This ski resort takes on an entirely different persona in the summer months. Life tends to move very slowly at Northstar California, which has arguably become the top destination ski resort in Lake Tahoe.
Of course, there are no skiers or snowboarders hustling toward the lifts this time of year. Northstar’s famed Village is one laid-back summer spot, especially in the cool mornings when the majority of early risers can be found sipping on coffee drinks at Starbucks.
Golf reasonably priced at Northstar
Speaking of cool, one of the nice things about a Northstar summer visit is playing a round of golf just a few minutes away from the Village. Two things come to mind when playing Northstar Golf Course: the two nines are distinctly different and the price is not Tahoe like – meaning it’s reasonably priced.
What’s reasonable in Tahoe? Depending on the time of day, Northstar’s prices range from $45-$90. Most Lake Tahoe courses charge $100-$185 during prime-time hours.
Although a fun track, don’t be fooled into thinking Northstar won’t offer a challenge. In fact, it offers quite a bit, especially on the back nine where target golf is a way of life on the tight, tree-lined fairways that lead into some small, challenging greens. Mishit a shot and expect to pay the price on the scorecard. By the way, the scorecard offers some great tips for conquering the backside.
However, the front side is quite the contrast and is a suitable track to get your game in shape. The first nine holes feature some generous fairways in an open meadow that begs most golfers to pull out the driver, which mostly stays in the bag on holes 10 through 18. There are several dogleg holes and water hazards that will present a challenge to any level golfer.
The 6,844-yard course was designed by Robert Muir Graves. It includes the Martis Valley Grille, a nice place to grab an early breakfast, an afternoon lunch, or a beverage or two at the 19th hole.
Summer activities
The Northstar summer experience features much more than golf. It is the perfect home-base for Lake Tahoe adventures with the whole family. With activities suited for all ages, there’s something to keep everyone entertained.
For the kids, an all-inclusive activity day pass costs $59 and includes:
- Skate rental
- Miniature Golf (two rounds)
- Bungee trampoline (one session)
- Gem panning (one small bag)
- Spider Web Rock Wall
“We love all the activities they have for kids,” said Bridgette from Marin County, who was watching her children roller skate during a July family visit. “We also like the hiking trails, something we can do as a family. Our kids love it here.”
Northstar California also has fabulous road biking. The scenic mountain offers beginner to advanced cross country and free-ride mountain biking trails, lift access, bike rentals and bike shop services.
A Northstar stay can also be laid back as well. If a relaxing vacation is the goal, you’ve come to the right place.
“We definitely see more people coming up in the summer months just to relax and chill,” said Northstar California spokesperson Marcie Bradley. “We have a lot of activities for children and adults, so you can come up here and be as busy as you want to be.”
Northstar lodging
Many of the Village condos offer full kitchens, a balcony, and a fireplace that’s nice to crank up on cool evenings. For a little different experience, lodging is also available in more quiet, tree-lined areas that are minutes away from the Village. There is also a very luxurious Ritz-Carlton at mid-mountain and a Hyatt Residence Club located in the Village.
Visit www.northstarcalifornia.com for more information and deals on stay-and-play packages.
