Industry News
Palisades Tahoe Snow Report: 43-Inch Storm Total Over 3 Days
The latest Palisades Tahoe, California, snow report tells a story of remarkable late-season resurgence. A sustained storm cycle has transformed conditions on the upper mountain, logging a foot of new snow overnight and driving the three-day storm total to 43 inches. The resort is now among the last Tahoe areas still operating.
Most ski areas across the western U.S. have endured one of their worst seasons in recent memory, with dry and mild conditions since November, leaving many resorts struggling to open meaningful terrain. Palisades has been an exception to that late-season trend this week.
Sunny breaks are emerging across the mountain on Monday, though forecasters have not ruled out additional snow showers that could add another inch to the upper elevations before conditions settle. Long-range models continue to show troughing over the region through the third week of April, with additional storm systems possible and a cooler-than-normal pattern expected to persist.
The weekend storm delivered heavy snow Saturday night, with snow levels crashing down to around 4,000 feet, well below the base, bringing fluffier, high-ratio snow to the upper mountain.
What this Means for Mountain Operations
Palisades is running 11 of 39 lifts and 50 of 296 trails, with 10% of terrain currently open and 15 of 22 mountain activities available. The resort has received 22 inches in the past 24 hours and 43 inches, roughly 3.5 feet, over the past three days, bringing the season total to 348 inches. The Mountain Run is closed due to thin coverage; skiers and riders descending from the upper mountain must use the Funitel or Aerial Tram to reach the base. With deep, dense accumulation across the mountain, the resort urges guests to ride with a partner, carry an avalanche beacon, stay clear of tree wells, and fall feet-first where possible.
Ikon Pass Holders Can Ride the Palisades Tahoe Snow Now — and All Next Season
Ticket options are available for skiers looking to take advantage of the conditions. Holders of the 2026-27 Ikon Pass gain immediate access to the mountain this spring while simultaneously securing access for the full upcoming season. Ikon Pass prices are set to increase after April 16, giving prospective buyers a narrow window to lock in the current rate.
The storm arrives at the tail end of a difficult season for the Sierra Nevada. Much of the 2025-26 winter was defined by a prolonged dry spell that left Tahoe’s snowpack well below average and prompted early closures across the region. A powerful February cycle briefly reversed that trend, delivering historic totals, including what Palisades reported as its deepest five-day accumulation since 1970, before warmer spring temperatures reasserted themselves across the range. That the season is now closing with a 43-inch spring storm and a 348-inch season total represents a more dignified ending than once looked likely.
The closing date is set for May 25. But for now, let’s enjoy this unexpected April storm!
