Kirkwood
Kirkwood, CA 95646
Phone: (209) 258-6000
- Hours:
- Lifts (in-season): Daily 9am-4pm, Lodge: Daily 7:30am-8pm
Editorial Review for Kirkwood – by Ken Castle
In Short
Every terrain a ski area could want: bowls, cornices, saddles, chutes, glades and, fortunately, some flats for beginners. Snowboarders have access to the entire mountain, including a freestyle park with quarter-pipes, tabletop jumps, a snake jump and a large spine jump. Amenities include a variety of lodging (all condos), good food service and high-quality, user-friendly ski instruction. Negatives include the ski area's distance from South Lake Tahoe and some tricky driving over the high passes.
Vital Stats
Vertical drop: 2,000 feet
Base elevation: 7,800 feet
Top elevation: 9,800 feet
Lifts: 12
Skiable acres: 2,300
Beginner terrain: 15 percent
Intermediate terrain: 50 percent
Advanced terrain: 20 percent
Expert terrain: 15 percent
Snowboarding: Full facilities
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Insider Tips
Know Before You GoThis is an out-of-the-way resort, which means activities other than skiing are not extensive. If you're looking for nightlife, stay closer to Tahoe.
ParkingUsually not as challenging as at the major Tahoe resorts, but arrive early to avoid the crunch.
The ExtrasIn addition to skiing, Kirkwood features hot springs, a spa andf plenty of dining and shopping spots.
User Reviews for Kirkwood
12/18/2007 Posted by mk7373
Kirkwood is by far my favorite ski resort! It offers the BEST snow -and no, not the manmade kind, but nice and fluffy, the ideal kind that every skiier and snow boarder would only dream of! Of all the times I've been there, I have not yet ever seen it with icy or flat snow condition. It is also not as crowded as Squaw Valley or Heavenly, either, so you can actually enjoy skiing/boarding without worrying about avoiding people. Highly highly recommended!
12/07/2004 Posted by mlapadula
"Hard to get to"? Kirkwood is the only destination off of Highway 88. Unlike the gridlocked Highway 50 to Tahoe, Kirkwood NEVER has traffic. There are only a couple of days per year where there is a risk that Highway 88 will close due to avalanche controls. Only 35 minutes (without snow) to South Lake Tahoe. No crowds. No cheesy scene. Hands-down best powder. Go to Kirkwood to ski. Go to Lake Tahoe resorts to bar hop with the tourists and ski the ice and slush.
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