Family Winter Magic

Adults teaching a child to ski on a sunny snow-covered slope.

Bundle up for a snowy adventure in Truckee, where frosty mornings lead to ski runs, sledding hills, and hot cocoa by the fire. 

Winter brings endless ways for families to play together—from powder days on the slopes to starlit nights in the mountains. This 5-day winter itinerary is packed with family fun—from snowy adventures to historic treasures—making it the perfect cold-weather getaway.

Length

4 Days

Locations

15 experiences

When to visit

December – April
Snow-covered mountains with pine trees under a blue sky with clouds.

Ski or Snowboard at Northstar California

Kick off your trip with family-friendly skiing or snowboarding at Northstar. From gentle beginner runs to wide cruisers, there’s something for every level. The Village is just steps away for easy breaks between laps.

Duration

Half Day to Full Day

People ice skating in a vibrant outdoor rink surrounded by lodges and trees.

Ice Skating in The Village at Northstar

After skiing, trade in boots for skates and glide around Northstar’s charming outdoor rink. Surrounded by twinkle lights, it’s a festive way to cap off a snowy day.

Duration

1-2 Hours

Two people in winter clothes smiling by a campfire at night.

Après S’mores by the Fire

Gather around one of the Village fire pits for gooey, golden s’mores — a Northstar winter tradition. Kids love the roasting, parents love the cozy vibe.

Duration

1 Hour

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Snow-covered statue surrounded by tall trees under a cloudy sky.

Snowshoe at Donner Memorial State Park

Explore snowy trails, take in stunning Donner Lake views, and visit the Emigrant Trail Museum for history that resonates year-round.

Duration

2-3 Hours

Modern cafe with blue chairs, wooden tables, and decorative ceiling lights.

Warm Treats at Coffeebar Truckee

Refuel with pastries, locally roasted coffee, or hot chocolate for the kids in a cozy alpine setting.

Duration

45 Minutes

Visit the Truckee Railroad Museum + Historic Downtown

Truckee Railroad Museum

Learn about Truckee’s rich railroad history in this kid-friendly, quick-stop museum downtown.

Duration

1 Hour

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Child snow tubing downhill, smiling in a snowy landscape.

Tubing at Soda Springs Mountain Resort

Gentle tubing hills, snow play areas, and Planet Kids make this a hit with families.

Duration

2-3 Hours

Legacy Trail Truckee River Winter

Nature Walk & Scavenger Hunt (Legacy Trail)

Bundle up for a riverside winter walk, spotting animal tracks and snowy treasures along the way.

Duration

2 Hours

Starry sky over a lake, person sitting on a dock gazing at the Milky Way.

Evening S’mores & Stargazing

Wrap up the night by roasting marshmallows and watching Tahoe’s famously starry skies.

Duration

1 hour

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Tahoe Donner Child in green skiing, followed by adult in red, on a snowy trail amid trees.

Truckee Donner Cross Country Ski Center

Enjoy miles of groomed trails perfect for beginners and kids, with rentals available on-site.

Duration

2-4 Hours

Elevation Escape Room Truckee

Elevation Escape Room

Team up to solve puzzles and crack codes before time runs out — an exciting indoor adventure.

Duration

1-1.5 Hours

Brewery exterior with silo and wooden building at dusk.

Dinner at FiftyFifty Brewing Co.

End the day with hearty food, award-winning brews, and a kid-friendly menu.

Duration

1.5 Hours

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Indoor skate park with ramps and a foam pit.

Woodward Tahoe

From trampolines and foam pits to an indoor skatepark and training zones, Woodward offers active fun for kids and teens (and let’s be honest, parents too). It’s th

Duration

Half Day

Child sliding down a red playground slide, smiling, wearing a red sweatshirt.

KidZone Museum

Best for little ones, KidZone sparks creativity with interactive exhibits, play zones, and hands-on activities designed just for kids. A cozy, colorful space where imaginations run wild.

Duration

2 Hours

High Altitude Fitness / Indoor climbing gym with colorful holds, person climbing, another sitting below.

High Altitude Fitness Truckee

Families with older kids can climb, boulder, or burn energy in this modern indoor gym. It’s a great way to stay active off the slopes.

Duration

1.5-2 Hours

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Stay Cozy in Truckee This Winter

After days of skiing, snowshoeing, and downtown strolls, you’ll want the perfect place to warm up. From boutique hotels with fireplaces to family-friendly vacation homes, find lodging that makes winter feel like magic.

Hotels, Lodges & Inns

Experience classic alpine hospitality this winter in Truckee’s welcoming hotels, boutique lodges, and historic inns. After a day in the snow, return to fireside comfort, warm hospitality, and the convenience of full-service amenities.

Book Hotels & Lodges

Mountain Homes

Make your winter getaway complete with a private mountain home. From spacious retreats for the whole family to luxury cabins tucked in the pines, you’ll have room to spread out, warm up by the fire, and savor Truckee’s snowy magic.

Browse Mountain Homes

Lodging Deals

Get the most out of winter with special lodging deals from Truckee-Tahoe hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals. Book direct for savings you won’t find on third-party sites—extra budget for lift tickets, hot cocoa, or one more night by the fire.

Lodging Deals