Family friendly atmosphere at Tahoe’s smaller ski resorts

Quieter experiences and family-friendly destinations

Many skiers and snowboarders find themselves routinely heading to the more heralded Lake Tahoe resorts, rarely contemplating a visit to more modest locations. The preference seems to be – big names, big amenities. And what also can be big are the crowds.

While Heavenly, Squaw Valley and Northstar California attract snow enthusiasts with sheer name recognition, and resorts like Alpine Meadows, Kirkwood, Sugar Bowl and Sierra-at-Tahoe cash in on their reputation for “big is better” as well, smaller resorts can be the way to go, especially on busy weekends.

Today’s larger ski resorts offer high-speed lifts, on-mountain fine dining, slope-side condominiums, and retail space that some strip malls would envy.

Fortunately for the snow enthusiasts who frequent the Tahoe resorts, there are some nice choices for skiing and snowboarding. Quaint resorts that have retained their more homespun appeal reside in the North Tahoe region.

Homewood Mountain Resort and Diamond Peak are two solid choices for a quieter experience, while Donner Ski Ranch and Tahoe Donner are wonderful family destinations that will appeal to beginners, yet also have a little something for advanced skiers and snowboarders.

Diamond Peak

Reminiscent of a cozy neighborhood bar, this Incline Village resort is known for its small crowds, reasonable prices, casual learning center, and its gorgeous views of Lake Tahoe

Built in 1966, Diamond Peak is a perfect fit for Incline Village, the first of several small towns along a stretch of Highway 28 that line Tahoe’s north shore. Unlike the more tourist-happy south shore, Incline Village possesses a more tranquil existence. Featuring five lifts and 30 trails, Diamond Peak has always been known as one of Lake Tahoe’s premiere family resorts.

Homewood

No Tahoe resort has more impressive lake front scenery. Walk a mere 25 yards across Highway 89 from the Homewood parking lot and one can dip a toe (or a ski boot) in the waters of the chilly lake. The classic west shore views of Lake Tahoe are prevalent on many of Homewood’s 59 runs.

There are eight lifts and 1,650 feet of vertical at Homewood, which features 35 percent advanced runs. Although most of the popular trails are meticulously groomed, there is an abundance of trees, which is why a powder day will attract a good number of locals.

Speaking of powder days, Homewood can be the place to go on a stormy day as well. It has long been noted as Tahoe’s best protected mountain against the wind.

Tahoe Donner

Situated at perhaps the most obscure location of all Tahoe’s resorts, Donner definitely caters to families. It’s an ideal place to learn, featuring an unimposing hill, modest crowds and modest prices.

Tahoe Donner is a cozy destination that has two lifts that access 14 trails. Although the base area is at 6,200 feet, the summit rises to 8,000 feet. The “Bowl” offers some nice intermediate terrain, while runs like Race Course and Skip’s Plunge will provide some challenge for advanced skiers.

To reach Tahoe Donner, take the Donner State Park Exit off Interstate 80. Travel east and proceed to Northwoods Boulevard.

Donner Ski Ranch

This is a resort with a long history, dating back to 1937 when the first rope tow was hauling skiers up its modest hill. The rope tow is long gone, replaced by six lifts that access 52 trails. But the same relaxing, carefree atmosphere remains.

Situated off I-80’s Norden exit, the base elevation is 7,031 feet and the summit only rises to 7,781 feet, which means the runs are relatively short on the 460 acres that provides a variety of terrain for all abilities.

Once owned by local legend Norm Saylor, a true Lake Tahoe character, the resort remains family owned by Marshall and Janet Tuttle.

There is rarely a day when the lift lines aren’t small and the slopes uncrowded at one of California’s last family owned and operated resorts.

At A Glance

DIAMOND PEAK: North Tahoe resort features great lakeside views and typically small crowds.
Location: Highway 431, five miles north of Incline Village
Elevation: Base 6,700; Summit 8,540
Adult lift ticket: $120
Lifts: 5; Trails: 30
Phone: (775) 832-1177
Web site: www.diamondpeak.com

DONNER SKI RANCH: This modest resort has long skiing tradition, dating back to 1937 when it featured a lone tow rope.
Location: Interstate 80, Norden exit
Elevation: Base 7,031; Summit 7,781
Adult lift ticket: $49 – $89
Lifts: 6; Trails: 52
Phone: (530) 426-3635  
Web site: www.donnerskiranch.com

HOMEWOOD MOUNTAIN RESORT: Tough to beat its Lake Tahoe views, which are visible throughout the mountain. Lots of tree skiing.
Location: Highway 89, six miles south of Tahoe City
Elevation: Base 6,230; Summit 7,880
Adult lift ticket: $64 – $157
Lifts: 8; Trails: 59
Phone: (530) 525-2992
Web site: www.skihomewood.com

TAHOE DONNER: Definitely a beginner-friendly resort. The mountain is small, but so are the crowds.
Location: Donner State Park exit off Interstate 80, Northwoods Boulevard
Elevation: Base 6,200; Summit 8,000
Adult lift ticket: $78- $98
Lifts: 2; Trails: 14
Phone: (530) 587-9444
Web site: www.skitahoedonner.com