Northstar California Resort | Tahoe

Northstar California Resort, located in Truckee, California, is a premier year-round destination for outdoor activities, offering something for everyone, whether you're visiting in the winter for skiing or in the summer for mountain biking. The resort is known for its world-class amenities, scenic beauty, and diverse recreational offerings.

Location and Overview

Northstar California Resort is situated in the Sierra Nevada mountains, near the northwest shore of Lake Tahoe, and is part of the Vail Resorts network. It spans approximately 3,170 acres of skiable terrain and has become one of the most popular destinations in the Lake Tahoe region for outdoor enthusiasts. The resort features activities year-round, catering to both adrenaline seekers and those looking for a more relaxed experience in nature.

Winter Activities

Winter at Northstar is focused on snow sports, but the resort offers a wide range of options for all ages and skill levels.

Skiing and Snowboarding:

Northstar has 100 trails that cater to skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. Roughly 60% of the trails are intermediate, 13% are beginner, and 27% are advanced or expert level.

The resort has 20 lifts, including high-speed quads and gondolas that provide efficient access to the mountain.

The longest run at Northstar is Logger’s Loop, which is 1.4 miles long.

Terrain Parks:

Northstar is known for its eight terrain parks, which spread across 55 acres. These parks are considered some of the best in the country for freestyle skiing and snowboarding, making the resort a popular choice for those looking to practice or compete in these sports.

Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing:

In addition to downhill skiing, Northstar offers 35 kilometers of cross-country trails. These trails are suitable for both cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. There are also fat tire biking trails in the winter, allowing guests to explore the snow-covered landscape on specially-designed bikes.

Ice Skating and Snow Tubing:

The Village at Northstar features an ice skating rink, and snow tubing is available for a fun, family-friendly winter activity.

Summer Activities

During the warmer months, Northstar transforms into a hub for outdoor recreation, with options ranging from mountain biking to golf.

Mountain Biking:

Northstar is renowned for its mountain biking terrain, with 52 trails and over 100 miles of trails for bikers of all levels. These trails are served by lifts, allowing riders to easily access the mountain and spend more time on the trails.

Golf:

The resort has an 18-hole golf course designed by renowned golf course architect Robert Muir Graves. The course is known for its beautiful mountain views and challenging layout.

Tennis:

Northstar also has 10 tennis courts available for guests looking to enjoy the sport in a scenic mountain setting.

Roller Skating and Fly Fishing:

In the summer, the ice rink is transformed into a roller skating rink, and guests can also enjoy fly fishing at Sawmill Lake, located nearby.

Lodging and Dining

Northstar offers a variety of accommodations ranging from luxurious resorts to cozy mountain lodges.

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe:

A high-end resort located mid-mountain, the Ritz-Carlton offers ski-in/ski-out access, making it easy for guests to hit the slopes. It features a 17,000-square-foot spa, a fitness center, and fine dining options. The Lake Club offers exclusive lakeside access for guests.

Gravity Haus Truckee-Tahoe:

This is a community-focused lodge that offers a mix of modern accommodations, a co-working space, a bar, and a hot tub. It also features the Stella restaurant, which offers a farm-to-table dining experience.

Dining Options:

Northstar’s village features a range of dining options, from quick bites to fine dining. Guests can enjoy everything from pizza and burgers to gourmet meals, with several options offering patio seating for scenic dining experiences.

Access and Parking

Northstar is easily accessible by car and offers several parking options for guests.

Parking:

There are both free and paid parking options at the resort. On busy weekends and during peak periods, reservations are required for parking in the Village View lot, which has a fee ranging from $0 to $20 depending on vehicle occupancy. The Preferred Paid lot, located near the gondola, charges $25 on weekdays and $50 on weekends or holidays.

Shuttle Services:

Northstar offers complimentary shuttle services to and from Truckee and also provides a free Dial-A-Ride service for guests staying locally. This makes it easier for visitors to access the resort without the need for a car, especially if they are staying in the surrounding area.

Pet Policy

Northstar is pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their dogs with them to the resort.

Dogs in the Village:

Leashed dogs are welcome in the village year-round, but they are not permitted on chairlifts or gondolas for safety reasons.

Dog-Friendly Lodging:

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe offers dog-friendly accommodations, allowing guests to bring their pets along while they enjoy the resort.

Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, Northstar hosts various events and festivals, from seasonal celebrations to special skiing events. The resort is especially known for its après-ski parties, live music performances, and special events during holiday periods.

Conclusion

Northstar California Resort offers an outstanding combination of winter and summer activities, luxurious accommodations, and diverse dining and entertainment options. Whether you're a skier, snowboarder, mountain biker, or someone who simply enjoys the beauty of the Sierra Nevada, Northstar provides a wide array of activities and amenities that cater to all interests and skill levels. Its location in the Lake Tahoe region only enhances its appeal, offering visitors stunning mountain views and access to one of the most beautiful natural areas in California.