Skiing and Snowboarding Lake Tahoe
Reno Tahoe boasts the highest concentration of world-class ski resorts in North America.
Heavy snowfall, majestic mountains and pristine slopes make Reno Tahoe the perfect destination for skiing and snowboarding. From ski resorts that focus on lessons for beginners to some of the steepest, most advanced terrain on the West Coast, our region is a historic ski destination. Whether you’re hitting ski resorts near Reno or heading into nearby Lake Tahoe, you’ll find endless runs, stunning views and terrain for every skill level.
Prefer cross-country or backcountry skiing? Many of the ski and snowboard resorts in Reno Tahoe offer a variety of trails to keep you entertained during your stay.
Before you plan your trip, discover all that Reno Tahoe has to offer during winter and learn how you can create your ideal trip!
Best Lake Tahoe Ski Resorts Near Reno
Reno Tahoe offers world-class skiing and snowboarding across a wide range of ski resorts and slopes. Here’s a quick list of the top ski resorts in Lake Tahoe near Reno, each offering unique terrain, views, and amenities.
- Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe
- Diamond Peak Ski Resort
- Palisades Tahoe
- Northstar California
- Boreal Ski Resort
- Heavenly Ski Resort
- Sugar Bowl Resort
- Sierra-at-Tahoe
- Kirkwood Mountain Resort
Traveling without a car? Convenient shuttle services run from Reno-Tahoe International Airport to Lake Tahoe, making it easy to hit the slopes as soon as you land. Learn more about Reno Tahoe ski shuttles here.
Prefer to stay even closer to the mountains? Check out all lodging options for North Lake Tahoe.
Why Lake Tahoe Skiing and Snowboarding Are a Must
It doesn’t matter if you’re skiing, snowboarding or both, hitting the slopes at a Lake Tahoe ski resort is a bucket list item for visitors from around the world. Lake Tahoe has attracted many snowboarding and skiing pros, and Shaun White even practiced for the X-Games here. Additionally, local pros Jamie Anderson, Hannah Teter, David Wise and Bryce Bennett all call Reno Tahoe home, and each of them has a favorite mountain in the area. We really think you have to see it to believe it. Lake Tahoe ski resorts are a winter destination like no other.
As the largest and most developed skiing region in California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is snow sport nirvana. And yes, some years you can ski and snowboard year-round… if you’re up for a hike to find the last patches of snow in the summer months. When you visit this part of the Sierra Nevada mountains, you’re within a short drive of the highest concentration of ski resorts in North America. Which means that no matter what kind of terrain and resort experience you’re looking for, you’ll find it at a Tahoe ski resort.
Top Lake Tahoe Skiing and Snowboarding Spots
Experience the stunning views of Lake Tahoe at mountain resorts like Heavenly Mountain Resort or Sierra at Tahoe, complete with resort offerings of gorgeous views and unmatchable vertical drops. If you are looking for some backcountry powder runs, then Royal Gorge XC and Granlibakken might be up your alley. You can even take a night ride at some ski resorts like Boreal, open until 9 p.m.!
Looking to try a little of everything? Family-friendly ski resorts are dotted throughout our area including Northstar, Sugar Bowl, Donner Ski Ranch, and Soda Springs in North Lake Tahoe and Kirkwood and Sierra-at-Tahoe in South Lake Tahoe.
From backcountry slopes to halfpipes and thrilling terrain parks that are expertly placed against one of the world’s most beautiful settings, there’s really nothing that beats the views or the atmosphere around our ski areas.
Enjoy the various apres-ski amenities of Lake Tahoe ski resorts, including fire pits, ice skating and even night tubing.
Insider Ski & Snowboard Tips
What Makes Reno Tahoe Slopes Special
Chloe Ure grew up in Eastern Canada, but now calls Reno Tahoe home, thanks to the mild weather and fluffy snow. She loves spending her time on the slopes, with the perfect mix of snow and sun. Some of her favorite spots to ski include Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe and Heavenly Ski Resort. Explore all of Chloe's recommendations on what makes these mountains so special and which ski resort has the best chili.
Summit the Peak
Ian Meintjes and Alexa Towler have explored a wide variety of our region’s terrain from North Lake to South Lake, Donner Pass to Carson Pass. But the spot they visit again and again? The Mount Rose Wilderness. This zone includes Chickadee Ridge, Tamarack Peak, Relay Peak and their favorite of them all, Incline Peak. Just a quick 45-minute drive from downtown Reno, it's an easily accessible escape for those who want to take on the mountains. Explore the backcountry and discover how to craft your dream adventure in Reno Tahoe’s backyard.
For All Stages of Motherhood
Throughout the many stages of motherhood, Amber DiBello has had the privilege of visiting every ski resort and most of the popular lodging options in Lake Tahoe. Each one has a special attribute that makes it memorable and comfortable for her family. She breaks down the best resorts based on two factors: one, whether you're expecting or skiing with a toddler, and two, depending on your budget. Get all of Amber's recommendations and start planning your vacation.
Lake Tahoe Ski and Snowboard Lessons
Lake Tahoe is a great place to learn how to ski or snowboard. The region produces some of the best competitive skiers and snowboarders in the world—but they all had to start somewhere! Local ski resorts offer terrain for every level and some of the best instructors around (you might even snag a lesson with an Olympian).
Here’s what you’ll find at area resorts:
- Lessons for all levels – from first-timers to advanced skiers and riders.
- Rental options – most resorts offer both lessons and gear packages for beginners.
- Specialty clinics – Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe provides ladies’ clinics, kids’ lessons, and private instruction.
- Group & private lessons – offered at most resorts like Northstar and Palisades Tahoe.
- Family-friendly packages – Tahoe Donner has full and half-day lessons for adults and children.
- Learn-to-ski and snowboard programs – available at Diamond Peak Ski and Snowboard School, with multiple packages and clinics.
Why Lake Tahoe is the Ultimate Ski Destination
From its Olympic history to world-class terrain, Reno Tahoe has long been a hub for skiers and snowboarders chasing both fun and a challenge. With over 300 days of sunshine, heavy snowfall, and slopes just minutes from downtown Reno and the airport, you can land in the morning and be on the mountain in time to get in several runs. Whether you’re carving runs at Mt. Rose, soaking in the views at Diamond Peak, or exploring any of the nearby Lake Tahoe resorts, Reno Tahoe makes it easy to turn a winter getaway into an unforgettable adventure.
