********Update********
Homewood Ski Resort will be closed for the 24/25 snow season. We hope they reopen for business the following year 25/26.
Are you ready to hit the slopes and experience the magic of Homewood Ski Resort?
Nestled on the beautiful shores of Lake Tahoe, Homewood Mountain offers an unforgettable skiing experience tailored for beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Homewood Ski Resort.
Resort Mountain Statistics
Location: 5145 W Lake Blvd, Homewood, CA 96141
Skiable terrain: 1,260 acres of skiable terrain
Number of lifts: 7 Lifts that access 67 trails
Vertical drop: 1,650-foot vertical drop
Annual snowfall: Average of 450 inches
Vibe: Welcoming and laid-back family vibe
Homewood Mountain has something for all abilities with 67 trails ranging from the buttery smooth beginner runs to the heart-pumping expert paths, it’s a paradise for skiers and snowboarders.
How to Get to Homewood Mountain
Embarking on a journey to Homewood Ski Resort is a breeze! Whether you’re flying in from afar or mapping out a road trip, you’ll find Homewood Mountain nestled on the serene west shore of Lake Tahoe.
Air Travel
The nearest airport is Reno-Tahoe International, a scenic 55-mile drive away.
Southwest Airlines is a great option when flying into Reno, it is the largest airline operator at RNO. Southwest Airlines offers 2 free checked bags, which allows you to fly your ski gear bag for free.
We use airline points to fly for free whenever possible. Check out the Southwest credit card bonus offer and start stacking points for free flights.
Reno serves as an Alaska Airlines hub, making it another good choice when flying into RNO. Alaska offers many direct and affordable flight options.
We love flying on either of these airlines; both offer more flight options and good pricing due to the volume of flights operated.
Rental Car
Most rental car companies are available at the airport. The scenic drive to Homewood provides breathtaking views all along the way.
Make sure to reserve a 4×4 or AWD vehicle to navigate snowy mountain roads in winter.
Road Trip
You’re in for a smooth trip with well-maintained roads- just keep an eye on Highway 89, your direct path to powder.
Shuttle Service
Shuttle services are available during the ski season. The North Lake Tahoe Express Shuttle offers service from Reno Airport to Tahoe City.
The Tart Bus is an easy and convenient way to get from Tahoe City to Homewood ski resort. It allows you to skip the hassle of paid parking and dive straight into the Homewood experience.
We take public transportation wherever possible, it’s an easy and affordable way to get around ski towns. Taking the bus to the mountain will save you money on Homewood daily parking fees.
Parking
Paid daily resort parking is available at Homewood Ski Resort.
**N0 Overnight or Trailer parking is permitted.**
Where to Stay
Dreaming of the perfect place to rest your head after a day of shredding the slopes at Homewood Ski Resort?
Look no further! Whether you’re splurging on luxury or sticking to a budget, Homewood has lodging options that’ll fit your wallet and your preferences.
Cedar Crest Cottages
Luxury: Cedar Crest Cottages
This property nestled in Homewood, offers 9 unique cottages all designed with kitchens and living rooms. These units are equipped with all the luxuries of home with boutique style toiletries supplied in each unit.
All units are individually owned and decorated with distinctive style.
Walk to the ski lifts at Homewood Ski Resort while staying at this tranquil piece of paradise.
Cedar Crest Cottages is the perfect spot for a romantic ski trip getaway or a family winter vacation.
Sunny Side Resort
Mid-range: Sunny Side Resort
This resort in Tahoe City strikes the perfect balance between comfort and value.
It offers two on site restaurants, along with a complementary continental breakfast.
This option is conveniently located near a TART bus stop that goes to Homewood Mountain Resort.
It also doubles as an airporter shuttle stop on the North Lake Tahoe Express Shuttle that travels to and from RNO airport.
You could easily stay here without the need for a car. However free onsite parking is available if you plan to drive.
Pepper Tree Inn
Budget Travel: The Pepper Tree Inn
This 7 story high rise accommodation is set in Tahoe City with views of the lake. Built in the 1960’s, this historic ski motel is rich in history.
Each room is equipped with a mini fridge and microwave. Free wifi and parking is included onsite.
The location is in close proximity to restaurants and public transportation. This is a great option for the no frills, budget traveler.
The Homewood Experience
Diving into the Homewood experience is like stepping into a snow-filled wonderland where every day is an adventure.
The vibe here is welcoming and laid-back, making it perfect for families, couples, or anyone trying to escape the madness of the mega resorts.
What sets Homewood apart? It’s the personal touches – like friendly staff who remember your name and the impromptu tips from locals on where to find the best powder stashes.
The resort’s amenities are reliable and well maintained. Homewood offers 2 dining options with après-ski cocktails, hassle-free ski rentals and engaging lessons that cater to all levels.
It’s not just about the skiing or snowboarding; it’s about immersing yourself in the natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere that makes Homewood truly unique.
The mountain layout ensures there’s a perfect run for everyone, making your ski days easy to navigate. The top to bottom green run “Rainbow Ridge” gives beginners an opportunity to experience the lake views from the top of the mountain.
Homewood is where the mountain meets magic, and every ski run is an adventure waiting to unfold.
Ski Rentals and Lessons
Alright, let’s dive into the world of ski rentals and lessons at Homewood Ski Resort. Having the right gear is key to a successful ski vacation.
Unless you’re an avid skier, forget the hassle of lugging your gear across the country. Homewood has an incredible array of the latest ski rentals and snowboard equipment waiting for you.
Ski lessons: Whether you’re a total newbie who confuses a ski pole with a walking stick, or you’re pretty savvy on the slopes, Homewood’s got an instructor for you.
Choose from group lessons where you can meet fellow snow enthusiasts, or opt for one-on-one sessions that focus on personal techniques. Either way, you are sure to progress.
So, are you ready to make some unforgettable memories on the mountain? Homewood Ski Resort is where it all begins!
Best Time to Visit Homewood Ski Resort
Cracking the code on the best time to visit Homewood Ski Resort isn’t rocket science, it’s all about timing to catch the mountain at its prime.
Aim for December through April when Homewood transforms into a snowy wonderland, loaded with freshies.
This period isn’t just about guaranteed snow; it’s when the resort buzzes with winter vibes.
Early birds in December gain access to freshly groomed runs and the excitement of the season’s start.
January and February? They’re the jackpot months for powder hounds, typically offering up the best conditions.
March and April bring in the spring skiers—those looking for milder days and a more laid-back vibe on the slopes. Plus, late season storms often means fewer crowds and more freshies all to yourself.
Here’s a pro tip: Keep an eye on the snow reports and try to book with flexibility. Open Snow is our favorite weather app for accurate snow forecasts. We love using this incredible resource for chasing storms all season!
Catching an iconic Tahoe storm can turn a great trip into an unforgettable one.
So pack your gear, and get ready to experience Homewood at its absolute best. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on the magic of Lake Tahoe’s slopes during peak season!
Tips for Beginners
Stepping into the world of skiing can feel like entering a whole new universe, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are some important tips:
Check the Trail Map: Before starting your day, check the Homewood trail map. Green runs are your friend, Black runs are a “danger zone” for beginners.
Take a Lesson: Investing in professional instruction will accelerate your learning and make your experience more enjoyable.
Dress in Layers: Mountain weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers allows you to adjust to changing conditions.
These budget friendly under layers keep us warm all winter: men’s thermals and women’s thermals.
Stay Hydrated: The high altitude can be dehydrating, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Be sure to hydrate before you get to the mountains, electrolyte drink mix packets help to fight against altitude sickness.
A hydration pack is a great addition to your gear accessories. We always carry water with us on the mountain.
Wear a Helmet and Protective Gear: Stay safe and don’t worry about looking uncool. Helmets are common place these days. Not wearing a helmet makes you look out of place.
Keep your head protected with a cool new helmet. If you are new to snowboarding, wrist guards are a key to saying safe. Crash shorts are also helpful to cushion the impact when taking a fall.
Get The Proper Ski Equipment: Make sure you have the right ski equipment. Having the wrong gear can ruin your day. Proper fitting boots and decent goggles are a must! Here is an inexpensive option that will have you seeing clearly on the cheap: ski goggles.
Tips for Experts
Alright, all you ski and snowboard enthusiasts out there, it’s time to level up your game at Homewood Ski Resort.
This mountain isn’t just about picturesque views; it’s a more relaxed, less crowded playground for finding powder stashes all to yourself.
Here’s the scoop: Send it into Homewood’s powder filled backcountry terrain. Not the steepest when compared to the large mega resorts, but still incredible.
Homewood Snowcat Adventures is your ticket to powder and lots of it.
Explore unmarked trails and perfectly gladed trees, where fresh powder waits for those eager enough to find it.
Guided day tours help you make the most out of your Tahoe Ski Vacation.
The adventure is what you make it, and for experts, there’s plenty of fun turns just outside the gates.
Best Places to Après-Ski
After conquering the slopes, it’s time to dive into Homewood’s après-ski scene, a blend of cozy vibes and lively fun!
Your on mountain après ski destination, where the craft beers and tales of slope victories flow endlessly.
The 89 bar and grill is your ticket to old school mountain vibes and tasty BBQ style cuisine. Enjoy a cold one after an epic day in the white room.
Tahoe National Brewing Company
Looking for a lively spot famous for its local craft brews? Tahoe National Brewing serves up the finest local beers on tap!
Their tasty menu items provide worldwide flavor selections from Mediterranean to Japanese cuisine. This is a must stop for craft brews and delicious food in Tahoe City.
Searching for a fun sports bar in Tahoe City to catch the latest game or play a round of pool? This legendary sports bar has been around since 1976.
Pete and Peters old school pub offers darts, shuffleboard and pool tables to keep you entertained.
Grab some Mexican food next door at Pepper’s Taqueria in Tahoe City. You can eat your food inside Pete’s while enjoying a tasty margarita.
Each of these Lake Tahoe gems has their own charm, offering the perfect reprieve after a thrilling day.
Gather your crew or make new friends, because the après-ski at Homewood is about more than just good food and drinks—it’s where the day’s adventures turn into tonight’s stories.
Lift Tickets and Discounts
Homewood caters to the smaller local crowd and is not a part of the large mega resort season passes (Ikon or Epic).
Homewood Ski Resort offers its own mountain season pass online. They strive to be the most family friendly ski resort in Tahoe by offering a family season pass option.
Discounted pricing on lift tickets is available by purchasing online in advance. You can purchase a 3 day pass or single day lift tickets on the website.
Active Duty Military Skis Free Sundays- Thursdays All season!! (Blackout holidays apply) Check the website for the most up to date info and retrieve your free lift ticket at the ticket window with proof of military ID.
Conclusion – Why Visit Homewood Ski Resort?
Homewood Ski Resort is an absolutely gorgeous place to visit. The family friendly old school vibe really makes every guest feel at home.
The small mountain vibe is a great escape from the mega resorts. It offers just 7 chairlifts that access 1,260 skiable acres. The layout of mountain terrain makes it easy to navigate for beginner skiers. It’s not often beginner runs start from the top of the mountain, and provide panoramic views of the landscape below.
Experts can enjoy guided backcountry cat skiing at Homewood. Smaller crowds make finding powder stashes much easier and the laid back vibe creates a positive atmosphere.
Staying in Tahoe City and taking public transportation to and from the ski resort, saves money on rental cars and parking fees.
Tahoe City has many affordable accommodation options. The Sunny Side Inn is our favorite mid range property. It offers direct North Lake Tahoe Shuttle access to and from RNO airport. Daily bus service on the local TART bus provides easy access to and from Homewood ski resort.
With two onsite restaurants, complementary breakfast and free parking; Sunny Side Inn provides everything you need for a comfortable and affordable stay.
Tahoe City offers an eclectic mix of dining options. Après-ski cocktails and craft brews are an intricate part of ski culture. Ski town tradition is alive at Pete and Peter’s pub. The games and live music will have you making memories on more than just the mountain.
Kind locals, old school vibes, beautiful views and smiles for days, make Homewood one of the best places for a winter ski vacation.
There are many options for skiing in Lake Tahoe. Homewood is a place to bring your family, hang with the locals, find freshies and escape the madness of the mega resorts.
For information on more Lake Tahoe resorts, please read our article “Discover Tahoe: The Best Ski Resorts For Beginners.”
