Your Ultimate Ski Guide: Lake Tahoe & Park City | Part 2

By Samantha Felix & Susan Vallee

Welcome to Part 2 of our Ultimate Ski Guide, where we'll dive into the spectacular wonders of Lake Tahoe and Park City. These two destinations have joined forces to create an unparalleled skiing experience in the Western United States. So, pack your ski gear and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in the mountains!

If you missed Part 1, click here to learn more about Summit County.

Enjoy the magic of skiing and snowboarding in breathtaking Lake Tahoe and Park City!

Not a Winter sports fan? Discover the thrill of gambling in nearby Reno, or simply sip cocktails at the ski lodge!


YOUR GUIDE TO LAKE TAHOE

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Year-round! Community events and spectacular weather in the Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer months make this destination perfect for the whole year.

SKIING IN LAKE TAHOE

Lake Tahoe's unique landscape sets it apart from other ski destinations. The scenery of the lake combined with the majestic views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains offers an unparalleled experience that can only be found in Lake Tahoe. With over 400 inches of snowfall in the mountains and an impressive mix of resorts, Lake Tahoe has some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country with over 22,000 acres of skiable terrain. From beginner to expert, there's something for everyone!

Here's a list of top-rated ski resorts in the area:


  1. Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows - Palisades Tahoe (Olympic Valley, CA)

  2. Diamond Peak Resort (North Lake Tahoe)

  3. Heavenly Ski Resort (South Lake Tahoe)

  4. Northstar California (Truckee, CA)

  5. Kirkwood Ski Resort (Kirkwood, CA)

  6. Sugar Bowl Ski Resort (Norden, CA)

  7. Sierra-at-Tahoe (Twin Bridges, CA)

  8. Mt. Rose - Ski Tahoe (Reno, NV)

  9. Homewood Mountain Resort (Homewood, CA)

Pro-Tip: Although it may be tempting to wait until you arrive at the mountain, there are a lot of advantages to buying your lift tickets in advance. Buy your lift tickets now>>>

On expert level? Take it up a notch with backcountry snowcat skiing and boarding! Enjoy 7 to 10 runs on the most exclusive, untapped terrain after a breathtaking ride up the mountain on a private snowcat. For experienced skiers and boarders only.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN TAHOE

  • Glide Around the Ice-Skating Rink: For a unique Winter activity, check out the Frozen Over Ice Skating Rink at the Village at NorthStar. The rink is surrounded by twinkling lights and stunning views of the mountains, making it the perfect backdrop for a romantic date or an afternoon of family fun.

  • Enjoy a Guided Snowmobiling Tour: Snowmobiling is another exhilarating Winter activity available in Tahoe. Take a guided tour or rent your own snowmobile and explore the Sierra Nevada wilderness. The thrill of the ride combined with the stunning views of Lake Tahoe make for a lifetime of memories.

  • Gather the Family for Snow Tubing: Get ready for an exhilarating adventure at TubeTahoe! With tubing lanes stretching over 500 feet, it boasts some of the longest and most thrilling rides in the area. But that's not all—their top-of-the-line snowmaking facilities ensure that you'll experience perfect, resort-quality conditions throughout the entire season. Gather your loved ones and prepare for action-packed, unforgettable moments at Tube Tahoe.

    Not interested in Winter sports?

  • Relax and Rejuvenate at the Spa: One must-do activity while in Lake Tahoe is relaxing at the Stillwater Spa, located in the Hyatt Regency Resort in Incline Village. The spa offers an array of treatments and services, including a eucalyptus steam room, aqua meditation room, and a heated outdoor pool and hot tub. A luxurious spa day will leave you feeling rejuvenated and ready to hit the slopes again.

  • Try Your Luck at the Reno Casinos: If you're looking for a change of pace, consider taking a day trip to nearby Reno to try your luck at the casinos. Renowned for its gaming and entertainment, Reno is only a 40-minute drive from Lake Tahoe and worth the visit. A day trip to Reno provides a fun-filled event for those looking for something different to do, and the various casinos are sure to make for an eventful night out.


    • THINGS TO SEE IN LAKE TAHOE

  • Donner Memorial State Park: If you're looking for a glimpse into California's history, a visit to Donner Memorial State Park is a must. The park is located near Truckee and is home to a museum that showcases the history of the Donner Party, a group of pioneers who became trapped in the Sierra Nevada Mountains during the winter of 1846-47. The park also offers cross-country skiing trails and snowshoeing opportunities.

  • Emerald Bay: For a unique on-the-water experience, take a sightseeing cruise with The Tahoe Gal. The boat will take you on a tour of Emerald Bay—one of the most photographed places in the world—offering up-close views of the crystal-clear waters and natural beauty. Available through October!

  • Palisades Tahoe Aerial Tram: Brace yourself for unbelievable views as you embark on a panoramic 10-minute ride that effortlessly climbs an astounding 2,000 vertical feet. Get ready to soar above a mesmerizing snowy mountainscape, complete with majestic granite rocks and the iconic Tram Face. Hop on board the Aerial Tram and let the wonder unfold!


    • PLACES TO EAT IN TAHOE

  • Lone Eagle Grille at the Hyatt Regency: Looking for a romantic night out or celebrating a special occasion? Look no further than Lone Eagle Grille at the Hyatt Regency. Known for its elegant and warm atmosphere, Lone Eagle Grille is located right on the shore of Lake Tahoe. The menu features fresh seafood, aged beef, and local produce.

  • Rocker: Located in the Village at Squaw Valley, Rocker offers a casual dining experience with live performances at night. The ambiance is hip and lively, making it a perfect spot for a night out with friends. The menu features contemporary American cuisine with a twist and craft cocktails creatively named after ski runs and lifts at Squaw Valley.

  • Driftwood Café: Located in South Lake Tahoe, Driftwood Café is a local favorite known for its delicious breakfast and brunch—and quirky décor! The menu features a range of options such as egg Benedict, potato pancakes, steak and eggs, as well as sandwiches, homemade soups, and black bean chicken chili. Try their locally roasted coffee and fresh squeezed orange juice!


    • BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LAKE TAHOE

    Natural Retreats offers a diverse collection of incredible Tahoe homes. From newly constructed condos with ski-in/ski-out access to lakeside log cabins and spectacular private homes—Lake Tahoe has it all!

    Enjoy Lake Tahoe year-round, book now>>>

    FALL IN LOVE WITH LAKE TAHOE

    Situated on the northern border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe spans over 22 miles showcasing some of the most breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains—it’s also the largest alpine lake in North America. Surrounded by stunning alpine scenery, this Winter wonderland offers a wealth of outdoor activities and attractions for all ages and skill levels. Lake Tahoe is made up of several world-class ski resorts, including Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, Northstar, and Mount Rose, to name a few. With over 300 days of sunshine each year, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding experiences, picturesque hikes, and many other Winter activities.

    Create unforgettable memories with the perfect blend of romantic and casual fun with exquisite dinner options.

    Learn to snowboard and experience endless thrills! It's easy to learn, but hard to master.


    YOUR GUIDE TO PARK CITY

    Park City represents the “Snow Belt” lifestyle. With its powder snow, two world-class ski resorts, and a plethora of bustling restaurants and charming boutiques lining historic Main Street, Park City provides an authentic mountain experience. But that's not all that this ski town has to offer! As the home of the famous Sundance Film Festival, Park City is a hub of cultural activity, boasting an impressive array of art galleries, theaters, and museums. Whether you're a seasoned skier or a film buff (or both), Park City is the perfect place to make unforgettable memories.

    BEST TIME TO VISIT

    Experience the magic of Park City year-round! From thrilling community events to stunning weather in every season, this destination is an absolute dream. And here’s a great resource for all-things Park City-related that will provide more information on timely events during your stay.

    SKIING IN PARK CITY

    Nestled in the Wasatch Mountains, Park City boasts some of the most remarkable skiing and snowboarding experiences in the world. Known for its exceptional snow quality and plentiful sunshine, visitors flock to this charming town to experience two incredible ski resorts that are second-to-none—Deer Valley and Park City Mountain. Whether you’re looking for steep runs, quiet tree-lined trails, or breathtaking views, Park City’s versatility is what really sets it apart from the rest.

    What’s the first step of a successful ski vacation? Buying your lift tickets in advance! Although it may be tempting to wait until you arrive at the mountain, there are a lot of advantages to buying your tickets before ever leaving home. Buy your lift tickets now>>>

    The second? Figuring out which resort you’d like to ski first.

    Deer Valley
    Deer Valley is a ski-only resort, so if snowboarding is your thing—plan on Park City Mountain instead. With more than 2,000 skiable acres and six peaks to explore, Deer Valley Resort has an award-winning ski school and was an official venue of the 2002 Winter Olympics. Fun Fact: Deer Valley's highest elevation reaches a staggering 9,570 feet with the Empire Express!

    A great way for skiers to learn about Deer Valley, is to take a free Mountain Host tour. Offered four times each day, these tours are a great way to learn the history and varying terrain from local guides.

    Park City Mountain
    Park City Mountain is the largest ski resort in the United States! There are more than 7,300 acres—with more than 300 trails, three incredible villages to explore, and 43 lifts. Named a Best Family Ski Resort by Ski & Snowboard with Kids, Park City Mountain truly offers terrain and experiences for skiers of all levels.

    One of the joys of Park City Mountain is how simple it is to get from the top of the mountain to the three villages located at the base.

    Historic Main Street is an unforgettable ski-in/ski-out experience! That’s right, if you’re feeling hungry on the slope, ski into town for a delicious meal and a look around town before taking the Town Lift back up the mountain! Mountain Village and Canyons Village also offer unique downtown shopping and dining experiences and can be explored via the free public transit that runs throughout the resort.

    Ski Schools
    Deer Valley Ski School is award-winning and provides lessons to ages 3 and older. Lessons for children are designated into age groups—with the Fawn Special providing one-on-one lessons for 3-year-olds, followed by playtime in a fun Children’s Center. Adult skiers may select from either group lessons or private instruction.

    In Park City Mountain, head over to High Meadow Park for expert ski and snowboarding lessons—or to practice and improve. This dedicated learning space has re-graded terrain, a high-speed, four-passenger ski lift, and adventure trails designed for differing skill levels. Child and adult group lessons, or private lessons, may also be booked in advance. Learn to ski and snowboard from world-class instructors!

    Escape to a Natural Retreats home, where warmth and comfort await you indoors.

    Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tahoe and Park City—perfect for fun-filled adventures!

    TOP THINGS TO DO IN PARK CITY

  • Sleigh Rides: Gliding through the snow-capped mountains on a horse-drawn sleigh is a truly unique way to experience the magic of Winter. With Snowed Inn Sleigh Co., each horse-drawn sleigh ride passes through the snowy ski slopes and ends at a western-style lodge where a gourmet dinner and live entertainment await each guest. Perfect for all ages.

  • Hot Springs: Take a break from your adventures and treat yourself to the healing waters of a local hot spring. Known for its soothing properties, Utah Crater at Homestead Farm offers an hourglass-shaped geothermal hot spring with inviting waters averaging 95 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim, soak, snorkel, or scuba dive in hot springs!

  • Snowmobiling: Power your way across the powder on a snowmobile tour that leave from Canyons Village. Explore groomed trails, aspen groves, and mountain terrain on 1,000 acres in Red Canyon.

  • Mountain Coaster: Take a Mountain Coaster ride! This toboggan-style coaster has twists and turns, but you are in control of the speed! A great, fun break when younger kids are looking for something different to do.


    • THINGS TO SEE IN PARK CITY

  • Historic Main Street: No trip to Park City would be complete without walking down historic Main Street—the main thoroughfare of "Old Town." Park City gives you upscale culture, but Main Street has an old-timey charm dating back to the silver mining days. Enjoy the architecture of well-preserved mining homes, along with posh restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, and craft breweries.

  • Utah Olympic Park: Built for the 2002 Winter Olympics, this state-of-the-art facility now offers a wide range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, zip lining, bobsledding, and more. A must-visit destination for anyone who loves winter sports!

  • Sundance Film Festival: Park City is home to the largest independent film festival in the U.S.and one of the most prestigious independent film events in the world. Every January, this event offers movie lovers the opportunity to see around 200 new films celebrating independent filmmaking, directors, and storytelling. It’s the ultimate gathering for cinephiles!


    • WHERE TO EAT IN PARK CITY

  • Fireside Dining: Enjoy favorites from the European Alps in Deer Valley at Fireside Dining. The alpine-inspired menu features four courses—including a guest favorite, raclette cheese, warmed beside stone fireplaces.

  • Riverhorse on Main: This lauded restaurant has won the Forbes Travel Guide 4 Star Award for 16 years and is a local favorite! The ever-changing menu features locally caught trout, fresh seafood, filets, and an impressive wine list. Come for the food and stay for the ambiance.

  • The Bridge Cafe and Grill: Located next to the Town Lift on Main Street, skiers can ski in for a breakfast taco, eggs Benedict, delicious burgers, and gluten-free options at this cafe and grill!

  • High West Saloon: Always on the “best of après ski” lists, this is the world’s only ski-in gastro distillery! Located off Main Street at the base of Park City Mountain’s Quittin’ Time Trail, this restaurant and tasting room is beloved by locals.


    • BEST PLACES TO STAY IN PARK CITY

    Handpicked for prime mountain access and high-end amenities, our Park City vacation rentals include private homes nestled on the slopes of Deer Valley Resort, luxury lodge condos at Silver Star, and ski-in/ski-out estates in gated communities at both Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort. To make your stay seamless, we offer services like in-home ski rental fitting, grocery delivery, and luggage shipment.

    Enjoy Park City year-round, book now>>>

    FALL IN LOVE WITH PARK CITY

    Experience the magic of Park City this Winter season! From thrilling skiing and snowboarding adventures to a myriad of attractions and experiences, you'll be captivated at every turn. Discover what sets Park City apart and fall head over heels in love with all it has to offer. Book your next ski trip with Natural Retreats today! Travel on.

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