First Timer's Guide to Palisades Tahoe
Discover the ins and outs of Palisades Tahoe and make the most out of your mountain experience.
Close Video
8 Peaks. 1 Story.
Welcome to Palisades Tahoe, the largest destination on the Ikon Pass in North America.
With over 6,000 skiable acres, 40 lifts, and two iconic mountains connected by the Base to Base Gondola, this is where unforgettable mountain days begin.
For more than 75 years, Palisades Tahoe has been the proving ground for Olympians, pioneers, and powder seekers alike. Whether you're here to take your first turns, explore the Village, or soak in the Sierra scenery, there’s something for everyone to discover.
Plan Your Visit
This first timer's guide will help you prepare for your day on the mountain, from getting geared up to finding your way around. Whether you're learning to ski or snowboard, exploring the mountain, or enjoying the sights, start here to make the most of your visit.
Before you arrive: Explore Beginner Lessons to find the right instruction for you, Equipment Rentals to get geared up, and the Parking Program to understand reservation requirements. Plan to arrive early enough to park, pick up any rentals, and get to your destination without rushing. rich-text, responsive-table
With over 6,000 skiable acres, 40 lifts, and two iconic mountains connected by the Base to Base Gondola, this is where unforgettable mountain days begin.
For more than 75 years, Palisades Tahoe has been the proving ground for Olympians, pioneers, and powder seekers alike. Whether you're here to take your first turns, explore the Village, or soak in the Sierra scenery, there’s something for everyone to discover.
Plan Your Visit
This first timer's guide will help you prepare for your day on the mountain, from getting geared up to finding your way around. Whether you're learning to ski or snowboard, exploring the mountain, or enjoying the sights, start here to make the most of your visit.
Before you arrive: Explore Beginner Lessons to find the right instruction for you, Equipment Rentals to get geared up, and the Parking Program to understand reservation requirements. Plan to arrive early enough to park, pick up any rentals, and get to your destination without rushing. rich-text, responsive-table
Choose what best matches how you're visiting:
rich-text, responsive-table
rich-text, responsive-table
-
carousel-component
Discover the Mountain
With six thousand skiable acres, thirty nine lifts, and eight iconic peaks, Palisades Tahoe offers one of the most diverse mountain experiences in North America. From legendary expert terrain like KT-22 and Granite Chief to scenic groomers and beginner zones at High Camp and Alpine, every peak tells a different story.
Explore the terrain, history, and personality of each zone and discover what makes Palisades Tahoe one of the most iconic mountain destinations in the world.
Explore the 8 Peaks
rich-text, responsive-table
Check the Mountain Report
Before heading out for the day, the Mountain Report is your go-to source for real-time information. Check the latest weather, snow totals, lift status, trail openings, and grooming updates so you can plan your day on the mountain with confidence.
Updated throughout the day, this is the best place to see what’s open and what conditions are like across Palisades and Alpine.
Mountain Report
rich-text, responsive-tablecarousel-component
Get Your Lift Tickets
Ready to head up the mountain? Whether you're planning to ski, snowboard, or simply take in the views, Palisades Tahoe offers lift tickets for both on-mountain access and sightseeing experiences. Choose the option that fits your day and start exploring everything the mountain has to offer.
Lift Tickets
rich-text, responsive-tableStories from the Slopes
Our blog is where you’ll find the latest stories from the mountain, including season updates, events, activity guides, and behind-the-scenes insights from around the resort. From powder day reports to spring events and summer adventures, it’s the best place to stay connected to everything happening at Palisades Tahoe.
blog-loader -
Start at the Top
Don’t let the size of the mountain fool you, Palisades Tahoe is home to one of the most unique beginner experiences in the world. At High Camp (8,200 ft), first-time skiers and riders can learn on wide, gentle slopes surrounded by sweeping views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra. With dedicated beginner terrain like Mountain Meadow and Bailey’s Beach, you’ll build confidence in a scenic, low-pressure environment that feels worlds away from Olympic Valley below.
rich-text, responsive-tablecarousel-componentGet Your Lift Access
Before you hit the slopes, you’ll need lift access. Whether you're taking your first lesson or exploring beginner terrain on your own, we offer options for both skiing and sightseeing so you can experience the mountain your way.
Lift Tickets
rich-text, responsive-tablecarousel-componentDial in Your Technique
Our Mountain Sports School specializes in helping first-time skiers and snowboarders feel comfortable, confident, and in control from day one. With patient instructors, beginner-friendly terrain, and a supportive learning environment, you’ll be linking turns before you know it..
Take a Lesson
rich-text, responsive-tablecarousel-componentGear Up
No gear? No problem. Our rental and demo centers make it easy to get everything you need, from skis and snowboards to boots and helmets. Our team will help you find the right fit so you can focus on learning and enjoying your day on the mountain.
Rentals & Demos
rich-text, responsive-tablecarousel-componentWhat to Wear
Staying warm and dry makes all the difference on your first day. We recommend waterproof snow pants, a winter jacket, gloves or mittens, and goggles to protect against cold air and sun exposure. If you need anything last-minute, swing through The Village for gear, layers, and accessories before heading up.
Shop Gear in The Village
rich-text, responsive-table -
More Than a Ski Resort
Whatever your ideal mountain experience looks like, Palisades Tahoe offers countless ways to make that vision happen. From scenic sightseeing and mountaintop dining to shopping, live music, and unforgettable events, there's something here for everyone, on or off the mountain. rich-text, responsive-tablecarousel-componentExplore The Village
From local boutiques and outdoor gear shops to restaurants, coffee, wine bars, and year-round events, The Village is the perfect place to spend the day before or after your mountain adventure.
The Village rich-text, responsive-tablecarousel-componentSierra Sightseeing Pass
See the mountain from a whole new perspective. Ride the Aerial Tram, Gold Coast Funitel, and Base-to-Base Gondola with all-day access to sweeping Sierra views and mountaintop exploring.
Explore Sightseeing rich-text, responsive-tablecarousel-componentWinter Activities
Your perfect mountain day can look however you want it to. Discover winter activities and experiences for every kind of adventure, from family fun to something completely new.
Activity Finder rich-text, responsive-tablecarousel-componentLively Events
From high-energy après and live music to on-mountain dinners, happy hours, and special events, there’s always another way to experience the mountains. Find what fits your vibe and add something memorable to your day.
Events Calendar rich-text, responsive-tablecarousel-componentSavor the Sierra
Fuel your adventure with everything from mountaintop dining and après cocktails to cozy cafés, local favorites, and unforgettable meals surrounded by Sierra views.
Dining Options rich-text, responsive-table -
Welcome, Ikon Pass Holders
Your Ikon Pass gives you access to North America's largest Ikon Pass destination.
Make the Most of Your Pass
Lodging Discounts: Plan your Tahoe stay and explore available lodging options and discounts for Ikon Pass holders.
Explore Lodging
Ikon Pass Member Clinics: Keep progressing with expert instruction at the Ikon Pass Thursday Clinic, designed for high-intermediate to expert skiers and snowboarders.
Explore Ikon Pass Clinics
Discover additional benefits, experiences, and passholder offers available at Palisades Tahoe.
Explore Ikon Pass Benefits
Download the Ikon Pass App
Download the Ikon Pass app on your Apple or Android device to access your pass information and stay connected throughout the season.
Download on the App Store
Download on Google Play
Please note: Access may be subject to blackout dates and other restrictions depending on your Ikon Pass product. Review your pass benefits and applicable restrictions before your visit. rich-text, responsive-table