Heavenly
Overview
Heavenly Mountain Resort at South Lake Tahoe is the most dramatic ski setting in California. The front side of the mountain faces Nevada and the back side faces California, with Lake Tahoe visible from the upper lifts in both directions. Skiing the top of Heavenly on a clear day ...
Ski Resort
Golf Course
Highlights
- 4,800 acres
- Lake views
- 2 states
- Lakeside golf
Weather & Seasons
Plan your visit to Heavenly with our seasonal guide. Best months to visit: Nov - Apr
Winter
Dec - Mar
15-30°F
Peak powder season with consistent snowfall
Spring
Apr - May
30-50°F
Spring skiing with softer snow and longer days
Summer
Jun - Aug
60-80°F
Golf season with perfect weather conditions
Fall
Sep - Nov
40-60°F
Shoulder season with early snow and fall golf
Local Weather Reality
Heavenly spans California and Nevada at the crest, with Nevada receiving slightly less snow than the California side due to rainshadow effect - but colder temperatures on Nevada keep snow quality high.
What Locals Actually Know
Insights from someone who has spent a decade calling Heavenly home. The things the resort brochures never tell you.
Local Perspective
Heavenly Mountain Resort at South Lake Tahoe is the most dramatic ski setting in California. The front side of the mountain faces Nevada and the back side faces California, with Lake Tahoe visible from the upper lifts in both directions. Skiing the top of Heavenly on a clear day and seeing the lake stretched out 3,000 feet below is one of the genuinely great moments available to anyone with a lift ticket.
South Lake Tahoe is a different Tahoe experience from the North Shore. Casinos on the Nevada line provide entertainment options unavailable elsewhere in the basin. The south end of the lake has a more urban energy. Heavenly's gondola from the center of town to the mid-mountain is one of the most convenient ski resort access systems in the US.
Insider Tips
- 1The Mott Canyon area on the Nevada side of Heavenly has the most aggressive expert terrain - mandatory avalanche beacon zone.
- 2The gondola from the center of South Lake Tahoe is a 15-minute ride to mid-mountain - leave your car at the base.
- 3Stateline casinos have cheap buffets and entertainment that provide a different dimension to the Tahoe experience.
Local Secrets
- Sky Meadows area on the California side has excellent groomed intermediate runs that are consistently less crowded than the main Nevada side.
What to Avoid
- Avoid Heavenly during Cal-Neva storm lockdowns when the state lines affect travel differently.
Weather Reality
Heavenly spans California and Nevada at the crest, with Nevada receiving slightly less snow than the California side due to rainshadow effect - but colder temperatures on Nevada keep snow quality high.
Hidden Gem
Cascade Falls on the California side of the south shore is a 1.7-mile hike to a 200-foot waterfall - visible in winter from the bottom but stunning up close. Almost no visitors from South Lake Tahoe find it.
Ski Like a Local
- Galaxy and Olympic areas on the California side of Heavenly face north and hold the best snow longest.
Golf Like a Local
- Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course on the lakeshore at South Lake Tahoe is the most prestigious round in the basin.
Where Locals Eat
Apres-Ski Picks
Local Lodging Picks
Getting There
Reno-Tahoe Airport (RNO) is 58 miles. Sacramento Airport is 2 hours. The Heavenly gondola from downtown South Lake Tahoe means you can stay on the lake without a car.
Skiing
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Difficulty Level
All Levels
Terrain Variety
From gentle groomed runs to challenging black diamonds and powder bowls
Snow Quality
Consistent snowfall with excellent powder conditions throughout the season
Local Ski Tips
- Galaxy and Olympic areas on the California side of Heavenly face north and hold the best snow longest.
Golf
Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course
Course Design
Championship layout with strategic bunkers and water features
Scenic Views
Breathtaking mountain vistas from every hole on the course
Course Condition
Meticulously maintained greens and fairways year-round
Local Golf Tips
- Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course on the lakeshore at South Lake Tahoe is the most prestigious round in the basin.
Gallery
Skiing
Golf
Village
Dining
What to Expect
Accommodations
Heavenly offers a wide range of lodging options from luxury resorts to cozy mountain lodges, all with convenient access to slopes and golf courses.
Dining
Experience world-class dining with mountain views, from casual après-ski spots to fine dining restaurants featuring local and international cuisine.
Shopping
Browse premium ski and golf equipment, local artisan goods, and luxury boutiques in charming village settings.
Activities
Beyond skiing and golf, enjoy snowshoeing, spa treatments, mountain biking, hiking trails, and vibrant nightlife.
Where to Stay
Heavenly offers diverse accommodation options to suit every budget and preference
Local Recommendations
Marriott Grand Residence Club
In the Village right at the gondola base, excellent pool, the most convenient Heavenly lodging
Luxury Resorts
$$$$ - $400-800/night
- Ski-in/ski-out access
- Full-service spa and wellness center
- Multiple on-site restaurants
- Concierge services
- Premium amenities and room service
Mountain Lodges
$$$ - $200-400/night
- Cozy alpine atmosphere
- Close proximity to slopes
- Complimentary breakfast
- Fireplaces and mountain views
- Family-friendly amenities
Condos & Rentals
$$ - $150-300/night
- Full kitchen facilities
- Multiple bedrooms for groups
- Washer and dryer
- Living space and privacy
- Cost-effective for longer stays
Booking Tips
Book Early
Reserve 3-6 months ahead for peak season (December-March) to secure best rates
Package Deals
Look for packages combining lodging with lift tickets and golf rounds for significant savings
Shoulder Season
Visit in early December or late March for lower rates and fewer crowds
Location Matters
Ski-in/ski-out properties cost more but save time and transportation expenses
Nearby Attractions & Activities
Beyond skiing and golf, Heavenly offers countless ways to enjoy your mountain getaway
Apres-Ski Picks
Local Eats
Hidden Gem
Cascade Falls on the California side of the south shore is a 1.7-mile hike to a 200-foot waterfall - visible in winter from the bottom but stunning up close. Almost no visitors from South Lake Tahoe find it.
Village Shopping
Browse boutique shops, ski equipment stores, and local artisan galleries in the charming mountain village.
Fine Dining
Experience world-class cuisine from casual mountain bistros to award-winning restaurants.
Spa & Wellness
Relax and rejuvenate at luxury spas offering massages, hot tubs, and wellness treatments.
Mountain Biking
Explore extensive trail networks for all skill levels during summer months.
Hiking Trails
Discover scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Nightlife & Events
Enjoy après-ski entertainment, live music venues, and seasonal festivals throughout the year.
Wellness & Relaxation
Unwind after a day on the slopes
Apres-Ski & Nightlife
Experience the vibrant mountain culture
Travel Tips & Planning
Everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Heavenly
Getting There
Reno-Tahoe Airport (RNO) is 58 miles. Sacramento Airport is 2 hours. The Heavenly gondola from downtown South Lake Tahoe means you can stay on the lake without a car.
Best Time to Book
Book accommodations 3-6 months in advance for peak season. Early booking ensures better rates and availability.
What to Pack
Layer clothing for varying temperatures. Bring ski gear or rent on-site. Golf clubs can be rented at the course.
Budget Planning
Lift tickets range from $80-200/day. Golf rounds $100-300. Budget $150-400/night for lodging depending on season.
Dining Options
From casual mountain cafes to fine dining restaurants. Reservations recommended for upscale venues during peak season.
Safety & Insurance
Purchase travel insurance covering skiing accidents. Check weather conditions daily and follow resort safety guidelines.
Local Planning Tips
The Mott Canyon area on the Nevada side of Heavenly has the most aggressive expert terrain - mandatory avalanche beacon zone.
The gondola from the center of South Lake Tahoe is a 15-minute ride to mid-mountain - leave your car at the base.
Stateline casinos have cheap buffets and entertainment that provide a different dimension to the Tahoe experience.