Northstar California Resort Tours and Activities

Photo provided by Northstar California Resort
Photo provided by Northstar California Resort
Photo provided by Northstar California Resort
Photo provided by Northstar California Resort
Photo provided by Northstar California Resort


Amid the beautiful landscapes along Lake Tahoe is a mountain resort with family-friendly snow sports, hiking trails, golf and boutique shopping.

Northstar California Resort is a laid-back mountain resort combining the excitement of on-mountain activities with high-end shopping and après-ski entertainment. Located on Mount Pluto and Lookout Mountain in Tahoe National Forest, the resort draws both winter and summer sports enthusiasts. Go skiing, snowboarding, telemarking, biking, fishing and hiking. 

During the winter, skiers and snowboarders of all abilities enjoy the resort’s 3,170 acres (1,283 hectares) of skiable terrain. Ride the 20 lifts to elevations of up to 8,610 feet (2,624 metres). Discover 97 trails and seven terrain parks, complete with boxes, jumps and rails. Capable instructors are available to give individual and group lessons for everyone from first-time skiers to seasoned experts. 

Rent gear to try other snow sports, including cross-country skiing, telemarking and glade skiing. Have fun with the family on the tubing hill. Join guided moonlight and star-gazing snowshoe treks, which meander through a quiet pine forest and across alpine meadows.

In summer, explore the mountain’s plants and wildlife along the multiple trails of the Northstar Bike and Hike Park. Gaze up at tall red fir and white pine trees and admire views of Lake Tahoe. Fish for rainbow trout at Sawmill Lake and pan for gemstones at a mountaintop lookout. Test your golf skills on the pristine fairways and greens of the challenging 18-hole course. 

In the resort’s lively village, find abundant dining, lodging and shopping options centred on a year-round skating rink. Browse independent stores and well-known retailers for custom-made clothing and sporting apparel. Enjoy family-oriented activities, from a bungee trampoline to candle making and miniature golf.

Have a meal or drink at the range of restaurants located in the village and on the mountain. Choose from a chocolate bar, pizzeria, Japanese and Mexican cuisine and restaurants in a luxury hotel. 

Northstar California Resort is just a few hours’ drive from San Francisco. Shuttle buses connect the resort with Reno, Sacramento, San Francisco and South Lake Tahoe. The ski season at Northstar California Resort runs from November to April. Visit the resort’s official website for information on activity prices, lift passes, operating hours and holiday packages.

Popular places to visit


Top Northstar California Resort Hotel & Accommodation Deals

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

5 out of 5
13031 Ritz Carlton Highland Court, Truckee, CA
The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe
Hyatt Vacation Club at Northstar Lodge, Lake Tahoe

Hyatt Vacation Club at Northstar Lodge, Lake Tahoe

4.5 out of 5
970 Northstar Drive, Truckee, CA
Hyatt Vacation Club at Northstar Lodge, Lake Tahoe
The Ritz-Carlton Club, Lake Tahoe (3 Bedroom)

The Ritz-Carlton Club, Lake Tahoe (3 Bedroom)

Truckee
The Ritz-Carlton Club, Lake Tahoe (3 Bedroom)
The Ritz-carlton Club, Lake Tahoe

The Ritz-carlton Club, Lake Tahoe

Truckee
The Ritz-carlton Club, Lake Tahoe
One Village Place Residences, Lake Tahoe

One Village Place Residences, Lake Tahoe

4 out of 5
9001 Northstar Drive, Truckee, CA
One Village Place Residences, Lake Tahoe
True Ski-in/Ski-Out Northstar Estate, 10,600 Sq Ft, 10 Bedroom / 11.5 Bathroom, 1.36 Acres, Hiking

True Ski-in/Ski-Out Northstar Estate, 10,600 Sq Ft, 10 Bedroom / 11.5 Bathroom, 1.36 Acres, Hiking

Truckee
True Ski-in/Ski-Out Northstar Estate, 10,600 Sq Ft, 10 Bedroom / 11.5 Bathroom, 1.36 Acres, Hiking
East West Hospitality Tahoe

East West Hospitality Tahoe

5 out of 5
4001 Northstar Dr., Truckee, CA
East West Hospitality Tahoe
Ski-in/ski-out Northstar Condo Near Lake Tahoe!

Ski-in/ski-out Northstar Condo Near Lake Tahoe!

2 out of 5
4048 Ski View, Truckee, CA
Ski-in/ski-out Northstar Condo Near Lake Tahoe!
VIP Ski-In Ski-Out Northstar Ski Trails by Sierra Getaways

VIP Ski-In Ski-Out Northstar Ski Trails by Sierra Getaways

4 out of 5
4037 Ski View, Truckee, CA
VIP Ski-In Ski-Out Northstar Ski Trails by Sierra Getaways
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Northstar California Resort

At Northstar California Resort, visitors can enjoy a range of activities including skiing, snowboarding, and camping. Don't miss the recreation centre and the skating rink for family fun. Take a ride on the Northstar at Tahoe gondola for stunning views, and tee off at the First Tee for a round of golf. In the evenings, enjoy live music that adds to the vibrant atmosphere of this stunning resort.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, The Shops at Heavenly Village and The Summit Reno, both 37.0km away, offer a vibrant mix of shopping and entertainment. Closer to home, explore the unique offerings at Laura Springs Ranch, located 43.5km from Northstar California Resort.

Recreation

The Spa at Everline offers rejuvenating body treatments just 9.7km from Northstar, enveloping you in wellness vibes. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Northstar-at-Tahoe Golf Course, 4.8km away, provides a vibrant sports atmosphere. Meanwhile, North Tahoe Regional Park, also 9.7km distant, invites relaxation amidst nature.

Adventure

At Palisades Tahoe, 11.3km from Northstar, experience thrilling skiing and breathtaking outdoor vibes. The Tahoe Cross Country Ski Area, located 6.4km away, offers fantastic skiing and sports activities. For a scenic lift ride, hop on the Big Springs Express Gondola, just 1.6km from your resort.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema, just 9.7km away, offering a mix of culture and romance. For a cosmic adventure, visit the Jack C. Davis Observatory, located 30.6km away. Don't miss the Brewery Arts Center, 33.8km away, perfect for entertainment and family fun.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Northstar California Resort

Northstar California Resort offers a fantastic mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences for visitors. You can enjoy skiing at Northstar Ski Resort, explore the stunning local lakes, or take in the natural beauty of nearby national and state parks. Whether you're seeking thrilling activities or a relaxing getaway, there's something for everyone in and around Northstar California. Make the most of your holiday with these captivating attractions!

  • Palisades Tahoe: Experience an exhilarating ski adventure at Palisades Tahoe, located 11.3km from Northstar California Resort. This renowned ski resort boasts stunning slopes, thrilling outdoor activities, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for all adventure seekers.
  • Donner Lake: Just 12.9km away, Donner Lake offers a picturesque setting for relaxation and romance. With its sandy beaches and breathtaking scenery, it’s ideal for swimming, picnicking, or simply soaking in the tranquil surroundings.
  • Old Greenwood Golf Course: Located 9.7km from Northstar, Old Greenwood Golf Course combines stunning landscapes with premier golfing. Enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful scenery, making it a perfect spot for enthusiasts and casual players alike.

Best time to go to Northstar California Resort

The best time to visit Northstar California Resort can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Northstar California Resort falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). The coolest average temperature around Northstar California Resort falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January29.8°F (-1.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February29.8°F (-1.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
March32.7°F (0.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April39.0°F (3.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
May47.3°F (8.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June58.1°F (14.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
July66.9°F (19.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August65.1°F (18.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September59.0°F (15.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October47.7°F (8.7°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
November36.0°F (2.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December28.8°F (-1.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Northstar California Resort

To save money on your trip to Northstar California Resort, consider visiting in April or during October to November when prices are lower. Avoid peak times like July to August and December. Booking your stay on a Tuesday can also help you find cheaper rates compared to Saturdays. Use Expedia to filter accommodation based on your budget and preferences, and look for package deals that combine flights and activities for added savings. Take advantage of free outdoor activities and utilise public transport to minimise travel costs during your stay.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Northstar California Resort are April and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Northstar California Resort is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Northstar California Resort is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To find the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your hotel stay at Northstar California Resort with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.