skiing

Ski, Ride, Snowsports

The Truckee and Donner Summit areas are the place to go for alpine winter adventures with world-class destinations such as Palisades Tahoe (formerly Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows) as well as smaller resorts. There are also plenty of other winter adventures including sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

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Highlights

If you live close by, consider getting a season pass for epic weekends all season long! You’ll get the most out of your money and have access to multiple ski resorts for more mountain time.

Donner Summit is home to Sugar Bowl Resort and Boreal, and close to world-class Palisades Tahoe and Northstar California.

Try snowmobiling for a private or group tour of Truckee-Tahoe’s beautiful winter scenery.

With huge annual snowfalls, Donner Pass is a notable backcountry destination. Note, winter backcountry travel requires avalanche rescue training and tools. Hire a guide or take a course if you would like to gain experience.

Resources

For a full list of ski resorts and adventures, visit Visit Truckee-Tahoe or Nevada City Chamber of Commerce.

Check out the Winter Recreation Guide for Truckee-Tahoe.

Winter weather may cause major travel delays and interruptions. Check the forecast daily, be prepared, and stay off the roads during winter storms. Check theTruckee-Tahoe Travel Alert and Weather, Climate, Cams.

Tahoe National Forest has lots of areas for snowshoeing, OHV trails, and sledding.

Your Destination for Epic Snow Adventures

There’s nothing like getting out into the crisp, mountain air on a sunny winter day. Start your day off right with fresh powder, amazing winter views, and tons of fun! Truckee and Donner Summit are the perfect destination for an unforgettable winter vacation. From the winter mecca of Truckee-Tahoe, you can begin your day carving the slopes, cross-country skiing across vast meadows, snowshoeing, or sledding with the whole family! For adventure sports enthusiasts, there are plenty of areas for backcountry skiing and snowboarding, splitboard or telemark skiing. When you’re satisfied with the day, you can head back to the lodge for hot chocolate, firepits and lots of stories to share. 

Ski & Ride At World-Class Resorts 

Near Truckee, you’ll find several world-class skiing and riding destinations, including Palisades Tahoe, Sugar Bowl, Donner Ski Ranch, Boreal, and Northstar California. Each resort offers opportunities for beginners with ski lessons, rental gear, and easy trails. There are several shops in Truckee to get your equipment tuned or shop for gear. 

Backcountry Skiing & Snowboarding

A new generation of freeskiers and snowboarders is making Donner Pass a notable backcountry destination. With huge annual snowfalls (over 411 inches/year), there are a variety of zones to explore with a guide. Specific skills, knowledge, and gear are required to manage the unique hazards of the backcountry. Go on a guided ski tour with local guides who understand Truckee-Tahoe’s snowpack and terrain, and sign up for an avalanche education course to get the necessary training. 

More Winter Sports & Activities

Not a skier? No problem! Check out these family-friendly winter activities in Truckee. There’s plenty of sledding and tubing for the kids, snowmobiling in the Tahoe National Forest , and scenic winter locations for nordic skiing with some of the finest views in the Sierra, including the largest cross country ski area in North America –  Royal Gorge Cross-Country Ski Resort!