Planned Opening: November 20, 2024
Heavenly Mountain Resort is more than just a ski destination; it’s a place where the thrill of adventure meets the beauty of nature. Straddling the California-Nevada border, Heavenly offers a unique skiing experience that combines breathtaking panoramic views, expansive terrain, and a lively après-ski scene. Whether you’re an expert skier chasing powder or a beginner soaking in the stunning vistas of Lake Tahoe, Heavenly has something to offer everyone. From its exhilarating trails to its vibrant village life, this iconic resort promises an unforgettable winter escape.
What’s New in 2024/25
This season, Heavenly is bringing exciting updates to its food and beverage offerings at the California Lodge with the launch of the Golden State Kitchen. This new dining experience serves up fresh, healthier fare, a modern twist on traditional ski resort food. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite between runs or settling down for a meal with friends, the re-envisioned menu caters to a variety of tastes, making it easy to fuel up for a full day on the slopes.
Heavenly’s commitment to sustainability is also front and center this year as the resort participates in the City of South Lake Tahoe’s single-use plastic ban. All Pepsi products have been transitioned to aluminum bottles, marking an important step in reducing the resort’s environmental footprint as part of its EpicPromise Commitment to Zero.
Best Run: Olympic Downhill
If you’re searching for the ultimate run at Heavenly, Olympic Downhill is the one to beat. Spanning over 5.5 miles from summit to base, this trail offers a perfect blend of challenge and scenery. Intermediate skiers will love the opportunity to carve their way down Heavenly’s longest run while soaking in unparalleled views of Lake Tahoe. With its gentle slopes and wide-open spaces, Olympic Downhill is a favorite for those who want to take their time and truly enjoy the ride.
For more advanced skiers, the tree-lined glades and hidden powder stashes found throughout the resort provide a thrilling challenge. Heavenly is known for its diverse terrain, including steep chutes and technical runs that will test your limits.
The Heavenly Experience: Terrain for All Abilities
Heavenly’s 4,800 acres of skiable terrain make it one of the largest resorts in the region, and its 97 trails cater to all skill levels. From the wide groomers with jaw-dropping lake views to the advanced chutes and glades that will challenge even the most seasoned riders, the mountain’s terrain diversity is one of its greatest assets. Beginners and families will feel right at home on the California side, where gentle slopes and learning zones provide the perfect introduction to skiing or snowboarding.
For those seeking more excitement, head to the Nevada side, where Mott Canyon and Killebrew Canyon offer some of the steepest and most challenging in-bounds terrain at Heavenly. Here, expert skiers and snowboarders can take on tight chutes and deep powder fields that make every run an adventure.
Heavenly Village: A Hub of Après-Ski Fun
The action doesn’t stop when the lifts close at Heavenly. The resort’s lively Heavenly Village offers a wide range of activities and entertainment options that make it the perfect place to unwind after a day on the mountain. Whether you’re strolling through the shops, grabbing a bite at one of the many restaurants, or joining the crowd for live music and après-ski fun, there’s something for everyone.
One of the highlights of Heavenly’s après-ski scene is the Brews and Views event at Lakeview Lodge, where you can enjoy live music, beer tastings, and spectacular sunsets over Lake Tahoe. This season, the event is expanding, featuring even more breweries and opportunities to sample local craft beers while soaking in the unforgettable scenery.
For those looking to keep the party going, the DJ Cat—a mobile DJ setup housed in a snowcat—brings the beats to the slopes. Rotating guest DJs will be spinning tunes at different spots on the mountain, so grab your friends and dance in your ski boots before heading down for the day.
Special Events to Look Forward To
Heavenly is renowned for hosting some of the most exciting events in the region. This season brings back several fan favorites, with expanded offerings to make them bigger and better than ever.
- Toyota Air & Après: Taking place from March 1-3, 2025, this thrilling big-air event showcases professional athletes performing gravity-defying tricks on a 45-foot jump at the base of the World Cup run. This year, the event will stretch over three days and include live music, a vendor village, and après-ski festivities that are not to be missed.
- Heavenly Holidays: Running throughout December, Heavenly Village transforms into a winter wonderland filled with holiday magic. From ice sculpting contests to tree lightings and live music, there’s something for everyone in the family. Plus, skiing with Santa and nightly fireworks make it an ideal time to visit with kids.
- Spring Loaded Series: Heavenly is known for its vibrant spring skiing scene, and the Spring Loaded Series brings that energy to life with events like the Gunbarrel 25 and a classic Pond Skim. The Gunbarrel 25, a mogul marathon where skiers and riders lap the challenging Gunbarrel run 25 times, is a test of endurance and skill, while the Pond Skim offers a fun, splash-filled way to cap off the season.
Tips for a Great Day at Heavenly
- Maximize Your Mountain Time: Arrive early to beat the crowds and take advantage of the best snow conditions, especially on weekends. Heavenly’s vast terrain means there’s always room to explore, but the early risers get the best runs.
- Plan Ahead for Parking: Heavenly has a reservation-based parking system at the California Base Area on weekends and peak periods, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and book your parking spot online. For those looking to save, the Stagecoach and Boulder lots offer free parking seven days a week.
- Fuel Up at the Right Spots: Whether you’re grabbing lunch at Stein’s or enjoying a mid-run break at the Sky Deck, Heavenly’s dining options offer plenty of places to recharge. For those who prefer a more scenic dining experience, head to the Lakeview Lodge, where the panoramic views are as satisfying as the food.
- Catch the Sunset: One of the best things about Heavenly is its unbeatable views. If you time it right, you can catch a spectacular sunset over Lake Tahoe from the top of the mountain, making for a perfect end to a day of skiing.
The Heavenly Magic
What makes Heavenly truly special is its ability to offer something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding adventure on the chutes of Mott Canyon or a leisurely cruise down Olympic Downhill, Heavenly’s vast and varied terrain delivers. The unique experience of skiing across two states, combined with stunning views of Lake Tahoe and endless après-ski options, creates a resort atmosphere that’s both energetic and welcoming.
Fun Facts About Heavenly skiing
- 2 – states to explore.
- 4 – base areas to access the mountain.
- 5.5 – the length in miles of Heavenly’s longest run on the mountain, Olympic Downhill.
- 8 – options to fuel up and quench your thirst for more skiing and riding at our restaurants.
- 28 – lifts and surface lifts to take you to the terrain you’re ready to explore.
- 68 – years of offering world-class skiing and riding in Lake Tahoe.
- Endless – views of Lake Tahoe and the Carson Valley.
- Location: 56 – miles from Reno-Tahoe International Airport.
From its diverse runs to its vibrant village, Heavenly Mountain Resort embodies the spirit of Tahoe—adventurous, scenic, and full of life. Whether you’re visiting for the powder or the parties, Heavenly is a destination that leaves a lasting impression, ensuring that your 2024/25 season will be nothing short of spectacular.
