This is your insider’s guide to all Reno Tahoe’s ski resorts. Not only will it help you decide the best places for your family to ski, but also give you recommendations for dining, lodging, gear, clothing and even how to plan ahead for wintry weather.
In Reno Tahoe, your family will have no shortage of good times. The memories of your winter family vacation will stay with you long after the snow melts. From easy slopes to ski-in, ski-out convenience, a day at any of these family-friendly resorts is guaranteed to be filled with laughter and adventure. We’ve got the scoop on all of these, so you can easily decide which is right for your family’s next trip. It’s time to conquer Reno Tahoe’s mountains with the whole family in tow.
Family-Friendly Ski Resorts in Lake Tahoe
Diamond Peak Ski Resort
Ditch the crowds. Head to what locals consider a top-notch family zone: Diamond Peak Ski Resort. Make lasting memories and take in the most epic views during your Lake Tahoe ski vacation here. It has easy parking, a mellow vibe and terrain that’s just as perfect for little snow bunnies as it is for the advanced skiers. Not to mention that it’s as wallet-friendly as it is Instagram-ready.
Get straight to the action by purchasing passes, lift tickets and even renting equipment online. Bringing kids that are six years old and under? They ski for free.
Ski Lessons at Diamond Peak
Diamond Peak’s got you covered with expert instructors who will have the whole family carving turns in no time. Their lesson lineup is designed for every age group and skill level:
- Child lessons (3-6)
- Youth lessons (7-12)
- Adult lessons (12+)
Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe
A ski resort that’s full of adventure and low on stress? Say no more. Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe is where convenience and old-school Tahoe charm collide! Just a 25-minute drive from Reno, this is the go-to destination for families who want a mountain day without the intense resort vibes. Enjoy convenient slope-side parking lots and two on-site lodges. At the main lodge, you enroll in ski lessons, rent gear and sip an ice-cold beer while you watch your kids.
For parents craving some solo shred time, Mt. Rose has a stellar ski school that’ll keep your kids busy while you tear up advanced runs. Check out their lesson packages for more details!
Boreal Mountain Ski Resort
If you’re someone who wants to squeeze every ounce out of a day, this is the place to do it. Boreal Mountain Ski Resort is close to the highway, making it easy to park, unload the kids and gear and hit the slopes. This resort has a reputation for its night skiing, which takes snow days to a whole new level.
But, before the sun sets, you and your family can easily explore the snow tube hill, terrain parks and short, easy runs while soaking up the laid-back atmosphere.
Plus, kids under 12 ski for free with the purchase of one adult Unlimited pass. Now that’s a steal.
Skiing Lessons at Boreal
Anyone new to skiing in your crew? This Reno Tahoe ski resort offers two types of group lessons with their world-class instructors: one for ages 4-12 and one for ages 13 and up. Feeling shy? Private lessons are also on the table!
When you take three lessons at Boreal, you can ski for free on your fourth visit! See more information about this deal.
Northstar California Resort
Where family bonding meets a touch of luxury: Northstar California Resort. Think premium amenities and a village scene stocked with food, fire pits and winter charm. The terrain caters to all skill levels, meaning everyone from toddlers to adventure-seekers can find their groove.
Besides skiing and playing in the snow, here are some exciting experiences you and your family won’t want to miss:
- Every day at 4 p.m., Northstar California offers complimentary s'mores on a first-come-first-served basis. Come late or just want seconds? They sell s'more kits at the cabana bars.
- If your kids are new to skiing, there’s no need to schlepp to mid-mountain. Instead, swing by the ski school located in the Village.
- Go shopping at the many shops in the Village.
- Hit the ice skating rink for a more laid-back evening. Take a few laps with your squad, admire the surrounding buildings’ glowing lights, and listen to the tunes playing throughout the pavilion.
Just a quick drive from Reno, Northstar serves up the perfect mix of adrenaline and chill, with the bonus of being close enough for a spontaneous escape.
Palisades Tahoe
Big thrills and incredible mountain and lake views make Palisades Tahoe a dream destination for adventurous families looking to up their ski game. Home to some of the gnarliest terrain in Reno Tahoe, this resort is where Olympic-level challenges meet family-friendly fun.
Explore unforgettable experiences from skiing bunny slopes and jaw-dropping chutes to disco night tubing, snowshoeing and sledding. Their ski school is in a league of its own with world-class instructors. Play on their terrain parks, then visit the full lodge on the upper mountain.
Plus, the village here is packed with aprés-ski activities for both kids and grown-ups, from an ice skating rink and fire pits to shops. There’s even an aerial tram ride with scenery that’s IG-gold!
If your kids want to tell wild stories after their Lake Tahoe ski vacation, Palisades is the only stop you need.
Sierra-at-Tahoe
A classic Lake Tahoe ski resort with a chill atmosphere, Sierra-at-Tahoe makes family-friendly feel next-level. From snow tubing and well-groomed greens for the littles to tree-lined blues and black diamonds for adventurous kids, this spot has a run for everyone. It’s home to the kind of welcoming, low-key vibe that makes you want to come back again and again.
Once you work up an appetite, you don’t have to venture off-mountain to refuel. Grab lunch at Sierra-at-Tahoe's nearby food options to chow down. Choose from a variety of cuisines, from BBQ and burgers to ancient grain rice bowls and tacos. Kick it on the backside deck, where you can listen to music and warm up by the fire. They often have live entertainment here, too!
Family Fun That Doesn't Break the Bank
Skiing in Lake Tahoe doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Whether you’re looking for lift tickets, rentals or lessons, pricing varies based on resort and available deals. Thankfully, many resorts offer family-friendly packages that help keep costs down — so you can focus more on the fun, less on the tab. Get ahead of the game by checking each resort’s pricing page.
Satisfy Your Hunger During Ski Breaks
It’s always a good idea to keep snacks on you for the chairlift. There’s nothing like riding with a hangry kid.
Should your family want more to refuel, most Lake Tahoe ski resorts offer food — from sit-down meals to grab-n-go bites — to keep feeding your kids as easy as possible. No need to pack up the car and drive down the mountain.
But we wouldn’t be doing the list of Reno Tahoe restaurants justice if we didn’t highlight some local favorites. Try any of these spots, and you won’t leave disappointed (or still hungry):
For All the Breakfast Goods
- Coffeebar: If you’re coming from Reno or into town on I-80, Coffeebar on McCarran is quite the morning treat. They offer delicious drinks, fresh-baked pastries and brunch items.
- Squeeze In: Originally established in Truckee, this family-friendly, sit-down restaurant serves up big plates of brunch foods in Reno and Sparks. In fact, one location is just down the hill from Mt. Rose!
- Truckee Bagel Company: Your one-stop shop for an absolutely stacked breakfast sandwich. We recommend Pacific Sunrise and The Chief.
Fueling Up at Dinnertime
- Noble Pie Parlor: Pizza is the perfect way to refuel after a day on the mountain. When you get back to Reno, head to MidTown and grab a slice. Want to share an appetizer? Get the frachos.
- 999 Pho: You and the fam can warm up with a tasty bowl of pho. Want more calories? They have a whole menu of Vietnamese dishes they can whip up.
- Schussboom Brewing Co.: Beer and food — what’s not to love? If you’re heading back to your hotel, stop in south Reno. Your kids can enjoy their own play area while you unwind.
- T's Mesquite Rotisserie: If you’re in or close to Incline Village, replenish your energy with a stuffed burrito or tostadas. For the kids, they have tacos and quesadillas.
Start Planning Your Family's Lake Tahoe Ski Vacation
You’re here to ski, not stress. So, let’s talk about what you need: comfortable, spacious places to stay; gear that won’t slow you down; and the scoop on how to stay warm while you shred.
Places to Cozy Up After Skiing in Lake Tahoe
Reno Tahoe has your family’s home base handled. With options ranging from roomy suites to comfy condos to vacation rentals, you’ll have all the space and amenities you need to relax.
Planning to explore more winter activities around Reno Tahoe? Go with a hotel that’s centrally located, like Atlantis Casino Resort Spa or Grand Sierra Resort.
Search through all of our family-friendly places to stay to check for certain amenities that’ll make your whole crew feel right at home.
Stay Ahead of the Weather
Reno Tahoe’s weather can change at the drop of a hat. Take a look at our snow report to see how many inches of snowfall we currently have. You can also peep the area’s weather conditions before you set off to the ski resort of your choice.
Once you’ve decided which ski resort you’re going to visit, check their website for snow reports, lift statuses and road conditions. Most, if not all, have options to see mountain conditions live via their webcams.
Pro tip: Get to the mountain as early as possible, especially on a holiday weekend.
Gear Up, Have Fun
Whether you’re a bring-your-own-setup kind of family or need a last-minute rental, we’ve got you covered. We’ll walk you through what to pack, where to rent and the best shops to visit. Get your pen and paper ready for our checklist!
Skiing Equipment
No matter how you’re getting here — driving up or landing at Reno-Tahoe International Airport — you’ll have an easy time bringing your own gear. Roof racks make it a breeze to secure your equipment for the road trip, and if you’re flying, most airlines consider one ski bag a single checked item.
Don’t own any gear, but still want to experience skiing in Lake Tahoe? Easy peasy. Many of the resorts offer equipment rental, so you can be on your way in no time!
As a region of ski bums, we have tons of Reno Tahoe shops stocked with knowledgeable staff members and who can help pick out visitors’ gear. Check out these businesses:
Clothing for the Mountains
Here, the high altitude, low temps and weather can turn on you faster than you expect. This is what we’d suggest you bring if you want to stay warm while skiing in Lake Tahoe:
- Base layers: This is the layer that keeps you warm and dry, and that means merino wool or high-tech synthetics only.
- Insulation layer: Think fleece, down, or Primaloft — something that traps the heat but won’t weigh you down.
- Outer layer: A solid, waterproof shell helps to fend off snow, wind and whatever else the mountain throws your way. Bonus points for something with pit zips because sometimes you need to vent without ditching all your layers.
- Helmet and goggles: The essentials. Non-negotiables. Safety first.
- Ski socks: Go for high-performance, snug-fitting ones. Wool blends are your best friend.
- Gloves or mittens: Get gloves with serious insulation or mittens if you’re prone to cold hands. Pack liners for extra warmth.
- Neck gaiter or balaclava: The wind out there will find every little gap, so cover up.
Come Play in the Snow Together
At Reno Tahoe’s ski resorts, it’s as much about sharing moments together as it is about the thrill of the ride. From skiing for all skill levels to cozy lodges and inviting après-ski scenes, every element brings families closer. Whether it’s your first time on the slopes or a beloved annual trip, there’s something here for everyone.
So, gather the family, head to the mountains and get ready for an unforgettable winter getaway!