We’re glad you’re planning a visit to Diamond Peak and have provided some tips for Beginners or those visiting our resort for the first time so you can know where to go and what to expect when you get here. Check out our Virtual Tour to get acquainted with the layout of the Diamond Peak and even “ski” down some of the runs.
How to Dress in Lake Tahoe
Weather can change rapidly in the mountains so layering is your best option instead of wearing one big bulky jacket. As you get warmer or colder, you can add or take-off layers.
Wear water resistant gloves, wool hat and snow pants. Avoid wearing jeans and other cotton materials. Cotton absorbs water and once wet becomes a poor insulator!
Wear eye protection such as goggles or sunglasses. Not only do they protect your eyes from sun glare, they shield your eyes from the wind and therefore prevent irritation.
Bring sunscreen, lip balm and skin moisturizers. The sun reflects off the snow during cloudy and sunny days!
How to Get to the Resort
Get driving directions to Diamond Peak, no matter where you're coming from.
Why Take Lessons
Skiing and snowboarding is a technical sport. By taking lessons you will be taught these special techniques that will greatly improve your chances of learning and enjoying a lifetime sport. Additionally lessons are an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the sport and the equipment. Instructors can tell you where to go after the day is over and some tips to help you get to the next level. Scroll down for a series of videos on what you can expect as you learn to ski or snowboard.
Visit the Ski & Ride Center page for information about lessons for kids ages 7+ and adults or the Child Ski Center page for younger kids (ages 3-6).
Why Rent Equipment
Skiing and snowboarding equipment can be a large investment and buying the wrong equipment can be a costly mistake. Renting gear gives you an opportunity to test it before you buy it. Demos are available to rent if you are looking to upgrade your gear. Renting at Diamond Peak gives you the ability to exchange equipment if you decide you need a different boot size or different ski or snowboard length after you try them out on the mountain. You can even change from snowboarding to skiing part way through the day.
What to drink / Where to eat
High altitude, exercise and the sun all pull water out of your body. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially on your way to the ski area. Eat healthy food and make sure your children eat a nutritious breakfast as well. You can find snacks as well as a delicious breakfast options at the Base Lodge if you arrive early. At lunch time, head to one of the food outlets on the Base Lodge deck to get fueled for the rest of the day. We highly recommend lunch at Snowflake Lodge if you can ski down an intermediate (blue) run afterward - it features Lake Tahoe's most breathtaking view from the sun deck!
What's next?
Once you have already experienced skiing or snowboarding you can continue practicing what you've learned in your first lesson or take another lesson. Once you’re ready to explore more of the mountain, our private lessons can help you take your skiing or riding to the next level with personalized instruction on the exact terrain you're ready for.
More information
Visit the Frequently Asked Questions page for more information.
Beginner's Guides to Skiing & Snowboarding
We're happy to share these video series created by the Professional Ski Instructors of America - American Association of Snowboard Instructors (PSIA-AASI).
Skiing
Video 1: Learn About Ski Gear (4:02) - See how a ski works, learn what socks to wear, see how to put on your boots and skis, and watch how to carry your skis.
Video 2: Basic Movements on Snow (2:37) - Watch these basic movements to learn how to get around on your skis, pick up your ski pole, and get up from a seated position.
Video 3: Getting Around on Skis (3:12) - See how to turn your skis, how to stop on your skis, and how to get on and off a chairlift.
Snowboarding
Video 1: Learn About Snowboard Gear (3:16) - See how a snowboard works, learn what socks to wear, watch how to put on your boots and snowboard, and see how to carry a snowboard.
Video 2: Basic Movements on Snow (2:56) - Watch how to get around on your snowboard on the snow, learn how to get up from a sitting position, and see how to move uphill.
Video 3: Getting Around on a Snowboard (5:03) - Watch how to stop on a snowboard, how to turn, and how to get on and off a chairlift.
