Ski Northstar

From the late 1940s, a Christmas Tree farm was operating on the slopes of Mount Pluto. The farm was bought up by the Fibreboard corporation, a large business concern which had its roots in industrial insulation. In an effort to diversify, the company decided to create a ski resort to replace the farm. Construction started in 1971, and Northstar opened for skiing late in 1972. After over 20 years of developing and managing the resort, Fibreboard sold Northstar to Booth Creek Resorts in 1996. With the new owners came new investment, which saw the resort continue to thrive and grow. In 2006 a new ski village opened offering stylish ski-in, ski-out accommodation. A new five-star hotel, the area’s first, is scheduled for 2009.

Northstar has managed to build a big reputation for great intermediate skiing, a family-friendly outlook, and watchful ski patrols who take a firm line with skiers who act dangerously.

First time skiers start on the beginners slopes just above the day lodge. By the end of the first week you should be competently gliding down the gentle Village Run which returns to the village from the ski school.

Intermediates have lots of choice. Favorites include the West and East Ridges off the summit of Mount Pluto, both long, exhilarating , tree-lined runs. East Ridge has the added bonus of giving spectacular views of Lake Tahoe. Also recommended for boarders is the full-of-surprises Stash trail, which 'blends park riding with big mountain feel and organic features'.

When conditions allow, more advanced skiiers can make for the backside of the mountain, where there’s some really challenging terrain.

Parents with young kids will appreciate the great junior ski program, offering a great range of ski lessons for youngsters (luckystars, superstars and allstars). If your juniors are too small to ski, excellent state licensed child care facilities are also available at the Minors Camp.

There’s a good choice of accommodation at Northstar. Stay in the village itself, for a true ski-in, ski-out experience. Or pick from a large selection of condos within a quick shuttle ride of the base. In the evening there’s lots to do. Browse the shops, boutiques, and art galleries. Eat at one of a number of available eateries, from pizza parlor to fine-cuisine. The Alpine bar is a good meeting and drinking venue. Activity-wise try skating on the large rink at the center of the village – it’s great fun, guaranteed to be a hit with the kids. Depending on your choice of accommodation you should also have access to either the Tahoe Mountain Club (swimming pool, outdoor hot tubs, sauna, fitness center) or the Northstar Rec Center (swimming pool, spa, fitness center).