Operations Update: Goggle Tan Season

If you’ve been checking the weather, you’ve probably noticed the forecast is calling for warm temperatures and sunny skies. And honestly? There’s nothing wrong with that.

Last week we talked about how spring is just different here, and the past few days proved it. The Spring Skiing Capital® chapter is officially underway, offering sunny slush laps, terrain park sends, and bluebird skies that leave you with the gnarliest of goggle tans that you wear like a badge of honor.

If you’ve never experienced Palisades Tahoe in the spring, this is your sign.

When the days get longer and the sun sticks around, the mountain takes on that unmistakable Hollywood vibe. It’s always present throughout the season, but in the spring it really comes alive.

Palisades Tahoe is one of the last resorts in North America to stay open, which means the great spring migration begins. Skiers and riders from all over make their way here to squeeze in those final laps of the season.

One chairlift ride might have you watching someone huck a triple cork in the Gold Coast park beneath you. The next, you might glance over and see Donny Pelletier chirping Jonny Moseley about who’s the better bump skier.

That’s just spring at Palisades Tahoe. The energy is high, the sun is shining, and everyone wants a piece of it.

So what are you waiting for?

The after-party of ski and snowboard season is getting underway. Grab a snack, take your seat (on the chairlift), and enjoy the show.

Weather & Conditions

A strong high-pressure ridge near the California coast is keeping the storm track well to our north, settling the Sierra into an extended stretch of dry, sunny, and increasingly warm spring weather.

Sunny & Mild Through the Weekend

Expect mostly sunny skies and comfortable temperatures heading into the weekend.

Temperatures:

Lower elevations: Highs in the 50s to near 60°F

Above 8,000 ft: Highs in the 40s

These conditions are ideal for classic spring skiing, with firm mornings transitioning into soft, carvable corn snow as the day warms.

Even Warmer Next Week

The high-pressure ridge is forecast to strengthen and shift farther east over the West next week, bringing even warmer temperatures.

Next Week Outlook:

Village elevations: Highs in the 60s to near 70°F

Upper mountain: Highs in the 50s

Mostly sunny skies continuing through at least Friday, March 20

Warm afternoons and clear skies should continue to promote classic Sierra spring conditions across the mountain.

Looking Ahead

Current forecast models suggest the ridge may begin to weaken around the weekend of March 21-22, which could allow temperatures to cool slightly and potentially bring some unsettled weather back to the region.

While models hint at the possibility of light rain or snow showers toward the end of March, no significant storms are currently in the forecast.

We’ll continue watching the trends closely as we move deeper into the month.

For a deeper dive into the forecast and long-range trends, visit our Weather Blogs, written by Bryan Allegretto of OpenSnow.

Stay Sharp in Spring Conditions

With clear skies and cooler overnight temperatures, morning snow surfaces can start out firm, especially on shaded aspects. Firmer conditions can increase speed, so guests should be mindful to ski and ride in control and choose terrain that matches their ability level.

As the day progresses and temperatures warm, snow surfaces typically soften into classic California corn snow, creating fun, forgiving turns across much of the mountain.

Guests should also remain aware that natural obstacles may still be present in certain areas. Recent weather patterns and fluctuating temperatures can expose rocks, stumps, and uneven terrain that may not always be immediately visible. Stay alert, adjust your speed for conditions, and give yourself plenty of space when navigating the mountain.

Mountain Safety

Lift & Terrain Operations

Spring conditions are in full effect across the mountain, with classic corn snow cycles delivering firm mornings that soften into smooth, playful turns as the day warms. With expansive terrain still available across both mountains, there’s plenty of room to explore and enjoy those laid-back Spring Skiing Capital® vibes.

Corn Snow Science

Get It While You Can

As temperatures continue to warm, a few areas of terrain are approaching their final laps for the season:

Scott Chair is expected to operate today for its final day unless additional snowfall changes the outlook.

High Traverse is also nearing the end of its run, with today currently expected to be the final day due primarily to creek crossings rather than overall snowpack.

Granite Chief is expected to operate through Sunday, March 15 and then close for the season unless the forecast changes.

Terrain Parks in Full Spring Form

The terrain park crew continues to keep things creative as we roll deeper into spring.

Gold Coast Terrain Park is firing with its three-pack of larger jumps along with the return of the fan-favorite Gold Coast Hip, located right beneath the chairlift and voted one of the best park features in the country.

Belmont Terrain Park remains one of the most fun and lappable zones on the mountain, offering skatepark-style flow with creative jibs, small-to-medium jumps, and endless opportunities to stack park laps with friends.

Wiggles Are Back

Spring also means the return of one of Tahoe’s most beloved traditions: the wiggles. A few playful lines are already beginning to take shape off Shirley Lake Express, and they’re only getting better as the warm afternoons continue.

Between softening snow, creative park setups, and those unmistakable spring vibes, the mountain is fully embracing everything that makes this time of year special at Palisades Tahoe.

Lift and terrain status may change throughout the day. For the most up-to-date information, please check the Ikon Pass App or the Mountain Report before and during your visit.

Lift & Trail Status

Transportation & Parking

Free and paid parking reservations are still available, though inventory may fill quickly as the weekend approaches.

If you’re planning to drive, we recommend securing a parking reservation in advance to guarantee your spot and streamline your arrival.

Alternate Transportation Options

Even when parking reservations are available, taking alternate transportation can be an easy and convenient way to get to the mountain while helping reduce congestion in Olympic Valley.

Consider these options:

Park & Ride service is available from Truckee and Tahoe City

Resort transportation, including the Mountaineer, is available for guests staying in Olympic Valley and Alpine Meadows

The Sports Basement Ski Bus offers a convenient, full-service ride to the resort

Planning ahead, carpooling, and exploring alternate transportation options can help make your trip to the Spring Skiing Capital® even smoother.

Events & Activities

Spring is when the energy around Palisades Tahoe really comes alive. As the days get longer and the temperatures warm up, the event calendar ramps up with some of the best on-mountain programming and après scenes of the entire season.

With St. Patrick’s Day around the corner, the celebrations are already underway at The Auld Dubliner in The Village. The Dub is hosting a full weekend of festivities leading up to the big day, featuring traditional Irish music, festive drinks, and classic pub fare. Keep an eye out for the Guinness Ripple Machine, where you can literally get your face printed on the foam of your pint.

Whether you’re here in the Lake Tahoe region or traveling from across the globe, this time of year delivers some of the most memorable days of the season.

Between the sunshine, the snow, and the packed calendar of events, the Spring Skiing Capital® is just getting started.

Events Calendar

Activity Finder

The Mecca of Spring

Whether you’re chasing corn snow, hitting surfy sprays in the wiggles, slapping steel in the park, or just taking a couple laps to say you skied before spending the rest of the afternoon aprèsing at the Chammy, this is the time of year when skiing and riding becomes a little more relaxed and a whole lot more fun.

The days are getting longer, the vibes are getting better, and the final chapter of the season is just getting started.

So whatever you’re into, embrace this splendid time of year.