Palisades Tahoe

Snowy mountain peak with soft pink and orange sunset sky.
Skier in orange jacket jumps off snowy mountain with lake view in background.

Iconic. Immense. Unapologetically Legendary.

Palisades Tahoe isn’t just a ski resort, it’s a high-alpine playground shaped by Olympians, freeride pioneers, and wide-eyed powder chasers. As the second largest ski resort in the U.S. and the largest in California, it offers 6,000 acres of terrain across two distinct mountains: Palisades and Alpine. With the Base-to-Base Gondola seamlessly connecting them, you can chase sun-drenched groomers at Alpine and tackle the legendary steeps of KT-22 all in one day.

This is where winter turns cinematic: wide-open bowls, iconic Lake Tahoe views, and terrain that keeps even the most seasoned skiers on their toes. And unlike most resorts, beginner trails here start at the top, so new skiers get the same breathtaking vistas, not just laps at the base.

Add in Olympic history, reliable snowfall, and an unmatched variety of terrain, and it’s easy to see why Palisades Tahoe remains a destination for first-timers, locals, and lifelong skiers alike.

Key Stats

  • Total Skiable Acres: 6,000 (combined Palisades + Alpine)
  • Lifts: 43 total, including The Base to Base Gondola
  • Runs: 270+
  • Skill Breakdown:
    • Beginner: 25%
    • Intermediate: 43%
    • Advanced/Expert: 32%
  • Base Elevation: 6,200 ft
  • Summit Elevation: 9,050 ft
Three skiers in colorful gear on a snowy mountain, with a cable car in the background.
Snowboarder riding through powder under a clear blue sky.
Three skiers on a chairlift over snowy mountains, clear blue sky.
Snowboarder descends snowy mountain slope with pine trees, mountains in background.
Two skiers relaxing on chairs in snowy mountains under a clear blue sky.
Group of skiers on a snowy slope under a clear blue sky.
Ski lift in heavy snowfall, snowy forest in background.
Snowy mountain ridge with distant clouds and a clear sky.
Skier in yellow jacket descends snowy slope, with mountains and lake in background.
Two people in winter gear relax outdoors with snowy mountains in the background.
Skier in orange gear glides through deep snow on a snowy mountain slope.
Snowy street between buildings with the sun shining in the background.
Child in red snowsuit playing in snow, wearing goggles, with snowy backdrop.
Skier in red descends snowy mountain under blue sky with clouds.
Snowboarder jumping over a circular ramp against a bright sunlit sky.
Snow-covered ski slope with pine trees and cloudy sky.
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Highlights & Experiences

KT-22 – “The Mothership”

Known for its expert terrain, this legendary lift serves up steep, challenging lines that have earned a devoted following.

Base to Base Gondola

Travel between Palisades and Alpine Meadows in just 14 minutes. It's the easiest way to explore all 6,000 acres in a single day.

Scenic Aerial Tram

A 2,000-foot vertical ascent to High Camp at 8,200 feet. Ideal for skiers, riders, and non-skiers, the tram offers sweeping Lake Tahoe views, mountaintop dining, and access to an Olympic exhibit celebrating the resort’s 1960 Winter Games legacy.

Granite Chief & Headwall

Advanced terrain with wide bowls, steep drops, and tree stashes if you know where to look.

Alpine Meadows Vibe

Lower-key vibes with huge terrain and hidden gems—locals love it for a reason.

Helpful Tips

  • Weekend Parking = Plan Ahead: Free reservations are required for weekends and holidays—grab a spot Tuesday at noon or 7 PM, or pay $30 in advance to guarantee a spot. Midweek? Just show up.
  • Arrive Early or Ride Smart: On busy days, Olympic Valley traffic backs up fast. Arrive before 7:30 AM, or skip the stress by parking at Alpine and riding the Base-to-Base Gondola. You can also use Park & Ride lots in Truckee or Tahoe City, with free shuttle service direct to the resort.
  • Stay Flexible in Storms: Lift openings after snowfall can be delayed across both mountains. Check the app and social feeds for real-time updates, and don't expect rope drops to follow a schedule.
  • Fuel Up Strategically: Wildflour Baking Company is a beloved local spot tucked under the Olympic House, known for its espresso drinks, breakfast burritos, pizza bagels, and legendary cookies.
  • Don't Skip Alpine: It's quieter, equally scenic, and packed with great terrain—especially if you're looking to avoid KT-22 mayhem, come find stashes in Sherwood or Scott.