Heavenly Scenic Gondola South Lake Tahoe
Soar above Lake Tahoe on the Heavenly Scenic Gondola for unparalleled mountain and lake vistas. An unforgettable alpine adventure!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Heavenly Scenic Gondola South Lake Tahoe
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Soar above Lake Tahoe on the Heavenly Scenic Gondola for unparalleled mountain and lake vistas. An unforgettable alpine adventure!
"Absolutely Breathtaking! The views of the lake and snowcapped mountains were beyond spectacular."
🎟️ Book Gondola Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing tickets in advance.
📸 Stop at the Observation Deck
Don't miss the midway stop for incredible photo opportunities of Lake Tahoe.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Lake Tahoe Views
Observation Deck (midway stop)
Soar above the stunning blue waters of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. Unforgettable vistas await!
Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster
Top of the mountain
Experience an exhilarating gravity-powered coaster ride with incredible mountain and lake panoramas. A must-do for thrill-seekers!
Heavenly Village Exploration
Base of the gondola
Enjoy shops, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere before or after your gondola ride. A perfect alpine escape year-round.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Timing is Everything for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Gondola Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing tickets in advance.
📸 Stop at the Observation Deck
Don't miss the midway stop for incredible photo opportunities of Lake Tahoe.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking and potentially hiking, so comfy footwear is a must.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mountain weather can change quickly, so pack layers for comfort.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Gondola Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing tickets in advance.
📸 Stop at the Observation Deck
Don't miss the midway stop for incredible photo opportunities of Lake Tahoe.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking and potentially hiking, so comfy footwear is a must.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mountain weather can change quickly, so pack layers for comfort.
🐶 Service Dogs Only
Only service dogs are permitted on the gondola; pets and ESAs are not allowed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Heavenly Gondola for its absolutely breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains, calling it a must-do experience. The ride is smooth, and the observation deck offers spectacular photo opportunities. While some find the ticket price steep, most agree the unforgettable scenery and overall experience are well worth the cost.
"What a great way to see some of the best views of Lake Tahoe. Gondola will take you to two stops. The first has the best views, the second takes you to the top with some ski lifts food and a few other activities. Definitely wanna do both. glad we went? Absolutely"
Kris Kasprzak
"Absolutely Breathtaking!
This was one of the most amazing things we did during our visit to beautiful Lake Tahoe. The ride itself was perfect for our 2 couples. The staff was friendly and helpful. At first I thought it was a little pricey, but we're so happy we did this.
The views of the lake and snowcapped mountains were beyond spectacular from the gondola and the stops. Nice, clean restrooms too. No long waits and the area is well maintained.
If you're looking for a great experience and the best views, this is it!
Can't speak to food or drink on the mountain, all of our focus was on the views and the smooth ride! Highly recommend!"
Rob VanSuilichem
"Our family purchased the gondola +1 activity for 11 people online the day before. There were some delays with issuing our bracelets, but after that everything was incredibly efficient. All of the staff seem to genuinely love their jobs and were very friendly. The gondola is much more impressive than from the street view. We spent time on the observation deck (midway) to take in the views, which were spectacular. At the top, everyone in our party (age 9-74 ) rode the Ridge Rail which was a blast and I highly recommend. We ended up adding on the panning activity for the kids and they were delighted by the sack of rocks they got to take home. The lodge has a food court (excellentfrench fries!), plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and spacious restrooms.
Even though the price felt steep, it was worth the experience."
Kelly L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Heavenly Gondola is located in Heavenly Village in South Lake Tahoe, California. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options may also be available depending on your location. +1
Yes, there are parking garages and lots available in Heavenly Village. Be aware that parking fees can apply, especially during peak seasons.
Several local bus routes serve the South Lake Tahoe area, often stopping near Heavenly Village. Check with local transit authorities for the most up-to-date route information.
Heavenly Village and the gondola are generally accessible. Service dogs are allowed on the gondola.
Heavenly Village is located right on the border of Stateline, Nevada, and South Lake Tahoe, California. It's a short walk or drive from most Stateline hotels.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but expect to pay around $75-$79 for an adult ticket for the scenic gondola ride. Prices may be higher during peak seasons or for special packages. +2
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the gondola base, but booking online in advance is recommended to save time and potentially secure better pricing.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or through package deals that include activities. Check the official Heavenly website for current offers.
A standard scenic gondola ticket typically includes the round-trip ride to the observation deck and the summit. Some packages may include additional activities like the mountain coaster.
Operating hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Heavenly Mountain Resort website for the most current hours of operation, especially if visiting during shoulder seasons or holidays.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can enjoy hiking trails, dining at Tamarack Lodge, and activities like the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster. The midway observation deck also offers stunning views and photo opportunities. 
The scenic gondola ride takes approximately 10-12 minutes to reach the observation deck and about 2.4 miles to the summit.
Yes, there are hiking trails accessible from both the observation deck and the summit, offering various levels of difficulty and spectacular scenery.
Unfortunately, pets and Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are not allowed on the Heavenly Gondola. Only service dogs are permitted.
The observation deck is at 9,123 feet (2,780 meters), and the summit is even higher, offering incredible panoramic views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Tamarack Lodge and Bar 9150 are located at the top of the mountain, offering food and drinks. The food court at the lodge has options like excellent french fries. +1
While the primary dining is at the summit, the observation deck is a great spot for photos and enjoying the views. Food options are more concentrated at the top.
Generally, it's best to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or at the lodges. Check with resort staff for specific policies.
Tamarack Lodge offers a variety of food options, including casual dining and snacks, suitable for refueling after activities. +1
Dining at resort locations can be on the pricier side, as is common in popular tourist destinations like Lake Tahoe.
📸 📸 Photography
The midway observation deck offers unparalleled panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains, making it a prime photo spot. The summit also provides stunning backdrops.
Golden hour, around sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Clear, sunny days provide the most vibrant colors for the lake and mountains.
While the coaster is thrilling, it's best to secure your phone and focus on the ride. The observation deck and summit offer safer and more stable photo opportunities.
Generally, personal photography and videography are allowed. However, commercial use may require permits. Always be mindful of other guests.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on distant mountain peaks. Don't forget extra batteries!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
At the summit, the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster is a huge hit with older kids and teens, offering an adrenaline rush with incredible views. The food court at Tamarack Lodge offers kid-friendly options like french fries, making it easy to refuel. Consider purchasing a gondola + activity package to keep kids entertained with multiple experiences. Remember that only service dogs are allowed, so plan accordingly if you have pets.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you do opt for the gondola, focus on the views from the observation deck, which is often included with the ticket, and skip the pricier add-on activities if your budget is tight.
Pack your own snacks and water to save on resort prices. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the lake and mountains, and a telephoto lens for distant peaks. Consider the time of day for the best light; clear mornings and late afternoons offer stunning colors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heavenly Gondola Experience
+1 Many visitors highlight the observation deck, a midway stop, as a prime location for capturing unforgettable photos and simply soaking in the scenery. The experience is popular year-round, transforming from a winter wonderland to a summer adventure hub. At the summit, the adventure continues. Visitors can access hiking trails, enjoy dining at Tamarack Lodge, or experience thrilling activities like the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster.
While the price can be a consideration, many reviewers agree that the unparalleled views and overall experience make it worth every penny. Pro Tip: For the best experience, aim for a clear day and consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid larger crowds. Booking tickets in advance can also streamline your visit.
Activities and Adventures at the Summit
+1 Families and thrill-seekers alike rave about this gravity-powered adventure. Beyond the coaster, numerous hiking trails are accessible from the summit, catering to various fitness levels. These trails provide opportunities to immerse yourself in the alpine environment and discover hidden viewpoints.
+1 For those looking to relax, Tamarack Lodge and Bar 9150 offer dining and refreshment options, allowing you to refuel while enjoying the mountain atmosphere. Consider booking a gondola + activity package if you plan on experiencing multiple attractions, as this can offer better value. Always check the resort's website for the most current information on available activities and operating schedules.
Navigating Costs and Value
When considering the cost, remember that you're not just paying for a ride; you're gaining access to spectacular viewpoints, potential hiking opportunities, and a gateway to summit activities. Many families and couples find that the memories created are well worth the investment.
Look for online deals or package options that might include the gondola ride along with other attractions like the mountain coaster to maximize your value. Budget Tip: If the full gondola ride is outside your budget, consider exploring Heavenly Village at the base for its shops and restaurants, or look for alternative viewpoints around Lake Tahoe that may be more accessible.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit