The countdown to winter is on! We’re rolling into the 25/26 season with exciting upgrades both on and off the mountain. From snowmaking improvements to new après vibes, here’s a look at what’s waiting for you this winter.
Snowmaking Investments
Mother Nature always leads the way, but our snowmaking upgrades make for a stronger, more reliable start to the season. Highlights include:
- 8 new automated fan guns on the Dance Floor trail. These state-of-the-art machines automatically power on and off when conditions are right, making them more energy- and water-efficient than older models. This means faster, smarter snowmaking and a more reliable early-season surface. for smarter, energy-efficient snowmaking
- 3 new air compressors at Alpine to boost system capacity. Air, along with cold temperatures and water, is one of the three essential components of snowmaking. These new compressors expand capacity and boost efficiency across the system, ensuring Alpine is better prepared for consistent coverage.
- New pipe & valve system. This upgrade increases our ability to make snow on both Mountain Run and the Snow King area. Guests can look forward to improved coverage and earlier openings in these high-traffic zones.
- Two rehabilitated wells at Palisades. These wells increase overall water availability for snowmaking. More water means more snow when we need it most, supporting a stronger, more consistent snowpack throughout the season.
Lift Access Gates
We’ve replaced 64 lift gates with new flapper-style gates, reducing congestion and making it easier to load lifts. Just keep your pass on your left side for a seamless scan.
Team Palisades Tahoe
We’re excited to welcome Magnus Andersson as our new Alpine Director. With more than 15 years of World Cup coaching experience, including a decade leading both the Swedish and U.S. teams, Magnus has guided athletes to podium finishes and top standings in Slalom and Giant Slalom. In his new role, Magnus will oversee our competitive racing programs with a focus on long-term athlete development and creating a world-class training environment for the next generation of champions.
Carpool Parking Program
This winter, we’re rolling out Carpool 4+ parking reservations as part of our enhanced parking program. Reservations will open online every Tuesday at 12 p.m. for the upcoming weekend and holiday periods. On arrival, vehicles with four or more passengers will check in with a parking attendant to confirm eligibility. To thank you for helping ease traffic and promote sustainability, carpool drivers will receive a $20 resort voucher.
Mountaineer Expanding Service
Mountaineer, the free on-demand microtransit in Olympic Valley and Alpine Meadows, will expand its fleet by 15% this winter to cut wait times. Running December 6, 2025–April 19, 2026, the dog-friendly service with ski racks and an ADA-accessible van continues to ease traffic and enhance the guest experience.
Mountain Sports School
Mountain Sports School is expanding with new programs designed to give guests more flexibility and value. Group Lesson 4 Packs will make it easier for skiers and riders to build skills over multiple days, while a new afternoon mogul clinic will provide intermediate and advanced skiers the chance to refine their bump technique. These specialty clinics are a great way for passholders and guests alike to focus on specific skills in a fun and supportive group setting.
Amie Engerbretson Signature Women of Winter Camp
Professional skier and big mountain athlete Amie Engerbretson returns to Palisades Tahoe with her Signature Women of Winter Camp, April 6 – 8, 2026. Designed for advanced intermediate and expert skiers, this three-day camp blends personalized coaching, confidence-building, and exploration of Palisades Tahoe’s legendary terrain. With guidance from Amie and support from our Mountain Sports School instructors, participants will progress their skills in a supportive, all-female environment.
KT Bass Bar Expanded Entertainment
The KT Bass Bar is elevating the après experience with 52 days of live DJs and artist performances. Guests can look forward to an upgraded space featuring a new roof for added weather protection, along with enhanced lighting and sound systems that will take the atmosphere to the next level. Located at the base of KT-22, it remains the ultimate spot to celebrate a day on the mountain.
Professional Athlete Blog Series
This season, we’re launching a new blog series that gives a closer look at our professional athlete team. Through Q&A–style interviews, we’ll sit down with athletes to share their stories, insights, and experiences on the legendary peaks of Palisades Tahoe. It’s a unique chance to get to know these incredible athletes beyond their performances and discover what fuels their connection to the mountain.
New Pursuit Athlete Team
In addition to our Pro Athlete Team, we are introducing a new Pursuit Athlete Team this season. This program highlights rising athletes who are already competing at the professional level or are on the path to getting there. By providing support and resources, the Pursuit Athlete Team will help build a strong pipeline of high-performance athletes, foster their growth, and create opportunities for young talent to transition into professional careers.
Ski Movie Film Premieres
The anticipation of winter comes alive through film, and this fall, three celebrated production crews will bring their newest stories to Tahoe audiences.
Teton Gravity Research kicks things off with Pressure Drop, its 30th annual film featuring Jeremy Jones, Kai Jones, Sage Cattabriga-Alosa, and more charging steep lines around the globe with TGR’s signature eye-popping cinematography. Catch it Friday, October 10, at the Olympic Village Event Center, with two evening showings.
Matchstick Productions follows with After the Snowfall, a celebration of skiing’s spirit told through athletes like Michelle Parker and Nikolai Schirmer. From Japan’s deep powder to British Columbia’s rugged peaks, the film screens October 25 – 27 at the Tahoe City Art Haus with multiple showtimes each night.
Finally, the Warren Miller Film Tour returns October 29 – 30 at the Olympic Village Event Center. This year’s installment travels from the Scottish Highlands to Finland and BC’s Whitewater back bowls, spotlighting Olympians, urban riders, and local legends in true Warren Miller fashion. The perfect way to launch into ski season.
Forged & Welcome to Winter
As part of the Welcome to Winter celebration, we will honor new inductees into the Forged sculpture, a tribute to the individuals who have shaped the legacy of Palisades Tahoe over the past 76 years. Forged celebrates the pioneers, visionaries, athletes, and community members whose enduring spirit continues to define our mountain. Join us for a special ceremony featuring live music, guest speakers, warm cider, and cookies as we celebrate the past, present, and future of Palisades Tahoe.
Tahoe Live 2025
Tahoe Live returns with its first-ever three-day festival, expanding to a full weekend December 12–14, 2025. Set against the snow-covered peaks of Palisades Tahoe, this year’s festival delivers its most electrifying lineup yet, blending world-class electronic music with the unmatched energy of a mountain setting. Headliners include Porter Robinson, Zeds Dead, Alison Wonderland, DJ Diesel, LSZEE, San Holo, Jessica Audiffred, and Peekaboo.
President’s Week
This Presidents Week, February 14 – 22, 2026, Palisades Tahoe comes alive with family fun, live music at the KT Base Bar, and festive après all week long. Coinciding with the Winter Olympics, the celebration blends kid-friendly activities, on-mountain adventures, and the excitement of global competition with the energy of Tahoe’s vibrant après scene.
Town Race League
Town Race League is back for its second season, bringing midweek energy to the slopes every Wednesday night from March 4 through April 8, 2026. Open to skiers and riders of all abilities, this lively alpine race series introduces a new team format, giving friends and coworkers the chance to compete together for bragging rights. Each week features a playful theme and prizes for the best-dressed racer, making it as much about style and camaraderie as it is about speed.
Toyota U.S. Mogul Freestyle Championships
For the second year in a row, Palisades Tahoe, in partnership with Olympic Valley Freestyle, will host the Toyota U.S. Freestyle Championships March 27–30, 2025, on the legendary Red Dog course. The nation’s top mogul and dual mogul skiers will compete for national titles in one of the most challenging and exhilarating disciplines in winter sports.
Rahlves Banzai
The legendary Rahlves’ Banzai Tour makes its long-awaited return to Palisades Tahoe in April 2026. Created by U.S. ski icon and Red Bull athlete Daron Rahlves, this adrenaline-charged event combines big mountain freeride terrain with the head-to-head intensity of ski and snowboard cross. The upcoming race on KT-22 promises high-speed, no-holds-barred action as athletes charge down natural terrain features in a battle to the finish.
The Mountain Awaits
As we count down to opening day, the energy at Palisades Tahoe is undeniable. From world-class competitions and iconic events to new programs, athlete spotlights, and unforgettable après experiences, this season is set to be one for the books. Whether you’re chasing powder, cheering on the pros, or soaking up the mountain culture that makes this place legendary, we can’t wait to welcome you back to the slopes. Here’s to another winter of pushing limits, making memories, and celebrating the spirit of Palisades Tahoe.
