South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe, California, United States

Where can you find the best-of-the-best views? We’ve zeroed in on alpine resorts statewide, targeting the ones with jaw-dropping views. The results are here: five special places that are bound to take your breath away—and not just because of the altitude.

1001 Heavenly Village Way
South Lake Tahoe, CA

For iconic lake views, take the Sky Express chair to Heavenly’s 10,067-foot summit. Follow signs for skiers right to Ridge Run, an intermediate cruise that follows the resort’s crest. Near the beginning of the trail, watch for a wide turnout on the left: You’ll see not only Lake Tahoe in all its glory, but snowcapped Sierra peaks marching into the distance.

1960 Squaw Valley Road
Olympic Valley, CA

Ride the main Palisades Tahoe tram to High Camp, which takes you right up the face of this resort. Turn around as you climb to see the lake, surrounded by snowy summits, bursting into view. While you’re on the tram, look down too, particularly on snow-dump days, when powder hounds strap on their fat skis to carve S-curves through a series of rocky spires.

Mammoth Lakes, CA

This resort sits in the heart of the big boys of the Sierra Nevada range, and a trip to the summit—with or without skis or boards—is all you need for incredible views. Ride the gondola (from Mammoth’s main lodge) to the 11,053-foot summit.

5145 W Lake Blvd
Homewood, CA

For runs that make you feel as if you’re zooming down into Lake Tahoe, head for this low-key charmer on the lake’s southwestern shores. Wide-open groomers like Rainbow Ridge head straight for Tahoe’s signature blue waters.

1501 Kirkwood Meadows Dr
Kirkwood, CA

Where can you find the best-of-the-best views? We’ve zeroed in on alpine resorts statewide, targeting the ones with jaw-dropping views. The results are here: six special places that are bound to take your breath away—and not just because of the altitude. Read more at the "Visit Website" link below.