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<b>Maggie</b> aka <i>"The Turninator"</i>
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Maggie aka "The Turninator"

Top 10 Things to Do This Winter at Sugar Bowl in Lake Tahoe

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The countdown is on for the 2024/25 season at Sugar Bowl Resort, and we’ve got some incredible experiences in store. Whether you’re looking to hit big jumps in our all-new Sugar Bowl Parks, cozy up with hot cocoa by the slopes, or explore the backcountry of Tahoe, there’s something here for every skier, rider, and snow lover who wants to enjoy everything Lake Tahoe has to offer. Here’s a look at what we’re most excited about this season.

Terrain Park Skier on a large jump at Sugar Bowl Parks

1. The Kickoff of Sugar Bowl Parks

We’re thrilled to introduce Sugar Bowl Parks— Our new, full-size progression facility served by the high-speed Christmas Tree Express. With features ranging from a 70-foot big air jump to a progression zone, there’s something for every level of rider, from rookie to pro. This isn’t just about jumps and rails—it’s about creating a California-based training ground that allows athletes to reach their peak potential. Sugar Bowl Parks marks the beginning of something big, and we’re only getting started.

A skier carves a turn on a fresh corduroy slope.

2. Expanded Intermediate Terrain on Mt. Judah

With the relocation of our terrain parks to Christmas Tree, we’ve opened up new intermediate terrain on Mt. Judah. This zone is ideal for beginner and intermediate skiers who want to gain confidence and enjoy longer, scenic runs with just the right level of challenge. 

An athlete at the Silver Belt Freeride Competition hits a jump on a sunny powder day.

3. Watching Freeride Athletes Go Big During the Silver Belt

The Silver Belt is back! We’ve reimagined Sugar Bowl’s oldest tradition, the 1940s Silver Belt Classic ski race, as a high-stakes big mountain freeride event. Set in the iconic Silver Belt Gully, this competition blends natural cliffs, rocks, and man-made jumps, drawing elite skiers and riders from around the world. It’s not just a fierce competition but a celebration of camaraderie, community, and love for the sport. Keep an eye out for the official spring 2025 dates, and witness this legendary event in action.

Two snowboarders in the backcountry outside of Sugar Bowl resort making powder turns.

4. Ski Touring In and Out of Bounds

Tahoe’s backcountry community is one of the most vibrant in the world and Sugar Bowl welcomes both inbounds and out-of-bounds ski touring and splitboarding. We offer three designated uphill inbounds routes, perfect for cardio-craving skiers and riders who want to skin up the mountain, no chairlift needed.

For experienced backcountry travelers, our open boundary policy allows skiers and riders to ride the chairlifts “up-and-out” of the resort to access backcountry terrain beyond. Just remember—terrain beyond the gates is not patrolled or avalanche-controlled, so be prepared with backcountry knowledge and gear, plus always ride with a partner.

P.S. Check out Sugar Bowl’s youth backcountry program, Snow Rangers, a season-long program for teens who want to learn backcountry skills (and, of course, ski a lot of great snow!)

Two skate ski cross country skiers on trail at Royal Gorge with a beautiful view of the Sierra Crest.

5. Exploring Royal Gorge Cross Country

Take a break from the lifts and explore Royal Gorge Cross Country, North America’s largest cross-country resort. With 165 kilometers of groomed trails, there is endless new terrain to discover.

Start with a peaceful glide across Van Norden Meadow, where views of Sugar Bowl’s peaks rise in the distance. Or, for a challenge, tackle one of the black diamond trails for an unforgettable climb, expansive Sierra views, and an exhilarating ski back down. After your day on the trails, treat yourself to a fresh-baked cookie at the Summit Station Lodge!

A group of friends tubing at Sugar Rush, Tahoe's best snow tubing park.

6. Going Tubing at Sugar Rush

Families rejoice! With expanded snowmaking, Sugar Rush Tubing offers even more ways to enjoy winter beyond skiing. With a 500-foot vertical drop, ten tubing lanes, and a covered moving carpet to whisk you back up, it’s the best tubing park in Tahoe for both kids and adults to enjoy a day of snow-filled fun.

A women sipping a glass of wine and enjoying dinner at the Dining Room in the Village Lodge at Sugar Bowl.

7. Savoring an Evening in The Dining Room

Imagine taking a scenic gondola ride at sunset, crossing a snow-covered meadow to arrive in our snowbound Village. It’s like stepping into a winter wonderland. The gondola brings you to the Village Lodge, where The Dining Room awaits with Bay Area-inspired fine dining, a crackling fire, and stunning views. Enjoy a meal prepared with fresh, local ingredients, all complemented by wines handpicked by our sommelier, Clay Reynolds. The menu is designed by Executive Chef Jason Landas, who hails from two Michelin Star-recognized Bay Area restaurants. This is a classic Sugar Bowl experience you won’t want to miss.

A remodeled slopeside room in the historic Sugar Bowl Lodge in Lake Tahoe.

8. Sleeping Just Steps from the Lift

Imagine waking up at The Lodge, just steps away from the Disney Lift. Each morning, you’re greeted by stunning mountain views—step out onto the balcony with your coffee and watch the sunrise over the peaks. 

After a great day on the slopes, immerse yourself in the après scene without ever leaving the Village. Start with a relaxing soak in the oversized outdoor hot tub at the Sport Haus, then dive into a hearty meal back at The Lodge. The lively Belt Room Bar serves comforting classics, while The Dining Room offers a refined dining experience to savor. This winter escape has it all: skiing, superb dining, and cozy relaxation—all in one charming, snowbound Village basecamp.

9. Sipping Hot Cocoa in the Lodge on a Snow Day

After a powder-filled morning, there’s no better midday break than with a warm cup of cocoa from the Espresso Bar in the Village Lodge. Cozy up around the oversized fireplace in the newly remodeled lobby, a gathering place for friends and families to recount their day’s best runs and plan tomorrow’s adventures. With plenty of terrain, hidden powder stashes, and short lift lines, each day at Sugar Bowl feels like your own snow haven.

The Chalet Retail Shop

10. Scoring Fresh Merch at Chalet Retail

For the fashion-forward skier, we’re rolling out new Sugar Bowl merchandise. From stylish corduroy-brimmed hats to ultra-soft beanies and limited-edition Deso x Sugar Bowl collab button-downs, you’ll find plenty to rep your Sugar Bowl pride. Our two retail shops, located at the Main Lodge and in the Village, are the exclusive retailers of Sugar Bowl logowear and feature top brands like Norrona, Arc’teryx, Patagonia, and Helly Hansen.

Buy Your Lift Tickets Online in Advance
Plan Ahead and Save! Ready to dive into everything Sugar Bowl has to offer? Lift tickets are up to 40% off when you buy in advance online, so be sure to secure yours and join us for an unforgettable season.