Kirkwood
Kirkwood offers over 2,000 acres of
skiing with a good mix of runs for skiers of all abilities. During spring (icy)
conditions, the best skiing in the early part of the day is usually found on the aptly
named Sunrise lift. However, once the snow softens, the best black diamond skiing is
accessed from the Wagon Wheel (a.k.a. the Wall) and Cornice chairs. Intermediates should
avoid the Wagon Wheel chair... there is no easy way down. Kirkwood is about a 30 minute
drive from the South Lake Tahoe resort hotels and casinos, assuming the road conditions
are good. If it is snowing, it can take a lot longer than that because the route (Highway
89) takes you over a 9000' pass. Highway 89 closes frequently during storms. However, you
don't have to go over this pass if you are approaching Kirkwood from the west on Highway
88. Note that Kirkwood has the highest base elevation of all the Tahoe areas. This usually
means they have more (and better?) snow than the other resorts.
5 reports have been submited for Kirkwood so far this season. Browse reports, or submit your own report.
For more information, see the Trail Map
For more information, see the Comparison of Ski Areas
