During the winter months, Truckee-Tahoe turns into a winter wonderland, complete with snowtop mountains, frosty alpine lakes, and twinkling lights in Truckee’s quaint downtown. Winter activities abound, with fun things to do for everyone. Take a peaceful snowshoe hike or cross country ski through the forest; go sledding and tubing on mellow, family-friendly hills; or get fresh powder turns at world-class ski resorts.

A blue arrow in a circle to click for more content.

Endless world class terrain awaits at Truckee-Tahoe ski resorts.

Skiing & Riding

Skate or stride? Choose your nordic adventure on miles of groomed trails.

Cross Country Skiing

Family fun on the slopes! Go sledding, tubing, or simply play in the snow.

Sledding & Tubing

Love hiking? Experience beautiful forest trails on a pair of snowshoes.
‍

Snowshoeing

Take an avalanche education course and explore off-piste with a guide.

Backcountry Skiing

Skiing and Riding

With over seven major ski resorts within a 15-45 minute drive of Truckee alone, Truckee-Tahoe is a mecca for winter sports. Unparalleled access to world-class terrain and 500 inches (42 FEET!) of annual snowfall on the Sierra Crest makes Truckee-Tahoe a classic, magical winter vacation destination.

Learn more

Snowshoeing

Those that enjoy summer hiking will love winter snowshoeing. Buckle into a pair of lightweight snowshoes and float across pillowy snow onto quiet winter trails. Blaze your own path or follow established trails at nearby cross country ski resorts. The Donner Memorial State Park and Tahoe National Forest are peaceful retreats for a snowshoe adventure and breathtaking scenery.

Learn more

Cross Country Skiing

Get striding or skating on hundreds of kilometers of groomed nordic trails. Truckee-Tahoe is home to several premier nordic resorts, including the largest cross country ski area in North America. Perfectly groomed trails, sweeping views, and quaint warming huts await. Choose from two nordic options, classic cross country skiing or skate skiing, and take a lesson if you’re brand new.
‍
‍Learn more

Snowmobile Tours

Explore the Sierra Nevada at High Line Adventures Snowmobile Tours.

Discover the pristine beauty of the Sierra Nevada with High Line Adventures Snowmobile Tours! Operating from the expansive Kingvale Resort, you’ll ride groomed trails through breathtaking landscapes. From the Red Mountain Lookout to the serene waterfalls at Trestle Flats, every moment offers a unique winter experience.

Choose Your Adventure:

Adventure Full Day: Learn proper riding technique, throttle control and self rescue as you explore the best trail system in Tahoe.
Adventure Half Day: This half day adventure guided tour of the Tahoe National Forest is an unparalleled backcountry experience.
Sightseeing Tours: Consists of a groomed riding track with multiple trail options.
Explore: Most popular guided tour. Explore a network of forest trails on your journey towards Red mountain lookout.

Learn more

Snowcat Skiing & Snowshoeing

Pacific Crest Snowcats offers a unique way to explore the untouched winter terrain of Truckee-Tahoe. Based on over 3,000 acres between Palisades Tahoe and Sugar Bowl, this snowcat-assisted adventure takes you off the beaten path to powder-filled slopes and remote terrain. Led by seasoned guides, Pacific Crest’s tours include everything from open powder bowls to steep, technical lines, tailored to your skill level and preferences. With guides evaluating snow stability throughout the day, you’re guaranteed fresh tracks, even weeks after a storm.
‍
Pacific Crest Snowcats Tours

Snowcat Ski & Board
Snowcat Assisted Backcountry Touring
Mountain Scenic Tours
High Sierra Snowshoeing

Ice Skating

One of the best parts about winter in Truckee is the array of winter things to do, one of them being ice skating in Truckee. These seasonal rinks are a beloved winter tradition for residents and visitors alike. Explore some of the best ice skating rinks around Truckee for a day filled with wintry fun. During an average winter, rinks open around mid-November and close by mid-March, subject to weather and conditions. Read all about ice skating in Truckee here!

Tubing & Sledding

Make time for winter classic activities with the family: sledding and tubing! Have fun sliding on snow, then make a snowman. Some ski resorts offer gentle, groomed slopes and provide sleds and tubes for a safe, efficient experience. Like to go sledding more local? Check out our favorite top places and be sure to bring sturdy/high quality sleds and pack out any trash.
‍
Learn more

Fat Tire Snow Biking

Snow doesn’t stop us from breaking out our bikes, fat tire bikes that is! The size of these tires allows them to move easily over snowy terrain. Rent a bike and try it out at one of these Truckee-based shops Cyclepaths, Bike Truckee/Truckee Winter Sports, and Paco’s Bike Shop. You can also rent at Northstar California Resort (15 minutes nearby).

Dog-Friendly, Snow-Free Winter Trails

Itching to get outdoors after winter storm days? View our winter trails here! While you're at it, check out the 26+ miles of scenic paved trails that are plowed and clear of snow during the winter months. Here are three of our favorites that are perfect for winter running, walking with your furry friend, or enjoying fresh mountain air with the whole family (stroller-friendly!) - Trout Creek Trail, Martis Dam Road, and Legacy Trail.

Not sure if the trails have been plowed yet? Open Where's My Plow to track snow plows and see the latest snow removal status for Truckee's scenic paved paths and streets.

Want a map? Our maps, trails, access page shows where you can purchase one in Truckee.