Alpine Meadows Ski Resort in California & Escape2ski provides info on; vertical drop 1802ft/550m, total trails 100, closest airport 50mi/81km, lifts 13, & more.

The ski resort is located in northern Lake Tahoe, southwest of Truckee, California. Alpine Meadows Ski Resort was the vision of John Riley whose business model was to focus more on the skiing and leisure side of the balance sheet rather than a race to provide profit.

John received help and investment from Peter Klaussen and several other families who successfully joined together to open what is known today as Alpine Meadows. Alpine Meadows Ski Resort opened in 1961 under the name Ward Peak Ski Area and operated three lifts.

Alpine Meadows has grown from its early days to a ski and snowboard area that features seven bowls, backside terrain, two peaks, Ward and Scott and some of the most diverse and unique terrain found in the area. Pack your camera as you head to the slopes and get ready to enjoy some spectacular scenery throughout the day.

Alpine Meadows features incredible views of the surrounding area along with a magnificent view of Lake Tahoe.

On the Slopes

• When you come to Alpine Meadows Ski Resort, you will simply be amazed at this hidden gem of a ski and snowboard facility complete with a front-side and backside terrain. This is the perfect place for families to come out and enjoy a day on the slopes as Alpine Meadows has a very even balance of beginner, intermediate and advanced terrain. The incredible terrain found on both Ward and Scott Peaks will make you wish that this ski area was located in your back yard.
• An Alpine Meadows lift ticket also provides you with access to Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows sister mountain located just 10-minutes away. The free Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows Express Shuttle departs from each resort every half-hour throughout the day.
• If you come to Alpine Meadows Ski Resort to enjoy the terrain park experience then Howard’s Hollow should provide you with a challenge, as well as, hours of fun as you enjoy the many rails, boxes, jumps and other features. Remember to know your ability before attempting any risky moves.
• When it comes to lessons and programs, it is safe to say the team of professional instructors at both Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley have you covered. Whether you are you seeking your first snowriding experience or you are a seasoned veteran, lessons range from Adult Private and Group, Women’s Clinics, Avalanche Awareness or All-Mountain Excursions. There are also several programs available for children ages 3 to 13 that will add to their experience on the slopes. Just check to see which lessons are offered at either Alpine Meadows or Squaw Valley.

Off the Slopes

• Alpine Meadows Ski Resort features a day lodge to accommodate that all important food and beverage break. Sit back and enjoy a meal and then resume your day exploring the wonderful terrain on Alpine Meadows. There is a rental shop for both skiing and snowboarding if required, plus a retail shop just in case you need an item or a souvenir to remember your great day.
• Alpine Meadows Ski Resort is primarily a day area ski and snowboard mountain with no mountainside lodging available. However, Squaw Valley, the sister resort hosts a European-inspired village, with stone walkways that will easily guide you to the many shops, restaurants and entertainment venues located there. There is also slope-side accommodation at Squaw Valley ranging from five-star hotels to condominiums and B & B’s.
• The nearby town of Truckee provides a nice alternative to staying on the mountain. Truckee offers a great selection of dining options from casual to fine dining, lodging choices and shopping in unique outlets where you can find the perfect souvenir to remember your visit.
• Alpine Meadows sister resort, Squaw Valley is family-friendly and offers many options for the entire family to enjoy a day on or off the slopes. Activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, a climbing wall and the ever popular sno-tubing and mini snowmobiling.