Top 5 Ski Resorts in Reno

As the temperature drops, it’s time to find your snow gear. Reno offers several options if you want to go to your first ski resort or try out a new one this season. These resorts are all family-friendly, so you can bring your whole family for a day of fun in the mountains.

Mount Rose

The closest ski resort to Reno is Mount Rose. The mountain’s base is at an altitude of 8,260 feet and offers spectacular views of the Lake Tahoe area. You don’t need to bring your own equipment, as rentals are available. There’s also an equipment shop in the lodge if you need any last-minute essentials. The mountain offers several different options, and there are various trails for all levels of skiers. You can inquire about the lessons if you’re new to the snow. There are also advanced programs for anyone who wants to sharpen their skills.

If you’re interested in snowboarding, the resort offers different terrain parks that allow you to hone your skills. One of the most well-known parks is Pondo Park. It includes a small cannon, a dance floor, and a 16-foot flat box. There are no accommodations on Mount Rose, but several are nearby. The resort also offers a military discount for active duty with an ID card and a special package if you’re flying on the day you’re skiing. To qualify, you must show them your boarding pass and ID before buying your lift ticket.

Sugar Bowl Resort

Another fun destination near Reno is the Sugar Bowl Resort in Norden, California. You can make it a weekend vacation without leaving, as there is a hotel on-site. Ski until you’re tired, enjoy a meal at the cafe, and recharge. The hotel has a spa and a fitness room to prepare you for a day in the snow. They also provide free overnight storage for your skis. When you’re ready to hit the trails, you can enjoy a variety of terrains based on your knowledge level. Lessons are also available for beginners.

If you’re interested in learning how to race on skis, there’s a racing academy available that you can sign up for. The academy will teach you the basics of racing and explain the necessary safety measures for a safe run. Sugar Bowl has four distinct peaks that you can ski down. You can also go snow tubing on the mountain, leisurely skiing, and racing. For snowboard fans, there’s also a terrain park. Discount lift tickets are available for active duty, military veterans, and first responders with the proper identification.

Donner Ski Ranch

Stay in Norden to enjoy the Donner Ski Ranch. There are no accommodations at the ranch; however, there are several in the nearby area. Before or after your time on the mountain, you can enjoy a warm meal at the Old 40 Bar and Grill. The menu has something for everyone, including the kids.

The slope on the face of the mountain is 1,000 feet, and the back offers some expert terrain to keep your skills sharp. If you don’t like skiing, you can go tubing down the mountain instead. There are six ski lifts as well as two moving carpets that help you get back to the top for your next run. Rentals are available if you don’t want to travel with your skis or don’t have your own.

There is a snowboard park on-site. One of the more unique deals that Donner Ski Ranch offers is the Old School Days, which includes throwback pricing from when the resort was in its early years.

Homewood Mountain Resort

If you’re traveling to Homewood, check out the Homewood Mountain Resort, just a few steps from the shore of Lake Tahoe. There is no lodging at the mountain; however, several options are nearby. You can purchase single-day lift tickets that you can reload and season passes for the peak. If you forgot something or discover you need something to enjoy your day, check out Homewood Mountain Sports, located inside the lodge. The store has the necessary equipment if you venture into the backcountry.

One of the more unique activities at the resort is Snowcat Adventures. This all-day adventure includes eight lift tickets and a private snowcat. It includes breakfast, lunch, and a personal guide to take you through the backcountry. It also provides demo skis and avalanche safety kits for the entire party.

Homewood has a trail for everyone, regardless of their ability level, to enjoy. When it comes to a typical day on the mountain, it offers lessons for children, adults, and ski teams. You can join a group or have a private lesson.

Rental skis and equipment are also available, and there are food options if you get hungry while you’re on the mountain, including the 89 Bar and Grill and The Madden Cafe. You need to ski or ride to the location for your food. The Big Blue View Bar is located mid-mountain and offers a variety of wraps, snacks, and beverages.

Royal Gorge XC

Head to Soda Springs and the Royal Gorge Cross-Country Resort for a different adventure. As the name implies, the focus of this resort is cross-country skilling. You can make a weekend out of your experience by staying at the Sugar Bowl Hotel. If you’re looking for group accommodations, consider a vacation rental in the Village at Sugar Bowl. You can ski in and out of the village. There are a total of 134 trails on the property.

Royal Gorge allows visitors to enjoy classic cross-country and skate skiing. You can also snowshoe and even bring your dogs. It offers special courses for first-timers and lessons to get you comfortable.

As you prepare for your next ski adventure, the De Castroverde Personal Injury and Accident Lawyer staff wishes you a safe and fun trip. If you’re new to the sport, listen to your instructors and ask questions. We encourage you to take the proper precautions for the weather and ski conditions.

Photo Credit: Image by Joris Meier is licensed with Unsplash License