Palisades Tahoe Resort Review: Home of North American Extreme Skiing Celebrates 75 Years

Legendary KT-22 Leads Tahoe's Most Challenging Terrain

In this comprehensive resort review, we explore Palisades Tahoe's legendary terrain and amenities. For the complete video guide, check out our detailed walkthrough below.

For 75 years, Palisades Tahoe has defined steep skiing in North America. Home to the 1960 Winter Olympics and birthplace of extreme skiing in North America, this iconic Lake Tahoe resort offers 6,400 acres of diverse terrain that continues to test the limits of skiers and riders.

Rising to 9,049 feet with 2,848 feet of vertical drop, Palisades Tahoe's 279 runs cater to all abilities, though advanced and expert terrain dominates 54% of the mountain. The resort's crown jewel, KT-22 - nicknamed the 'Mothership' by locals - serves up what many consider North America's best lift-accessed expert terrain.

Beginners find their sanctuary at High Camp, accessed by the iconic Aerial Tram. The Mountain Meadow lift and Big Blue Express service wide, gentle slopes perfect for learning, while the First Timers zone near Far East Express provides a dedicated learning environment.

Intermediate riders thrive on Gold Coast and Shirley Lake Express, where long cruisers offer stunning views of Lake Tahoe. These zones provide natural progression opportunities, with Wa She Shu lift and Red Dog offering satisfying runs from mid-mountain to base.

The advanced terrain tells Palisades Tahoe's real story. KT-22's infamous "The Fingers" - a series of challenging cliff bands - exemplify why this resort birthed extreme skiing in America. Headwall Express and Silverado's back bowls add to the technical offerings with rarely tracked powder stashes.

The fingers which are legendary cliffs found under the KT-22 lift. Credit: SnowStash

The resort's 41-lift network, including the scenic Aerial Tram to High Camp, efficiently connects these diverse zones. Day tickets range from $150-200 USD midweek to $250 on weekends and holidays, with Ikon Pass offering unlimited access.

Village amenities include essential services and dining options, with local favourite Wildflour Baking Company providing essential pre-ski fuel. Accommodation choices range from luxury village lodging starting at $600 per night to more affordable options in nearby towns like Tahoe Vista.

Located 45 minutes from Reno and three hours from San Francisco, Palisades Tahoe sits in the heart of the Tahoe Basin. Winter access requires 4WD or appropriate snow equipment, especially during the region's substantial snowfall periods.

For advanced skiers and riders seeking challenge and progression, Palisades Tahoe ranks among North America's must-visit resorts. While experts flock to its steeps, the mountain's thoughtful layout ensures intermediates and beginners can also find their flow while soaking in the Sierra Nevada views.