Winter Sports

During the winter months at the Tahoe National Forest, the forest is a playground for those who enjoy winter fun.

Many miles of roads and trails on the forest offer excellent cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Several commercial downhill ski resorts are operated with special use permits on National Forest land. Snowplay and sledding can be enjoyed near many of the major highways.

Before heading out, always be sure to check for avalanche danger in the area.
Know before you go
Tread lightly

Skiing/Snowboarding

Whether you are looking for well-groomed beginner runs or the steep and deep of a double-black diamond run, Tahoe National Forest's ski areas provide skiing or snowboarding experience that is just right for you. These ski areas range from world-class resorts hosting World Cup races to local ski areas that are great for family-style skiing.

Sledding/Tubing

Whether you are sledding or tubing on a groomed hill at a developed area or on a hill in an undeveloped area, several of our national forests will have a sledding/tubing experience that is just right for you. When sledding on the Tahoe National Forest, remember:

Make sure all equipment is in good condition, free of sharp edges and cracks
Sled on spacious, gently sloping hills with a level run-off at the end so the sled can safely stop
Check slopes for bare spots, holes and obstructions, such as fences, rocks, poles or trees
Do not sled on or around frozen lakes, streams or ponds
Sit on top of the sled with feet pointing downhill; never sled headfirst
Dress warm, and wear thick gloves or mittens and heavy boots to protect against frostbite and injury

Snowmobiling

USDA Forest Service manages snowmobiling on National Forest lands, allowing it in designated areas while prohibiting it in others, including wilderness areas, and requiring adherence to specific regulations for safety and resource protection.

Over-Snow Vehicle Use Map

XC Skiing/Snowshoeing

If the crowds at ski resorts aren’t for you, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing can be a great way to enjoy the solitude of Tahoe National Forest in winter.