Lake Tahoe Guide: Skiing At Palisades Tahoe (Formerly Squaw Valley)
The last time I skied I was 12, and it was on a hill that called itself a mountain in the Midwest. My dad took me and thought the best plan would be to teach me himself. As a self conscious preteen, I had no interest in learning and potentially failing in public next to people my age who knew (what I thought) exactly what they were doing. I wanted to look cool and falling as my dad tried to coach me along the way didn’t fit the cool category. So when I visited Lake Tahoe in the winter as someone in their late 20s, I was ready to renew my relationship with skiing.
Over the past decade, I've started shedding the embarrassment that comes from not knowing the thing to do in the place. Between traveling to faraway places where I wasn’t expected to know the right thing to do and just building my own self-love, I started to feel much more resilient to try out skiing all over again. And with that mindset and the perfect training ground, I fell in love with skiing.
After a previous experience at a not-so-great lesson at a not-so-great ski resort (shall not be named), I at the very least, started to build my confidence in the skills needed to slow down. I found joy in trying something new and conquering a challenge so I was open to continuing my ski journey in a new location. With my large, slow turns and consistently pizza-shaped skis, I found my stride at Palisades. Between beginner terrain near the top of the mountain with startling lake views to the gondola or tram providing down-mountain transportation for those not interested in skiing down, it’s taken the stress out of being new to the sport.
Why I Like Skiing At Palisades Tahoe As A Beginner
The entire mountain caters to skiers of all skill levels. My favorite part (and probably the most seen, yet best kept secret) is the progression plan posted on the wall where the Gold Coast Funitel empties. It provides recommendations on which runs to do, what to do if you want to try something more, and what to do when you’re done. The progression plans advance through first-time beginners, beginners, intermediate 1, intermediate 2, advanced 1, and advanced 2.
The first time beginners and beginners routes were the reason I fell in love with Palisades from the get-go. The beginner terrain includes wide and somewhat long runs to work on turns and parallel skis. It’s the common spot for beginner lessons so it’s also helpful to watch the different instructors and see others learning as well.
It’s honestly just a calm safe space to warm up at the very least while also getting stellar views of the lake and surrounding mountains. For now, even as I progress I like doing a run or two there to get my skis underneath me.
Favorite Runs at Palisades Tahoe
Starting out: (easiest access is from the Tram)
Monkey Flower
Mules Ear
Lupine
A little step up: (at the top of Big Blue Express)
Ramp Run
Snow Flower
As you progress:
Gold Coast Face
Mountain Run
How To Schedule A Day Skiing In Tahoe
Being newly reacquainted with skiing, I wasn’t sure of what a day on the slopes would look like. There are obviously different approaches, but the best thing I can say is to plan a day that feels right for you. I’ve skied with friends that want to be the first lift up the mountain and have the last run at the end of the day. Nothing wrong with it, but I tend to take a more relaxed approach. Skiing is something I do for fun or for leisure if you will, so I don’t push myself out of bed super early to be on the slopes right away.
The Best Schedule For A Successful Day Skiing at Palisades
Most slopes are only open 9 am-4 pm. I was initially surprised by the earlier end time, especially as days get longer and sunset isn’t until 6 or 7. With the ski day wrapping before 4, the best approach is to get onto the mountain as early as possible. This definitely conflicts with my body being more of a night owl and less of an early bird, but I always try my best. Obviously the closer you stay to the mountain, the less you have to worry about getting up early. Staying at the resort comes with a higher price tag, so I’m most likely staying 15 minutes to no more than 30 minutes drive away.
As a note for beginners, if you’re bringing your own equipment, you’ll most likely put your boots on in the parking lot and carry your skis to the lift. It can be a lot to figure out. Putting on boots of the first time can take some work and walking in them isn’t the easiest. I usually don’t fully strap in my ski boots until I get to the top of my first run because it gives me a little wiggle room to walk.
Planning Your Meals For A Day Of Skiing At Palisades
Although not super nutritious, the Belgian waffle stand just in front of the Gold Coast Funitel is delicious. That and a cup of coffee can be a great way to start the day. I like to bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated especially being at higher elevation and some snacks to get me through the day and time lunch for when it feels right.
Lunch wise, we’ve brought our own sandwiches, but the food at the mid-mountain Gold Coast area is great. From pizza and burgers to chili and noodles there’s plenty to choose from. If I’m feeling festive, I might even have a midday beer. This is my chance to refuel to get me through the second half of the day on the mountain.
My Rough Itinerary for a day at Palisades Tahoe
Get my first run in by 10 am, no later than 11 am
Break for lunch at 1 pm
Ski until 3:30 or 4 pm
Apres ski time
What To Bring Skiing at Palisades Tahoe
A small backpack - Nothing too big, just something to hold your snacks and water while also not being too bulky to slow you down on the slopes.
Sunglasses - When I’m sitting outside for lunch, I like to take my helmet and goggles off. It’s also common to see people use their goggles as sunglasses. But I like the option to just wear my sunglasses and take a break from all of the gear. My favorite sunnies for the slopes are the polarized Dipsea by Sunski (the name says it all).
Reusable Water bottle - Hydration is the biggest key to avoiding any altitude issues. I try to remember to take a few drinks of water between runs. I also like bringing my own and filling it up when I’m stopped for lunch. Good for the environment, and cheaper than buying a bottle of water. I love this Swell water bottle, especially the smaller size because it’s easy to carry around for the day.
Protein bar - A small snack is helpful if you don’t want to stop for lunch just yet but need something to get you through. If I get a late start, I try to ski through the main lunch rush to benefit from fewer people on the mountain and less wait at lunch.
Sunscreen - Many, many times I think I’m not getting sun and I end up burnt. Even if it’s supposed to be overcast apply sunscreen at least once in the morning. Between the sun and the reflection on the snow, you’re getting double the exposure. I prefer sunscreen without harmful chemicals and Sun Bum is one of my favorite options.
Explore California
A beautiful sunny afternoon amongst the vines and sipping wine at Grgich Hills in Napa.