Winter has officially found its rhythm at Palisades Tahoe. After fresh snow earlier this week and a stretch of clear, cold weather settling in, conditions across the mountain are lining up for a very big weekend with strong operations, expanded terrain, and a full slate of events and activities across the resort.
All of our teams are focused on delivering a smooth, safe, and welcoming experience as we head into the weekend. Below is what to expect when planning your visit, including updates on conditions, transportation, lodging, and events happening across the mountain. In addition to this blog, check out the Mountain Surf Report for a behind-the-scenes look at what’s skiing and riding the best these days.
Weather & Snow Conditions
Clear Skies and Cold Temps
High pressure remains in place, bringing mostly clear skies and cold temperatures through the weekend and into early next week.
- Temperatures: Cold conditions persist, with highs in the 20s and overnight lows continuing to support snowmaking efforts.
- Snowpack: Approximately 6 inches of fresh snow earlier this week brought our season total to 152 inches.
- Regional Context: The Tahoe region is currently sitting at 104% of median snowfall to date, according to the Sierra Central Snow Lab.
Snowmaking crews have taken full advantage of recent cold nights, focusing on lower elevations and key guest flow areas to continue improving coverage and consistency.
Lift & Terrain Operations
Full-Mountain Momentum
Operations across both Palisades and Alpine are in a strong position heading into the weekend.
- Planned Operations:
- 99% of the mountain is open!
- Patrol closures may be in effect for select terrain.
- Silverado still needs another substantial storm in order to open.
- All lifts are scheduled to open at their regular times, conditions permitting.
- 99% of the mountain is open!
Lift and terrain availability is subject to change based on weather and conditions. Always check the Ikon Pass App or Mountain Report for the most up-to-date information.
Grooming & Snowmaking Progress
Building Coverage
Our grooming and snowmaking teams continue to make meaningful progress in supporting the on-mountain experience.
- A substantial increase in grooming is in place focused on high-traffic corridors and guest flow routes.
- Snowmaking continues 24/7 when temperatures allow, focused on lower mountain areas, with recent nights yielding strong production.
Despite improved coverage, low tide conditions remain in some areas, and natural obstacles still exist.
For your safety, please maintain a safe distance around snowmaking equipment and be aware of the variability associated with man-made snow.
Safety Comes First
Low Tide Awareness & Responsible Riding
With strong snowmaking and grooming progress underway, early- to mid-season conditions still require heightened awareness.
Key reminders:
- Watch for unmarked obstacles, exposed rocks, holes, and creek beds, especially off the groomed surface.
- Be mindful of snowmaking operations and changing surface conditions.
- Stay in control and adjust speed based on terrain, visibility, and traffic.
- Mountain Run remains a safety focus area; guests are encouraged to download via the Tram or Funitel. If you do choose to ski or ride down, please respect slow signs.
January is Ski California Safety Month, a timely reminder that shared responsibility helps keep everyone safe on the mountain. Stay educated and test your knowledge in our Safety Quiz for a chance to win a 2026/27 Palisades Tahoe Pass.
Transportation, Parking & Lodging
Plan Ahead
This weekend is shaping up to be a big one, and planning ahead for arrival is essential.
- Parking Reservations:
- Free parking is sold out, and paid parking is expected to sell out.
- We know that seeing reservations are sold out can create a moment of uncertainty, but don’t worry – you still have plenty of great options to make the most of your visit.
- Road & Arrival Operations:
- While the weather is clear, roads and parking lots may still be slick in some areas, please move carefully and allow extra time to get to where you’re going.
- Third-lane operations on Olympic Valley Road are scheduled to be in place both Saturday and Sunday.
- Alternative Transportation Options:
- Park & Ride will be operating Saturday and Sunday from Truckee and Tahoe City.
- Resort transportation such as the Mountaineer is available for guests staying in Olympic Valley or Alpine Meadows.
- Carpooling significantly helps reduce congestion. If you have 4+ people in your car, check-in with our staff at the designated locations on Olympic Valley Road and Alpine Meadows Road to receive a $20 Palisades Tahoe voucher!
- Sherwood Shuttle will be running Saturday and Sunday for guests along the West Shore.
- If you live near a Sports Basement location, grab a spot on the Ski Bus for a full-service experience.
- Lodging in The Village at Palisades Tahoe Includes Parking!
- Staying in The Village at Palisades Tahoe is great option, as overnight lodging includes parking and provides walk-to-lift access. Extend your stay with up to 20% off, valid Sunday – Thursday nights.
Choosing alternative transportation or lodging on site, arriving early, and following on-site guidance helps keep traffic moving and improves the overall guest experience.
Events & Activities
A Busy Weekend Across the Resort
There’s no shortage of activity on and off the snow this weekend:
- The KT Bass Bar Music Series continues this Friday and Saturday, plus we will have a DJ at Gold Coast on Saturday.
- Athletic Brewing is serving samples on the KT Base Bar deck this Friday and Saturday
- Enjoy après at 8,200 feet on Saturday, book your spot for Sunset Happy Hour
- NASTAR racing runs Friday-Sunday
- Tahoe Junior Freeride competition Saturday-Sunday on Enchanted Forrest
- Far West Mogul competition Saturday – Sunday on Shirley Lake Express
- Open League Race on Saturday on Kangaroo
- IFSA Adult Big Mountain competition Monday on Olympic Lady
Now is a great time to take a lesson! Book in advance for a streamlined experience at the resort, or catch one of our 1-Hour “Pop-Up” Private Lessons are available at all locations on a first-come, first-served basis.
Looking Ahead
- Cold, clear conditions continue into early next week.
- Snowmaking will remain active whenever temperatures allow.
- We operate 7 days/week! Midweek can be the best time to visit, offering great conditions with lighter crowds.
See You on the Mountain
This weekend is a big one, and our teams are energized, aligned, and ready to deliver. Thank you for staying aware, planning ahead, and helping us put our best face forward as we welcome a full house to Palisades Tahoe.
We’ll see you out there.
