Diamond Peak now offers backcountry skiers and snowboarders access to the backcountry surrounding the resort via a dedicated backcountry access gate located near the top of the Crystal Express Chairlift. Users must have a valid Diamond Peak lift ticket or season pass to ride the Crystal Express Chairlift to the summit of the resort and must exit and/or enter the resort’s boundaries via the designated gate.
The backcountry access gate allows access to multiple backcountry zones in and around the resort, from the backside facing east into the Carson Valley, to the west-facing slopes south of the resort that face Lake Tahoe. When re-entering Diamond Peak through the backcountry gate, you must be back into the resort by 4pm. After 4pm the Uphill Access Policy is in effect and you must access the terrain for Uphill Access from within Diamond Peak’s boundary.
The area beyond the ski resort boundaries is in a natural state and includes avalanche terrain. Skiers/riders who choose to access the backcountry do so at their own risk and should be prepared for any and all hazards they may encounter including deep snow, avalanches, steep terrain, tree wells, cliffs, cornices and unpredictable terrain and conditions. Diamond Peak’s ski patrol does not perform avalanche mitigation work in the backcountry, nor do they patrol outside of the resort’s boundaries.
All backcountry users must be self-sufficient, carry the proper backcountry equipment, and have the proper training to ensure their safety and the safety of their party. Backcountry users are also expected to respect the private lands that exist outside of Diamond Peak’s boundary and stay on National Forest lands when recreating in the backcountry.
Persons skiing or riding beyond the ski area boundary assume all risks inherent in the backcountry. Before you leave the ski area boundary, please take the time to educate yourself about the backcountry. For detailed backcountry access educational resources and the current avalanche report for the North Tahoe region visit the Sierra Avalanche Center website.
Sierra Avalanche Center forecast
Please remember:
- Significant avalanche terrain exists beyond Diamond Peak’s boundary
- The area behind the exit signs is not patrolled.
- There is no avalanche control, and Diamond Peak Ski Resort is not responsible for rescue operations.
- For Avalanche Advisory: sierraavalanchecenter.org
- For Search and Rescue: 911