Heavenly is exactly what its name promises—a place so breathtaking it feels otherworldly. Straddling the California–Nevada border high above Lake Tahoe, this mountain delivers some of the most stunning ski views in the world. You’ll carve wide-open groomers with the lake glittering beneath you, then drop into tree runs that disappear into pure silence. Heavenly isn’t just about skiing; it’s about that rare moment when you stop mid-run, look out over blue water and white peaks, and realize you’re in one of nature’s true masterpieces.

Quick Stats

• Location: South Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada
• Elevation: 6,255 ft base / 10,067 ft summit
• Vertical Drop: 3,500 ft
• Skiable Terrain: 4,800 acres
• Annual Snowfall: ~360 inches
• Number of Runs: 97
• Lifts: 28 (including the Heavenly Gondola rising from town)
• Vibe Check: Big views, big runs, and high-energy après

The Vibe

Heavenly is pure contrast. One minute you’re skiing deep tree lines under quiet snowfall, the next you’re sipping cocktails overlooking one of the most famous alpine lakes on Earth. The resort attracts everyone—from powder chasers to party seekers—and somehow keeps them all happy. The California side leans rustic and soulful; the Nevada side buzzes with nightlife and casino lights. It’s an intoxicating mix of wild adventure and lakeside luxury. When the sun dips low and the lake reflects gold, you’ll understand why Heavenly has been a Tahoe favorite for generations.

Must-Ride Runs

🟢 Greens

• Easy Street – wide, forgiving slope ideal for new skiers
• The Enchanted Forest – playful beginner terrain with stunning lake views

🟦 Blues

• Ridge Run – the most scenic trail on the mountain, hugging the ridgeline above the lake
• Patrolman’s Run – a classic Tahoe cruiser that stays consistent top to bottom
• Skyline Trail – a high-altitude blue perfect for carving and photos

♦ Blacks

• The Face – steep and technical, dropping straight toward the gondola base
• Gunbarrel – iconic mogul run that defines Heavenly’s local grit
• Ellie’s – fast, narrow, and a local favorite on storm days

Après + Town Stays

Heavenly’s split personality is part of its charm—California cozy on one side, Nevada nightlife on the other.

• Base Camp Pizza Co. – live music, local beers, and the best post-ski pie in Tahoe
• The Loft Tahoe – dinner, craft cocktails, and a live magic show all in one
• McP’s Taphouse Grill – lively Irish pub steps from the gondola with 40+ beers on tap
• Azul Latin Kitchen – fun, fresh, and a crowd favorite for tacos and margaritas
• Driftwood Café – locals’ go-to breakfast spot before hitting the lifts
• Edgewood Tahoe Resort – five-star luxury with lakefront dining and spa views that feel unreal
• Hotel Becket – hip boutique stay right across from Heavenly Village

Travel Tips

Heavenly is one of the most accessible major resorts in the West. Fly into Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) and drive about 1 hour and 15 minutes to South Lake Tahoe. The Heavenly Gondola rises right from Heavenly Village, making it easy to ski straight from town. Public transit, ride-shares, and hotel shuttles make getting around simple, so you can skip the car if you’re staying nearby. Best snow typically hits from mid-January through March, and midweek trips are ideal for quieter slopes.

Fun Facts

• Heavenly spans two states—California and Nevada—and offers lake views from nearly every peak.
• The Heavenly Gondola climbs 2.4 miles from town to mountain in just 12 minutes.
• The resort hosts both skiing and snowboarding races with views that feel straight out of a movie.
• On the Nevada side, you can literally ski to a casino and try your luck après-ski.
• At full capacity, the resort can see 40,000 vertical feet skied in a single day by power users.
• Why It Made Our Top 50 List

Heavenly combines everything we love about Tahoe—jaw-dropping scenery, huge terrain, and an après scene that goes from mellow to electric depending on which side you’re on. It’s the rare mountain where the skiing is as good as the views, and the views are world-class. From powder mornings to neon nights, Heavenly truly earns its name.