One Of Lake Tahoe's Best Ski Resorts Boasts A Record-Breaking Gondola And Legendary Terrain

Lake Tahoe has long been celebrated as one of North America's premier ski destinations. Straddling the border of California and Nevada, this alpine wonderland is home to the highest concentration of ski resorts within a 100-mile radius in the United States. With about 300 days of sunshine annually and an average snowfall of 500 inches, Tahoe's combination of snow and sunshine makes it one of the most popular ski resorts in the U.S. and perfect for shaking the winter sads. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned skier, the region's diverse offerings make it perfect for winter getaways.

Tahoe is packed with renowned resorts such as Heavenly, Kirkwood, Northstar California, and Sierra-at-Tahoe. However, one resort stands above the rest: Palisades Tahoe. This internationally acclaimed ski area, located in Olympic Valley, has earned its place as a bucket-list destination for winter enthusiasts. With over 6,000 skiable acres and eight mountain peaks, Palisades Tahoe offers a blend of legendary terrain, unique history, and cutting-edge infrastructure — including North America's first base-to-base ski resort gondola. These features make it the crown jewel of Lake Tahoe skiing and snowboarding.

Palisades Tahoe's reputation for world-class skiing is deeply rooted in its history. The area gained international fame as the site of the 1960 Winter Olympics, hosted in Squaw Valley. It wasn't yet a resort, and $80,000,000 went into developing the area for the Olympic Games. Walt Disney managed the opening ceremonies, and the construction and spotlight brought global attention to this once-remote alpine valley. Since then, the area has become synonymous with challenging terrain and memorable skiing experiences.

In 2011, Squaw Valley merged with neighboring Alpine Meadows, creating a colossal skiing and snowboarding haven and merging two unique mountains. Together, these areas offer a remarkable variety of terrain and skiable slopes catering to all skill levels. Squaw Valley is celebrated for its long, steep runs, often touted as some of the most challenging in the country. Expert skiers and snowboarders flock to iconic lifts such as KT-22, Siberia, Granite Chief, and Red Dog. The area formerly known as Alpine Meadows, on the other hand, offers a laid-back atmosphere, and while there are some expert runs, you'll also find terrain perfect for intermediate and beginner adventures. Its down-to-earth energy and uncrowded slopes make it a favorite for families and those looking for a more relaxed experience. Together, Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows form Palisades, boasting a staggering 6,000 acres of skiable terrain, ensuring there are turns for everyone — from Olympic-level athletes to those putting boots on for the first time.

What truly puts the cherry on top is the breathtaking scenery. Skiers are treated to panoramic views of Lake Tahoe, the Granite Chief Wilderness, and the Sierra Nevada peaks. Every run is an adventure, combining adrenaline-pumping descents with postcard-worthy vistas. For those craving variety and challenge, Palisades' legendary terrain delivers in every way possible.

In 2023, Palisades Tahoe unveiled its game-changing base-to-base gondola, a marvel of modern engineering. This gondola seamlessly connects the high-energy slopes of Squaw Valley with the laid-back charm of Alpine Meadows, creating one of the most dynamic skiing experiences in North America. Spanning a distance of 2.4 miles, the gondola provides uninterrupted access to the resort's diverse terrain. Built to enhance convenience and adventure, the gondola allows skiers to craft their own unique day on the slopes.

The Aerial Tram is another must-ride experience. Once the largest tramway in the world, it transports skiers and sightseers on a 2,000-foot vertical journey to High Camp. At the summit, visitors can explore beginner-friendly terrain, advanced slopes, and the free 1960 Winter Olympic Museum. The tram ride itself is a visual treat, with jaw-dropping views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding peaks. No visit to the area is complete without a ride on the legendary KT-22 chairlift. Frequently voted the best chairlift in North America, it provides instant access to some of the resort's most challenging runs. Known as "The Mothership," it's a favorite among expert skiers looking to test their skills on world-class terrain.

More than a ski resort, Palisades is an experience embodying the adventurous spirit of Lake Tahoe. With its rich Olympic history, unparalleled terrain, and cutting-edge infrastructure, it's no wonder this destination continues to draw snow and ski lovers from around the globe. Some might say it could even compete with the top ski resort in the world.