Northstar California
A premier Lake Tahoe resort offering year-round adventure, from world-class skiing and snowboarding to an acclaimed mountain bike park and charming vi...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more slope time
Northstar California
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more slope time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier Lake Tahoe resort offering year-round adventure, from world-class skiing and snowboarding to an acclaimed mountain bike park and charming village.
"Beautiful resort and great experience. My family enjoyed the quick getaway."
Free Gondola Rides
Enjoy stunning views on the Highlands Gondola without a ski ticket! Park at Castle Peak Lot. :mountain_railway:
Bike Rental Fleet Sale
Keep an eye out for bike rental fleet sales; helpful staff can assist in finding the perfect bike. :mountain_bicyclist:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Highlands Gondola
Northstar Village
Glide above the trees for breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierras. No ticket needed!
Village Ice Skating
Northstar Village
Lace up skates and twirl under the stars in the charming village center. A quintessential winter wonderland experience.
Northstar Bike Park
Base of the mountain
Conquer thrilling downhill trails with wooden features and berms. A must-visit for any mountain biking enthusiast.
Winter Wonderland Village
Northstar Village
Experience the magic of a charming alpine village with shops, dining, and festive holiday decorations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Seasonal Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Gondola Rides
Enjoy stunning views on the Highlands Gondola without a ski ticket! Park at Castle Peak Lot. :mountain_railway:
Bike Rental Fleet Sale
Keep an eye out for bike rental fleet sales; helpful staff can assist in finding the perfect bike. :mountain_bicyclist:
Pack for All Weather
Tahoe weather can change rapidly. Layers are key for both summer biking and winter skiing. :cloud:
Washer/Dryer in Rooms
Many condo-style accommodations include a washer and dryer – a huge plus for families! :washing_machine:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Gondola Rides
Enjoy stunning views on the Highlands Gondola without a ski ticket! Park at Castle Peak Lot. :mountain_railway:
Bike Rental Fleet Sale
Keep an eye out for bike rental fleet sales; helpful staff can assist in finding the perfect bike. :mountain_bicyclist:
Pack for All Weather
Tahoe weather can change rapidly. Layers are key for both summer biking and winter skiing. :cloud:
Washer/Dryer in Rooms
Many condo-style accommodations include a washer and dryer – a huge plus for families! :washing_machine:
Beware of Theft
Be cautious with your belongings, especially at ski resorts. A snowboard was lost and found days later. :warning:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Northstar California Resort is praised for its beautiful scenery, family-friendly atmosphere, and excellent amenities like the village ice rink and gondola. While some find the ski terrain repetitive, the resort excels in providing a welcoming experience for families and a top-tier mountain biking park. Service, particularly from staff like Austin C, is frequently highlighted as exceptional.
"I just like the mountain, and weather conditions seem more favorable than most. If you're going to spend the money to do the whole ski resort thing, then avoid Friday thru Mondays, it gets crowded. But more or less the entire mountain is open to all skill levels, with intermediate and advance options down from every lift."
David Schendel
"Beautiful resort and great experience. My family enjoyed the quick getaway. The room was clean. Staff is very helpful and friendly. Rooms are perfect for big families. The rooms also have a washer and dryer, which is a big plus. To our surprise there was lots of snow. We can't wait to come back with our family."
Ana Torres
"I skied Northstar for the first time this past season. I found the terrain to be boring and repetitive for the most part. There's not really any super steep terrain, chutes, couloirs, or anything like that. The whole mountain is below treeline and most of the runs feel the exact same. The guest services team was amazing and the mountain is protected from high winds. It's also close to Truckee but those are about the only things good. Would I go back? No. There's just so many other resorts in Tahoe that are far better and entertaining. Northstar is for families, people who like riding park, and people who are all about aprè."
Adam Lesniak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Northstar California Resort is located in Truckee, California. If driving, be prepared for potential snow conditions in winter and carry chains if your vehicle isn't equipped for snow. The resort offers parking, and some TikToks mention shuttles to the village.
While direct public transport options might be limited, local shuttle services and ride-sharing are often available in the Truckee area, especially during peak seasons. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Within Northstar Village, walking is easy. For accessing different parts of the resort or nearby areas, the free Highlands Gondola is a scenic option, and shuttles are available.
Yes, there are various lodging options, including the Hyatt Vacation Club at Northstar Lodge and hotels in nearby Truckee. Some accommodations offer ski-in/ski-out access. +1
Winter driving in Truckee can be challenging due to snow. Always check road conditions and be prepared with snow tires or chains, especially if driving a non-4WD vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Highlands Gondola at Northstar California Resort offers free rides with stunning views, even if you're not skiing. You can park at Castle Peak Lot and take a shuttle to the village to access it. 
Ticket prices for Northstar ski resort can vary based on the season, day of the week, and whether you purchase in advance. It's recommended to check the official Northstar California Resort website for current pricing and deals.
Look for early bird specials, multi-day passes, or consider purchasing an Epic Pass if you plan to ski at multiple Vail Resorts properties, which include Northstar.
Operating hours for lifts, the village, and amenities like the ice rink can vary by season. During winter, the village and ice skating rink are often open into the evening.
Yes, Northstar California Resort offers ski and snowboard rentals. It's often convenient to rent on-site, though booking in advance might save time and money.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Northstar offers a variety of activities including ice skating in the village, tubing, snowshoeing, and scenic gondola rides in winter. In summer, the Northstar Bike Park is a major draw.
Yes, Northstar California Resort has terrain suitable for all skill levels, including beginner runs. Many lifts provide access to easier slopes.
The Village at Northstar is a charming, pedestrian-friendly hub with shops, restaurants, bars, and the popular ice skating rink. It's known for its festive atmosphere, especially during the holidays.
Absolutely! Northstar is frequently described as a great family destination, with activities like tubing and ice skating, and accommodations often featuring amenities like kitchens and laundry.
The Northstar Bike Park is renowned for its well-maintained trails, featuring a mix of technical features, berms, and jumps suitable for various skill levels, from beginner to expert.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Northstar Village offers a range of dining options, from casual pizza places like Rubicon Pizza to more upscale choices. Some accommodations also have kitchens for self-catering.
Some visitors have noted that dining options can close relatively early at Northstar, so it's advisable to check operating hours in advance, especially if you plan to eat late.
Rubicon Pizza in the Village at Northstar is frequently praised as one of the best pizza spots, with some calling it the best they've ever had.
While Northstar Village has some shops, for a wider selection of groceries, you might need to drive to Truckee, which has larger supermarkets.
The Ritz-Carlton Northstar typically offers fine dining experiences, often featuring seasonal menus and elegant ambiance, catering to a more luxurious palate.
📸 📸 Photography
The Highlands Gondola offers incredible panoramic views perfect for photography. The charming Village at Northstar, especially during winter with snow, also provides picturesque scenes.
Yes, Northstar California Resort is stunning in winter. Snow-covered landscapes, the festive village, and the majestic mountain vistas create numerous opportunities for beautiful winter photography.
Absolutely! The Highlands Gondola provides unobstructed views, making it an ideal spot to capture sweeping landscapes of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains.
Photography at Northstar often focuses on winter landscapes, action shots of skiing and snowboarding, and the charming village atmosphere. Mountain biking action shots are also popular in summer.
Generally, personal photography is welcome. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be mindful of other visitors and resort operations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Activities like tubing provide endless fun for younger visitors. 🚵♀️ Mountain Biking Enthusiasts
Whether you're an expert downhill rider or looking to progress your skills, the park has something for everyone. Keep an eye out for bike rental fleet sales, as they can be a great way to acquire quality bikes. ❄️ Winter Sports Aficionados
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Winter Sports at Northstar
For those new to winter sports, Northstar offers lessons, and some TikToks highlight the experience of learning to snowboard here. Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Northstar offers other winter activities. The Village at Northstar transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with an ice skating rink that's a hit with families and couples.
Tubing is another fun option for a more relaxed snow experience. When planning your ski trip, consider visiting during weekdays to avoid the busiest periods.
Mountain Biking Paradise
The park features a variety of terrain, including challenging downhill runs with wooden features, berms, and jumps. +1 Many riders appreciate the quality of the trails and the overall experience. For those looking to rent bikes or get assistance, the resort has rental services, and some visitors have had exceptional experiences with the staff, like Austin C, who went above and beyond to help find the right bike during a fleet sale.
When planning your biking trip, consider the summer months for the best conditions. The park is well-maintained, and the scenic beauty of the Truckee area adds to the appeal of a biking excursion.
The Village at Northstar
+1 This pedestrian-friendly area is perfect for strolling, shopping, and dining. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options in the village, from casual eateries like Rubicon Pizza, which receives high praise, to more upscale restaurants.
+1Even outside of ski season, the village maintains its appeal with shops and restaurants. It's a central hub that enhances the overall Northstar experience, offering a cozy and convenient base for exploring the resort's many offerings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit