Dry, arid, hot, neon lights and casinos – all the usual words one typically uses to describe Nevada. Hardly the words used to describe a dream ski trip. Though it’s neighboring states steal the spotlight when it comes to ski resorts, don’t cross Nevada off your list just yet. While everyone else is waiting in a 30-minute lift line at one of the large ski resorts over the border, you could be chasing fresh powder down a secluded back bowl. Take the ski trail less traveled and ride the deserts of Nevada.
Diamond Peak Ski Resort
Located at Incline Village is Diamond Peak Ski Resort, containing 30 trails which span 655 acres of open glades and tree-lined runs overlooking panoramic views of Lake Tahoe’s mirrored waters.
Mt. Rose-Ski Tahoe
Only 25 minutes from Reno, Mt. Rose is one of Nevada’s prime ski areas. It features two terrain parks, over 60 trails and a 1,800 ft. vertical drop along its mountain face. For the serious riders, The Chutes offer some of the most vertical terrain in America.
Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort
Outside the world-famous Strip is Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort. With a 10-year long facelift that includes seven new lifts and 480 acres across 39 trails, this resort is truly an alluring adventure.
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Heavenly Mountain Resort is a peak so large, it spans across two states. There are 97 runs and 30 lifts that are split between its Nevada-California borders. Aside from gorgeous views overlooking Lake Tahoe’s south shore, expect 360 inches of snow and over 300 days of sunshine.
Sky Tavern Ski Area
Sky Tavern is a ski area meant for kids. Located on Mt. Rose Highway in Reno, thousands of kids visit these gentle slopes every year to learn the ins and outs of skiing and snowboarding. A mixture of runs with green, blue and black ratings, as well as a terrain park, will challenge every youth rider.
Elko SnoBowl
Five miles outside Elko is a one-lift bowl called Elko Snobowl. Though small, coming in at 60 acres, it’s a beacon of salvation for the ski deprived. And at only $20 for an adult ticket, it’s a steal of a deal.