Discover the thrill of skiing under the summer sun in Lake Tahoe. Uncover the best spots, tips, and experiences for an unforgettable adventure.

As winter bids adieu, Lake Tahoe transforms into a summer skiing paradise, where snow-covered slopes beckon adventurers seeking a unique thrill.

Summer in Lake Tahoe means more than just beaches and hiking. It’s a time when the mountains still hold onto winter, inviting skiers and snowboarders to carve their way through the remnants of the season past.

Ski Resorts Open for Summer

This year’s incredible snowfall in Tahoe has led to all kinds of social media posts showing high snowbanks towering over the people standing next to them. 

This kind of snow can ironically even hamper ski resorts. For instance, this winter some temporary road closures meant there was no way for skiers to get to the mountains—but it also meant the ski season can be extended long past when spring turns to summer. 

At Palisades Tahoe, the last day of operation is…believe it or not…July 4. Palisades’s website reads, “Thanks to Lake Tahoe’s second snowiest winter on record, we are extending our ski and snowboard season into the summer!”

Unique Summer Skiing Experience

As of 2021, Palisades Tahoe is the name of two ski areas combined: Alpine Meadows and Palisades Mountain, which hosted the Olympics Olympics in 1960 under its former name, which was changed in 2020. 

“The reasons were clear—the old name was derogatory and offensive,” reads the resort’s website. Palisades worked with the Washoe tribe of California and Nevada to effect the change. 

There’s a great series of essays on the website explaining the shift, starting with this one. A “base to base gondola” opened in December 2022 to connect the two mountains—and to be precise, it’s Alpine that will be open on the 4th, while Palisades closes on May 29.

We fully expect everyone to do the last runs in their red, white and blue ski gear. And if you’re not a big skiier, just tackle a few greens and then visit the Olympic Museum, which you can enter for free with your aerial tram ride.

Another Tahoe resort we love, Royal Gorge, closes April 23, well before the June 21 season change. All the more reason to get up there in the next week or two! Royal Gorge is North America’s largest cross-country ski area with 92 trails over 140 kilometers of groomed track. 

With forested quietude that opens up to dramatic views of the Northern Sierra, eight warming huts, and the chance to skate ski, snowshoe, or traditionally cross-country ski, this resort is a treasure.

Recap of the Closing Dates of Resorts:

• Tahoe Donner: April 16
• Sierra at Tahoe: April 16
• Royal Gorge: April 23
• Sugar Bowl: April 23
• Mt. Rose: April 30
• Northstar: April 30
• Diamond Peak: May 1
• Heavenly: May 7
• Kirkwood: May 14
• Palisades Tahoe: July 4

Gear and Safety Tips:

Preparing for a summer skiing adventure in Lake Tahoe? Packing smart is essential for a successful trip. From protecting your skin against the high-altitude sun to staying hydrated in the mountain air, these gear and safety tips will ensure you’re ready for the slopes.

• Pack Light: Traveling light is key for a summer skiing trip. Focus on essentials and avoid overpacking.

• Sunscreen: The sun’s rays are strong at high altitudes, even in summer. Use a high SPF sunscreen to protect your skin.

• Water: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially at high altitudes. Carry a water bottle and drink regularly.

• Sunglasses: The sun’s glare off the snow can be intense. Wear sunglasses or goggles with UV protection.

• Be Mindful of Snow Conditions: Snow conditions can change throughout the day. Be aware of any changes in texture or consistency.

• Stay Hydrated: Dehydration and altitude sickness can be risks when skiing at high altitudes. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Unforgettable Adventures in Lake Tahoe’s Snowy Paradise

Experiencing summer skiing in Lake Tahoe is truly a one-of-a-kind adventure. 

Thanks to the exceptional snowpack this year, skiing on the Fourth of July was a reality for many. Whether you’re carving down the slopes or lounging on the beach of beautiful Lake Tahoe in the afternoon, this summer promises unforgettable memories.

There’s still so much left to do in Lake Tahoe

Ready for more adventure? Check out What You Need to Know Before Heading to Lake Tahoe to make the most of your trip!