Top Nordic & Cross-Country Resorts in Truckee-Tahoe
At the start of every New Year, our adventurous, outdoor spirit kicks in – and this year is no exception. There is so much more to explore in the great outdoors here in Truckee-Tahoe regardless of snow conditions light or heavy and sunshine 300 days each year!
Unbeknownst to many, we are home to one of largest concentrations of Nordic resorts with cross-country ski terrain in North America! From Royal Gorge, the biggest and best in the USA, to Tahoe Donner’s miles of open space to quaint corners of Sugar Pine Point, there are plenty of groomed trails to be found. For the avid Nordic enthusiast and never-evers, below is a list of the cross-country resorts in Truckee and throughout Lake Tahoe’s north shore for you to enjoy.
Haven’t tried Nordic skiing, it’s a great workout and a wonderful way to take a snow walk in some of the most picturesque areas of the mountains! If not, try Plan B – snowshoeing – a fabulous way to enjoy a sunny afternoon!
Rather venture out on your own? Many of the homes for sale in Truckee-Tahoe have access to the great outdoors right out the back door or so close by! Visit our Video Home Tours, then give Alison a call for a personal property tour.
Tahoe Donner Cross Country
Throughout our E-news, it’s such a pleasure and an honor to talk about all the incredible assets that come with living in the Truckee-Tahoe region, and this is another excellent reason. Tahoe Donner Cross Country continues to add to its accolades as the “Best Cross Country Center in Truckee and North Lake Tahoe” for seven years in a row. And it gets better, they consistently place in the top 10 in the country and was recently voted #4 in the USA. It’s also a beautiful spot to snowshoe to your heart’s content.
Royal Gorge Cross Country Resort
As North America’s largest cross-country resort it will take you more than one day to experience its grandeur. Royal Gorge offers six distinct trail systems featuring 96 trails throughout 6,000 acres and eight different warming huts seamlessly integrated with the Village at Sugar Bowl. From classic striding to XC skating and snowshoeing, Royal Gorge offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy scenic winter adventures with some of the finest views in the Sierra.
Northstar California Cross Country
Depending on snow conditions, their trail system can include opportunities for cross country skiers, snowshoeing, fat tire biking and telemark workshops. Northstar is always another recommendation of ours as you can see stunning views of Lake Tahoe off some of their well-groomed Nordic trails. In addition, they provide lessons for first timers to the most advanced with private guides to refine your techniques or take you on a guided tour.
Tahoe Cross Country
There are many reasons why Tahoe Cross Country is a local’s favorite. At the top of the list, it’s a non-profit organization run by some of the most outdoor enthusiasts on the North Shore.
In addition to their extensive winter programs, they also host some of the largest running and biking programs on this end of the Lake. Their focus is always on the community with what seems to be an endless list of events. See the details now about Yoga by the Fire and the upcoming Red Lips, Wine Sips and Waxing Tips.
North Tahoe Regional Park XC +
One of the most popular ‘winter playgrounds’ on the north shore offers plenty of options for those who want to ski, snowshoe or just play in the snow. There are three areas groomed for sledding, six trails for the Nordic enthusiast and plenty of wide-open space for creating snowmen and snow angels throughout the well-maintained forested park.
No matter what the season, the North Tahoe Public Utility District (who owns and runs the park) has a calendar filled with things to do throughout the Park. Download the Activity Guide, and we will see you at the Park!
Tahoe City Winter Sports Park
This all-inclusive playground will entertain you and yours all winter long. While some may choose to cross-country ski, others may choose to sled, skate, or snowshoe to build snowmen to their heart’s content. Many of the recreation options offer spectacular sites of Lake Tahoe while enjoying your favorite sport.
By the way, the Tahoe City Winter Sports Ice Rink is one of the only places within Truckee-Tahoe to learn to ice skate, so take advantage of the Park’s professional staff to start a new sport in this new year! No matter what sport you choose, reservations are strongly recommended.
Granlibakken
Lake Tahoe’s West Shore is home to one of the region’s most established resorts for families and corporate gatherings as well. In addition to its extensive lodging options, the resort is wrapped with activities for all ages. Visit their website now for all the information and reservation details:
- Cross-country Ski Terrain
- Sledding Hill
- Ski Runs
- Snowshoeing
Sugar Pine Point State Park
With two miles of Lake frontage to snowshoe or ski your day away, Sugar Pine Point is one of our favorite spots to slip away for some peace and quiet. The Park is famous for its past at the site for the Nordic events of the 1960 Winter Olympics. You can ski on those trails today or sign-up for a two-mile guided trek through the forest. This is a great adventure for the whole family as you will learn about the Olympics and insight into the High Sierra environment.
Your Outdoor Adventures Await!
Alison enjoying the slopes at Northstar California
Throughout our winter wonderland are some of the finest mountain homes with superior views on the market today. See our featured listings and then contact Alison for your personal tours.