Olympic Valley Palisades Tahoe offers a dynamic blend of alpine scenery, family-friendly experiences, and thrilling mountain exploration. Nestled beneath rugged granite cliffs and framed by soaring pines, this legendary Sierra Nevada destination—formerly known as Squaw Valley and home to the 1960 Winter Olympics—welcomes skiers, hikers, and cultural travelers year-round. Whether you’re visiting solo or with loved ones, Olympic Valley Palisades Tahoe is a destination that delivers unforgettable mountain moments.
Why Olympic Valley Palisades Tahoe Is Worth Visiting
Set along California State Route 89 between Truckee and Tahoe City, Olympic Valley Palisades Tahoe combines high-elevation excitement with authentic Sierra hospitality. At its heart lies Palisades Tahoe, among North America’s largest ski resorts, boasting over 6,000 acres of skiable terrain when paired with its Alpine Meadows base area. But the mountain magic doesn’t stop when the snow melts—summer reveals hiking trails, cascading creeks, and vibrant wildflower meadows.
Despite its Olympic fame, the valley offers a welcoming, down-to-earth vibe. Families stroll through its pedestrian-friendly village, while solo travelers venture into the expansive backcountry or float the Truckee River on guided tours. From sunrise yoga at High Camp to fireside s’mores beneath alpenglow skies, Olympic Valley Palisades Tahoe crafts meaningful memories for every kind of traveler.
Top Family Activities in Olympic Valley Palisades Tahoe
Families will discover plenty of outdoor fun in Olympic Valley Palisades Tahoe. Easy navigation and stroller access make the village perfect for younger visitors. Begin your day with a panoramic ride on the Aerial Tram, ascending 2,000 feet in just 10 minutes to High Camp (elevation 8,200 ft). At the top, explore the free Olympic Museum, enjoy seasonal ice skating, or stroll along the accessible High Camp Loop Trail.
For a rewarding hike with kids, head to Shirley Canyon Trail near Squaw Peak Road. The three-mile path to Shirley Lake showcases waterfalls, granite formations, and sweeping mountain vistas. Bring water shoes—lakeside pools invite refreshing splashes. Be mindful of summer snowmelt conditions and check with resort staff before venturing out.
Summer brings live events to the Village. Local favorites include the Bluesdays concert series every Tuesday and weekend art walks showcasing regional talent. For adventurous families, the Tahoe Via Ferrata offers an exhilarating intro to climbing. Guided by Alpenglow Expeditions, the climb up the iconic Tram Face is ideal for kids aged 10+ with adult supervision.
Solo Adventures and High-Alpine Thrills
Olympic Valley Palisades Tahoe is a haven for solo travelers seeking nature’s quiet alongside adrenaline-fueled pursuits. In winter, skilled skiers chase powder beneath KT-22, affectionately nicknamed “The Mothership.” Legendary terrain like Granite Chief and Broken Arrow delivers big-mountain experiences with minimal crowds. Book a guided backcountry tour with the North American Ski Training Center or Alpenglow Expeditions for expert navigation and safety.
In warmer months, alpine adventures abound. Explore the Five Lakes Trail via Alpine Meadows Road—a moderate 5-mile round-trip hike leading to glacial lakes surrounded by blooming wildflowers. Early starts reward hikers with serenity, crisp air, and birdsong echoing above the trees. Pack a swimsuit: brave hikers dip into the icy alpine waters.
Wellness-minded travelers appreciate nature-based experiences offered through the Spa at Everline. Forest Bathing excursions and sunrise paddle sessions on Lake Tahoe offer mindfulness in motion. After a day of adventure, enjoy local flavors and mountain camaraderie on the Fireside Pizza Co. patio, where solo adventurers often swap stories over kombucha and wood-fired bites.
Secret Local Favorites You Shouldn’t Miss
Beyond major attractions, Olympic Valley Palisades Tahoe holds a wealth of lesser-known gems. Locals love the Poulsen Loop Trail, a peaceful path through meadows dotted with wildflowers. Located off Squaw Valley Road, this flat loop is ideal for morning walks, wildlife sightings, or golden-hour photography beneath the peaks of Granite Chief Wilderness.
For a moment of reflection, step inside Queen of the Snows Catholic Church. Its A-frame structure, built in the 1950s, features stained glass and a serene alpine ambiance. You’ll find it tucked beside the fire station off Squaw Peak Road.
Hungry for local flavor? Skip the main square and head just south to Alpine Meadows to discover Crest Café. Hidden near the base lodge, it serves hearty organic dishes, fresh burritos, and top-notch locally roasted coffee—perfect pre-hike fuel. Come evening, unwind at Uncorked Wine Bar. Hidden behind the Auld Dubliner pub, this cozy spot offers curated wine flights from Sierra vintners and rotating regional art displays.
Dive into Culture, History, and the Olympic Legacy
Olympic Valley Palisades Tahoe’s storied past began with its selection as host of the 1960 Winter Olympics—the first Games ever broadcast on television. Learn more at the Olympic Museum at High Camp, where exhibits feature athlete gear, vintage photos, and memorabilia from the Games. Architectural details in the original buildings near the current village nod to that era’s mountain-modern design.
The region’s cultural narrative extends further back, shaped by the Washoe people who historically lived in the Lake Tahoe Basin. Though site-specific interpretive markers are limited, nearby Tahoe City’s Gatekeeper’s Museum offers informative exhibits on Washoe life, early alpine settlement, and Lake Tahoe’s environmental history.
Art lovers can explore the slopes through the lens of award-winning photographer Keoki Flagg at Gallery Keoki. Located in the center of the Village, the gallery’s rotating exhibits highlight mountain life in vivid, timeless frames. When ski season returns, catch an indie or ski film at Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema—just 15 minutes away in Tahoe City, and a favorite après hangout for artists and weekend wanderers alike.
Plan Your Visit to Olympic Valley Palisades Tahoe
Traveling to Olympic Valley Palisades Tahoe is convenient. The Reno-Tahoe International Airport sits about an hour away, while Sacramento International is a two-hour drive west. Winter visitors should monitor Caltrans for chain controls and road conditions, particularly during storms. Year-round, midweek stays offer thinner crowds and better rates on lodging.
Lodging options accommodate all travelers. The Village at Palisades Tahoe offers slopeside condos steps from lifts and dining. Nearby, the Everline Resort & Spa features upscale suites, a private skating rink, and direct chairlift access. Budget-conscious travelers can find charming rental cabins along Alpine Meadows Road or camp seasonally at Silver Creek Campground (open May–October).
Getting around is easy with the free TART bus linking Olympic Valley to Truckee and Tahoe City. During ski season, shuttles connect Palisades and Alpine Meadows. While parking is free in select lots, arrival before 8 a.m. ensures a spot on powder days. Consider slopeside lodging for maximum convenience.
Mountain weather changes quickly. Layers, hydration, and sun protection are essential year-round. With village elevations starting at 6,200 feet—and lift-access areas reaching beyond 9,000—visitors from lower altitudes should take time to acclimate.
Discover Your Mountain Rhythm
From the thrill of skiing KT-22 to the calm of a lakeside yoga paddle, Olympic Valley Palisades Tahoe offers more than outdoor adventure—it fosters genuine connection. Here, landscapes inspire reflection, new friendships bloom on trails, and alpine rhythms restore balance. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, the valley invites you to slow down, explore deeper, and leave with stories worth retelling.
