Spring in Truckee-Tahoe is like no other - a perfect mix of snow, bluebird days, and high-energy events. Longer days, softer snow, and non-stop action make spring a party on the mountain, whether you're charging uphill at the Sugar Bowl Uphiller, embracing the outrageous fun of the Pain McShlonkey, testing your luck at a pond skim, or grooving on sun-drenched après decks. This is the time to experience Truckee-Tahoe at its most vibrant.
Adventure Races & Events
Springtime in the Sierra means one thing: sending it. From uphill races to retro ski antics, these events celebrate mountain culture that speaks to the heart of Truckee-Tahoe.
Sugar Bowl Uphiller
Date: March 16, 2025 | Location: Sugar Bowl Resort
For those who believe the best turns start with a climb, the Sugar Bowl Uphiller is a must. Skin or splitboard your way to the top of Lincoln as many times as your legs will allow - no chairlifts, just grit. Each lap earns you raffle tickets and bragging rights, with a summit pop-up bar offering refreshments and tunes. Costumes? Highly encouraged.
Pain McShlonkey Classic
Date: March 22, 2025 | Location: Palisades Tahoe
The most outrageous ski event of the season honors legendary skier Shane McConkey with a day of snowblade mayhem. From the Hot Dog Downhill to the massive raffle, it’s a full send in the name of fun and philanthropy. Bonus: This annual classic coincides with International Snowblade Day, making it a global celebration of skiing’s silliest side.
Mothership Classic
Date: March 23, 2025 | Location: KT-22, Palisades Tahoe
This pledge-driven event on the legendary KT-22 chairlift is all about endurance and nostalgia. Participants lap the lift from first chair to last on skinny skis, mono-skis, or retro snowboards - all while raising money for a good cause. Think ‘80s ski movie vibes, complete with neon one-pieces and headbands.
The Silver Belt
Date: April 2-5, 2025 | Location: Sugar Bowl Resort
Once an elite giant slalom event in the 1940s, the Silver Belt has transformed into a freeride showdown, drawing top skiers from around the world. Expect huge airs, big lines, and fierce competition on the legendary Silver Belt Gully.
America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride
Date: June 1, 2025 | Location: Lake Tahoe
Take in Tahoe’s turquoise waters on two wheels while supporting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. With ride options ranging from 35 to 100 miles, cyclists of all levels can pedal for a cause while soaking in one of the most scenic courses in the country.
Spring Celebrations: Pond Skims
Spring skiing isn’t complete without a good old-fashioned pond skim. These legendary events bring costumes, creativity, and some truly spectacular wipeouts.
Sugar Bowl Pond Skim
Date: April 12, 2025 | Location: Sugar Bowl Resort
The ultimate test of speed and balance - skim (or sink) across a pond in front of an enthusiastic crowd. Bonus points for outlandish costumes!
Northstar Pond Skim
Date: April 13, 2025 | Location: Northstar California
Join us as we celebrate the season’s end and knock on wood welcome spring! The Northstar Pond Skim is back, bringing music, good vibes, and epic splashes from 11am - 3pm. Catch the action on the hill, enjoy tunes in the village, and send off winter in true Truckee-Tahoe style.
Cushing Crossing
Date: May 3, 2025 | Location: Palisades Tahoe
The grandfather of all pond skims, the Cushing Crossing is a Truckee-Tahoe classic. This annual event brings out the boldest skimmers, celebrity judges, and big-time prizes from sponsors like Yeti, Smith, Dakine, and Darn Tough. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the show!
Play Forever Fridays at Boreal Mountain
Play Forever Fridays are back in Truckee-Tahoe! For just $25, grab a Go-Time Lift Ticket, Tahoe Tubing Ticket, or Woodward 2-hour Bunker Session, and Boreal will donate the proceeds to charity. It's a win-win - you get an amazing deal while giving back to our community. Last season, your support helped Boreal and Woodward Tahoe raise over $100,000 for nonprofits like High Fives Foundation, Boarding 4 Breast Cancer, the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe, and The Chill Foundation.
Truckee Pride
Date: June 1-7, 2025 | Location: Truckee
Truckee Pride is back for its second year, celebrating inclusivity, diversity, and love in the mountains. Expect a week of vibrant events, community gatherings, and celebrations honoring the LGBTQIA2S+ community, including bouldering, film screenings, unicorn bike night, yoga, mountain bike rides, and more! All events are family-friendly and open to everyone. Plus, don’t miss a big dance party featuring Pattie Gonia, an iconic drag queen and environmental advocate bringing joy, advocacy, and fabulousness to the festivities!
Live Music & Après
As the days get longer, the après scene gets livelier. Whether you’re winding down from a day on the slopes or just soaking in the spring sun, these music series set the perfect vibe.
- KT Base Bar Music Series (through March 29) at Palisades Tahoe
- Winter Music Series at Northstar (Every Fri, Sat, & Sun, through April 20) at Northstar California
- Tahoe Donner Winter Music Series (Saturdays, through March 29) at Pizza on the Hill in Tahoe Donner
Tahoe Truckee Earth Day Festival
Date: April 26, 2025 | Location: The Village at Palisades Tahoe
One of the region’s biggest Earth Day celebrations, this free festival offers hands-on activities, sustainability workshops, and local entertainment. It’s a great way to give back to the planet while having a blast with the whole family.
There you have it! Whether you’re chasing spring snow, braving a pond skim, or just soaking up the sun with good company, this season is all about embracing the best of both worlds. Rally your crew and make the most of spring in Truckee-Tahoe - and score killer lodging deals while you’re at it! Check out Deals & Packages and book your stay.
