Family Winter Magic

Northstar is one of Lake Tahoe’s premier ski resorts, known for its laid-back luxury and family-friendly terrain. With over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, 100+ trails, and nine terrain parks, it’s a mountain that offers something for every level—from first-time skiers to seasoned riders. The resort also features a vibrant Village with ice skating, shopping, and dining, so even non-skiers can soak in the alpine atmosphere. Smooth groomers, approachable beginner areas, and consistent snow make Northstar a go-to choice for winter fun.

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The heart of Northstar’s Village comes alive at the outdoor ice rink, surrounded by fire pits, shops, and restaurants. By day, it’s a family-friendly spot to glide under the Sierra sun; by night, twinkle lights transform it into a festive alpine scene. Rent skates on-site and enjoy hot cocoa or cocktails nearby—whether you’re skating or just soaking in the lively atmosphere.

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Gathering around the fire pits in Northstar’s Village is a time-honored winter tradition. Kids love toasting marshmallows while parents sip warm drinks and unwind after a day on the slopes. It’s a cozy, communal experience that captures the spirit of après in Truckee-Tahoe—simple, sweet, and shared with family and friends.

Donner Memorial State Park offers more than just stunning lake views—it’s a place where history and natural beauty meet. In winter, snowshoe trails wind through quiet pine forests and open up to breathtaking vistas of Donner Lake. The Emigrant Trail Museum on-site tells the story of early pioneers and the area’s Native peoples, making it a stop that blends outdoor adventure with cultural depth.

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Coffeebar has two great locations here in Truckee—each with its own flavor.

• The Downtown Jibboom Street café is lively, full of downtown energy, great when you’re all in on exploring shops, galleries, or meeting up with friends. Expect full café fare: breakfast, brunch, rotating specials, and the buzz of people moving through.
• The Bakery on Donner Pass Road (12047 Donner Pass Rd) is more laid-back with serious bakery cred. If you’re coming from or going to Donner Memorial State Park, snowshoe trails, or early mountain adventures, this one gives you bigger pastry choices, fresh bread, doughnuts on weekends, and a little more breathing room (and parking).

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Housed in a historic caboose right by the tracks in downtown Truckee, the Railroad Museum tells the story of how trains shaped the town’s past. Exhibits highlight everything from logging and immigration to the role railroads played in building the West. Compact and kid-friendly, it’s an engaging stop that packs a lot of Truckee history into a small space.

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Soda Springs is one of the oldest ski resorts in California, but families know it best for its tubing hills and Planet Kids snow play area. Easy access, a dedicated tubing carousel, and gentle slopes make it a stress-free way to let kids run wild in the snow while adults join in the fun. It’s winter play made simple—and all in one spot.

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he Truckee River Legacy Trail stretches five scenic miles from downtown toward Glenshire, offering a flat, family-friendly route perfect for winter walks. Along the way, you can turn it into a scavenger hunt—look for animal tracks in the snow, bird activity near the river, or hidden art and interpretive signs that share stories of Truckee’s past. It’s a gentle adventure that blends nature, learning, and fresh air.

Glide across miles of groomed trails at one of the nation’s premier cross-country ski centers. With routes perfect for beginners and kids, plus rentals available on-site, it’s an easy way to enjoy Truckee’s winter wonderland. Whether you’re in for a cardio workout or just a peaceful outing in the forest, Tahoe Donner's Cross Country Center delivers a true mountain experience.

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Put your puzzle-solving skills to the test at Truckee’s Elevation Escape. Work as a team to unlock clues, crack codes, and race against the clock in themed rooms designed for fun and challenge. It’s a thrilling indoor adventure that’s as entertaining for first-timers as it is for seasoned escape room fans.

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Wrap up the day at Truckee’s award-winning craft brewery. Known for its hearty food, inventive brews, and relaxed mountain vibe, FiftyFifty offers something for everyone—including a kid-friendly menu. It’s the perfect place to swap stories from the day over a pint brewed right on-site.

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Woodward Tahoe is an action-sports playground built for all ages. Inside, you’ll find trampolines, foam pits, parkour zones, and one of the largest indoor skateparks in the country. It’s a training ground for athletes but also a place where kids, teens, and parents can burn energy and try something new in a safe environment. With daily drop-in sessions and programs, it’s the ultimate high-energy adventure—especially on storm days.

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KidZone is Truckee’s beloved children’s museum, filled with hands-on exhibits that spark creativity and play. Highlights include the jungle gym, art studio, science area, and rotating themed exhibits that change throughout the year. The cozy, colorful space encourages kids to climb, build, imagine, and explore—while parents enjoy watching curiosity come alive.

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This modern fitness center is a go-to for families with older kids and teens who want to stay active off the slopes. The climbing gym is the main draw, with routes for beginners through advanced climbers, plus a bouldering area for quick, high-energy sessions. There’s also a full gym, yoga, and fitness classes, making it a versatile stop for anyone who wants to keep moving while in Truckee.

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