Join our fun Preseason Kickoffs to connect w/ SF Bay Area Skiers, Boarders for Trips ❄️⛷🏂

 

snowpals-ski-ride

 

Whether you have the popular Ikon, Epic Pass, other season pass, or don’t have a pass this winter, join skiers, snowboarders to connect for Lake Tahoe Ski and Ride Trips ❄️⛷🏂

RSVP for our fun Preseason Kickoffs..

👉 Friday, November 7, 2025
SF Happy Hour, connect w/ Skiers, Boarders for Tahoe POWder Hound Ski Trips – RSVP on Eventbrite

👉 Friday, November 7, 2025
Sacto Happy Hour before Warren Miller’s Sno-ciety Ski/Board Film – RSVP on Eventbrite

👉 Thursday, November 13, 2025
Oakland Happy Hour, connect w/ Skiers, Boarders for Tahoe Trips and POWder Hound Trips on your pass – RSVP on Eventbrite

 

Just happened:

👉 Thursday, October 30, 2025
Sparking Wine Tasting South Bay Ikon Pass Epic Pass Holders Social – RSVP on Eventbrite

Come hang with SnowPals and plan this winter’s ski, snowboard trips to Lake Tahoe to make the most of your pass, to powder hound to Utah, Colorado, Jackson Hole Wy, the Cascades Mountains, Japan powder hound aka JaPOW trips to Niseko United and Hakuba), French and Italian Alps, Austria or where ever there are deep powder snow freshies to be had!

Join us to expand your circle of ski, ride pals for resort based and backcountry ski touring. SnowPals over the years have helped to form countless friendships, and a few marriages 😉

Join SnowPals to pool resources, wisdom, and tap into discount lodging and small group travel discounts on our powder hound adventures leveraging Epic & Ikon Pass. View past events photos.

PAST EVENTS

👉 Apres Ski Fun Meetup to Watch/Participate in Palisades Tahoe’s The 33rd Annual Cushing Crossing Pond Skim Event on Saturday May 10, 2025 – ski/ride 8:30 AM to 1 PM, pond skimming event at 1 PM, and enjoy apres drinks/good eats

👉 Enjoy Micro-Brews w/ Santa Cruz, Seaside, Monterey Skiers, Snowboarders on Thursday FEB 27, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM

👉 San Francisco Singles Mixer or not single but got single friend(s) on Wednesday FEB 12, from 6 PM to 8 PM

👉 North Bay Happy Hour with SRSC Wednesday, February 12, 2025, 5:30 PM until 6:30 PM

👉 Sacramento, Rocklin, Davis, Roseville Skiers, Boarders Micro-Brews Meetup Wednesday, February 12, 2025, 6:30 PM until 9:00 PM

👉 SF Backcountry Skier, Split-boarders Meetup on Tuesday January 14, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM with special guest Richard Bothwell (pro backcountry guide and Avy instructor) (scroll down to read event details)

👉 South Bay Silicon Valley Thursday Meetup on Thursday January 16, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM

👉 San Carlos Meetup on Thursday January 16, 2025, 6 PM to 8 PM

👉 South Bay Santana Row Whiskey Tasting on Wednesday January 8, from 5 PM to 7 PM

Ski/Ride Season Kickoff Events:

(1) SF Kickoff 11/14
(2) Oakland 11/7
(3) North Bay 12/4

=== 1/14/2025 San Francisco Backcountry Skiers, Split Boarders Meetup ===

Join backcountry skiers and snowboarders to connect for BC ski touring trips, share tips, wisdom and experiences and exchange contacts with similar skill level backcountry skiers/split-boarders.

When: Tuesday 1/14/2025 from 6pm to 8pm.

Where: Zeitgeist located at 199 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94103. Enjoy craft beers & a spacious patio with picnic benches create a festive setting for this popular Mission spot. “Founded in 1977, the bar and beer garden Zeitgeist is a Historic Legacy Business in San Francisco, known for their Bloody Marys, Margaritas, 64 taps of craft beer, and full bar.” View drink and eats menu.

Host for this event: Aubrey with co-host Steve.

SnowPals’ Event Fee:

$10 for members
$19 for non-members (join SnowPals to get the members’ event discount rate). Read about us on Facebook | Yelp

Light appetizers will be ordered for our group; enjoy some tasty finger foods with your drinks! Pay for your own drinks and any other food, as desired. *Event fee terms: your event ticket is transferable to another person for the same event date if you can not go. No refunds.

This event is limited to 25 participants max; we will update this page when this event is fully booked.

If this event is fully booked, to get waitlisted.

RSVP below or on EventBrite (link opens in a new window)

1) reach out to Tim at to let us know (copy and paste the following questions to your email to answer)

a) which event are you RSVPing for?
b) how many people are on your RSVP? Yours and their name(s)?
c) for Tahoe ride-sharing, which resort(s) do you frequent? Can you offer a ride or would like to be a passenger?

d) are you interested in small group travel discount trips from international ski/ride POWDER destinations, trips to SoCal’s Mammoth Mountain Resort (leveraging your Ikon Pass), to chase deep powder snow freshies to resorts in..

Utah, Colorado, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Wyoming (averages around 38.1 feet of snow annually),

the Cascades Range (extend northward for more than 700 miles (1,100 km) from Lassen Peak, in northern California, U.S., through Oregon and Washington to the Fraser River in southern British Columbia),

Alyeska Resort on the Ikon Pass in Alaska (this resort averages around 54.1 feet of snow annually, but can receive as much as 70.6 feet of snow. It’s located in Chugach State Park, just outside of Anchorage),

Mount Baker Ski Area on the Ikon Pass, Washington
This resort averages around 54.1 feet/16.5 meters of snow annually.

Once you send us your email RSVP, we’ll request event payment. Your event payment confirms your participation.

When you arrive at the event venue, please ask for the SnowPals table/gathering spot, show your digital or printed receipt at the event to Aubrey and Steve (co-host) for entry.

Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Pay for your own drinks & any other food, as desired. Please put this event on your your calendar with a reminder so you won’t forget.

SnowPals’ SF meetup after work: Richard Bothwell, will be our guest for this evening’s SF backcountry meetup:“ Richard Bothwell, Backcountry CFO (Chief Fun Officer)

Since 1996, Richard has been the backwoods & backcountry expert, climbing guide, splitboard guide, and a pretty good backcountry cook, too. Richard has climbed, skied, snowboarded and guided trips all over the world including 4 of the “7 Summits” (Kilimanjaro, Aconcagua, Denali, and Elbrus).

He’s climbed extensively in the Cordillera Blanca of Peru, including summtiing Alpamayo, Artesonraju, and Tocllaraju. He’s also snowboarded down 7500 meter/24,000′ peaks in China. He’s surfed (poorly) on four continents as well.Richard served at the Executive Director of AIARE (American Institute of Avalanche Research and Education) from 2016-2018.

In 2023, Richard authored Light Tours of Tahoe, a backcountry ski guide focusing on mellow tours that avoid avalanche terrain.Certifications and trainings that Richard holds or has held: AMGA Single Pitch Instructor and Top Rope Site Manager, AMGA Apprentice Backcountry Ski Guide, AIARE Level 3 avalanche training, AIARE Avalanche Course Leader, Wilderness First Responder, PSIA 1 Ski Instructor, and ACA Sea kayak instructor.

Richard is passionate about avalanche education and backcountry snowboarding. He teaches avalanche classes for The Nickolay Dodov Foundation, Feather River College and Lake Tahoe Community College. Most of all, Richard loves connecting with people and sharing his knowledge with others.”Join us to ask him your QA backcountry ski touring questions at 6pm tonight. See you there!

Frequently Asked Question:

Why is it a good idea to have a backcountry skiing partner?

Having a backcountry skiing partner is crucial for safety, as it allows for shared decision-making, immediate assistance in case of an accident, better avalanche safety measures with beacon checks, and the ability to help one another in challenging terrain, significantly reducing the risks associated with venturing into the backcountry alone; essentially, a partner provides a safety net and enhances overall enjoyment of the experience by sharing the responsibility and knowledge of the mountain environment.

Key reasons to partner up for backcountry skiing tours:

✔ Avalanche safety:
A partner can help with avalanche risk assessment, beacon searches, and rescue efforts if someone gets caught in an avalanche.

✔ Decision-making:
Sharing the responsibility of route selection and deciding when to turn back based on conditions.

✔ Emergency response:
In case of an injury, a partner can provide immediate first aid and call for help.

✔ Communication and accountability:
Open communication about concerns and abilities, ensuring everyone is on the same page.

✔ Shared knowledge and experience:
Learning from each other’s skills and expertise, especially if one partner has more experience in the backcountry.

✔ Enhanced enjoyment:

✔ Sharing the adventure and the thrill of the backcountry with someone else creates a more positive experience.

Join SnowPals to partner up to pool resources, wisdom, and to stay safe for backcountry skiing / split boarding touring adventures.

Feel free to with friends to invite.

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=== 11/14/2024 San Francisco Kickoff ===

Limited appetizer platters will be ordered for our group; enjoy sumptuous appetizers with your drinks! Pay for your own drinks & any other food, as desired.

When: Thursday November 14th, from 6:30pm to 9:30pm. Asiento specializes in craft drinks, creative cocktails and delectable bar bites. A live band will be playing in the parklet area.

Where: Asiento 2730 21st Street in SF

www.asientosf.com

Asiento is 21+ inside but have a large parklet outside.

Host for this event: Maureen will help connect skiers and boarders, and facilitate winter Tahoe ride sharing. She is an *Advanced level rider (25+ yrs) with an EPIC pass* and she loves to snowboard and connecting people to share their love of snow sports! Her joy of life is riding through the trees & fresh powder.

She has been to a few international resorts, and got more on her snowboard travel destination list to tackle! Also her top Tahoe resort is Palisades/Alpine (had IKON pass last 2 seasons). Previous ski leases (but not this year).

Maureen works 12 hr shifts in medicine, off weekdays (likes to avoid weekend skiing chaos). Any others with similar schedule/flexibility? Be sure to connect with her! She lives to chase powder; so far for 2024, one trip to Snowbird in Jan, Whistler in Feb. Otherwise Tahoooooe!! 😉

** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **

Event Fee: $10 per person. Light appetizers will be ordered for the event. Event fee terms: ticket is transferable to another person if you can not go. No refunds.

Event Capacity 60: as of November 10, 2024, we are fully booked at capacity of 60 RSVPS. Our first batch of tickets on Eventbrite is sold out. This is the second batch. We’ll close the RSVP form below when we reach 60.

When you arrive, please ask for the SnowPals table/gathering spot, Maureen is the event host, show your digital or printed receipt at the event for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Pay for your own drinks & any other food, as desired. Please put this event on your your calendar reminder so you won’t forget.

TRANSPORTATION: Take the BART 24th Street exit (use BART Trip Planner) or use Uber ride. Area parking available.

Meetup agenda:

* enjoy drinks, appetizers, share last season’s powder day stories

Get maximum use out of your Ikon Pass, Epic Pass, Mountain Collective Pass, Powder Alliance Pass, Indy Pass, Cali Pass, or resort specific pass

+ exchange contacts for AWD 4WD rideshare to/from Lake Tahoe
+ connect with similar skill level ski, ride buddies for resort & backcountry

* share tips on which season pass is best to buy: Ikon, Epic, Indy, Cali, Power Alliance, Gold Pass, etc. (join to leverage group discount season pass) for those still deciding

* Join our JaPOW Trio in February 2025 ski/ride travel destination trip to Hokkaido (to Niseko United resorts) to make max use of your Ikon and Epic Pass (option for backcountry local mountain guide/side country CAT skiing)

* plan chase powder trips to Utah, CO, Jackson Hole WY, Austria, French, Italian, and Japanese Alps, Whistler Blackcomb, Lake Louise trip for both resort based leveraging your season pass (and backcountry skiing)

* meet/join group cabin ski lease share organizers(many of the ski lease organizers are the same from the previous year), learn more about joining a cabin for the winter

* get inside tips and advice on all things Lake Tahoe and snow sports from our avid skiers, riders

We hope to see you there to make some new ski/ride pals and to get stoked for the 2024/25 ski/board winter season!

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=== 11/7/2024 Oakland Kickoff ===

 

mad-oak-bar-n-yard

 

When: Thursday November 7, 2024, from 6 to 8pm

Where: Mad Oak Bar ‘N’ Yard – is a happening watering hole with a patio, plus beer on tap & rotating chefs dishing up tasty snacks.view their drinks and grub menu.

Event Host: Ashlee will help connect skiers and boarders, and facilitate winter Tahoe ride sharing at the event. She loves to shred POW, and she’s an Ikon Pass holder for the 2024/25 winter. She also runs a ski lease share in Tahoe City with 2-3 spots available, interested? check out her listing.

Event Fee: $10 per person. Light appetizers will be ordered for the event. Event fee terms: ticket is transferable to another person if you can not go. No refunds.

RSVP for Oakland’s Kickoff (opens in a new window)

When you arrive, please ask for the SnowPals table/gathering spot, Ashlee is the event host, show your digital or printed receipt at the event for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Pay for your own drinks & any other food, as desired. Please put this event on your your calendar reminder so you won’t forget.

** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **

Event Area Map

Use BART Trip Planner to plan it.

We hope to see you there to make some new ski/ride pals and to get stoked for the 2024/25 ski/board winter season!

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=== Wednesday 1/22/2025 Santana Row West San Jose Whiskey Tasting Meetup ===

 

vintage-wine-bar-san-jose-ca

 

Vintage Wine Merchant Santana Row Whiskey Tasting: whiskey from Luxco which will include Remus, Penelope and others

Join SnowPals to gear up or more accurately, ‘whiskey up/stock up’ for the next snow 🌨️❄️ storm; OpenSnow app indicates that a petite snow storm is on the inbound for the high Sierra this Friday to Saturday Jan 24th to 25th 😉

When: Wednesday, January 22, 2025 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm

Where: Vintage Wine Merchants 377 Santana Row, Suite 1135, San Jose CA 95128 (click for driving directions)

Tasting flight fee: $20 to Vintage Wine Merchants payable at the event.

SnowPals Event fee: $10 includes appetizers (advance event ticketing RSVPs only).

Non-members: $19 (join SnowPals to get the members’ event discount rate)

*Event fee includes limited light appetizers. Event fee terms: ticket is transferable to another person if you can not go. No refunds.

Host: Tim (SnowPals CFO, Chief Fun Officer/founder)

How to RSVP?

Please 1) email Tim at (copy and paste the following questions to your email to answer)

a) which event are you RSVPing for?

b) how many people are on your RSVP? Yours and their name(s)?

c) your mobile number in case we need to reach you about the event?

d) got a season pass to? for Tahoe ride-sharing, which resort(s) do you frequent? Can you offer a ride or would like to be a passenger?

e) are you interested in small group travel discount trips from international ski/ride powder destinations, and trips locally to SoCal’s Mammoth Mountain Resort (leveraging your Ikon Pass) or to other resort(s) or ski area(s) outside of CA?

Tasting Flight Details

Another Wacky Whiskey Wednesday. Vintage Wine Merchants will be featuring a unique collection of whiskey from Luxco which will include Remus, Penelope and others.

Uber or get a designated driver is highly recommended for this event 😉

🥃 Remus Straight Bourbon Whiskey ‘Highest Rye’ 6 Yr
🥃 Penelope Straight Bourbon
🥃 Whiskey Rose Cask Finish
🥃 Penelope Straight Bourbon Whiskey Four Grain
🥃 Penelope Straight Bourbon Whiskey Architect
🥃 Penelope Straight Bourbon Whiskey Four Grain Barrel Strength
🥃 Penelope Straight Bourbon Whiskey Heavy Toasted
🥃 Plus a couple more

Once you send us your email RSVP, we’ll request event payment. Your event payment confirms your participation. Please bring your digital receipt to show at the event for entry.

When you arrive, please look for Tim in the bar seating area, show your digital or printed event receipt for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Please put this event on your calendar with a reminder so you won’t forget.

** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **

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=== 1/8/2025 Santana Row West San Jose Whiskey Tasting Meetup ===

 

vintage-wine-bar-san-jose-ca

 

Vintage Wine Merchant Santana Row Whiskey Tasting: Woodford Reserve

Wednesday, January 8, 2025 from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Tasting Flight Fee: $20.00 pay directly to Vintage Wine Merchants

SnowPals’ Event Fee:

$10 for members
$19 for non-members (join SnowPals to get the members’ event discount rate)

*event fee includes limited light appetizers

Host: Tim (SnowPals CFO, Chief Fun Officer/founder)

1) reach out to Tim at to let us know (copy and paste the following questions to your email to answer)

a) which event are you RSVPing for?
b) how many people are on your RSVP? Yours and their name(s)?
c) for Tahoe ride-sharing, which resort(s) do you frequent? Can you offer a ride or would like to be a passenger?

d) are you interested in small group travel discount trips from international ski/ride POWDER destinations, to trips to SoCal’s Mammoth Mountain Resort (leveraging your Ikon Pass), to chase deep powder snow freshies to resorts in..

Utah, Colorado, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Wyoming (averages around 38.1 feet of snow annually),

the Cascades Range (extend northward for more than 700 miles (1,100 km) from Lassen Peak, in northern California, U.S., through Oregon and Washington to the Fraser River in southern British Columbia),

Alyeska Resort on the Ikon Pass in Alaska (this resort averages around 54.1 feet of snow annually, but can receive as much as 70.6 feet of snow. It’s located in Chugach State Park, just outside of Anchorage),

Mount Baker Ski Area on the Ikon Pass, Washington
This resort averages around 54.1 feet/16.5 meters of snow annually.

Once you send us your email RSVP, we’ll request event payment. Your event payment confirms your participation.

When you arrive, please look for Tim in the bar seating area, show your digital or printed event receipt for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Please put this event on your calendar with a reminder so you won’t forget.

** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **

Tasting Event Details:

Nestled in the heart of Kentucky’s rolling hills, the Woodford Reserve Distillery is a beacon of tradition and craftsmanship. As you approach, the picturesque landscape greets you with an air of timeless elegance, where the art of bourbon-making has been perfected for generations.

Whiskey Tasting Flight

Woodford Reserve Bourbon Whiskey
Woodford Reserve Bourbon Whiskey Double Oaked
Woodford Reserve Malt Whiskey
Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey
Woodford Reserve Rye Whiskey

Where: Vintage Wine Merchants 377 Santana Row, Suite 1135, San Jose CA 95128 (click for driving directions)

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=== 1/16/2025 South Bay Silicon Valley Meetup ===

 

sunnyvale-sports-basement

 

When: Thursday 1/16/2025, 5:30pm to 7:30pm

Where: Sports Basement Sunnyvale’s Summit Room | 1177 Kern Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94085 (click for driving directions).

Event Host: Jasmine is an avid snowboarder with an IKON pass and loves to share her passion for snow sports with other people! She’s aiming to learn more tricks and jumps in the parks this season! Jasmine has been to a couple resorts in the U.S. to chase pow but hopes to powder hound to some international destinations in the future. She works full time in the medical tech industry, and is off on the weekends. If anyone has a similar schedule/flexibility, be sure to reach out to her at the kickoff!

This event is limited to 50 participants.

If this event is fully booked, to get waitlisted.

Event Fee:

$10 for members
$19 for non-members (join SnowPals to get the members’ event discount rate). Read about us on Facebook | Yelp

*Limited light appetizers will be ordered for the event. **Event fee terms: ticket is transferable to another person for the same event date if you can not go. No refunds.

Event Exclusive Discount Perks: Basementeers get 20% off purchases while non members get 11% off purchases.

How to RSVP?

1) reach out to Tim at to let us know (copy and paste the following questions to your email to answer)

a) which event are you RSVPing for?
b) how many people are on your RSVP? Yours and their name(s)?
c) for Tahoe ride-sharing, which resort(s) do you frequent? Can you offer a ride or would like to be a passenger?

d) are you interested in small group travel discount trips to international ski/ride POWDER destinations, and trips to SoCal’s Mammoth Mountain Resort (leveraging your Ikon Pass), to chase deep powder snow freshies to resorts in..

Utah, Colorado, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Wyoming (averages around 38.1 feet of snow annually),

the Cascades Range (extend northward for more than 700 miles (1,100 km) from Lassen Peak, in northern California, U.S., through Oregon and Washington to the Fraser River in southern British Columbia),

Alyeska Resort on the Ikon Pass in Alaska (this resort averages around 54.1 feet of snow annually, but can receive as much as 70.6 feet of snow. It’s located in Chugach State Park, just outside of Anchorage),

Mount Baker Ski Area on the Ikon Pass, Washington
This resort averages around 54.1 feet/16.5 meters of snow annually.

Once you send us your email RSVP, we’ll request event payment. Your event payment confirms your participation.

When you arrive, please join the group in the Summit room, Jasmine is the event host, show your digital or printed receipt to her for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Please put this event on your calendar with a reminder so you won’t forget.

** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **

We hope to see you there to make some new ski/ride pals and to get stoked for the 2024/25 ski/board winter season!

👉 Go back to the top
 

 

 

 

=== 1/16/2025 San Carlos Meetup ===

 

hapa-brewry-san-carlos

 

When: Thursday 1/16/2025, 6pm to 8pm

Hapa’s Brewing Company 722 Laurel St, San Carlos, CA 94070 (Get driving directions). | View the craft beer menu, food menu

Event Host: Meghana. “I’m beginner level skier based in the Bay Area. I love spending weekends at Lake Tahoe (historically, Northstar, Palisades, or Squaw Valley resorts) to practice and enjoy the slopes. In the off season, I also enjoy kite-surfing or biking locally. I’m looking to connect with other winter sports enthusiasts to share tips, explore new runs, improve skills, and make the most of the Tahoe winter recreation. Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, or just enjoy the apres-ski vibe, I’d love to meet some like-minded people!”

This event is limited to 30 participants.

If this event is fully booked, to get waitlisted.

Event Fee:

$10 for members
$19 for non-members (join SnowPals to get the members’ event discount rate). Read about us on Facebook | Yelp

*Limited light appetizers will be ordered for the event. *Event fee terms: ticket is transferable to another person for the same event date if you can not go. No refunds.

1) reach out to Tim at to let us know (copy and paste the following questions to your email to answer)

a) which event are you RSVPing for?
b) how many people are on your RSVP? Yours and their name(s)?
c) for Tahoe ride-sharing, which resort(s) do you frequent? Can you offer a ride or would like to be a passenger?

d) are you interested in small group travel discount trips to international ski/ride POWDER destinations, trips to SoCal’s Mammoth Mountain Resort (leveraging your Ikon Pass), to chase deep powder snow freshies to resorts in..

Utah, Colorado, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Wyoming (averages around 38.1 feet of snow annually),

the Cascades Range (extend northward for more than 700 miles (1,100 km) from Lassen Peak, in northern California, U.S., through Oregon and Washington to the Fraser River in southern British Columbia),

Alyeska Resort on the Ikon Pass in Alaska (this resort averages around 54.1 feet of snow annually, but can receive as much as 70.6 feet of snow. It’s located in Chugach State Park, just outside of Anchorage),

Mount Baker Ski Area on the Ikon Pass, Washington
This resort averages around 54.1 feet/16.5 meters of snow annually.

Once you send us your email RSVP, we’ll request event payment. Your event payment confirms your participation.

When you arrive, show your digital or printed receipt to Meghana for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Please put this event on your calendar with a reminder so you won’t forget.

** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **

We hope to see you there to make some new ski/ride pals and to get stoked for the 2024/25 ski/board winter season!

👉 Go back to the top
 

 

 

 

=== 1/14/2024 Silicon Valley Kickoff ===

 

IMG_0081

 

When: Thursday November 14, 2024, from 6:15pm to 8:15pm

Where: Laughing Monk Brewery in Sunnyvale. Brewpub known for its house-brewed beer, industrial-chic ambiance, pub fare & outdoor patio. View their drinks and grub menu. 1235 Oakmead Pkwy, Sunnyvale, CA 94085

Event Host: Jasmine is an avid snowboarder with an IKON pass and loves to share her passion for snow sports with other people! She’s aiming to learn more tricks and jumps in the parks this season! Jasmine has been to a couple resorts in the U.S. to chase pow but hopes to powder hound to some international destinations in the future. She works full time in the medical tech industry, and is off on the weekends. If anyone has a similar schedule/flexibility, be sure to reach out to her at the kickoff!

Event Fee: $10 per person. Light appetizers will be ordered for the event. Event fee terms: ticket is transferable to another person if you can not go. No refunds.

RSVP for Silicon Valley Kickoff (opens in a new window)

When you arrive, please ask for the SnowPals table/gathering spot, Jasmine is the event host, show your digital or printed receipt to her for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Pay for your own drinks & any other food, as desired. Please put this event on your your calendar reminder so you won’t forget.

** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **

We hope to see you there to make some new ski/ride pals and to get stoked for the 2024/25 ski/board winter season!

👉 Go back to the top

 

 

 

=== 2/12/2025 North Bay Happy Hour with the Santa Rosa Ski/Board Club (SRSC) ===

 

epic-center-santa-rosa-ca

 

Join in our fun Happy Hour with the Santa Rosa Ski/Snowboard Club

Join SnowPals for happy hour and meet with members of the Santa Rosa Ski Club to learn about their club activities and the club’s ski lodge in Truckee. After the happy hour Snowpals can choose to stay and learn about ski club events or break off into Epicenter’s Victory House sports bar to plan Tahoe trips and exchange contacts for ride sharing.

When: Wednesday, February 12, 2025 from 5:30 PM until 6:30 PM

Where: Poppy Bank Epicenter is North Bay’s largest all-in-one destination for sports, fitness and entertainment. Please check-in when you get to the venue in Room 300. View map and driving directions.

SnowPals Event fee: $10 includes appetizers

Non-members: $19 (join SnowPals to get the members’ event discount rate)

*Event fee includes limited light appetizers. Event fee terms: ticket is transferable to another person if you can not go. No refunds.

Hosts: John and Hung

How to RSVP?

Please 1) email Tim at (copy and paste the following questions to your email to answer)

a) which event are you RSVPing for?

b) how many people are on your RSVP? Yours and their name(s)?

c) your mobile number in case we need to reach you about the event?

d) got a season pass to? for Tahoe ride-sharing, which resort(s) do you frequent? Can you offer a ride or would like to be a passenger?

e) are you interested in small group travel discount trips from international ski/ride powder destinations, and trips locally to SoCal’s Mammoth Mountain Resort (leveraging your Ikon Pass) or to other resort(s) or ski area(s) outside of CA?

Once you send us your email RSVP, we’ll request event payment. Your event payment confirms your participation. Please bring your digital receipt to show at the event for entry.

When you arrive, please look for Tim in the bar seating area, show your digital or printed event receipt for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Please put this event on your calendar with a reminder so you won’t forget.

** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **

👉 Go back to the top

 

 

 

 

 

 

=== 12/4/2024 North Bay Kickoff in Petaluma ===

 

Henhouse Brewing Petaluma CA

 

When: Wednesday December 4, 2024, from 6:30 to 8:30pm

Where: Henhouse Brewery at 1333 N. McDowell Boulevard
Petaluma, CA 94954 – is a happening taproom pouring signature local brews & special releases by the pint or the taster..view their drinks and grub menu.

Event Host: Emily Huston will help connect skiers and boarders, and facilitate winter Tahoe ride sharing at the event. She is a skier with a deep love for the mountains, and this year, she’s setting her sights on more backcountry adventures. She’s lived in Mexico, Argentina, Finland, and Switzerland—though she likes to joke that it’s five countries if you count Texas! As a former USA/professional athlete and founder of HomeTeam, Emily has dedicated herself to helping retired and injured athletes find purpose beyond their sport, blending her passion for adventure with her commitment to supporting others through life’s big transitions. She also runs a ski lease share in Tahoe City with available spots, interested? check out her listing.

Event Fee: $10 per person. Light appetizers will be ordered for the event. Event fee terms: ticket is transferable to another person if you can not go. No refunds.

RSVP for North Bay Kickoff (opens in a new window)

When you arrive, please ask for the SnowPals table/gathering spot, Emily is the event host, show your digital or printed receipt at the event for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Pay for your own drinks & any other food, as desired. Please put this event on your your calendar reminder so you won’t forget.

** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **

👉 Go back to the top

 

 

 

 

 

PAST EVENT PHOTOS

with friends and family ♥

❄️☃️⛷⛸

♥ Share this page with friends and family via twitterfacebook. Browse Tahoe area ski leases to join or vacation rentals.

 

 

 

Heli-Skiing Riding Untracked POWDER on your bucket list? RSVP for CMH & Ikon Pass Stoke Events

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You’re invited: CMH Heli-skiing Happy Hour & Ikon Pass Stoke Events

CMH Heli-skiing is hosting a series of events in the Bay Area and beyond this fall 2025. You’re invited to join us at heli-ski happy hour, get stoked for the upcoming season and learn more about heli-skiing in British Columbia.

The Area Manager and Lead Guide from CMH Kootenay as well as other CMH staff will be available to answer all your questions about heli-skiing in British Columbia. We’ll have swag, raffles and Oculus goggles showcasing our VR film, Lines of Sight, at all events.

RSVP is required for all events and space is limited.

1) CMH & Ikon Pass Stoke Event, Sacramento

Oct. 30th, 2026

Details & RSVP

2) CMH & Ikon Pass Stoke Event, San Francisco

Nov. 4th, 2026

Details & RSVP

3) CMH Heli-skiing & Arc’teryx Stanford, Palo Alto

Nov. 5th, 2026

Join us for wine and snacks to discuss powder skiing and gear

Details & RSVP here

4) CMH Heli-skiing Heli-ski Happy Hour, Menlo Park

Nov. 6th, 2026

Join us for beer and pub food

Details & RSVP

Questions?

Contact: Anne Trott

CMH Heli-skiing and Summer Adventures

Regional Representative, California

484-802-0664 | E:

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Your chance to see what it’s like to heli-ski & to ride untracked deep powder. On your bucket list?

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♥ Share to invite family and friends to join: twitterfacebook.

Lake Tahoe Resorts Opening Dates 2025/26 Winter, Live Web Cams, Upcoming Events, Snow Report, Trail Maps, Public Transit Options

 

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Lake Tahoe Resorts Opening Dates 2025/26 Winter, Live Web Cams, Upcoming Events, Snow Report, Trail Maps, Public Transit Options

Last Updated November 5, 2025

Thank you for visiting SnowPals! We’re a SF Bay Area Snow Sports Community (established in 1999); join our active community to expand your circle of ski, snowboard, and off-season recreational activity partners.

Join us to enjoy all that Lake Tahoe offers for snow sports ❄️⛷ to connect with San Francisco Bay Area professionals (singles, couples, married (with/without kids), college students, and retirees (age ranging from 21 to those enjoying retirement with more time on their hands for recreation). In the off season, partner up for recreational activities such as biking, hiking, water sports, and golf to keep fit and get in that work/life balance.” – SnowPals.org ♥

Bookmark this page for easy reference.

QUICK NAVIGATION LINKS:

⭐️ Lake Tahoe/Sierra Resorts Snow Report, Live Cams, Lift + Mountain Conditions, Trail Maps |
⭐️ Tap into Promos from our Partners |
⭐️ Bay Area to Tahoe Ski Bus Schedule + Get a Quote for Corporate, School or a Private Bus Trip to Lake Tahoe Resorts |
⭐️ Best Learn to Ski Snowboard Package Deals |
⭐️ Love to chase POW? Glean some wisdom insights with SnowPals’ member Marc’s powder hound adventures which spanned over 20 years of riding Tahoe resorts freshies |
⭐️ SoCal Eastern Sierra Nevada Resorts |
⭐️ Nordic Cross Country Ski, Snowshoeing Areas |
⭐️ Getting Around Lake Tahoe Transportation Options |
⭐️ National Weather Service Forecast, Winter Driving Tips, Chain Controls, CalTrans Tahoe Roads Conditions |
⭐️ Snow-sports Businesses Cross-marketing Opportunities / Guest Blog Writers |
⭐️ ? RSVP for our fun social meetup events to meet skiers/boarders near you! |

Tahoe Rideshare

Need a ride or got empty seats in your car for a Tahoe rideshare? If you are driving with empty seats in your car, offer a ride and get gas/EV supercharger money compensation to offset your Lake Tahoe gas/EV supercharging trip cost. Meet ski, ride pals in the process; some skiers, snowboarders have made lasting friendships through our rideshare connection, and a few marriages too.

SnowPals’ rideshare forum was launched in 1999 with a few friends and have now grown to over 8k+ members strong, consisting of working professionals, college students, retirees, and out of town visitors to Lake Tahoe. Connect with SF Bay Area professionals for Tahoe Ride-sharing/carpooling, plus we have added our own members only WhatsApp real time communication channels so you can arrange rides quickly: join SnowPals to expand your circle of rideshare contacts and ski/ride pals.

 

Spot any errors on this page, . Thank you!

Follow us on Twitter/X to get real time updates about all things Tahoe.


2025/26 Projected Lake Tahoe Resorts Opening Dates, Snow Totals, Trail Maps, Live Cams, Upcoming Events

Mt. Rose TBD early DECEMBER 2025 | Trail Map | Cam | Conditions | Events Calendar | Mt Rose on Instagram

Palisades Tahoe & Alpine (aka Squaw Valley USA Alpine Meadows) opens NOV 26 | Trail Map | Cam | Conditions | Events Calendar | Instagram

Alpine Meadows Trail Map opens NOV 26 | Cam

squaw-alpine

Boreal TBD early NOVEMBER . Check their website for night skiing hours. Trail Map | Cam | Events Calendar | Instagram

Heavenly Mountain Resort opens November 19, 2025 | Trail Map | Live Cams | Conditions | Events Calendar | Instagram

heavenly-resort-opening-day

Sierra at Tahoe opens NOV 28 | Trail Map | Cam | Conditions | Events Calendar | Instagram

Kirkwood opens NOV 28 | Trail Map | Cam | Conditions | Events Calendar | Instagram

kirkwood-resort

Northstar-at-Tahoe opens Nov 19 | Trail Map | Cam | Conditions | Events Calendar | Instagram

Sugar Bowl TBD mid-November | Trail Map | Cam | Conditions | Events Calendar | Instagram

Homewood opens DEC 5 Trail Map | Cam | Conditions | Instagram

homewood-resort

Diamond Peak opens December 05 | Learn about this Incline Village NV resort that has the best pano lake view in North Lake Tahoe | Trail Map | Cam | Conditions | Events Calendar | Instagram

Tahoe Donner opens early DEC | Trail Map | Events Calendar | Instagram

Donner Ski Ranch opens late November TBD | Trail Map | Instagram

Bear Valley opens late November TBD | Trail Map | Cam | Events Calendar | Instagram

China Peak opens TBD DecemberTrail Map | Events Calendar | Instagram

Dodge Ridge opens TBD early December | Trail Map | Cam | Events Calendar | Instagram

Soda Springs opens late November | Trail Map | Instagram

Yosemite’s Badger Pass® Ski Area TBA | Trail Map | Instagram

Mt. Shasta Ski Park Resort opens December TBA Trail Map | Cam | Extended night skiing/riding hours 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM. | Events Calendar | Instagram

New to SnowPals? Join us to expand your circle of ski and snowboarding buddies. Attend our fun casual social meetups to connect with skiers, snowboarders and backcountry ski/split-board enthusiasts close to you for Tahoe trips.

 


Learn to ski, snowboard deals, discounts

New to skiing, snowboarding and looking to find the best learn to ski, ride package deal which includes rentals, lesson and lift ticket? We put together a useful list of the best deals saving you time searching for them (feel free to share this page with family/friends to plan a ski trip to a Lake Tahoe resort).


One Minute Shred the POWDER GOPRO Video Contest Grand Prize Winner & Submit your video entry to our SECOND ROUND Video Contest

Congrats to Achal for winning our grand prize contest giveaway for our 1st round winner:

ROUND TWO SHRED THE POW 1 MINUTE VIDEO CONTEST: with back to back Sierra winter storms delivering mucho powder snow freshies, share with us your POV 1 minute POWDER shredding video!


NORDIC CROSS COUNTRY SKI, SNOWSHOEING AREAS CLOSING DATES

Granlibakken: TBA
Tahoe XC: TBA – opening date TBA
Tahoe Donner: TBA
North Tahoe regional park nordic ski area: TBA; check website for list of areas
Royal Gorge Cross-country ski resort: December TBA
Other Nordic Ski Areas and snow parks/SNO-parks: TBA, visit goTahoeNorth.com

Granlibakken Resort TBA Trail Map | Cam

Royal Gorge Cross Country Ski Resort TBA Trail Map

Spooner Lake Cross Country Ski Area TBA Trail Map

Tahoe Cross Country Ski Area TBA Trail Map

* Plan a Tahoe getaway: browse/book a Tahoe vacation rental or if you have a season pass, join a ski lease to set a new personal record for most ski and ride days.

* Rideshare to your favorite Tahoe resort and expand your circle of friends for POWDER trips using your Epic/Ikon pass to Utah, Colorado, Whistler, Europe, Japan, South America and other worldwide snow destinations.

Snow-sports Businesses Cross-marketing Opportunities

If you have a snow sports business or a business that compliments well with skiing, snowboarding, and/or our year-round pursuit of an active opt outside lifestyle, about cross-marketing opportunities that is mutually beneficial.

Guest Blog Writers

If you are good with the pen and like to share your experience and wisdom about the A to Z of snow-sports and/or have deep insights about Lake Tahoe in all its seasons, how we can add you as a guest blog contributor.

✔ Our first guest author is a resident of SLT: “Eight microbreweries in South Lake Tahoe SLT to choose from but here’s my Fave

Quick Navigation Links:

* Caltrans Road Conditions | Road Traffic Live Cams | Chain Control Advisory

* Discount Ski Bus Trips: one day, overnight, private small groups, corporate ski bus trips

* Join Tahoe ride-sharing / carpool to help reduce carbon emissions and share expenses

* North Lake Tahoe Public Transportation Information

Getting around Lake Tahoe Local Transit – linkingTahoe.com

At Lake Tahoe you can enjoy an abundance of local transit options on the North Shore, the South Shore, and everywhere in between. All public transit routes are now FREE to the user!

TART (Tahoe Truckee Regional Transit)
TART provides bus service along the North and West shores of Lake Tahoe, state Route 89 from Tahoe City to Alpine Meadows, Olympic Valley, and state Route 267 to Northstar and Truckee. TART runs at hourly and 30-minute service intervals. Find out when your bus will arrive with real-time information on Next Bus.

TTD (Tahoe Transportation District)
TTD offers daily service within Tahoe’s South Shore with regular connections to the Carson Valley and Carson City, Nevada. You can find out when your bus will arrive with real-time information on Transit.

TART Connect
TART Connect offers a FREE and easy way to leave the car behind. Enjoy curb-to-curb service and connections to North Shore destinations within three different zones. Download the app to book your trip today!

Lake Link
Lake Link is a FREE, on-demand shuttle which takes you to South Shore beaches, trails, entertainment, and nightlife. Catch the service between 7am and 9pm on weekdays and 7am and 10pm on weekends. Download the app to book your ride!

SKI RESORT SHUTTLES
Many of the ski resorts including Heavenly, Northstar, and Diamond Peak, provide free shuttles to get you on the slopes. Check the resort’s website to find schedules and pick up locations.

Mountaineer provides free seasonal transit within Olympic Valley and Alpine Meadows for guests and residents. Download the app and call a ride from anywhere to anywhere within the two valleys.

Park, Ride & Recreate!
TART’s winter park and ride program provides free bus service to Olympic Valley and Northstar on weekends and holidays from Late December through mid-March.

TTD’s seasonal (Summer) East Shore Express provides a convenient and affordable way to enjoy a day at Sand Harbor. Learn more about the Park Tahoe Program and park-and-ride rates along Lake Tahoe’s East Shore.

HOTEL SHUTTLES
Many hotels offer free shuttles to major destinations in and around Tahoe. Check your hotel website or speak with a concierge to find out what services they may offer.

MOUNTAIN BIKING SHUTTLES
Flume Trail Mountain Bikes operates a seasonal shuttle, June through October, 7 days a week. The shuttle is FREE with a bike rental, entrance fee for the State Park is included. You can also take one of the hourly shuttles with your own bike. The shuttle goes from Flume Trail Mountain Bikes next to Tunnel Creek Cafe in Incline Village to Spooner Lake State Park. Then, you can ride your bike back to Flume Trail Mountain Bikes via the spectacular Flume Trail. The classic Flume Trail ride is 14 miles back to the shop/cafe and your car.

Flume Trail Bikes also offers shuttles to Tahoe Meadows to access the Tahoe Rim Trail on even days of the month.

Shoreline of Tahoe offers bike rentals and a seasonal shuttle service to several mountain bike trailheads.

Wanna Ride Tahoe operates a mountain bike and hiking shuttle service daily from 7am until 7pm. Priced per person, the service includes gear, snacks, water, and a ride!

* The above transportation information is provided by LinkingTahoe.com

PUBLIC SHUTTLES

TART (Tahoe Area Regional Transit)

Call 530-550-1212. Regular schedules run 7 days / week from 6:30 AM until 6:30 PM. TART service runs along 30 miles of the North Lake Tahoe shoreline including a shuttle between Tahoe City and Truckee via Hwy. 89. Buses equipped with bike racks in summer and ski racks in winter.

Truckee Transit

Call 530-587-751 for information. Buses run from 9 AM to 5 PM, no service between 1:15 to 2:15, Monday through Saturday. Service from Truckee Airport / Downtown Commercial Row / Donner Lake.

Ski Resort Shuttles and Schedules

– Free Ski Shuttle. Call 800-736-6365 for information. Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows and Homewood resorts: TART service offers weekend and holiday week schedule.

Night Rider Free Night Service

Call 530-546-2912 for information. Free service stopping at all TART public bus stops at night through the summer and winter with variable schedules.

TIMING YOUR BUS

NextBus.com

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION

There are free public transit fixed route service that covers the city of South Lake Tahoe, Stateline, NV, and Carson Valley.

Visit TART – Transit for the Tahoe Area

Information about the free SLT fare smartphone app, and phone number. This app is for the south shore casino/Heavenly area/east side of the city of South Lake Tahoe.

“Don’t have a smartphone? Call 530-494-0153 to book a ride.”

– Public bus service from and to South Lake Tahoe Airport
Tahoe Transportation District (TTD) has a bus stop located at the airport. The bus stop is on route 18X N.B. and E.B.

– BlueGO
BlueGO is a service of the South Tahoe Transit Authority, operated by the Tahoe Transportation District (TTD). BlueGO provides fixed route, demand response, sky shuttles, seasonal trolley service, and commuter express routes on the south shore of Lake Tahoe and to the Carson Valley.

– BlueGO operates seven days a week, 24 hours a day. For more information, please visit the Tahoe Transportation District website: https://www.tahoetransportation.org/transit/south-shore-services.

– Shuttle Service to & from Reno/Tahoe international Airport
South Tahoe Airporter
(530) 544-5289
http://southtahoeairporter.com

South Tahoe Express
This luxury bus shuttle service offers nonstop service between the Reno-Tahoe International Airport and South Shore casinos and hotel properties. There are 8 daily departures each way from Reno between 5:45 a.m. and 12:30 a.m. and from South Shore beginning at 3:30 a.m. and ending at 11:15 p.m. Purchase tickets through your travel agent, the Welcome Center at the Reno Airport and South Shore Casinos. $27.50 per person, each way. $49.00 round trip. Children 4-12 travel for $15.50 each way or $28.00 round trip with paid adult. CALL 866-898-2463

Amador Stage Lines
Busses for Airport Transfers, Casino Trips, Convention Event Shuttles, Golf Outings, Government contracting, Parties, Party Bus, Ski shuttles, Sporting events, Weddings, Reno ~ Lake Tahoe Bus Trips. 635 Ferrari-Mcleod Blvd. Reno, NV 89512 | 775-324-4444

Heavenly Ski Resort
During the ski season, this resort offers FREE fixed route shuttle service to most South Shore lodging properties. The shuttle runs between 8:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. daily. Call for designated stops. 530-541-7548

Sierra At Tahoe Ski Resort
During the ski season, this resort offers FREE fixed route shuttle service to most South Shore lodging properties. The shuttle runs between 8:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. daily. Call for designated stops. 530-541-7548

Please contact us if any of the above information is out of date or is incorrect; advance thanks. We rely on your feedback to provide Lake Tahoe area transportation options that are clear and accurate.

Screen Shot 2017-11-18 at 3.24.35 PM – source: onthesnow.com



* Extreme cool POWDER Van Adventure shoutout to Chris Benchetler’s fluid style as a skier (athlete and an artist) and his journey to ski fresh powder as he travels around the West Coast USA visiting various powder destinations.

GoPro: Chasing POWder AdVANture with Chris Benchetler in 4K


* What’s it like to ski/ride Japan’s famous dry champagne powder?



This season pass gives you two days of skiing / riding in Japan among 18 other resorts across Alberta, Australia, British Columbia, Chamonix (France) and Valle Nevado (Chile), California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, New Zealand, Utah, Vermont, and Wyoming. For 2018/19 season, this pass enables you to go where there’s POWder galore!


Caltrans Road Conditions, Road Traffic Live Cams, Highway Patrol Traffic Incidents Report, Chain Control Advisory, Tahoe Seven Day Weather Forecast

* Check to see when the next snow storm is in the forecast. Browse traffic and road webcams. Check Caltrans live feed.

* WINTER DRIVING TIPS

http://www.dot.ca.gov/cttravel/winter.html

* CHAIN CONTROLS

http://www.dot.ca.gov/cttravel/chain-controls.html

* Roads, Traffic – Check Current Highway Conditions

http://www.dot.ca.gov/cgi-bin/roads.cgi

* LIVE TRAFFIC CAMS

http://www.dot.ca.gov/video/

* CHP Traffic Incident Information

http://cad.chp.ca.gov/

* TAHOE ROAD LIVE CAMS

http://newtoreno.com/ca-i80-webcams-donner-summit.htm

* NORTH TAHOE LIVE CAMS

https://tahoetopia.com/webcams

* SOUTH TAHOE LIVE CAMS

https://tahoesouth.com/lake-tahoe-web-cams/

* Tip: before you drive to Tahoe, check Current California Highway Road Conditions & Traffic; Enter Highway Number(s)

Check weather forecast:

On the Beyond Tahoe Snow Destination ‘Bucket List’: where can you ski and ride at midnight, soak in a hot mineral water pool, then follow that up with soju shots and BBQ eats? Dragon Valley, South Korea – site of the 2018 Winter Olympics.

=== SoCal – Southern California’s/Eastern Sierra Ski Resorts ===

Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort  opens on November 14, 2025 | Trail Map | Live Cams | Events Calendar | Instagram

mammoth-mtn-resort

Mountain High Resort (located in the San Gabriel Mountains in Los Angeles County in California) opens December TBA | Trail Map | Live Cams | Events Calendar | Instagram

*All opening dates posted are based on snowfall and could change. Check with the resort directly before you go for the most updated information.

Map of Lake Tahoe Area Ski Resorts

map source: unofficialnetworks.com

For a detailed listing of Tahoe ski resorts, check out our handy guide to all the Lake Tahoe area ski resorts! It’s the fastest way to scan lift ticket prices and compare the resorts to find the perfect one for you.

Looking to join a Tahoe ski lease? Browse our listing, or list yours.

♥ Share this page with friends and family via twitterfacebook.

*If you spot any error on this page or would like to make a suggestion, please email .  Advance thanks!

 

Why You’ll Love Spring Skiing and Snowboarding in the Sierras

Why You’ll Love Spring Skiing and Snowboarding in the Sierras

Four weeks have passed since the vernal equinox, also known as astronomical spring. Or if you’re a weather nerd like me (🤓), you know that we’re already seven weeks into meteorological spring. And this time of year means that the chill of winter has faded like the serpentine arcs of your fresh powder turns from earlier in the season. But this change doesn’t mean that the fun of sliding on snow is over.

palisades-tahoe-spring-skiing-2025-snowpals

Although a few resorts in the Sierras closed this last weekend and a bunch more will end their winter operations today, Easter Sunday, don’t pack away your skis and snowboards just yet. (By the way, info on who’ll still be open past Easter Sunday and until when can be found at the end.) So, whether or not you’ve already been enjoying the spring conditions of our nearby winter playgrounds, here’s why you will love skiing and snowboarding right now!

Fewer Crowds and Warmer Weather

First and foremost, it’s way less crowded in the spring! No lines for the lifts and virtually empty slopes provide a more enjoyable and relaxed experience.

Warmer weather means less layers of clothing, so you’ll be more comfortable without the need to bundle up in bulkier and heavier apparel.

Also, dwindling crowds and clear skies also mean no traffic and no weather delays on the roads!

Deals and Discounts Galore!

During the latter weeks of the season, it’s just so much cheaper! Not only can you find special pricing on lift tickets, but you can also often get reduced rates on lessons and lodging.

For example, you can pre-purchase tickets online to ski or ride at Sugar Bowl for up to 55% off the window price. https://shop.sugarbowl.com/l/lift-tickets/c/sugar-bowl-lift-ticket

In addition to their amazing daily ticket specials, Mount Rose also offers a full-day lift ticket for children plus a slice of pizza and a fountain drink for only $59. https://secure.skirose.com/store/CalendarView.aspx?node_id=1600045

Beginning on Monday, April 21st, adult lift tickets to Palisades Tahoe are only $119 when bought online in advance. https://shop.palisadestahoe.com/s/winter-lift-tickets/day-lift-tickets/c/daylifttickets

Donner Ski Ranch offers a plethora of stellar discounts. With your 2024/2025 season pass to any resort, you get a $25 lift ticket plus up to 4 additional $25 tickets for friends and family. Better still are their two upcoming free lift ticket days! On Sunday, April 27th, anyone in a costume can ski or ride on the house, and on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11th, all moms get a complimentary lift ticket.

 comp-lift-ticket

At Mammoth Mountain, most midweek adult lift tickets in May are as low as $89. https://book.mammothmountain.com/ecomm/shop/calendar/17793040/en-US/?productcategoryid=117

Learning and Improvement for All Skill Levels

We can’t talk about spring skiing and riding without mentioning corn snow. According to Avalanche.org, corn snow is the surface layer of “snow that has matured through multiple iterations of melt-freeze cycles, most often during the springtime.” And this top layer of softened kernels is smooth and edgeable while the underlying layers deeper into the snowpack remain very supportive.

I’ve often heard spring corn referred to as “hero snow.” And I’d have to agree that it, like fresh powder, can make you feel invincible! For first-timers and beginners, the softer and more forgiving spring snow is easier to learn on. For intermediates on up, corn combined with the space of uncrowded slopes and the superb visibility of sunny skies provide ample opportunity to finetune skills and techniques in carving up the mountain.

Unique Experiences and Fun Vibes

While we relish powder days and storm sessions in winter, we should also welcome these longer days with more sunlight in spring. On Fridays and Saturdays at Mount Rose, for instance, select lifts run until 6pm. https://skirose.com/open-late/ Bluebird skies and a healthy snowpack translate to an overall fun vibe on the mountain. Whether it’s enjoying libations on the sundecks and snow beaches at your favorite mountain or tailgating and grilling up tasty grub in the parking lot, a revived aura of appreciation blossoms as the end of the skiing and riding season approaches.

Screenshot 2025-04-21 at 8.44.48 AM

In the spring, the resorts ratchet up the social experience of our winter sports passion by holding some of the most lively and entertaining events of the year. From live music performances to pond skims, this time of year ushers in an atmosphere of celebration!

And speaking of pond skimming and festive vibes, remember that on Sunday, May 4th, the SnowPals casual meetup will be going down during the 33rd Annual Cushing Crossing at Palisades Tahoe. Full details here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/palisades-tahoes-pond-skimming-event-w-snowpalsdotorg-tickets-1329303064249

Extend Your Season

As you can see, spring skiing and snowboarding offer a unique blend of fun, relaxation and adventure, making it an affordable and worthwhile experience for skiers and riders of all levels.

And for those with Ikon, Epic, and other passes, take advantage of the opportunities for an endless winter by traveling to the resorts in the Southern Hemisphere available with your season pass! The winter season in locales such as Chile, Australia and New Zealand typically runs from June to October.

Closing Dates (Note that all dates are subject to change due to snow conditions)

Bear Valley, Boreal, Diamond Peak, Granlibakken, Heavenly, June Mountain, Kirkwood, Northstar, Sierra-at-Tahoe, Soda Springs: 4/20

Mount Rose: 4/27 but will be closed 4/21 through 4/23 before resuming on 4/24

Sugar Bowl: 4/27 but will be closed 4/21 through 4/24 before resuming on 4/25

Alpine Meadows-Palisades Tahoe: 4/27

palisades-tahoe-2025-spring-skiing-capital

Donner Ski Ranch: 5/11 but weekends only after 4/20

Mammoth Mountain: 5/26 but starting on 4/21, lift hours will be from 7:30a to 2:00p

Olympic Valley-Palisades Tahoe: 5/26 (Stay tuned for a potential shift in lift hours here too, as it’s been typical in my experience there over the years.)

Guest Author’s Profile

Cliff Lastrella is a longtime SnowPals member since the early days when the listserv was on Yahoo Groups as Bay Area Skiers & Snowboarders (BASS). An advanced snowboarder from Vallejo, he frequents both the Alpine Meadows and Olympic Valley sides with his Palisades Tahoe resorts only pass as well as Bear Valley with his Cali Pass, which also allows him a few days a season at Sierra-at-Tahoe via its Powder Alliance membership. Bay Area born and bred, Cliff has been snowboarding since Spring 1997, though he has skied once in his life while still in high school back when an aforementioned resort was still called Sierra Ski Ranch. He doesn’t really have an off-season fix, but year-round, he routinely strength trains and walks/hikes to stay in shape. And on occasion, Cliff also shreds some very mellow hills in his neighborhood on his ancient Freebord (think snowboarding on the street). He considers himself a novice Freeborder, as he’s nowhere close to the amazing skill level seen in this brief YouTube video: Freebord Explained

 

Love to ski, ride? Join SnowPals to meet SF Bay Area Sacto & Lake Tahoe area skiers, snowboarders (who are working professionals, college students and retirees) for skiing/riding plus tap into group discounts on season passes, lift ticket deals and powder hound trips that are not only unique but fun. Share this post with family and friends to tell them about us. Thanks!