Lake Tahoe

Cross-Country Skiing

When you think “ski,” what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Is it the cool metal restraint of the chairlift, resting firmly against your lap? Is it the wind whipping against your cheeks as you cut across the slope? If so, you’d be forgetting about one very popular version of the sport: cross-country skiing.

Find a Trail or Blaze Your Own

While cross-country skiing, you’ll be gliding across the countryside rather than racing down the slope. Good for adrenaline-junkies and more relaxed adventurers alike, cross-country skiing allows you to take in the scenery at your own pace.

Depending on your gear, you can ski along groomed trails or blaze your own way through unexplored terrain. This winter, soak up the Sierra Nevadas while cross-country skiing.

Where to cross-country ski in South Lake Tahoe?

GROOMED TRAILS

Camp Richardson

For quintessential South Lake Tahoe cross-country skiing, head to the beach. Camp Richardson boasts groomed trails with spectacular views of the lake.

Lake Tahoe Community College

Glide along five kilometers of groomed cross-country trails at Lake Tahoe Community College Nordic Center, the first ski center on the South Shore.

Spooner Lake Area

The groomed trails in Spooner Lake State Park are a product of a partnership with Nevada Nordic. Check out other Nevada Nordic trails.

NON-GROOMED SKI AREAS

Near Highway 89

Head to the many short and flat trails North of the Highway 50/89 intersection. Try Pope, Kiva, and Baldwin Beaches, as well as Tallac Historic Site and Taylor Creek Visitor Area.

Bijou Park

Bijou Park is South Lake Tahoe's only true community park. Ski on their ungroomed trails and fields that turn into a cross-country ski destination once the snow falls.

Tallac Historic Site

This cross-country ski site is ideal for families and beginners. The flat location makes it easy to give skiing a try, while the views of Lake Tahoe are tough to beat.

Be Safe in the Backcountry

If you're blazing your own trail, be sure to do so safely.

Be avalanche aware

When in doubt, turn back

Dress in layers so you can either layer up if it's cool or layer down if you heat up

Practice Leave No Trace Principles

Carry the necessary safety gear

Share your itinerary with a trusted friend

SKI THEN SLEEP

From sleep to slope in a matter of minutes

Forest Suites is situated at the cross roads between countless cross-country skiing trails. Discover new terrain—both groomed and non-groomed—from the comfort of your room or suite.

Lodging features:

Hotel rooms with One King or Two Double beds

Spacious Suites with fully-equipped kitchens, dining areas, and living rooms

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