Annual Snowfall: 258 inches
Total Skiable Acres: 4,800 acres
Lifts: 28 total
Fun Facts
- 2 – states to explore.
- 4 – base areas to access the mountain.
- 5.5 – the length in miles of Heavenly’s longest run on the mountain, Olympic Downhill.
- 8 – options to fuel up and quench your thirst for more skiing and riding at our restaurants.
- 28 – lifts and surface lifts to take you to the terrain you’re ready to explore.
- 70 – years of offering world-class skiing and riding in Lake Tahoe.
- Endless – views of Lake Tahoe and the Carson Valley.
Location: 56 – miles from Reno-Tahoe International Airport.
Northstar California
Instagram: @northstar_california, Facebook: @northstar
Media Contact: Cole Zimmerman cole.zimmerman@vailresorts.com
At Northstar California, the experience is about more than just skiing and snowboarding—it's about enjoying the mountain with the people you care about most. Whether you're exploring the diverse terrain, sharing laughs over fireside s’mores in the Village, or simply taking in the stunning views of Lake Tahoe and Martis Valley, there's a genuine sense of connection and belonging here. The family-friendly environment combined with easy access is what makes Northstar a go-to for those who want to relax, have fun, and push their skills to reach new heights. It's a place where everyone can partake in timeless traditions, find their own rhythm, create lasting memories, and enjoy the simple and invaluable pleasures of mountain life in Tahoe.
VILLAGE VIBRANCY
Ice Skating & Music in The Village: This is winter magic at Northstar – après, hot cocoa, and outdoor music alongside the picturesque skating rink in the heart of The Village! Break out the ice skates or kick back and take in the tunes fireside.
Diverse Dining Experiences: Discover a culinary adventure at the Village at Northstar, where diverse dining experiences cater to every taste. At VOUS, guests can enjoy coffee and breakfast bites by day, and specialty cocktails for après-ski by night. Wild Pine serves modern mountain fare in a family-friendly atmosphere, with comfort dishes fresh from the rotisserie. Meanwhile, the Cabana and Rink Bars provide cozy spots to unwind by a roaring fire with a hot drink or cocktail in hand. With other offerings like smash burgers and Mexican cuisine to pizza and shared plates at the wine bar, Northstar’s Village dining scene promises something for everyone.
TIMELESS TRADITIONS
Tōst: Join in on one of Northstar California’s most unique traditions returning this winter all season long. Enjoy a glass of bubbly (or apple cider) with friends and family at Lake Tahoe’s only ski-up, mountain-view bubbly experience. Pro tip: get in line by 1:30pm to take part in the 2pm tōst as glasses are served first come, first served. Sparkling wine and light snacks are also available for purchase after the tōst, so kick back and enjoy the view for a while. To find it, head to the top of the Comstock chair, ski down East Ridge and look for the Wooden Arch tucked off the side of the trail.
S'mores: Craving a sweet après treat? Cozy up by the fire pits and enjoy complimentary s’mores in the Village on select days (while supplies last!). Want to keep the gooey goodness going? S’more kits are available for purchase at our rink cabana bars.
TERRAIN FOR EVERYONE
Progressive Terrain for Everyone: Explore Northstar California’s diverse terrain and trails on Mt. Pluto, an extinct volcano that last erupted more than two million years ago. Now it’s the perfect place for exploratory cruising with its moderate pitch, sweeping views of Lake Tahoe off the East Ridge trail, and wide-open runs that allow guests the chance to curate an on-mountain adventure that everyone will love. With more than 3,000 acres, families can progress together in family-designated learning zones, or for more advanced guests, explore over 400 acres of advanced terrain on Lookout Mountain, or test your legs on Logger Loop: the longest run at Northstar California, extending 1.4 miles. The truly adventurous among the bunch can ride bumps and glades on mile-long runs on the Backside or even defy gravity in one of the largest progression terrain parks in the country.
Cross Country Center: Visit the most stunning mid-mountain cross country center in the country, with 35 kilometers of scenic trails that are perfect for cross country skiing, snowshoeing, fat tire biking, and more. Bring your family (and pack a camera) because the trails open up to views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding valley like nowhere else on the mountain. If it’s your first Nordic adventure, book a lesson and get a professional tour with best-in-class instructors. Best of all, access to this hidden gem is included with your Epic Pass!
NORTHSTAR FAST FACTS
Elevation
- Base Elevation: 6,330 ft.
- Summit Elevation: 8,610 ft.
- Vertical Rise: 2,280 ft.
Avg. Annual Snowfall: 350 inches
Total Skiable Acres: 3,170 acres
Lifts: 20 total
Fun Facts
- The spiral logo is a sawblade (not a snowflake) to pay homage to its origins as a tree farm up until 1972 when the resort was formed.
- Northstar is one of the few remaining resorts in the country to be spinning a “chondola” – Tahoe Zephyr Express features 6-passanger chairs and gondola cabins all on the same cable.
- The summit of the mountain is an extinct volcano. Mt. Pluto erupted 2M years ago that ultimately helped form the beautiful Tahoe Basin people know and love today.
- Northstar has a long-standing history of women in leadership at the resort. As of winter 2025/26, there have not only been 4 consecutive female GMs but also two recent Senior Mountain Operations Directors who both went on to become GMs of other resorts within the company.
- Northstar is California’s year-round home to those looking to learn, progress, and play in the mountains. Every summer, the ski resort transforms into a lift-serviced downhill bike park.
Location: The Reno/Tahoe International Airport is just a quick 40-minute-drive from Northstar, with direct flights to and from most major cities, including Canada and Mexico. Scheduled shuttle service is offered from 3:30am until midnight, to and from Northstar and the Reno-Tahoe International Airport – reservations required.
Kirkwood Mountain Resort
Instagram, Facebook: @kirkwoodmtn
Media Contact: Carly Mangan carly.c.mangan@vailresorts.com
Magical and raw, Kirkwood is a high-alpine playground for those seeking an authentic big-mountain adventure in Tahoe. Tucked away on the Sierra Nevada just 35 miles southwest of South Lake Tahoe, the resort offers some of North America’s most diverse and challenging in-bounds terrain. Its unique location atop the Sierra Crest creates the legendary K-Factor, a geographical advantage that brings some of the lightest, driest, and most plentiful snow in the region. With 2 miles of ridgeline and more than 2,300 acres of terrain, from a dedicated beginner area to cornices, cliffs, and chutes, there is something for everyone. Mountain culture runs deep here, with freeride roots and a close-knit community that fosters fun, progression, and inclusivity, making the mountain feel like home for all who visit.
TAHOE’S FREERIDE FRONTIER
Kirkwood, with its narrow chutes, big cliffs, and technical pitches, is a freeride paradise. Known for its playful terrain features and tendency for deep snow totals, it has earned its reputation as a premier destination for big-mountain skiers and riders looking to push their limits. Some of the resort’s most iconic zones line the ridgeline, from the cliffs off Chair 10 to Wagon Wheel Bowl and the Sentinel and Palisades zones off Chair 6. Perhaps the most legendary is The Wall, the imposing fall-line face beneath Chair 10, often considered a rite of passage for those tackling Kirkwood’s steeps. For those willing to hike, there are countless lines tucked away where powder can be found long after a storm. Paired with uncrowded slopes, a laid-back vibe, and old-school charm, this terrain is what keeps dedicated skiers and riders coming back for more. Kirkwood’s terrain also supports a full slate of freeride competitions annually, including IFSA Regionals and a Freeride World Qualifier this coming winter season.
BEGINNER + PROGRESSIVE TERRAIN
While Kirkwood is best known for its challenging terrain, our beginner and intermediate areas are just as strong. For those starting out, Timber Creek is an ideal learning zone thanks to its secluded location, kids’ adventure area, slow zones, and dedicated chairlifts. The Timber Creek Base Area also makes things easy for families, with convenient parking, a Ski & Ride School center, dining options, and restrooms all in one place. When it’s time to progress, the resort offers a wide variety of intermediate terrain. Chairs 2, 5, and 11 serve the frontside, with everything from gentle greens to approachable black diamonds. Snow Snake Gully, a winding run off Chair 11, is a guest favorite. On the backside, the terrain off Chairs 3 and 4 delivers some of our most popular runs, from wide-open groomers to playful off-piste features. Whether it’s your first turns or your next challenge, Kirkwood offers terrain for every step of the journey. Learn here, ride anywhere.
OLD-SCHOOL, NO-FRILLS RESORT EXPERIENCE
With deep freeride roots and a tight-knit community, Kirkwood delivers an authentic, no-frills ski and ride experience where the focus is always on the mountain. Guests flock here for the exceptional snow, reliable operations, and terrain that invites exploration at every turn. For those who value adventure over luxury and quiet over the hustle of Tahoe or the Bay, Kirkwood is a hidden gem that keeps skiers and riders returning year after year. With uncrowded slopes and minimal lift lines, every day offers the chance to lap the chairs from bell to bell. Simple, straightforward, and endlessly fun—this is Kirkwood at its best. No frills. All of the fun.
COMMUNITY ROOTS AND EVENTS
When you ski or ride at Kirkwood, you’re immediately part of a close-knit community. Generations of locals have called this mountain home, taught their kids to ski and ride here, and reveled in deep winters and Sierra sunshine. If you want to know where the best lines are, just ask. Pride of place runs deep, and the doors are always open to new folks who share that passion for Kirkwood. Kirkwood’s events bring the community together each season and are a cornerstone of winter at the resort. Returning favorites this season include our Winter Solstice Kickoff Party, New Year’s Eve Celebration and Torchlight Parade, Banked Slalom Race, and Slush Cup, along with numerous IFSA and Freeride World Tour competitions.
KIRKWOOD FAST FACTS
Elevation:
- Base Elevation: 7,800 ft
- Summit Elevation: 9,805 ft.
- Vertical Rise: 2,005 ft.
Avg. Annual Snowfall: 354 inches
Total Skiable Acres: 2,300 acres
Lifts: 13 total
Fun Facts
- Kirkwood’s 13 chairlifts are numbered in the order of which they were built. When the resort opened in 1972, it started with just Chairs 1-4.
- Thanks to its location atop the Sierra Crest, Kirkwood often receives high quantities of snowfall each winter. In the 2022/23 winter, the resort saw over 716 inches of snow (59 feet).
- Kirkwood has a permanently closed zone known as the Cirque, closed to the public due to extreme terrain and avalanche hazards. It occasionally opens for freeride competitions.
- Kirkwood has produced many professional athletes, including Freeride World Tour silver medalist Molly Armanino and professional freeskier Josh Daiek.
Location: 33 miles from South Lake Tahoe on Highway 88, Kirkwood offers a peaceful mountain escape deep in the Sierra Nevada, away from the crowds of Tahoe and the Bay Area.
Media Contacts:
- Heavenly + Northstar – Cole Zimmerman, cole.zimmerman@vailresorts.com
- Kirkwood – Carly Mangan, carly.c.mangan@vailresorts.com