The Season of 75: A Legendary Winter at Palisades Tahoe

This year marked 75 seasons of skiing and riding at Palisades Tahoe—a milestone that brought with it not only deep snow and bluebird days, but a whole new level of celebration, connection, and community. From the first dusting of snow in the fall to the final turns under spring sunshine, this season was a wild ride in all the best ways. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a die-hard local, this year gave us all something to remember.

As we wrap up our 2024–25 winter season, we’re taking a look back at the moments that made it legendary. We’ve broken it down into three chapters—Fall Anticipation, Deep Winter, and Spring Skiing Capital—to relive the excitement from start to finish.

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Fall Anticipation

The energy was electric before a single lift had even started spinning. Between preseason events, early snowfall teasers, and the countdown to Opening Day, the buzz of our 75th season had the entire mountain community fired up. Let’s take a look at how it all began…

Warren Miller’s 75

October 15

Palisades Tahoe was proudly featured in 75, the milestone film celebrating 75 years of Warren Miller Entertainment. Fittingly, our resort also marked its 75th anniversary, making this collaboration especially meaningful. The film showcases our legendary terrain through the lens of multiple generations, with local pro Connery Lundin leading up-and-coming athletes down his favorite lines. Also featured are Palisades Tahoe icons and locals Daron Rahlves, Jonny Moseley, Jeremy Jones, Cass Jones, and Gael and Zach Williams—each bringing their own chapter to the story. 75 isn’t just about big airs—it’s about legacy, mentorship, and the joy of skiing, making its stop in Olympic Valley a true full-circle moment.

Opening Day

November 22

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We couldn’t have asked for a better beginning to our 75th season. Originally slated for November 29, Opening Day came early this year—thanks to early storms and cold temps, we fired up the lifts on Friday, November 22, 2024, getting a full week’s head start on the winter stoke. From live DJ sets and breakfast burritos to 75th anniversary swag giveaways, the day had a little something for everyone.

Welcome to Winter Celebration

November 30

On November 30th, we kicked off the season’s first true winter weekend with Welcome to Winter, a free, family-friendly celebration in The Village at Palisades Tahoe featuring festive activities like a live set from the Blues Monsters, an alpenhorn performance, a raffle, and the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. The highlight of the day was the unveiling of Forged—a powerful new sculpture honoring the pioneers, athletes, and changemakers who’ve shaped Palisades Tahoe, and a fitting tribute as we celebrated our 75th season.

Deep Winter

This chapter of the season was all about those core winter moments: storm riding, bluebird powder days, and legendary terrain. Whether you hiked Headwall in knee-deep snow or floated through the trees off KT, Deep Winter reminded us why we love this place—and why it’s built to last another 75 years.

Upper Mountain Opening + First Park Laps

December 1

On December 1st, the stoke hit a new level as Upper Mountain terrain officially opened for the season. Skiers and riders were treated to wide-open turns, stunning views, and expanded lift access. This milestone also marked the debut of our first terrain park of the year at Belmont. With a dialed setup built for all ability levels, the park quickly gained recognition as one of the best in Lake Tahoe. From first laps to first hits, the season was off to a strong start.

Mountain Surf Report Debut

December 5

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The first Mountain Surf Report of the season was posted to Instagram on December 5th. Released every Monday and Thursday, these video updates deliver pro tips, event highlights, and a sneak peek at snow conditions for the week ahead. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or planning your weekday turns, the Surf Report quickly became a must-watch for Palisades riders. Shoutout to Maddy Condon and Ryan Foster for generating engaging surf reports every week.

Winter Speaker Series

We partnered with Alpenglow Sports to host the inspiring Winter Speaker Series, bringing together an all-star lineup of athletes to share their stories of resilience, adventure, and purpose. Guests filled the live audiences and tuned in online to hear from mountain legends like Kimmy Fasani, Leanne Pelosi, Greg Hill, Angela Hawse, and Dave Nettle. From parenting while adventuring to record-breaking ski descents, each speaker brought raw honesty, humor, and motivation—reminding us why we chase the mountains in the first place.

Tahoe Live

December 14 – 15

Tahoe Live lit up The Village at Palisades Tahoe with two days of high-energy performances, headlined by Diplo, as we kicked off the winter season in true Palisades fashion. What made it even more iconic? A surprise bluebird pow day that turned the entire weekend into a dream scenario—live music, fresh snow, and nonstop energy. Olympic Valley was buzzing with riders by day and concertgoers by night. This one felt like the center of the universe. Stay tuned—this year’s lineup drops this summer.

Christmas in The Village

December 25

Christmas at Palisades Tahoe brought festive vibes to a whole new level. The Village buzzed with holiday magic as Santa made his rounds and the Great Basin Carolers filled the air with classic Christmas tunes. On top of that, we launched our 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway, teaming up with Donny Pelletier, Amie Engerbretson, Snowboard Jesus, and Halfcab King to gift lucky community members with awesome prizes. To wrap it all up, Christmas Day delivered yet another bluebird pow day—one of those unforgettable moments where mountain magic and holiday spirit collide.

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New Years Celebration

December 31

From the moment the sun dipped behind the peaks, The Village came alive with energy as families and friends gathered for the annual Torchlight Parade, where skiers and snowboarders lit up the mountain under the stars. Fireworks over KT Deck lit up the Sierra sky in a brilliant sendoff to 2024, while disco tubing kept the vibes alive at SnoVentures and the East Coast Balloon Drop gave early revelers their own midnight moment at 9PM. For those wanting to keep the party going, the Olympic Valley Events Center transformed into a retro wonderland for the NYE Disco After Party, headlined by DJ AlexT. Whether it was torchlights, fireworks, or late-night dancing, one thing was clear—Palisades Tahoe knows how to ring in the new year right.

Ikon Pass Crew Camp

January 10 – 11

We were stoked to host the Ikon Crew Camp—a two-day takeover by Ikon Pass athletes, ambassadors, and creators. From ripping laps to soaking in everything Palisades Tahoe has to offer, this crew brought the hype. A major highlight was the terrain park sessions with Zeb Powell, Yuki Kadono, Tim Humphreys, and Bad Boy Noah throwing down and keeping the energy sky-high. This event was all about good snow, good people, and the unmatched vibe of riding together at our mountain.

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Ski CA Safety Day

January 25-26

Ski California Safety Day brought fun, education, and avalanche dogs to both mountains. Guests got an inside look at mountain safety and even the chance to take a lap with a pro instructor. The highlight? Live avalanche dog demos where patrol pups showed off their skills sniffing out buried human scent—Alpine on Jan 25 and Palisades on Jan 26. We also offered free safety-focused ski runs with instructors, helping guests boost their skills and confidence on the hill.

Atmospheric River

February 1

After a dry January, an atmospheric river rolled into Tahoe on February 1st, delivering much-needed snowfall to our mountain. The storm brought deep powder, refreshed the mountain, and reignited the winter stoke just when we needed it most. This atmospheric river was just the beginning—kicking off a stretch of glorious powder days that followed.

Valentine’s Day

February 14

Love was in the air—and so was snow. With 25 inches of fresh snow in the 24 hours leading up to Valentine’s Day, guests were treated to another dreamy powder day at Palisades Tahoe. It was the perfect way to spend the holiday—with your true love: deep snow and unforgettable turns at your Valentine resort.

KT Bass Bar Music Series

February 15 – 22

The KT Bass Bar Music Series brought après energy to every weekend throughout the season, filling the KT Base Bar deck with music, good vibes, and a lively crowd. But the stretch from February 15–19 was something special: five straight days of DJs spinning to a vibrant crowd. The momentum kept rolling into February 22, when legendary DJ Logic took the stage and delivered a genre-bending set that had the whole mountain dancing. This run of shows proved why KT Bass Bar is the place to be when the lifts stop spinning.

Paramount + The Lodge

February 28

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From the frontier of 1923 to the jellyfish fields of SpongeBob SquarePants, Paramount+’s “The Lodge” returned to Palisades Tahoe from February 28 to March 2, transforming the Base to Base Plaza into an immersive, pop-culture-filled experience. Guests explored a cozy cabin filled with interactive photo ops, exclusive swag, and themed drinks. The après scene came alive daily with live DJs spinning outside the Base to Base Gondola. This one-of-a-kind activation brought fans of all ages into the worlds of their favorite shows — right at the base of the mountain.

Spring Skiing Capital

There’s nothing quite like spring at Palisades Tahoe. As winter fades, we enter a new chapter that brings out the best of both worlds: deep blower powder days as well as sun-soaked, slushy laps under bluebird skies. This is where unforgettable ski days meet the ultimate après scene — with live music, patio vibes, and good energy flowing through The Village. Whether you’re chasing fresh turns or relaxing in a t-shirt with friends, spring at Palisades Tahoe is pure magic.

Town Race League

March 5 – April 9

Town Race League brought local skiers and snowboarders together for six weeks of fun, fierce alpine competition. Think of it like your favorite slow-pitch softball league—just on snow. Each Wednesday night featured a new theme—from Mardi Gras to Denim on Denim—with prizes for the best dressed racer. With two runs per racer and a lively community vibe, the league was the perfect way to push your skills and celebrate spring skiing.

First Pow Day of Miracle March

March 6

On March 6 and 7, Palisades Tahoe was blessed with 17 inches of fresh snow, delivering another epic powder day to our mountain. This incredible snowfall kicked off Miracle March with a bang, setting the stage for a month filled with deep turns, bluebird skies, and unforgettable conditions.

Biggest Overnight Storm

March 13

March 13 delivered our deepest overnight snowfall of the season with 25″ in just 24 hours. The storm didn’t stop there—it kept dumping for two more days, bringing the total to a staggering 59″. With cold temps and dry snow, conditions were light, fluffy, and absolutely blower. Skiers and riders scored some of the best turns of the season, with faceshots and fresh tracks all day long. A true Miracle March classic.

Gold Bond Base Layer Swimsuit Ski Run

March 14

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In true Tahoe fashion, not even a blizzard could stop the Gold Bond Base Layer Swimsuit Ski Run from making waves. With Gold Bond and Chelsea Handler leading the charge, skiers and riders braved the cold in their best swimwear to attempt a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS® title for the largest swimsuit ski run. Despite the snowy conditions, hundreds turned out, embracing the absurd fun of the day with big energy and bold outfits. From fanny packs and goggles to free product samples and a high-energy DJ set at SnoVentures, the event brought plenty of laughs and unforgettable memories to the mountain.

Military to Mountains

March 16 – 21

In partnership with the High Fives Foundation, we welcomed 31 veterans for a powerful week on snow after completing nine weeks of training. Many experienced skiing or snowboarding for the first time, tapping into their strength, breaking barriers, and discovering the healing power of the mountains. This milestone year also marked the expansion of the program to Solitude Mountain Resort.

Pain McShlonkey Classic

March 22

One of the most beloved and laugh-out-loud events of the season, the Pain McShlonkey Classic returned on March 22 in honor of ski legend Shane McConkey. Costumed competitors raced snowblades down the mountain, celebrated #SnowbladeDay, and danced on the sundeck—all while raising money for the Shane McConkey Foundation. From the Hot Dog Downhill to the massive gear giveaway and afterparty at RMU, it was a full day of fun, philanthropy, and pure Shane-style stoke.

The Mothership Classic

March 23

A springtime staple at Palisades Tahoe, the Mothership Classic took over KT-22 on March 23 for a full day of retro flair and bell-to-bell hot laps. From neon one-pieces to mono-skis and blades, participants raised funds for the High Fives Foundation while charging laps on skinny skis and rocking their raddest goggles. With awards for most laps, best costume, and more—it was another unforgettable day on the world’s greatest chairlift.

Toyota U.S. Mogul Freestyle Championships

March 27 – 30

We hosted the 2025 Toyota U.S. Mogul Freestyle Championships on Red Dog Face, showcasing the best mogul skiers in the country. Spectators gathered to watch top athletes compete in women’s and men’s moguls, followed by high-speed dual moguls that closed out the event with nonstop action. The weekend was made even more special when local Tahoe skier Dylan Marcellini took the win—an electric moment for the hometown crowd. With free entry and incredible viewing access, it was an unforgettable weekend of elite competition and mountain energy right here at home.

April Fools Pow Day

April 1

April kicked off with anything but a joke. On April 1st, guests at Palisades Tahoe were treated to a surprise 15” of fresh snow, turning the mountain into a powder playground. And it didn’t stop there—by April 3rd, the storm total had reached 48”, delivering yet another round of epic blower pow days. No pranks, just deep turns and big smiles to start the month off right.

Spring Tracks Concert Series

April 5, 9, 12

One of the most anticipated parts of the season, the Spring Tracks Concert Series brought the Palisades Tahoe community together for three unforgettable Saturdays of FREE live concerts on the KT Deck. After sunny spring laps, guests kicked back slope-side to enjoy performances from chart-topping producer 220 Kid, blues legend G Love, and Grammy-nominated rocker KT Tunstall. With the sun shining, the beats bumping, and the crowd vibing, this series perfectly captured the spirit of spring at Palisades—good tunes, good turns, and great company.

Amie Engerbretson’s Women of Winter Camp

April 8

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From April 4–6, we hosted the Women of Winter Camp led by pro skier and big mountain athlete Amie Engerbretson. Designed for advanced intermediate to expert skiers, this all-women’s camp offered a weekend of progression, connection, and pure stoke. With early ups, personalized coaching, and après events like yoga and wine tastings, the camp struck the perfect balance between challenge and community. Skiers pushed their limits while soaking in the best terrain spring has to offer, walking away more confident, connected, and inspired.

Snow Golf

April 19

Alpine’s 39th Annual Snow Golf Tournament brought big swings and even bigger spring vibes to the slopes. This top-to-bottom, 10-hole course started at the top of Summit Chair and finished at The Chalet, where a Caddyshack-themed afterparty closed out the day. Skiers and riders traded poles for clubs, hit tennis balls in costume, and competed for prizes from Yeti, Smith, and more.

Queer Ski Day

April 19

The mountain came alive with color and community for Queer Ski Day. Skiers and riders of all identities joined for a joyful day of celebration, starting with a group ride down Gold Coast and rolling into a high-vibe dance party at both Gold Coast and KT Bass Bar. With rainbow flags waving and beats bumping, the slopes became a stage for pride, unity, and unapologetic self-expression. Costumes were loud, spirits were high, and love was everywhere.

Level 1 Superunknown 22

April 21 – 25

Level 1’s SuperUnknown 22 Finals dropped into Palisades Tahoe this April, bringing 15 of the top up-and-coming park skiers from around the world for a week-long session on an expert-level terrain park built by our incredible park crew. With pros, past winners, and freeski legends in the mix, the Gold Coast Chair became the ultimate front-row seat as skiers threw down heavy tricks all week long. It was an unforgettable showcase of style, progression, and serious talent.

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Amphitheaters Series

April 5 – May 9

From April 5 to May 9, we dropped our Ampitheater Series—four high-energy videos spotlighting some of Palisades Tahoe’s most iconic terrain zones: The Palisades, Mainline Pocket, Granite Chief, and KT-22. These stoke reels brought the heat, celebrating the adrenaline-fueled lines and raw power of our mountain. Tailored for the die-hards, this series lit up our socials and YouTube, showcasing the terrain that defines the soul of Palisades Tahoe.

Cushing Crossing

May 10

Back for its 33rd year, the Cushing Crossing is spring’s grand finale and easily one of the most iconic events in skiing. With outrageous costumes, high-speed attempts, epic spills, and some serious pond-skimming talent, this event is all about fun and flair. Spectators lined the shores of Cushing Pond to watch competitors launch across the icy water in hopes of nailing the perfect crossing—and scoring style points along the way. With the dynamic duo of John Haines and Jonny Moseley on the mic bringing nonstop energy to the crowd, it was the ultimate celebration of spring stoke.

Made in Tahoe Spring Festival

May 24 – 25

Over Memorial Day Weekend, The Village came alive with local flavor during the Made in Tahoe Spring Festival. This free, two-day celebration spotlighted Tahoe and Truckee’s vibrant community of artists, chefs, musicians, and makers. Guests strolled through dozens of vendor booths, enjoyed aerial dance shows, and grooved to back-to-back live performances across multiple stages. From sipping local brews to shopping handcrafted goods, there was no shortage of ways to connect with the creativity of the region—all while supporting the Tahoe Food Hub.

Closing Weekend

May 24 – 26

What a send-off! We wrapped up an incredible season over Memorial Day Weekend with sunny skies, soft spring snow, and nonstop good vibes. From Saturday through Monday, the mountain delivered perfect bluebird conditions—ideal for party laps through the park, slushy turns, and iconic spring skiing antics. Hikes up to Granite Chief Peak and The Palisades were well worth the effort, offering epic views and even better descents. The famous Shirley Lake wiggles were in prime shape, drawing skiers and riders all weekend long for playful surfy lines. With live DJs spinning daily and a lively crowd soaking up the sun, it was the ultimate way to cap off yet another unforgettable winter.

By the Numbers (24/25 Season Wrapped)

This winter was one for the books—and we’ve got the numbers to prove it. These stats capture the highs, the hucks, and the hilarity of the season at Palisades Tahoe. Here’s what went down (and how much of it):

Days Open for Skiing and Snowboarding: 185

Total Inches of Snowfall: 392″

Powder Days (6”+): 27

Deepest 24-Hour Snowfall: 25″ (February 14 & March 13)

Longest Stretch Without Snow (During Winter Months): 21 days (January 5 – January 25)

Most Lifts Ridden in a Single Day by 1 Person: Kenting Bishop rode Red Dog 57 times on January 27

Amount of Public Transit Riders: Over 178,000

Amount of Beer Drank at The Chalet: 29,819 pints –> 3,727.375 gallons of beer!

Number of Lessons Given by our Mountain Sports School: 43,148

Keep Exploring

As we reflect on the 75th season at Palisades Tahoe, we’re left with full hearts, tired legs, and unforgettable memories. From milestone moments to spontaneous powder days, this winter reminded us why we call these mountains home. Thank you to everyone who made it so special—our guests, employees, athletes, and the entire Palisades Tahoe community. Here’s to the next chapter of adventure, connection, and turns shared together. Winter may be in the rearview, but the adventure doesn’t stop—let’s make memories this summer at Palisades Tahoe!

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