Although historically many ski resorts go into hibernation and are ignored after the final lift has been shut down for the season, that’s certainly not the case at Heavenly ski resort in Lake Tahoe.
In fact, there’s much more to do in the summer months on Heavenly’s scenic mountain than anytime during ski season.
With the ski season not as lucrative over the past decade due to climate change, declining snow totals, and fewer skier and snowboarder visits, resorts nationwide have turned to the summer months as another income source.
One of three Vail Resorts in Lake Tahoe (Kirkwood, Northstar are the other two), Heavenly has developed a plethora of summer activities that are family friendly. While many of the offerings are designed for kids, active adults can also join in the fun.
Check out what summer activities are offered by Kirkwood and Northstar.
Awaiting at the end of a scenic Gondola ride up to the Tamarack area of Heavenly is an entire day of fun with many activities available. Note that closed-toed athletic shoes are required for all summer activities.
Perhaps the most popular offering at Heavenly is the Mountain Coaster. The exhilarating ride debuted more than a decade ago. This gravity-powered alpine coaster is a cool, scenic coaster ride that goes through forest and natural rock formations. The coaster sleds accommodate up to two riders, so families can enjoy this activity with another family member.
Heavenly does have Mountain Coaster restrictions. To drive or ride solo, individuals must be between 54 to 84 inches tall. Drivers carrying a passenger must be at least age 16.
Heavenly Gondola Views: We have failed to mention the views yet. But they really are the star of the show.
The Gondola is located at Heavenly Village and introduces guests to the deep blues skies and gorgeous waters of Lake Tahoe, the rugged peaks of the Sierra Nevada, and the wide-open beauty of the Carson Valley. The 2.4-mile journey with panoramic views of Lake Tahoe includes a stop at the Observation Deck for photos, snacks, and drinks.
New this year are gondola tickets now include unlimited rides all day long. Note that 2026-27 Epic season passholders ride the gondola for free.
Additional Activities
- Zip Lines: Four parallel zip lines are accessed using the Big Easy lift. This experience is 1,000 feet long reaching speeds of around 30-40 mph. Participants must be age 8 or older, 42 inches tall, and the weight requirement ranges from 55 to 275 pounds.
- Tubing: Features a 500-foot tubing hill at the top of the mountain that operates without snow, allowing riders to ride down the track in warm weather. Participants must be at least 42 inches tall for the tubing course.
- Granite Peak Climbing Wall: The climbing takes place on a man-made rock wall inspired by the iconic rock formations found in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The permanent wall utilizes auto-belays and is 25 feet tall with 15 defined climbing routes varying in difficulty, so all ability and experience levels are welcome. Participants must be at least 3 years-old and weigh between 30 and 330 pounds.
- Gemstone Panning: The interactive activity simulates the gold panning that made the gold rush period such a fascinating historical phenomenon in the 1800s. This activity may include a great souvenir.
- Summer Day Camp: Children ages 5-12 receive a full day of nature and exploration. The entire day is spent with camp leaders exploring the outdoors at Heavenly. The hours are 10 am to 4 pm and includes a gondola ride, mountain coaster, climbing wall, scavenger hunts, relay games, wilderness survival activities, and more. Camp dates are from June 26 to August 14.
For more information on Heavenly summer activities, click here.
