The snow continues to melt in Lake Tahoe, where the focus is shifting from winter to summer at three iconic Vail Resorts in the region.
Heavenly Mountain is the first Vail Resort to switch the emphasis to summer activities, starting with its opening Friday (May 23). Northstar California is getting its golf course and bike park ready for a June opening. Kirkwood Mountain will begin its summer activities when snow levels recede.
HEAVENLY: For those eager to jumpstart the season, Heavenly offers a high-elevation playground with panoramic views of Lake Tahoe, starting Memorial Day weekend (May 23-26). Following Memorial Day, the resort will be open Friday through Sunday for the first three weeks. Then, starting June 13, Heavenly shifts to being open seven days a week.
Opening day will feature Gondola sightseeing, the entertaining Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster and snow tubing on leftover spring snow. After a scenic ride to the top of the Gondola, guests can choose their activities, enjoy a meal at Tamarack Lodge, or cocktails at Bar 9150.
Heavenly’s Discovery Day Camp for kids opens June 30. The resort’s Mountaintop Yoga Series returns Sundays, kicking off July 6. And additional activities will be available throughout the summer.
“We’re thrilled to be opening our mountain for summer operations earlier than usual this year,” said Shaydar Edelmann, vice president and general manager of Heavenly Mountain Resort. “With unbeatable views of Lake Tahoe and fun mountaintop activities, Heavenly is a magical place in the summer.”
NORTHSTAR: Summer activities begin June 5 with the opening of the Northstar Golf Course, a regulation 18-hole mountain track. It will be followed by the Bike Park opening June 13 – conditions permitting.
Known for its focus on progression, Northstar will continue evolving its Bike Park with expanded trail access, new builds, and the return of guest-favorite programs like Progression on Pedals – a community ride series led by top female coaches.
Friday Twilight Hours are also back, with extended park access from 5-7 p.m., starting July 11 and running through Labor Day weekend. Races and events like the return of Mini Enduro Series and Tahoe Trail 100 will round out the summer calendar.
For those seeking a slower pace, guests can enjoy scenic lift rides and hiking at elevation. In the Northstar Village, live music, dining, roller skating, and shopping are available throughout the summer months.
“We’re thrilled to open our doors again and invite guests to experience everything that makes Northstar such a special summer destination,” said Tara Schoedinger, vice president and general manager of Northstar California Resort. “There’s so much to explore – on the trails, the golf course or right here in the Village.”
KIRKWOOD: Located off Highway 88, Kirkwood offers a true high-alpine escape that involves multiple activities.
Once the snow clears, guests can explore a network of self-powered bike trails for all ability levels, play the 18-hole Discwood Golf Course, or hike through alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers.
Known for its peaceful setting and dramatic scenery, Kirkwood is the ideal retreat for those looking to disconnect and recharge.
SEASON PASSES: Epic Pass options are now available for the 2025/26 season at the lowest price of the year, Note, the season pass prices go up, starting Monday, May 26.
The full Epic Pass ($1,051) offers unlimited, unrestricted access to all three Tahoe resorts – Heavenly, Northstar, and Kirkwood – plus 39 additional destinations worldwide, including Park City Mountain and Whistler Blackcomb.
For those who primarily ski or ride in Tahoe, the Tahoe Local Pass ($665) includes unlimited access to the three local resorts (excluding peak dates). The Tahoe Value Pass ($567) offers even more affordable access with some restrictions.
If guests are planning just a few days on the mountain, the Epic Day Pass starts at $76 per day – significantly less than a lift ticket.
In addition to winter access, 2025/26 Epic Pass Holders can take advantage of a variety of summer perks at Tahoe resorts. Benefits include free Summer Scenic Gondola rides and discounts, including 20% off on-mountain food and beverage, and lodging at both Heavenly and Northstar.
At Northstar specifically, Pass Holders also receive 20% off bike rentals and golf, plus 10% off the 2025 Unlimited Bike Season Pass – making it even easier to enjoy everything the mountains have to offer all year long.
FURTHER INFORMATION: Details about summer activities, tickets, hours of operation, event calendars, and more can be found at each resort website –www.SkiHeavenly.com; www.NorthstarCalifornia.com; www.Kirkwood.com
