Holiday Weekend + Ski/Skate Week Tips
We are gearing up to welcome skiers and riders with great conditions and terrain for all levels during the upcoming MLK, and Presidents’ weekend and Ski/Skate Week holidays. This can be a busy time in Tahoe so we’ve got a few tips to ensure you get the most out of your family’s ski/snowboard budget and time on the slopes.
Tip #1: On holiday weekends, avoid the big resorts
If you’re still undecided where you’ll ski/ride this MLK or President’s Day weekend, consider Diamond Peak. You can expect smaller crowds, bigger views, and great values. Purchase a 3-day Flex Pass for the best deal or buy single-day tickets online in advance to save money. If you’re skiing more than four days this season you might also consider a season pass!
Tip #2: Give yourself extra time and arrive early
Plan to give yourself extra time to get to the slopes. Arriving early will also give you the best chance at getting a close parking spot. If you can’t make it out the door super early we do have a Preferred Parking Zone with paid parking up front or trams/shuttles to transport you from the further spots. You can reserve a spot in the Preferred Parking Zone online in advance (while supplies last). Diamond Peak also has two Community Ski Shuttles that stops at designated locations around town.
If our main parking lots fill up, you can utilize the loading/unloading drop-off zones to unload your family before heading to the designated off-site parking lots. We have a few drop-off spots in the lower and upper parking lots.
Tip #3: Be prepared and arrive early for lessons
If you booked a lesson you definitely want to arrive early to ensure you make your lesson, especially if you have to pick up rentals. Group lesson packages for ages 7+ do not come with rentals so make sure you purchase those online now if you forgot to add those when you booked your lesson. The rental shop open at 8:00 a.m. and Base Lodge Provisions opens at 8:00 a.m. so we recommend getting to the rental shop early and then grabbing a quick breakfast if you have time to kill before your lesson…versus stressing to get through the line and cutting it close. Check out the new selection of breakfast pastries and bagels – pairs well with a hot coffee or canned cold brew latte. Visit the Lesson FAQ page for more lesson tips and pre-arrival information and the Dining page for menus.
Tip #4: Purchase gift cards or load PassCash onto your pass or ticket
Diamond Peak is now cash-free: Since cash is no longer accepted, Diamond Peak Gift Cards are a great alternative way to allow kids and others to purchase snacks without a credit card. Gift cards can be purchased online for $25/$50/$75/$100 increments, or at the Ticket Windows for any amount. Pickup will be at the Ticket Windows (we can not mail them to recipients). “PassCash” (aka Stored Value) is another convenient option for children skiing independently or those who don’t like to carry their credit card with them on the slopes. With a credit card, you can load funds onto your season pass or the ticket of any dependent children in your household via your online account or at the ticket windows. Visit the FAQ page for step-by-step instructions on loading PassCash.
The North Tahoe egift card is also a great option and can be used at participating locations throughout North Tahoe. Shop local to support our community!
Tip #5: Drink Tahoe Tap
High altitude, exercise and the sun all pull water out of your body. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Plastic water bottles are not necessary at Diamond Peak since reusable containers are available for purchase if you did not bring your own. Clean, fresh and healthy water is delivered to refill stations conveniently located inside the base lodge. The world’s best water is right at your fingertips. Go ahead, Drink Tahoe Tap®.
Tip #6: Ski during lunchtime
Maximize your time on the slopes by eating outside the busiest 12-1:30pm window. Grab an early or late lunch – or fuel up in the morning with one of our huge breakfast burritos from Base Lodge Provisions and grab a Tahoe Trail Bar for an afternoon snack. If you want something quick there is also grab-and-go cooler with tasty salads, sandwiches, and more right as you enter Base Lodge Provisions. The Winter Kale Salad is delish!
For more tips and frequently asked questions ask our new Virtual Penguin Pete (located in the chat on the bottom of our website) and read the FAQ pages (Visit FAQ / Lesson FAQ).
