Winter arrived in a huge way this week in the Lake Tahoe region. That was evident by a sizable storm Friday evening that dumped 24-30 inches at Heavenly Mountain Resort.
Heavenly ski resort is opening additional terrain today for skiing and snowboarding, operating Big Easy chair, accessing additional beginner terrain, and Comet Express.
More terrain opening in near future
Heavenly ski resort, located in Lake Tahoe’s south shore, will continue to evaluate terrain, with the expectation of significant terrain expansion in the near future. The resort’s long-term plan is opening both top-to-bottom skiing in Nevada, via Stagecoach, and top-to-bottom in California as soon as possible prior to the holiday.
“This storm wasn’t expected to bring as much snow as it did to the area, and we have to thank Mother Nature for this early holiday present,” said Pete Sonntag, vice president and chief operating officer of Heavenly. “Our snowmakers have worked diligently this season to provide a terrific base, and this gift of 2.5 feet of snow really builds on what they have made. As we look toward the holiday, we’re going to be able to open additional terrain for our guests and provide top-to-bottom skiing on both the California and Nevada sides of the mountain.”
Early season conditions still exists at Heavenly ski resort, and skiers and riders are encouraged to remain only on designated groomed trails.
“Heavenly’s focus on a quality snow surface has never been more apparent than this year,” Sonntag said. “The consistently cold temperatures have allowed us to make incredibly dry snow, and when paired with this much natural snow, really provides the ultimate skiing and riding experience.”
Heavenly Holidays
From December 21-31, Heavenly Holidays transforms the HeavenlyVillage into a holiday winter wonderland with lights, decorations, carolers, magicians, jugglers, ice sculpting, ice capades and Santa.
The holiday spirit at Heavenly ski resort cumulates on New Year’s Eve, with a live band and brightly-lit Gondola that descends over the crowd, signaling the start of the New Year and a festive fireworks show.
Lake Tahoe ski resort openings
- Boreal Mountain: Nov. 6
- Heavenly Mountain: Nov. 23
- Northstar California: Nov. 23
- KirkwoodMountain: Nov. 24
- Mount Rose: Nov. 27
- Squaw Valley: Nov. 27
- Sierra-at-Tahoe: Dec. 6
- Sugar Bowl: Dec. 7
- DiamondPeak: Dec. 12
- Alpine Meadows: Dec. 13
- HomewoodMountain: Dec. 13
- Tahoe Donner: Dec. 13
- Soda Springs: Dec. 13
- Donner Ski Ranch: TBA