Alpine Meadows
We have put together a list of everything you need to know about Alpine Meadows.
Table of Contents
Alpine Meadows Overview
Alpine Meadows is a ski resort that has merged with Squaw Valley under the name Palisades Tahoe. It is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California and is known for its challenging terrain and stunning views of Lake Tahoe.
Ski Terrain
- Beginner runs: 25%
- Intermediate runs: 40%
- Advanced/Expert runs: 35%
- Total ski runs: 100
- Terrain Parks: 3
Mountain Statistics
- Summit elevation: 8637 feet
- Skiable area: 2400 acre
- Average Snowfall: 450 inch
Alpine Meadows Trail Map
Alpine Meadows Lift Tickets
Alpine Meadows can be accessed by Palisades Tahoe day lift tickets and Ikon Passes. Below are the differences between the two ticket types.
Day Lift Ticket
Palisades Tahoe day lift tickets give you access to both Palisades and Alpine mountains. You can buy up to 6 single-day tickets. 2-day and 3-day tickets allow you to ski any non-consecutive 2 or 3 days respectively throughout the ski season.
Ikon Passes
You can access Alpine Meadows on all types of Ikon Passes. Ikon passes are available for purchase pre-ski season until around the end of November and are ideal for people planning to ski at multiple resorts. The differences between the passes are highlighted below.
- Ikon Pass gives unlimited access to 15 resorts and up to 7 days each at 40 ski resorts with no blackout dates throughout the ski season. You get unlimited access to Alpine Meadows.
- Ikon Base Pass gives unlimited access to 14 resorts and up to 5 days each at 34 resorts with blackout dates for some resorts. This pass gives unlimited access to Alpine Meadows excluding blackout dates. It is cheaper than Ikon Pass so it is ideal for those who do not require access to all Ikon resorts.
- Ikon Session Pass has the option of 2, 3, or 4 total days of access at 40 resorts, including Alpine Meadows, with blackout dates. This is ideal for those who want some flexibility in resort access and will be skiing the selected days on the pass at Alpine Meadows (or other Ikon resorts).
Alpine Meadows Ski and Snowboard Lessons
Palisades Tahoe Ski and Snowboard School offer group and private lessons as well as special programs for ages 3 and above for all levels. Lift tickets and rentals are not included in the lessons.
- Group Lessons: These lessons are half-day and also have a special package option at Alpine Meadow only. Lessons for children aged 3-4 are limited to up to 4 people.
- Private Lessons: This lesson can have up to 5 people with similar ability levels and can be full-day or half-day.
- Special Programs: There are Kids' Multi-Week Ski Programs which include skiing full-day or half-day once a week across 4 to 8 weeks. There are also Alpine Unlimited lessons, which give you half-day lessons throughout the ski season for any ability level at Alpine Meadows.
Nearest Town to Alpine Meadows
Alpine Meadows is located in the town of Alpine Meadows, which is 50 miles from Reno-Tahoe International Airport. This ski town has limited accommodation and dining options so some skiers opt to stay in the town of Tahoe City, just 6 miles away. Tahoe City is known for its charming mountain atmosphere and views of Lake Tahoe. It is also within a short drive from other Lake Tahoe ski resorts including Palisades Tahoe, Granlibakken, and Northstar California.
On Mountain Dining
Alpine Meadows offers a few on-mountain dining options.
Chalet at Alpine Meadows
Located at the base of Scott Chair, the Chalet offers a cozy atmosphere with hearty meals like burgers, sandwiches, soups, and salads, as well as hot and cold beverages.
Opening hours (subject to change): 9 am-2 pm (Mon-Fri), 9 am-3 pm (Sat-Sun)
Ice Bar
Situated at the base of Sherwood Express on Alpine’s backside, the Ice Bar provides a selection of snacks, drinks, and specialty cocktails.
Opening hours (subject to change): 9 am-4 pm (Mon-Sun)
Last Chair Bar & Restaurant
Located inside Alpine Meadows Base Lodge, this restaurant offers beer, wines, and casual food options like salads, bistro-style sandwiches, and more.
Opening hours (subject to change): TBA
Alpine Meadows Contact Information
Address: 1960 Squaw Valley Road, Olympic Valley, CA 96146, United States
Phone number: (800) 403-0206
Email: info@palisadestahoe.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there ski packages to Alpine Meadows?
There are ski vacation packages available for Alpine Meadows, which bundle lodging and lift tickets together to make your ski vacation planning a lot easier. You can find more information at Palisades Tahoe ski packages.
When is the best time to go skiing in Alpine Meadows?
Mid-February to Mid-March is the best month to visit as you avoid the holiday crowds during Christmas and New Year.
What is the nearest airport to Alpine Meadows?
Reno-Tahoe International Airport is around 52 miles or a 1-hour drive from Alpine Meadows. You can take a scheduled shuttle like North Lake Tahoe Express to take you directly from the airport to your lodging if you do not want to drive.
How much does it cost to rent ski equipment at Alpine Meadows?
A standard ski/snowboard package costs $55-59 for 1 day for adults and $34-36 for children. The price varies depending if you are renting mid-week or on weekends and holidays. A helmet is included in the child’s rental package but is an additional $15 per day for adults. Please note that prices are subject to change, visit Palisades Tahoe rentals for the most updated information.