North Lake Tahoe Ski-Week

There are about 15 different ski resorts dotting the map around the famously crystal blue Lake Tahoe. Since we are focusing in on North Tahoe, my top recommendations are:

Northstar - Located about 10 miles from Lake Tahoe itself, this ski village, located in Truckee, CA, is not to be missed. While you won’t see Tahoe from most runs, the lake makes some cameos up on the hill. Northstar, however, can be a destination in and of itself. From its skating rink and village at the base to the apres culture mid-mountain at the Ritz Carlton, it’s a one-stop shop. Ski school here is top-notch with full-day options that include private or group options.

Diamond Peak — This small, privately owned resort (by Incline Residents) is a fantastic place to go if you want to avoid crowds! Many of their runs give a gorgeous, unobstructed view of the lake in all its glory. Only a short five minute drive from the Hyatt Regency Incline, but parking can fill up quickly though, so get there early! Lift tickets are usually lower here than elsewhere, and FREE on your birthday. Add the huge benefit to families with young children, as kids six and under ski for free.

Palisades - Host of the 1960 Winter Olympics, this is the largest ski resort in the area (6,000 acres) and typically has the longest open season of all of the resorts. Rated best ski resort in the US by the Wall Street Journal, you probably can’t go wrong choosing it! From beginners just looking forward to the view, to the experts shaving through the finely groomed runs, there are options for everyone. And for those non-skiers–don’t miss the gondola up and the accompanying views.

Breakfast

Tunnel Creek Cafe — If you’re in Incline Village, or heading to Diamond Peak, grab a hearty breakfast burrito before hitting the slopes. And if you are a chai fan, make sure to try the North Fork Chai tea latte!

Peps Place — Located in the Tahoe Visa area, this deli strives to use local and organic ingredients. It’s a great option for breakfast, brunch or lunch. Also offers grab-and-go if you're in a hurry.

Coffeebar - With multiple locations in the Tahoe area, you can count on Coffeebar to be a pick-me-up option all day. Serving up coffee, full plates of breakfast and lunch or pastries.

Lunch

Apres at any of the mountain-side restaurants with a view!

At Northstar: Zephyr Lodge

At Diamond Peak: Just up the Lakeview Chairlift is Snowflake Lodge. Simple fare, it is located mid-mountain, with a great view from the deck.

At Palisades: At 8,200 feet, you can dine at the Terrace, but the fare isn’t as great at the 8200 foot view. I suggest you try Le Chamois and Loft Bar instead.

Dinner

Bite - This Incline Village tapas bar has small plates, but big on taste. Reservations recommended.

Fireside Pizza — A full day of skiing creates a need for carbs and protein. Check both off the list with pizza, something that never disappoints families with young kids.

Drinks

Garwoods - Though more West-Lake than North, I would be remiss if I didn’t include this lake-front restaurant. Their signature drink–the Wet Woody (named after the wooden boats that crisscross the lake during the summer) is dangerously good. You may just want to bring a couple of friends along and order the pitcher!