Tahoe Lift Tickets & Season Passes
When it comes to purchasing lift tickets at any one of the ski resorts around Lake Tahoe, it's best to book online and in advance. Lift ticket prices are also subject to change throughout the season at all resorts. To find the best prices, deals and discounts for your ski days, be sure to browse different days on resort websites or contact them directly. You can also check out the Lake Tahoe page at onthesnow.com for updated ticket comparisons between all local ski areas.
If you're planning an extended ski vacation in Tahoe and want to ski more than a few days, then consider purchasing a season pass. There are season passes available for every local resort, and there are a handful of passes available from major pass companies like Epic and Ikon. Passes from major pass companies are a great option if you want to ski at multiple locations, but always check that the resorts you want are participating in the pass program.
![View of Lake Tahoe from Heavenly Ski Resort]( "View of Lake Tahoe from Heavenly Ski Resort")
Best for: Views, Families, Other Winter Activities Besides Skiing/Snowboarding
World-renowned Heavenly Mountain Resort is a one stop shop for winter fun in South Lake Tahoe. Not only can you access the resort from both California and Nevada, you can ski across the state line too. From the 4,800 miles of skiable acres to the 34 miles of groomers, it really is heavenly! The ski school is great for all ages -- from 3 years old to seniors -- with instructors available for all skiing levels.
For those who want to enjoy some winter fun but prefer to stay off the slopes, Heavenly Village at Stateline offers many additional family friendly actitives. Ride up the Heavenly Gondola and witness some of the most spectacular panoramic views of the lake, or enjoy South Lake Tahoe's only outdoor ice-skating rink. Heavenly Village also hosts a great selection of shopping and dining options.
Our Favorite Run: The top of Sky Chair, on the California side of Heavenly offers endless views of the lake and Sierra Nevadas.
Best Parking and Mountain Access: Early bird gets the worm with parking at Heavenly! Parking around the Gondola is limited. There is ample parking at the casinos within walking distance for a fee.
Money Saving Tip: Staying at Stateline makes access to Heavenly Village a breeze and saves money on parking and transportation to the slopes. Food at the lodge can be pricey. Pack your own lunch and snacks and you will save lots.
Tentative Opening Date: November 17th, 2023
![Lake Tahoe Ski Resort in the Winter]( "Lake Tahoe Ski Resort in the Winter")
Best for: Adventure-Seekers, Experienced Skiers/Snowboarders, Cross-Country Trails
About 30 miles from South Lake Tahoe lies Kirkwood Mountain, one of North American’s most diverse mountain terrains. With a base elevation of 7,800-feet, this mountain brings in more annual snowfall than any other Tahoe ski resort. This remote, no frills resort is known from its pristine beauty and backcountry expeditions and also offers fun winter activities like snow-shoeing and sled dog tours.
Although “the wood” is a favorite among experts, beginners and intermediates skiers will have plenty to enjoy at Kirkwood Mountain Resort!
Our Favorite Run: The Wall (double black) is the best run on powder days. It's best to ride early in the day as it gets tracked out fast! Sentinel Bowl (black/double black) has some great hidden powder stashes that last all day. Backside, which you can access on chairs 3 & 4, has very diverse terrian with mixed difficulty levels.
Best Parking and Mountain Access: Get to the mountain early on the weekends or powder days. If you aren't an early riser, there is a limited amount of overflow parking at the Kirkwood Inn
Money Saving Tip: If you purchase an Epic Pass, you can use it to ski Kirkwood and Heavenly (plus Northstar on the north shore). For a ski break, head to 7800 for affordable happy hour specials and great food. There is also a Kirkwood general store for basic needs.
Tentative Opening Date: December 1st, 2023
![Child Skiing in the Winter Lake Tahoe]( "Child Skiing in the Winter Lake Tahoe")
Best for: A Local Experience, Ski lessons, Board Terrain Park
After a lenghty hiatus caused by the 2021 Caldor Fire, Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort is back open for winter sports! The fire led to some significant changes to various areas at this locals' favorite resort, but the folks at Sierra have done a fantastic job restructuring many of these affected areas into new and exciting skiable terrain.
With state-of-the-art terrain parks, access to Huckleberry Canyon (320 acres of back-country), and wind-protected slopes it’s no wonder locals love it. Good vibes joined by the most trails of natural terrain make for the complete skiing and riding experience! There are also amazing learn-to-ride programs for those who are trying their hand at winter sports for the first time. With classes and private lessons for anyone ages 3 years to adult it’s never too late (or early) to hit the slopes.
For Sierra-at-Tahoe, protecting the pristine environment that makes up the resort is a year round job. From day-to-day operations to long term planning this resort is always taking seriously it’s responsibility to preserve and protect the environment. Some work still remains getting all areas opened up for winter fun again following the Caldor Fire, but all that is open promises a thrilling ski and snowboard season to everyone visiting Tahoe this year!
Our Favorite Run: The West Bowl is a mix difficulty run and a great for intermediate riders to ride on powder days. Sugar and Spice is a great beginners run which can be accessed via the Grandview lift. Bottom of the run can be a bit flat, so keep your speed!
Best Parking and Mountain Access: While parking is rarely an issue at Sierra, it's possible to hit traffic getting there especially on weekends. Avoid traffic by staying at a home near Pioneer Trail or in Meyers. You should have no issue with traffic or parking if you go mid-week.
Money Saving Tip: If you're at Sierra, you're already saving money as it one of the more affordable resorts. This is one of the best places to take a ski lesson, especially for kids. There are several green runs that are excellent for beginners.
Tentative Opening Date: November 9th, 2023
