Tahoe is still buzzing about the announcement that Vail Resorts added Northstar-at-Tahoe to its collection of world class resorts. With the introduction of the Heavenly/Northstar pass, Tahoe locals are in pass bliss. The new multi-resort pass unites the South and North shores of Lake Tahoe like never before with access to a combined 7,800 acres of amazing terrain, 49 lifts, 187 trails, eleven terrain parks, and over 1,000 acres of sweet backcountry, all within about an hour drive. The universe is finally aligned. (As an added bonus for the 2010-11 season Sierra-at-Tahoe is also included in the deal). The Heavenly peeps are looking forward to riding one of North America's best Superpipes; whereas the Northstar crew is stoked to gain access to Heavenly's steeps found in Killebrew and Mott Canyons.
By no means is it to be assumed that these two awesome resorts can't stand on their own; but do note that as a team, nothing in Tahoe can compare. Both resorts have phenomenal snowmaking systems which allow for early opening dates and the best early-season conditions at Lake Tahoe. This season Heavenly is scheduled to open Friday, Nov.19, and Northstar just a day later on Saturday, Nov. 20 (both weather permitting).
Heavenly prides itself on having the West Coast's largest snowmaking system and can cover 73 percent of its 4,800 acres of terrain with machine-made snow. Northstar's snowmaking system is the largest on the North Shore, with the ability to cover 50 percent of its 3,000 acres. Both resorts use state-of-the-art Prinoth grooming fleets which include low-emission Prinoth 350, Bison X, and Beast machines. Combine this technology with the expertise of the grooming staffs and you've got yourself some incredibly smooth corduroy.
But the benefits don't stop there. Last season Northstar unveiled the Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe, located at the resort's mid-mountain. This became the area's first five-star resort, features 170 guest rooms, a 17,000 square foot spa and workout facility, ski-in/ski-out access and ski concierge services. The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe property is the epitome of luxury and is connected to the Village at Northstar by the inter-mountain Highlands Gondola. The property also features restaurant MANZANITA by Traci Des Jardins, a renowned San Francisco celebrity chef.
In just a few months Heavenly plans to open the new Tamarack Lodge, a 15,000 square foot day lodge and restaurant with a 4,000 square foot outdoor patio. Located at the top of the Heavenly Gondola, the Tamarack Lodge will be just steps away from Tamarack Express; as well as Adventure Peak, which is home to Tahoe's largest extreme tubing hill. The lodge will provide uphill views of Cascade run, home to a new 100% recycled feature terrain park "Ante Up". Both resorts continue to develop and grow to fit the needs of their guests.
So now we just wait...
With snowstorms on the horizon and cold fronts heading to Lake Tahoe, the ski and ride season is just days away. Cold temperatures and early-season October snow enabled Heavenly to fire-up their snowmaking system two days earlier than last year. The hum of the snowmaking guns signal the beginning of winter and Tahoe locals are waxing their skis and boards in anticipation of opening day. Now those lucky souls who have a Heavenly/Northstar pass can experience back-to-back opening days this season and celebrate in perfect harmony.
Bring on the snow!
For reservations at the Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe call 877.780.2040.
For Heavenly vacation packages call 800.HEAVENLY.
-- Aimi Xistra-Rich