Family Ski Trip to Heavenly
With the most spectacular views across Lake Tahoe, it’s pulsing nightlife, and long cruisy runs, Heavenly is a favorite resort for families who love fun both on and off the mountains. With 4,800 acres spanning across two states, many locals are proud to call one of California’s largest resorts their home. Whether you have a family of beginners, or you want to challenge yourself in some of the steeper terrain, Heavenly has something for every member of your family, and offers adventure that keeps on giving after the lifts stop spinning.
Where to Stay:
Heavenly’s location near South Lake Tahoe means that you’ll have an expansive range of lodging options to choose from. If convenience is key to your family, the Marriott Grand Residence Club, located adjacent to the Heavenly gondola, is a good fit. It’s outdoor pool, and location near beaches, guarantees family fun both on and off the slopes. Your kids will love the arcade, theater, and pools at the Stagecoach Lodge, but we know that you and your partner are going to love the ski-in ski-out access. If you want a location closer to the lake, check out the Lakeland Village. The frequent shuttles will take you to the base of the resort with ease. There are nearly endless lodging options in South Lake Tahoe, accommodating those looking for either a luxury experience, lake access, ski-in ski-out location, or are budget focused. Wherever you choose to stay, we’ll be eager to come find you and give you a boot fitting and help you get your skis dialed in for your trip.
Where to Ski:
Don’t feel intimidated by the expansive size of this mountain, there is plenty of beginner and intermediate terrain for families. If you have beginner skiers in your group, start at the California Lodge base area. The First Ride chair has an entire zone dedicated to beginner skiers. After you have some confidence with your pizza and french fry, venture to the Gunbarrell Express, Patsy, and Powderbowl Express. If you have intermediate skiers in your group, you can confidently explore the whole mountain, as blue runs are present all over the resort. If you are searching for those long, cruisy runs with views of the lake that Heavely is famous for, you’ll find those runs off of Sky Express.
Ski School and Childcare:
Do some (or all) of your family need some ski instruction? You’ve come to the right place. The Heavenly Ski School focuses on fun while teaching lifelong technique to children and teens. There are three lesson locations: gondola at Stateline, California Lodge, and Boulder. With small class sizes at this popular resort, you’ll want to make your reservations as early as possible this season. Do you have little ones who aren’t quite old enough for ski school? Infants as young as six weeks old can spend the day at the Heavenly Childcare center. If your little one (age 3 – 5) is feeling up for it, they can even try a mini ski lesson too!
Family Friendly Apres:
Offering arguably the most active apres scene in the west, Mom and Dad might want to consider getting a sitter for at least one night. That being said, there are plenty of kid friendly options to unwind and relax after a fun day of skiing. If you don’t want to leave the resort, we love going to Tamarack Lodge and Bar at the top of the gondola. The outside deck is the perfect place to let your little ones run around and play in the snow while you enjoy a drink (and most weekends, live music). Your kids will love exploring Heavenly Village. Whether they want to go ice skating, jump on the bungee trampoline, or see a magic show, there is always a fun, family vibe at the Heavenly Village. The Village is home to countless bars, pubs, and restaurants that are kid friendly too. The fire pit at the Village Bar and Grill is another family favorite (they will enjoy the grilled cheese, and you will enjoy the bison nachos).
Family Discounts:
Depending on how many days you are planning to ski during your trip, your best rate for day passes might actually be by purchasing an EPIC pass. If purchased early in the year, you can find particularly good deals on the passes. Another option is to call the resort lodging and see if they are currently running any packages that offer discounts on day passes.
Heavenly is one of our favorite resorts in Lake Tahoe, and we are looking forward to helping you out this winter. Tell us where you are staying, and we will come to you. Want to read about how we have served others? Here are some reviews! See you on the slopes!
