Whether you long to fly down freshly groomed slopes sparkling in the sunshine or race on a dog sled along a forested trail, you’ll find endless opportunities in Reno-Tahoe. Of course, cold-weather fun doesn’t stop there. Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa under the stars before gliding onto one of the area’s many outdoor ice-skating rinks or embark on a snowshoeing expedition.

Not sure where to start? From Lake Tahoe to Reno, you’ve got plenty of winter possibilities, so let’s dive in.

Ski and Snowboard with the Champs in Tahoe

The towering Sierra Nevadas shelter abundant winter snowpacks making Tahoe the perfect spot to fulfill your skiing and snowboarding fantasies. You’ll find a wide array of stunning resorts, whether you’re attracted to the nostalgia of the 1960 Winter Olympics at Squaw Valley or a shot of adrenaline at one of the Mount Rose Ski Resort’s halfpipes.

With the highest concentration of ski resorts in the country, you’ll have the pick of the slopes and you’ll be in celebrated company. After all, X-Games pros such as Hannah Teter, Bryce Bennett, and Jamie Anderson all train on these slopes and call Northern Nevada home. The region also boasts Olympic athletes like Stacey Cook, Maddie Bowman, and David Wise. And 300 average days of sunshine per year means you should pack plenty of sunscreen.

Go Nordic!

Besides fantastic downhill skiing and snowboarding, Reno-Tahoe boasts an expansive network of Nordic ski trails. These trails allow you to explore the splendor of the Sierra Nevadas at your own pace. The area’s many guided tours are great for families on the go and, like downhill skiing, you’ve got plenty of locations to choose from.

Whether it’s Tahoe Donner, named one of the top ten cross-country ski resorts in North America by USA Today, Kirkwood Ski Resort with more than 50 miles (80 km) of well-groomed trails, or Royal Gorge, the largest Nordic ski resort in America, there’s something for everyone. The more adventurous will find stunning backcountry trails where the splendor of the scenery is matched by the tranquility of wilderness at its most pristine.

Explore the Alpine’s Snowshoe Trails

If you’re the kind of person that loves hiking and longs to make it a year-round activity, then give snowshoeing a try. Whether you follow established trails or blaze new ones, you’ll find endless opportunities from Galena Creek to Chickadee Ridge.

Other trails worth exploring include the Tahoe Rim Trail and the Mount Rose Trail. You’ll find routes for every age and level of activity, so gear up and get ready to explore a true winter wonderland.

Many outdoor retailers and ski resorts provide snowshoe rentals, repairs, and tours, which makes accessing your favorite snow-filled location easier than ever. With improvements in the gear and trails, snowshoeing has developed into an activity that just about everybody can enjoy.

Sledding and Sleighing, Oh My!

If you’re after an epic winter adventure, look no further than dog sledding. Let an experienced musher and their pooches take you on a one-of-a-kind journey into the heart of Tahoe. A handful of dog sledding companies offer tours at Kirkwood and Lake Davis. Each expedition includes a meet and greet with the dogs, introduction to the equipment used by mushers, and a trip that’ll thrill you.

What if you’re more interested in a little horsepower? Then, head to Camp Richardson for a sleigh ride adventure. You’ll experience nature up close and personal while riding through snow-covered valleys, meadows, and thickets. There are few more romantic ways to enjoy the region’s picturesque scenery.

If you’re a kid at heart or have little ones looking for an adrenaline rush, pack your sleds and tubes and head to one of the areas many snow parks. A short drive from downtown Reno, some of our favorite sledding spots include the snow parks at Galena Creek, the Tahoe Meadows, Incline Village, and Boreal.

Ice Skating Bliss

Of course, no winter getaway would be complete without spending an enchanted evening at an illuminated outdoor ice rink. Hotspots include Heavenly Village’s open-air skating rink, complete with fire pits and plenty of hot cocoa. You’ll also find alpine vistas and expansive arenas at the Olympic Ice Pavilion in Squaw Valley and the Truckee Ice Rink.

Once you head back down the mountain to Reno, the party doesn’t have to stop. The Rink at THE ROW in downtown Reno is open seven days a week and allows a unique urban experience, illuminated by the neon of downtown Reno’s iconic casino corridor. Or, head to the Grand Sierra Resort to explore their 8,000-square foot outdoor facility complete with hot tubs, fire pits, and s’mores. Now, how’s that for winter bliss?

Winter Play from Lake Tahoe to Reno

From Lake Tahoe to Reno, you’ve got plenty of opportunities for wintertime fun, whether you opt for cross-country skiing, backcountry dog sledding, or a magical outdoor ice-skating experience. And don’t forget about Lake Tahoe ski resorts with their wealth of amenities, from fine dining to boutique shops, and cozy accommodations.

Are you interested in learning more about what it’s like to work, live, and play in Reno-Tahoe? Or, perhaps you’re ready to get in on a piece of the action? Submit your resume today so that our Community Liaison can match you up with the right recruiters.