The fall colors and sunny days are here in North Lake Tahoe and we’re enjoying the last of our beautiful autumn weather. But, as the nights get colder and our fireplaces blaze, we can’t help but get excited for this month’s ski resort openings. As the first dustings of snow hit the mountain tops, we start to dream about powder turns, lodge lunch breaks and après beers with friends because winter is almost here! Whether you’re a seasoned 100+ days per season skier or you’ve decided this is the season to learn, get excited because the 23/24 ski season in North Lake Tahoe kicks off this month. 

 

Blackjack to Black Diamonds

Diamond Peak

Photo: Diamond Peak Ski Resort

Towering over Reno, Nevada on one side and Lake Tahoe on the other, Mt. Rose Ski Resort’s summit elevation at 9,700 feet means it gets the first snow each year. Make plans to drive the Mt. Rose Highway and take in the views along the way. With a November 9th opening date, you’ll be making turns across their 1,200 acres before you know it. If you’re looking for an après ski destination, Incline Village has some great options for you from fine dining to breweries. 

Nevada’s other North Tahoe resort sits above Incline Village and is known for its small resort charm and epic Lake Tahoe views. If you haven’t skied here yet, this is the year to make some turns at community-owned and affordable Diamond Peak. Their opening date, weather depending, is set for December 7th.

 

California Powder Cruisin’

Palisades Tahoe

Photo: Palisades Tahoe

Over on the California side of the lake, ski resorts are ramping up for another snowy ski season. Nestled between Truckee and the shores of North Lake Tahoe, Northstar California has announced a November 17th start to their season, as long as the weather cooperates. Recently, Northstar was named the “premier family destination” by Travel + Leisure magazine. So, make plans to bring the whole family to enjoy this family-friendly winter wonderland. In other news, the new My Epic app means that your phone becomes your lift ticket so be sure to download the app before your day of skiing at Northstar.

Next up is Palisades Tahoe who has announced an expected opening date of November 22nd, as long as the snowfall and conditions cooperate. Whether you’re excited to make some turns or just want to take in the views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada mountains with a scenic winter aerial tram ride to High Camp, Palisades Tahoe is the place to be. If you haven’t already gotten the chance to ride it, the Base to Base gondola between Alpine Lodge and the Village at Palisades Tahoe offers 6,000 skiable acres to explore…making it the largest ski resort in California!