Things to do / Travel Guide
Address:Truckee, California
Tel:
(530) 562-1010
November's chill sets in the air which means that you set off 40 miles from Reno to reach the Northstar at Tahoe ski area. With the season typically running to April, there is plenty of space and time to enjoy one of the smaller resorts that Lake Tahoe has to offer.
Northstar at Tahoe combines a vertical drop of 2280 feet and elevation of 8610 feet for a span of over 2480 acres of terrain. With an average snowfall of only 350 inches about half of the snow is provided via snowmaking. 79 trails are serviced by 16 lifts, 8 of which are express. The trails here offer a range of skiing difficulty levels, with slopes available for everyone from the beginning to the advanced skier. The longest run, "Loggers Loop," spans 1.3 miles making it a leisurely pass. "Lookout Mountain" covers 200 acres of advanced terrain and "Sawtooth Ride" is a backcountry rider's haven when weather permits the use of its 240 acres.
Rates are daily, half-day, and multi-day options. Adult through Super Senior (75+) tickets are available. Quad-ticket Packs, college week, Military appreciation (free every Sunday except blackout dates), and Police/Fire discounts can be taken advantage of at the onsite ticket counter.
Snowboarders have a choice of 6 adventure parks composed of different elements, 5 terrain parks, a halfpipe, and a 400 feet long Superpipe to shred. Northstar at Tahoe is sponsored by Burton, DC, Oakley, and Matix clothing, so they have a reputation to upkeep. Hang out in "The Stash," designed by Jake Burton himself, which includes tree runs, road jumps and jibs all constructed with wood logs and all natural materials. It caters to all skill levels, and is easy to view from the sundeck at the lodge.
The rental and repair shop are open for your convenience starting at 8am, a full half hour before the lifts even open, so you have time to get your gear before heading out without losing any time on the slopes. There are cross-country and snowshoe areas for those who want a slower paced day and a tubing park for families and single riders. Stop in at the demo center to try out the latest gear, and check out the ski school which teaches students of all ages as well as catering to adaptive and disabled students. A fully licensed child care center is on hand to lovingly care for your little one while you are on the snow.
Lodging is located on-site, and ranges from hotel rooms, lofts, condos, and private homes to studio apartments. There are indoor heated swimming pools, hot tubs, an ice-skating rink, and 2 bars for après ski entertainment. Feeling hungry? You can stop by the general store that is stocked with deli foods and liquor, or step into any of the six restaurants that serve fine dining and world cuisine.
With a free shuttle running from 9 major casinos, including the Atlantis and Circus Circus, driving isn't a hindrance to you and the powder. Reservations are recommended as they fill up fast. Public transportation is also available through the Lake Tahoe Transit, Truckee Trolley, Bay Area Ski Bus, and of course the many taxis that roll around the city. For travel to and from the mountain and après ski, consider the Tahoe Queen Aqua Shuttle. Ride all day and float by night onboard the Tahoe Queen – an authentic paddleboard with live music, dancing, cocktails, and a pub-style menu. Reservations are necessary, and this is an all-inclusive package deal.