Alpine Meadows Ski Area

Alpine Meadows draws advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders from around the world to try its bowls, chutes, trees, and backcountry hikes.

Alpine Meadows is backed by giant volcanic rock sculptures. There’s over 2,400 acres (971 ha) of skiable terrain, with a summit, Ward Peak, reaching 8,637 feet (2,633 m). You can ski either the front or back of the mountain, although beginners won’t find anything for them on the back. Famous for its off-piste terrain and “adventure zones,” which are all around the mountain, Alpine Meadows draws advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders from around the world to try its bowls, chutes, trees and backcountry hikes. But for families there’s also a family ski zone off Hot Wheels Chair.

The interchangeable lift pass with Heavenly, Kirkwood, Northstar at Tahoe, Sierra at Tahoe and Palisades Tahoe provides access to 17,920 acres (7,252 ha) of skiing and boarding.