Homewood Mountain Resort: Exceptional Views and Après Ski

OUR REGION IS HOME to some of the best “old-school” ski resorts around, steeped in history and charm. Along with Sugar Bowl, Homewood Mountain Resort is famous for its spectacular views of Lake Tahoe, hidden “pow” stashes and friendly atmosphere.

Whether you’re schussing down a groomed boulevard, in powder or a terrain park, Homewood is a fun and memorable experience. Its California owner’s purchase of the West Shore Café and Inn, just across the street, is a real plus.

“It is a perfect place for snow lovers of all types,” says Liftopia.com in ranking Homewood North America’s #1 scenic resort view, alongside Snowbird in Utah, Ski Banff in the Canadian Rockies and Alyeska in Alaska, with views of the Cook inlet.

Now in its 52nd year, and one of the state’s first ski resorts, Homewood offers eight lifts and 56 runs (15 percent beginner, 50 percent intermediate and 35 percent advanced), with more than 1,200 acres of skiable terrain.

The tree skiing and powder skiing are one of Tahoe’s best kept secrets. What’s more, the skiing and riding are good even on storm days when other areas are on hold.

Its ski school is one of Tahoe’s best learning experiences. Skiers gather at a “little red schoolhouse” for lessons. Our son learned to ski at Homewood, and has fond memories of the “magic carpet” that whisked him to the top of the bunny hill.

Homewood’s mountain dining options are creative. At the Big Blue View Bar & Grill, you can look at the lake while sitting in blue Adirondack chairs. The Grill at Homewood offers an expanded menu, and the North Lodge has a new winter beer garden.

Homewood also has been recognized for its environmental practices. It just won the prestigious 2013 National Ski Areas Association Golden Eagle award for environmental stewardship.

Homewood and the West Shore Café are owned by JMA Ventures, which owns Fairmont Heritage Place at Ghirardelli Square, Waterbar and Epic Roadhouse restaurants in San Francisco and the Downtown Plaza in Sacramento.

New this year, the Backcountry Experience lodging package from West Shore Café and Inn includes a full day of snowcat access to 3,000 acres of reserved terrain on Tahoe’s North Shore. It accommodates up to eight guests.

(Photos: IAValenzuela)