Heavenly Mountain Resort
Experience breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and thrilling adventures year-round at Heavenly Mountain Resort, offering skiing, snowboarding, and summer...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fresh powder & fewer crowds
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Best Time
Fresh powder & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and thrilling adventures year-round at Heavenly Mountain Resort, offering skiing, snowboarding, and summer mountain coasters.
"The gondola ride at Heavenly Mountain Resort is a must-do for its breathtaking views of the lake and mountains."
🎯 Book Gondola Early
Secure your gondola tickets in advance, especially if you're not skiing, to potentially save money.
👟 Wear Layers
Mountain weather can change rapidly. Dress in layers for comfort during both summer and winter activities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster
Upper Mountain
Experience an exhilarating alpine coaster ride with stunning views of Lake Tahoe. A must-do for thrill-seekers!
Heavenly Gondola Ride
Heavenly Village
Ascend for panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. Features a mid-station observation deck.
Nevada Side Skiing
Nevada Side
Enjoy challenging runs and fewer crowds, especially later in the day. Lifts on this side often close earlier.
Observation Deck
Mid-Gondola Station
Stop here for incredible photo opportunities and to soak in the vast beauty of Lake Tahoe.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Gondola Tickets & Timing
Seasonal Activities & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Gondola Early
Secure your gondola tickets in advance, especially if you're not skiing, to potentially save money.
👟 Wear Layers
Mountain weather can change rapidly. Dress in layers for comfort during both summer and winter activities.
📸 Mid-Gondola Stop
Don't miss the observation deck at the mid-station for amazing photos of Lake Tahoe.
⏰ Arrive Early for Tubing
Snow tubing can fill up fast! Get to Heavenly Village early to secure your spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Gondola Early
Secure your gondola tickets in advance, especially if you're not skiing, to potentially save money.
👟 Wear Layers
Mountain weather can change rapidly. Dress in layers for comfort during both summer and winter activities.
📸 Mid-Gondola Stop
Don't miss the observation deck at the mid-station for amazing photos of Lake Tahoe.
⏰ Arrive Early for Tubing
Snow tubing can fill up fast! Get to Heavenly Village early to secure your spot.
🚗 Utilize Free Buses
If staying in Tahoe Village, take the free bus back from the California side after a day of skiing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Heavenly Mountain Resort for its breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and the diverse range of activities available year-round. The challenging ski runs and the exhilarating mountain coaster are frequent highlights. However, some find the ticket prices, particularly for the gondola, to be quite expensive, and occasional lift closures can be a point of frustration.
"Have visited Heavenly several times over the last two summers! Love the coaster, enjoyed their Sunday yoga class. We enjoy playing games at the Lodge or taking the ski lift."
Lauren Griffin
"One of the best places to ski in the US. It’s possible to ski for a long time without taking a lift which is one of my favorite ways to ski.
If it’s late in the day, I usually try to close out the on the Nevada side since those lifts close earlier and then ski over to the California side. Always take the free bus back to Tahoe village if you’re staying that way."
Benjamin Archer
"My Dad and I have been coming skiing here for five years now and love it. Good challenging runs, moguls, trees, but also relaxing runs and chill runs to bring sister on. Galaxy and Stagecoach are our favorites!"
Wesley Van Horn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Heavenly Mountain Resort is located in South Lake Tahoe, California, straddling the California-Nevada border. You can drive there, with parking available at Heavenly Village. Public transportation options include local buses, and the resort is accessible from major airports like Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), which is about an hour's drive away. +1
Yes, there is parking available at Heavenly Village, which is the base area for the gondola and many summer activities. During ski season, additional parking may be available at various lots, and shuttle services might be offered.
Yes, local bus services operate in the South Lake Tahoe area and can take you to Heavenly Mountain Resort. If you're staying in the immediate vicinity, walking or using ride-sharing services might also be convenient options.
The Heavenly Gondola is a primary mode of transport to access the upper mountain. For skiing, chairlifts are used. In the village, walking is easy. Free shuttle buses are also available to connect different areas.
Yes, there are other ski resorts near Heavenly Mountain Resort, including Sierra-at-Tahoe, Kirkwood Mountain Resort, and resorts on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe like Northstar California and Palisades Tahoe.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lift ticket prices for Heavenly Mountain Resort vary depending on the season, day of the week, and whether you purchase in advance. Expect prices to be higher for peak season and weekends. Non-skiers can purchase gondola tickets for scenic rides.
Yes, purchasing Heavenly Mountain Resort lift tickets and gondola tickets online in advance is highly recommended. This often secures better pricing and guarantees your access, especially during busy periods.
A non-peak gondola pass at Heavenly is a ticket that allows access to the gondola during less busy times, potentially at a lower cost than a standard ticket. These passes may have restrictions on usage.
Yes, Heavenly Mountain Resort offers various season pass options, including IKON Pass partnerships. These passes provide access for the entire ski season and can be a cost-effective option for frequent visitors. +1
Look for discount lift tickets for Heavenly Mountain Resort by purchasing in advance online, checking for multi-day passes, or exploring potential deals through lodging packages or third-party vendors.
🎫 🛷 Onsite Experience
In summer, Heavenly Mountain Resort offers the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster, tubing, ziplining, hiking, and scenic gondola rides. The Tamarack Lodge and Bar 9150 are also open for food and drinks. +2
Heavenly offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. Popular runs include Galaxy and Stagecoach. For beginners and intermediates, there are dedicated trails. Advanced skiers can explore moguls and tree runs.
The Heavenly Gondola ride is highly recommended for its breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains, even for non-skiers. It offers a unique perspective and a mid-station stop for photos. +1
Yes, there have been rare sightings of bears at Heavenly Mountain Resort, even from the ski lifts. While not common, it's a reminder of the wild nature of the area.
The mid-station of the Heavenly Gondola features an observation deck with fantastic views of Lake Tahoe, perfect for photos. There are also hiking trails accessible from this point. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options at Heavenly Mountain Resort include the Tamarack Lodge and Bar 9150 at the summit, offering food and drinks with scenic views. Heavenly Village also has numerous restaurants and bars.
Yes, the Tamarack Lodge and Bar 9150 are located at the top of Heavenly Mountain, providing food and beverage services for visitors enjoying the summit activities and views.
Expect a range of options from casual fare like burgers and sandwiches at the lodges to more diverse culinary experiences in Heavenly Village, catering to various tastes and preferences.
Dining at resort-level establishments can be on the pricier side. It's advisable to check menus and prices beforehand or consider packing snacks and drinks for a more budget-friendly experience.
Yes, hot chocolate and other warm beverages are typically available at the lodges and cafes, especially during the winter season, perfect for warming up after a day on the slopes.
📸 📸 Photography
The mid-station observation deck on the gondola ride offers unparalleled panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. The summit also provides stunning vistas. During winter, the snow-covered landscapes are incredibly picturesque. +2
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, can offer spectacular lighting for photography. Clear, sunny days, especially after a fresh snowfall, provide excellent visibility and vibrant colors.
While you can take photos from the ski lifts, be mindful of safety and the movement of the lift. The views from the lifts are expansive, capturing the vastness of the ski area and Lake Tahoe.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain and lake views. For winter, ensure your camera is protected from the cold and moisture. A good zoom lens can be useful for capturing wildlife or distant peaks.
The observation deck at the mid-gondola station is a prime photo spot. Additionally, various points along the ski trails and at the summit offer incredible photographic opportunities. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the summer, the gondola ride itself is an adventure for children, with the mid-station offering a great spot for photos and short walks. Many of the trails are accessible and offer beautiful views without being too strenuous for younger legs. The overall atmosphere of the resort is welcoming to families, making it a great destination for a multi-generational trip.
💰 Budget Travelers
While dining at the resort can be expensive, packing snacks and drinks can help cut down on food costs. If you're staying in South Lake Tahoe, utilize the free local buses to get around instead of relying on taxis or ride-shares.
💑 Couples
During the summer, a ride on the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster can be a fun, shared adventure. For a more relaxed experience, explore the hiking trails accessible from the mid-station observation deck, enjoying the serene natural beauty together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heavenly Gondola Experience
From the mid-station, the gondola continues to the upper mountain, where you'll find the Tamarack Lodge and Bar 9150. This area serves as a hub for dining and relaxation, offering food and drinks with panoramic views. For skiers and snowboarders, this is also a key access point to the slopes. The cost of a gondola ticket can be significant, especially for those not skiing, so it's worth considering if the views and experience justify the expense.
Many visitors describe the gondola ride as a highlight of their trip, emphasizing the breathtaking scenery and the unique perspective it offers. It's a must-do for anyone visiting Heavenly, whether for winter sports or summer adventures, providing a memorable introduction to the grandeur of Lake Tahoe.
Winter Wonders: Skiing & Snowboarding at Heavenly
One of the unique aspects of Heavenly is the ability to ski for extended periods without needing to take a lift, which many enthusiasts appreciate. The Nevada side is often noted for being less crowded, even on weekends, and offers great runs. It's a common strategy to ski the Nevada side later in the day and then transition to the California side.
Beyond the slopes, Heavenly offers a vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy fresh powder after snowstorms, experience adrenaline-pumping runs, and take in unforgettable mountain views. The resort is a popular destination for ski trips, offering a complete winter sports experience.
+1Summer Thrills: Beyond the Slopes
In addition to the mountain coaster, summer activities include snow tubing, ziplining, and hiking. The gondola operates year-round, providing access to the summit and its amenities, including the Tamarack Lodge. Visitors can enjoy the mountain air, scenic beauty, and a variety of outdoor adventures.
The resort's summer offerings ensure that Heavenly remains a destination for adventure and stunning scenery throughout the year. It's a great option for those looking for outdoor activities with a backdrop of the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe.
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