America’s “Silver State” is a destination made for adventure, with its variety of epic road trips offering an array of diverse and distinct nature to neon experiences. Though from late October to February, a whole new experience emerges as northern Nevada transforms into a magical winter wonderland.
From hitting the slopes at a Lake Tahoe ski resort or marvelling at its beautiful alpine lake, to firing up a snowmobile, dropping into a perfect Ruby Mountain line, or jumping aboard a sleigh ride with the family – Nevada’s winter action beckons.
Here is just a taste of what awaits in Nevada’s snowglobe:
Ski and snowshoe with the locals
The Lake Tahoe basin offers several ski resorts for that ultimate vertical drop. From its highest base at Mt. Rose Ski Resort to the insanely-impressive views at community-owned Diamond Peak Ski Resort – both located in North Lake Tahoe by Incline Village and Crystal Bay. It’s where the locals ski, with affordable day passes, friendly and relaxed vibes, crowdless runs, and some of the best terrain in Tahoe. Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe is a great base, offering a shuttle service to Diamond Peak every 30 minutes. For a more boutique experience, Incline Lodge is a new stay in the village with only 38 rooms.
Heavenly holiday
Across the lake, “big” doesn’t even begin to describe Heavenly Mountain Resort with nearly 5,000 skiable acres also in Lake Tahoe. It’s the only ski resort in North America to span across two states, to experience the best of both California and Nevada on one epic mountain. Ride the Heavenly Gondola, just steps from many of the major lodges, connecting to the ski fields. Off the slopes, be sure to hit Heavenly Village for great shopping and open-air ice skating.
Snowshoe Chickadee Ridge at Mt Rose
Embark on an enchanting winter expedition with Snowshoe Tahoe’s beginner-friendly half-day guided snowshoe hike at Chickadee Ridge, a hidden snowy gem on the north shore of Lake Tahoe, close to Incline Village. Starting from the Mt. Rose Meadow Trailhead, through a captivating winter landscape and out to a scenic ridge-line that unveils sweeping vistas of Lake Tahoe and the majestic Mt. Rose Peak.
Ride the Rubies on a thrilling heli-skiing adventure
The Ruby Mountains are known as the “Swiss Alps of Nevada” and are located along Nevada’s Rubies Route road trip. For a thrilling ski experience, book in with the USA’s oldest family-owned heli-skiing outfit for a backcountry adventure, operating since 1977.
Sleigh bells jingling
Just like the infamous lyrics “it’s lovely weather for a sleigh ride together”, enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride while admiring Reno-Tahoe’s natural winter beauty. There are several operators including Lake Tahoe Sleigh Rides who take in Sand Harbor Nevada State Park along snow covered beaches, or Sierra Adventures with a shuttle service from Reno that whisks guests away to meet their Sleigh Master.
Off the slope, for a day trip to Carson Valley
For a day away from the Reno-Tahoe slopes, explore nearby Carson Valley nestled by the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Enjoy a day in Nevada’s state capital, Carson City, with its old-fashioned charm, cultural connections and hot springs. It’s always worth a lunch stop in Genoa’s The Pink House, a photogenic, historic venue built in 1855 and today a welcoming stop for its impressive menu and live music calendar.
Backcountry snowmobiling
Get the adrenaline pumping on a backcountry snowmobile tour with SledNV and experience the wintry beauty of the Ruby Mountains and hidden vistas . Rides are customised for all skill levels with both one and two day packages.
Fun fact…there’s skiing just outside of Las Vegas
Lee Canyon is a cool retreat from the bright lights of Las Vegas. In just under an hour, say goodbye to the neon strip and hello to the pretty Spring Mountains. The slopes might be shorter than those in Tahoe, but offer plentiful opportunities for jumps, speed and trees, and it is a perfect base for families, beginners, or those wanting a quick powder pursuit from Las Vegas
