Say what you want about Vail Resorts buying so many other properties, but having Heavenly included on our Epic Local pass is, well, epic. No additional charge to ride three different mountains in the Tahoe region is a major reason we dropped over $1,200 on passes this year. It was definitely worth it.
A Perfect Location
The Lake Tahoe region is well documented, and for the 2016/2017 season has received more snow than has ever been recorded. In late December we booked our timeshare trade at 1862 David Walley's Resort in Genoa, NV. Here's the secret: from 1862 you can be riding the Stagecoach chair at Heavenly in about 18 minutes.
They also have hot springs ;)
So, how does Heavenly compare to the high mountain resorts we're used to in Colorado? Favorably would be an understatement.
Maybe our experience was so great due to late season, riding during the week, or the vast snow base. Maybe in our 2 days of riding we didn't have much of a sample. I can tell you this: Heavenly should be on every snow hounds bucket list.
So. Much. Less.
During our week exploring the area, and especially on Heavenly mountain: We experienced less time waiting for the lift. Less paid parking (It's free just about everywhere). Less crowded runs, even after lunch. We even managed to capture a few epic ski/lake photos with no other riders in the frame.
My first half-day on the mountain I rode solo. I managed to collect over 10,000 vert in just over 2 hours. While the top was a little socked in, the 6" of fresh powder made up for it. I found a little lake view on the front side, which sweetened the deal.
On the second day we rode Sky Lift to 10,040ft and found two amazing views. To the northwest: legendary Lake Tahoe. To the northeast: the gorgeous and under-populated Carson Valley. In a full day of mountain exploring we rode nearly every lift, explored groomers, steeps, and trees; and collected over 11,000 vertical feet.
Excellent conditions combined with a bucket list view. This is Heavenly. This is Tahoe.
