California, Kirkwood
Kirkwood Mountain Resort, nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountain range of California, is renowned for its pristine natural beauty and diverse terrain, offering a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Covering approximately 2,300 acres of skiable terrain, Kirkwood stands as one of California's larger ski resorts. It's situated about 35 miles south of South Lake Tahoe, providing convenient access for visitors from both Northern California and Nevada.
Kirkwood boasts a diverse network of trails catering to skiers and snowboarders of all levels, from beginners to experts seeking challenging terrain. The resort features over 80 trails serviced by 15 lifts, including high-speed chairs and surface lifts, ensuring minimal wait times and efficient access to the slopes. These lifts transport guests to elevations ranging from 7,800 to 9,800 feet, offering breathtaking views and thrilling descents.
The terrain at Kirkwood is renowned for its variety, including groomed runs, moguls, glades, and expansive bowls. With an average annual snowfall of around 500 inches, Kirkwood is celebrated for its abundant powder, attracting powder hounds seeking deep, untouched snow. Additionally, the resort is known for its challenging steeps and off-piste terrain, making it a favorite among advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders.
Lifts
Kirkwood Mountain Resort offers a variety of lifts providing access to its diverse terrain, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. Here's a breakdown of some key lifts and the terrain they service:
Timber Express:
Location: Situated in a central area of the resort.
Terrain Access: Timber Express serves as a hub for intermediate skiers and snowboarders, with numerous blue-rated runs branching out from its apex. This lift provides access to a wide array of groomed trails suitable for those seeking a more relaxed skiing experience.
The Wall:
Location: Located on the northern side of the resort.
Terrain Access: The Wall lift is a magnet for expert skiers and riders, granting access to some of Kirkwood's steepest and most challenging terrain. Featuring double black diamond runs, this lift transports thrill-seekers to the upper reaches of the mountain, offering adrenaline-pumping descents for those seeking a serious challenge.
Cornice:
Location: Positioned on the eastern side of the resort.
Terrain Access: Cornice lift provides access to a mix of advanced and expert terrain, with exhilarating black diamond runs awaiting adventurous skiers and snowboarders. This lift also serves as a gateway to the summit of the mountain, offering stunning panoramic views and access to high-alpine terrain.
Caples Crests:
Location: Found on the southern side of the resort.
Terrain Access: Caples Crests lift offers a blend of intermediate and advanced terrain, with scenic blue runs and challenging black diamond trails available for exploration. Additionally, this lift serves as a vital link to the backside of the mountain, providing access to a diverse range of terrain for adventurous riders seeking solitude and adventure.
Sunrise:
Location: Positioned on the western side of the resort.
Terrain Access: Sunrise lift grants access to the renowned back bowl known as "The Wave," featuring a mix of black and blue runs catering to intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders. However, it's worth noting that due to its exposed location, Sunrise lift may occasionally be affected by high winds, impacting accessibility to this exciting terrain.
Accommodation
Desolation Hotel Hope Valley Markleeville
Nestled in the serene wilderness of Hope Valley near Markleeville, Desolation Hotel offers a tranquil retreat from the chaos of daily life. Despite its peaceful location, the hotel provides comfortable accommodations with plush beds, although some minor maintenance issues were noted. Guests can unwind in the private sauna, requiring reservations for an exclusive relaxation experience, while the attached restaurant serves delicious meals to satisfy any craving. Beyond its winter charm, Desolation Hotel welcomes guests to enjoy its serene ambiance and cozy amenities in any season, promising a memorable escape amidst the beauty of nature year-round.
