Number 09

With all the hubbub about the terrain at Squaw and the park at Northstar, Heavenly, all by its lonesome on the south shore, tends to be forgotten.

But Heavenly is a massive, sprawling, 4,800-acre behemoth that begs to be shredded. Take in the astonishing views of the Lake Tahoe area before you drop in on the varied terrain Heavenly provides. Slide down the steeps of Mott and Kilbrew Canyons. Brave the gladed areas around the Galaxy chair. Tunnel through the pow of the Milky Way bowl. Harken back to the ‘80s and bounce around the moguls on Gunbarrel. Whatever you choose, Heavenly’s speedy chairs, including the newly installed Olympic Express chair, will get you there in a flash.

And the fun doesn’t stop when you get off the hill for the day, as Heavenly is located in the nightlife-rich South Lake Tahoe area. Like to gamble? Roll some bones or play some cards at any number of casinos. How about wining and dining? Check out the 19Kitchen~Bar or the Timber House restaurant. Single and ready to mingle? Visit Blu Nightclub or the Opal Ultralounge for the hottest nightclub atmospheres.

Great skiing and great nightlife are an unbeatable combo anywhere, and if you’re looking for a good time from sun up to sun down, you don’t have to look much farther than Heavenly.

Resort Ranking:
Snow Quality-8
Terrain Quality-7
Hike-to Access-7
Park Quality-6
Nightlife-8
Accessibility-9

Vital Stats:
SkiHeavenly.com
Vertical: 3,500 feet
Acreage: 4,800 acres
Snowfall: 360 inches
Ticket: $82 (2008-2009)

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North America’s Top 10 Ski Resorts

1. Whistler Blackcomb, BC
2. Aspen/Snowmass, CO
3. Mammoth Mountain
4. Jackson Hole, WY
5. Squaw Valley, CA
6. Alta/Snowbird, UT
7. Breckenridge, CO
8. Telluride, CO
9. Heavenly, CA
10. Vail, CO

Back to Top 10 Index