Conditions are lining up for another excellent weekend at Palisades Tahoe. With expansive terrain, a wide range of lift access, and favorable riding conditions across the mountain, it’s shaping up to be a classic weekend for skiers and snowboarders of all ability levels.
Whether you’re carving groomers, exploring off-piste terrain, or lapping with friends and family, there’s plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the mountain. And if you’ve been looking for an excuse to bring your crew along, Ikon Pass holders, Ikon Base Pass holders, and Palisades Tahoe Ticket Pack holders can currently share 50% off lift tickets with friends and family for a limited time, making it even easier to stack laps together this winter.
And with National Hot Chocolate Day on Saturday, it’s the perfect excuse to take a mid-day break and treat yourself to a warm cup of cocoa before heading back out for a few more runs.
Below, you’ll find the latest updates on weather, operations, safety, transportation, and ways to make the most of your visit this weekend.
Weather and Conditions
Clouds & Weekend Warming Trend
The dry pattern remains in place through the weekend, though storms will continue to approach the West Coast and remain just offshore.
- Expect a mix of clouds and sun through the weekend
- Firm conditions are likely in the morning, with surfaces softening as the sun moves across the mountain
- Temperatures trend warmer, with highs climbing into the 40s, and near 50 degrees at lower base elevations
Looking Ahead to Next Week
High pressure is forecast to strengthen and shift more directly over the West Coast next week, reinforcing the dry pattern.
- Mostly sunny skies expected
- Fewer clouds compared to this weekend
- Highs remain in the 40s to near 50 degrees at the base
Long-Range Outlook
The dry pattern is expected to persist through at least February 8, though longer-range models continue to hint at gradual changes beyond that window.
- High pressure may begin to weaken and shift northwest around February 9–10
- Some models suggest light precipitation could return as early as February 9
- Broader trends continue to point toward a more active pattern potentially developing mid-February
For now, expect stable weather and consistent conditions, with attention turning to possible pattern changes later in the month.
For a deeper dive into the forecast and long-range trends, visit our Weather Blogs, written by Bryan Allegretto of OpenSnow.
Safety Is Always the Priority
Riding conditions remain strong across the mountain, but natural hazards and variable conditions may still exist, especially as traffic increases and snow surfaces change throughout the day.
Key Reminders
- Variable conditions can still be found across the mountain, particularly in off-piste terrain and high-traffic zones. Watch for unmarked obstacles, natural features, open water, and creek crossings.
- Be mindful of firm morning conditions, especially on shaded aspects. Following the sun throughout the day can provide softer, more enjoyable snow as surfaces warm.
- Mountain Run and Weasel Run remain designated safety focus areas. Guests are encouraged to download via the Tram or Funitel. If you choose to ski or ride down, please respect posted slow zones and signage.
- Adjust your speed and spacing based on terrain, visibility, and crowd levels, especially when skiing or riding with kids or in busy areas.
- When riding lifts with children, ensure they are properly seated and secured, and follow all posted lift safety instructions.
- As part of our snow preservation efforts during this extended dry period, grooming will be more limited this weekend, particularly on advanced terrain. Expect firmer conditions early, with surfaces softening as the day progresses. Please ski and ride in control and choose terrain that matches your ability.
Thank You for Supporting Safety
Thank you to everyone who participated in Ski California Safety Weekend last weekend. While the activations may have wrapped up, safety remains our top priority throughout the entire season, and we appreciate everyone doing their part to help keep the mountain safe and enjoyable for all.
For more information on mountain safety and shared responsibility, visit our Mountain Safety page.
Lift & Terrain Operations
Great riding conditions continue across Palisades Tahoe as we head into the weekend, with expansive terrain and access to some of the most skiable acres in the country right now.
For guests planning their day, please note that Broken Arrow and Olympic Lady are not scheduled to operate this weekend, and Far East is scheduled to operate until 11:00am.
To help preserve snow quality during this extended dry period, grooming will be more limited this weekend, especially on advanced terrain. Guests should expect firmer off-piste conditions in the morning, with surfaces softening as the sun moves across the mountain.
Sherwood Chair is expected to offer spring-like conditions earlier in the day, while Scott and Lakeview should soften later in the morning into the afternoon.
What to Expect This Weekend
- 30+ lifts scheduled to operate across the resort
- 240+ trails open, offering a wide mix of groomed runs, off-piste terrain, and advanced alpine options. Please note there will be no grooming on KT, Headwall, or Granite Chief as crews focus on snow preservation.
- 5,360 acres of skiable terrain available for skiers and riders of all ability levels
- Patrol-managed closures may remain in place for select terrain as conditions and coverage continue to evolve
Terrain Parks Update
The terrain parks are firing heading into the weekend.
- Belmont Park continues to deliver a true skatepark-style experience, with new features swapping in and jumps dialed in for creative laps and progression.
- Gold Coast Park is taking great shape, featuring two larger jump options alongside a variety of rails and jibs to keep things playful and dynamic.
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.
Transportation, Parking, & Lodging
This weekend is shaping up to be a good one, and planning ahead will help set you up for a smooth arrival and stay.
Parking Reservations
Parking reservations are required this weekend.
- Free parking is sold out, but paid parking still has availability
- If parking reservations are full, there are still several easy ways to get here without driving
Alternate Transportation Options
Guests are encouraged to take advantage of alternate transportation options to reduce congestion and improve arrival times.
- 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
- Sherwood Shuttle will be operating for guests traveling from the West Shore
- The Sports Basement Ski Bus offers a convenient, full-service ride to the resort
Lodging in The Village
Make the most of your weekend by staying slopeside in the heart of the action at The Village at Palisades Tahoe. With lifts, dining, après, and events just steps away, staying on-site keeps everything close and convenient from first chair to last lap.
- Limited availability remains, so be sure to secure your spot early
- Parking garage access included with your stay
- Walk to lifts, dining, shopping, and après
Events and Activities
The good times at Palisades Tahoe extend well beyond the lifts, with something happening across the resort throughout the weekend. From live music and après scenes to family-friendly activities and on-mountain programming, there are plenty of ways to round out your day on and off the snow.
Whether you’re wrapping up a full day of laps, meeting friends in The Village, or looking for something new to explore, there’s no shortage of ways to keep the energy going from first chair through last call.
Another Great Weekend Ahead
With great riding conditions, expansive terrain, and another classic winter weekend on tap, it’s a perfect time to get out and enjoy everything Palisades Tahoe has to offer. Thanks for planning ahead, staying aware of conditions, and helping keep the mountain running smoothly for everyone.
If you’re heading out this weekend, don’t forget to track your days and stats in the Ikon Pass App and see how you stack up on this season’s leaderboard. Whether you’re chasing laps, linking turns with friends, or just soaking up the mountain atmosphere, it’s shaping up to be a great one.
We’ll see you out there.
