With deep snow and an average 245 days of sun a year, Truckee is an ideal destination for a winter family vacation! Here’s a rundown of winter activities and family fun for kids and families alike.

Map to Sledding, Tubing, & Snow Play with Kids in Truckee

Embrace the joy of winter by building a snowman, sledding down a slope, or simply reveling in the snow for hours of family fun. Every family has its unique needs and dynamics so we've categorized our snow play destinations into three distinct categories. Whether you're seeking a wilderness adventure where you're in charge of every detail or prefer a more luxurious experience, this guide will help you understand your options. Explore the basics to find the perfect fit for your family! For a comprehensive list of all the snow play areas, check out our article titled "Top 15 Places to Go Sledding, Tubing & Build a Snowman in Truckee." and download the Truckee Sledding, Tubing & Snow Play map and guide.

Paid/Developed - Snow Play Areas at Ski Resorts

The most popular way to savor the snow because of its affordability, accessibility, and benefits. This is where you’ll find amenities such as bathrooms and heated indoor lodging to warm up whenever needed. Just show up in your winter gear, and the location provides everything else. For a lively experience, channel your inner John Travolta with a Saturday night of disco tubing beneath vibrant LED lights at Palisades Tahoe. Alternatively, indulge in a full day of fun at Tube Town, boasting up to ten impeccably maintained tubing lanes.

Paid/Undeveloped - California SNO-Park Snow Play Areas

Across the region, public organizations like Caltrans maintain cleared parking areas for non-motorized winter activities. To access these spots and support their efforts, a parking fee is required. Take, for instance, Donner Summit SNO-Park where a day or season parking pass is a must. It's worth noting that beyond the cleared parking lot, there are no additional amenities or bathrooms available.

Unpaid/Undeveloped - DIY Snow Play, Anywhere Goes!

Embrace the most rustic form of snow play, where you're in charge of every aspect. Discover serene escapes like Johnson Canyon or, when the town is blanketed in enough snow, explore the Old Greenwood conservation easement. In these areas, there are no provided bathrooms, so come prepared. Bring your sled and adhere to the Leave No Trace principles. If venturing into the wilderness, opt for a durable sled that can withstand the excitement without breaking into pieces. Look for options made of wood, metal, or inflatable materials.

Teach Kids to Snowboard/Ski at Truckee-Tahoe Ski Areas

Truckee's slopes are renowned worldwide for their deep powder and challenging terrain. But every expert had to start somewhere. Fortunately, there are many family-friendly resorts in Truckee-Tahoe that offer fantastic experiences for families with young children looking to get into the sport. Places like Boreal, Soda Springs, and Tahoe Donner are not only extremely affordable but also perfect for beginners. Have your kids learn from the pros. Sign them up for a ski/ride lesson while you enjoy free time on the hill or in the lodge. Check out our skiing/riding page to learn more.

Take your Tykes Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing

Rent or buy a pair of snowshoes from one of Truckee’s ski shops and venture to Donner Memorial State Park for a playful day out. Alternatively, glide through the landscape on cross-country skis at one of Truckee’s cross country ski centers like Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Center and Royal Gorge. If your kiddos are too young to ski or even snowshoe, introduce them to the winter wonderland by towing them behind you in a sled. Afterward, unwind with a cozy hot cocoa.

Take your Kids Ice Skating in, or Near Truckee

What’s more nostalgic than lacing up your skates for the very 1st time with your kids. Create a memory that will last a lifetime. There are a host of outdoor rinks where you can rent a pair of skates and go ice skating in Truckee. If you aren’t an avid skater, reduce the stress and increase the photo opportunities by enrolling them in a lesson at the Truckee Ice Rink. For hours, rates, schedule and more, check out our ice skating page.

Too much cold/snow? Family-Friendly Indoor Winter Activities

There are times when the weather just doesn’t want to cooperate with outdoor winter activities for kids. Luckily, there are as many fun things to do inside as there are outside in Truckee. Take your little ones on a journey through the Sierra's history in a fun and interactive manner at the KidZone Museum. Let them scale the walls, literally, at Truckee's indoor climbing gym - High Altitude Fitness. Afterward, head to Truckee Variety Co. in Historic Downtown Truckee to grab a board game for a cozy night in.

Kid-Friendly Winter Dining Options In Truckee

Truckee is brimming with delightful family-friendly restaurants. And we bet your kiddos worked up an appetite after a day of skiing and riding! Here are 8 fantastic Truckee restaurants perfect for families with kids. Dig into a family-sized pizza pie at Best Pies, bite into a juicy burger at BurgerMe, or start the day with teddy bear-shaped pancakes at Squeeze In!