The snow is gone and there’s no more skiing or riding at Northstar and Kirkwood ski resorts.
However, that doesn’t mean the two Vail Resort properties in Lake Tahoe are shut down until ski season returns. Both Tahoe ski resorts have summer activities that will have guests returning to the resorts for something different.
Below is a look at what Northstar and Kirkwood have going on this summer.
Northstar: The bike park is the big summer attraction at Northstar, located off Highway 267 near downtown Truckee.
The bike park opened June 12. Big Springs Gondola, Zephyr Express, and Vista Express run from 10 am to 5 pm throughout the summer months for mountain biking and scenic hiking.
In the summer, Northstar’s well-groomed ski mountain becomes a downhill mountain biker’s paradise. The park offers over 50 miles of purpose-built trails designed with progression in mind.
While the Bike Park is a favorite for locals and the broader mountain bike community. Other activities include hiking for wildflowers and lake views, golfing at an 18-hole course, flyfishing on a private lake, roller skating to live music, and various community events.
What’s happening:
- Northstar’s bike park opens for the season Friday, June 12
- Big Springs Gondola, Vista Express, and Zephyr Express will be open from 10 am to 5 pm Thursday to Sunday (plus Mondays, starting June 29 and 5-7 pm on Fridays starting July 3)
- Lifts are also open for scenic hiking during these times, free with a 2026-27 Epic Pass
- The rebuild of the iconic Livewire trail will debut opening day
The Kirkwood disc golf course winds through a mix of pine forest, open meadows, and rocky Sierra terrain.
Kirkwood: Located on Highway 88 in Kirkwood, 35 miles from South Lake Tahoe, Kirkwood is a hidden gem for those seeking outdoor adventure and mountain solitude.
There’s an extensive network of challenging pedal-accessed mountain biking trails. There’s also hikes through wildflowers in the alpine meadows or an 18-hole disc golf course – open free to the public. If you’re looking for serenity and adventure in the High Sierra, Kirkwood is a great place to explore for hikers.
Beyond its rugged peaks, alpine lakes, and wildflower-filled meadows, Kirkwood is best known for its laid-back energy and under-the-radar feel, remaining a true hidden gem in the Tahoe region. As a gateway to the Eldorado National Forest and the broader Sierra Nevada backcountry, Kirkwood opens the door to endless opportunities for exploration.
Mountain bike riders will find everything from beginner-friendly routes and skill-building features at Timber Creek to technical single-track and long, backcountry-style rides extending deep into Eldorado National Forest.
Hiking opportunities are also numerous, ranging from short scenic outings to multi-day backpacking routes. From early June through mid-July, vibrant wildflower blooms cover the landscape, drawing hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts into Kirkwood’s quiet high-alpine setting.
The Discwood Disc Golf Course will put one’s skills to the test. The 18-hole course starts at the Timber Creek Base Area and winds through a mix of pine forest, open meadows, and rocky Sierra terrain, using the natural landscape to create a varied and demanding round from start to finish.
