Tahoe XC Center
1 / 12

Tahoe XC Center

4.8
·213 reviews·Tahoe City, United States

Groomed cross-country ski and mountain bike trails with stunning Lake Tahoe views and a cozy lodge.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter mornings

Freshly groomed snow

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Tahoe XC Center

Tahoe XC Center

Best Time

Winter mornings

Freshly groomed snow

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Groomed cross-country ski and mountain bike trails with stunning Lake Tahoe views and a cozy lodge.

4.8
(213 reviews)

"Beautiful place with well-groomed trails and wonderful, helpful staff."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Trail Conditions

Grooming reports can be found on Nordic Pulse or the Tahoe XC website. Network can be spotty, so download maps!

Rentals Available

Cross-country ski and mountain bike rentals are available on-site.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Groomed Cross-Country Ski Trails

Groomed Cross-Country Ski Trails

Throughout the center

Enjoy pristine, groomed trails with stunning lake views. Perfect for a serene winter escape.

Mountain Biking Trails

Mountain Biking Trails

Various trails, including rim trails

Explore diverse terrain, from beginner-friendly paths to challenging jump lines with panoramic lake vistas.

Cozy Lodge & Amenities

Cozy Lodge & Amenities

Main lodge

Warm up with hot chocolate or cider, rent equipment, and relax after your adventure.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Best Trails for All Levels

Tahoe XC Center offers a variety of groomed trails suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers and mountain bikers. Check the trail map before you go to plan your route.

Seasonal Activities & Rentals

Primarily known for cross-country skiing in winter, Tahoe XC also offers mountain bike rentals and trails in warmer months. Plan your visit based on the season and desired activity.

Best Times

When
Winter mornings
Why
Freshly groomed snow
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Cooler for biking
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

So fun #tahoe #tahoecity #skitok #skiing #springski #fourthofjuly #july4
@insydddious
26.4K likes • 1.1M views

Check Trail Conditions

Grooming reports can be found on Nordic Pulse or the Tahoe XC website. Network can be spotty, so download maps! TikTokReddit

Rentals Available

Cross-country ski and mountain bike rentals are available on-site. Instagram

Cross country skiing on Tahoe XC Centre. Felt like there was nobody just us on the trails. The day pass was a bit pricey, but the little huts offered hot chocolate and cider for free:) #skiing #xcskiing #usa #roadtrip #tahoe #laketahoe #northlaketahoe #latergram March 2023, Tahoe XC Center
ellie_zheleva
7 likes • 383 views
Did you know you can rent mountain bikes at the Tahoe XC Center? You can get spectacular views of the entire lake only 3 miles from the trailhead. Check out tahoexc.org
northtahoecommunityalliance
29 likes • 774 views

Bring Your Dog (Winter)

Well-behaved dogs are welcome on leash on designated trails during the winter season. Reddit

Free Hot Drinks

Little huts on the trails offer complimentary hot chocolate and cider. TikTok

Don’t miss the evo Trailgate Party this Saturday, July 12! We’re kicking things off at 10am at the Tahoe XC Center with free group rides for all levels (beginner to advanced), plus limited demo bikes - come early to grab one! After the ride, we’re heading to the evo Hotel for après with: 🍔 Food from Sierra Surf Club 🍻 Beer from South Lake Brewing Co. 🎟️ An epic raffle with prizes from Osprey, P...
mtnwallaby
19 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Trail Conditions

Grooming reports can be found on Nordic Pulse or the Tahoe XC website. Network can be spotty, so download maps! TikTokReddit

Rentals Available

Cross-country ski and mountain bike rentals are available on-site. Instagram

Bring Your Dog (Winter)

Well-behaved dogs are welcome on leash on designated trails during the winter season. Reddit

Free Hot Drinks

Little huts on the trails offer complimentary hot chocolate and cider. TikTok

Trail Etiquette

Be mindful of other users. Skiers yield to uphill skiers, and bikers should yield to skiers. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(213 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the well-maintained trails and stunning lake views at Tahoe XC Center, whether skiing or mountain biking. The friendly and accommodating staff, along with the cozy lodge and complimentary trailside drinks, create a welcoming atmosphere. Some users noted that trail markings could be improved for navigation.

"Good area to mountain bike if you are starting out and if you do want some more difficult trails too. Once you get past most of the beginner trails that are interconnected with the ski trails you start to gain elevation and get some sweet jump lines. Trails forks and MTB projects have all the trails but they are not well labeled on the park map or while biking until you get up towards the rim trails."

Zane Zbacnik

"Great experience skiing here. Beautiful views. Trails were well maintained. Very friendly staff who were accommodating when I got a bit late. More trails were groomed than what was indicated on Nordic pulse, maybe the app had trouble updating due to poor network"

Sneha Kudli

"Great place to ski! This is a beautiful place with well groomed trails. The staff is wonderful! Ciara at the start, and Susan out on the trails were both extremely helpful to this perpetual novice Nordic skier on my first visit, as were the folks working at the lodge. The lodge is a nice cozy spot to hang out after your ski sesh. I'll definitely be back on my next winter Tahoe trip."

Paul Deutsch

What People Like

Well-groomed trails
Beautiful lake views
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Trail marking inconsistency

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Tahoe XC Center is located in Tahoe City, California. It's accessible by car, and is the closest full-service cross-country ski area to Incline Village. Reddit Parking is available on-site.

Information on public transportation options can vary by season. It's best to check local transit schedules for the North Lake Tahoe area closer to your visit.

From Highway 80, take the CA-28 E exit towards Tahoe City. Continue on CA-28 E, and the center will be on your right. The exact address is 125 Forest Service Rd, Tahoe City, CA 96145.

Yes, ample parking is available at the center for visitors. Arrive early during peak times to secure a spot.

While not a primary access point, some local trails may connect to the area. For most visitors, driving is the most convenient option. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Day pass prices can vary by season and age group. It's recommended to check the official Tahoe XC website for the most current pricing information. Some visitors noted it can be a bit pricey. TikTok

While not always mandatory, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or holidays, to ensure availability. Check their website for online booking options.

Discounts may be available for specific groups such as seniors, children, or military personnel. Look for seasonal promotions or package deals on their website.

Operating hours vary by season. Winter hours typically focus on ski season, while summer hours cater to mountain biking. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date hours. Reddit

Yes, well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome on designated trails during the winter season, making it a great spot for a solo snow adventure with your pet. Reddit

🎫 🛷 Onsite Experience

Tahoe XC Center boasts a network of well-groomed cross-country ski trails in winter and mountain bike trails in summer. Trails range from beginner-friendly to more challenging routes with elevation gains and jump lines. InstagramReddit

While trail forks and MTB Projects have trail data, some visitors note that trails aren't always well-labeled on the park map or on the trails themselves, especially once you get towards the rim trails. Reddit

The lodge offers a cozy space to relax, equipment rentals, and often has fresh baked cookies available for purchase. Some trails also feature huts with complimentary hot chocolate and cider. TikTokReddit

Yes, you can rent cross-country skis, snowshoes, and mountain bikes at the center. This is convenient if you don't want to bring your own gear. Instagram

Absolutely! Tahoe XC is a great place for beginners to learn cross-country skiing, with well-maintained trails and friendly, informative staff. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The lodge offers light bites and refreshments. Some trails also have huts providing complimentary hot chocolate and cider, perfect for warming up. TikTok

Visitors are generally welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks to enjoy on the trails or at designated picnic areas. The lodge also offers some treats. Reddit

Tahoe City, located nearby, offers a variety of restaurants and cafes for more extensive dining options after your visit. Instagram

The lodge typically offers snacks, and some reviews mention fresh baked cookies being available for purchase. Reddit

Alcoholic beverages are generally not served at the center itself, but nearby establishments in Tahoe City may offer them. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Look for viewpoints offering panoramic views of Lake Tahoe, especially from the higher elevation trails. The serene, snow-covered landscapes in winter are also incredibly picturesque. Instagram

It can be challenging to capture great shots while actively engaged in sports. Consider stopping at scenic points or having a friend take photos. TikTok

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for landscape photography. Mid-day offers clear views of the lake. Instagram

The unique huts on the trails offering hot drinks can make for charming photos. The expansive lake views are a constant photographic draw. TikTok

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing both close-ups and expansive landscapes. A wide-angle lens can be great for the lake views. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Tahoe XC Center is a fantastic destination for families looking for outdoor fun. In winter, the well-groomed cross-country ski trails are perfect for introducing children to skiing in a safe and scenic environment. The friendly staff are particularly helpful to novice skiers, making the learning process enjoyable for kids. The availability of complimentary hot chocolate and cider at trailside huts is a huge hit with younger visitors, providing a warm and sweet reward after a day in the snow. TikTokReddit

During the summer months, the mountain bike trails offer a different kind of adventure. There are beginner-friendly trails that are suitable for younger riders, allowing families to explore the beautiful scenery together. Renting bikes on-site is convenient for families who don't want to transport their own. The opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with stunning lake views makes Tahoe XC a memorable family outing year-round. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

While day passes can be a bit pricey, Tahoe XC Center offers value through its beautiful natural setting and the availability of free amenities like hot chocolate and cider on the trails. TikTok Consider visiting during off-peak times to potentially find better rates or fewer crowds. Bringing your own snacks and water can also help manage costs, as dining options are limited to the lodge. Reddit

For those who enjoy longer stays or frequent visits, looking into potential multi-day passes or seasonal memberships might offer savings. The ability to rent equipment on-site also eliminates the need for a significant upfront investment in gear, making it more accessible for budget-conscious travelers who want to try cross-country skiing or mountain biking. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Cross-Country Skiing at Tahoe XC

Tahoe XC Center is a premier destination for cross-country skiing, offering a network of meticulously groomed trails that cater to all skill levels. In winter, the center transforms into a snowy paradise, with trails winding through scenic forests and offering breathtaking glimpses of Lake Tahoe. Visitors consistently praise the quality of the grooming, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable skiing experience. Whether you're a seasoned Nordic skier or trying it for the first time, the well-maintained tracks provide an excellent opportunity to explore the winter landscape. TikTokReddit

Beyond the skiing itself, the center provides essential amenities to enhance your visit. Equipment rentals are available for those who don't own their gear, and the cozy lodge serves as a perfect spot to warm up. You can find complimentary hot chocolate and cider at small huts along the trails, a delightful touch that adds to the overall experience. The staff are known for being friendly and helpful, particularly to novices, making it a welcoming environment for everyone. Reddit

For those looking for a unique winter activity, Tahoe XC also offers snowshoeing. This allows visitors to explore the snowy terrain at a more leisurely pace, enjoying the quiet beauty of the Tahoe forest. The nonprofit status of Tahoe XC also means that a portion of your visit contributes to funding ski lessons for local schools, adding a community-minded aspect to your adventure. Reddit

Mountain Biking Adventures

When the snow melts, Tahoe XC Center transitions into a fantastic mountain biking destination. The center offers a diverse range of trails, from gentle, interconnected paths that were once ski trails to more challenging routes that gain elevation and feature exciting jump lines. These trails provide a great progression for riders, allowing beginners to build confidence and experienced riders to test their skills. The opportunity to rent mountain bikes on-site makes it accessible for those who might not have their own equipment. Instagram

The trails at Tahoe XC are known for offering spectacular views of Lake Tahoe, especially as you ascend towards the rim trails. While the trails are generally well-regarded for their riding quality, some users have noted that trail marking can be inconsistent, and it's advisable to use apps like MTB Project or Trails Forks to navigate effectively. Reddit Events like the evo Trailgate Party have also been hosted here, featuring group rides for all levels, indicating a vibrant biking community. Instagram

Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride with scenic overlooks or a more adrenaline-pumping experience with jumps and berms, Tahoe XC Center's mountain biking trails offer a rewarding adventure. The combination of varied terrain and stunning lake views makes it a must-visit for any cyclist exploring the Lake Tahoe area. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2