Northstar at Tahoe Offers Free Scenic Lift Rides

Northstar at Tahoe is offering free weekend (Saturday and Sunday) scenic rides up the mountain from now through October 5. You can hop on the gondola or ride either of two chair lifts. Once on top, you can just enjoy the clean Sierra Nevada air and expansive views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding peaks, or take a hike that didn't involve chugging up steep slopes to get the scenic rewards. Dogs on leash are permitted.

Free tickets are available at the Season Pass office or Plaza Bikes located in the Village at Northstar. The lifts run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last ride down half an hour before closing. If you miss it, you're hiking down. Hours can change without notice due to weather or other adverse conditions. Get the latest information by calling (866) 931-3680.

Northstar is less than an hour from Reno. Go west from Reno on I80. Just before Truckee, take exit 188 for California 267 and go left (south) toward Lake Tahoe. In about six miles, turn right on Northstar Dr. There are plenty of signs, so it is tough to get lost.

You can make a loop of this drive by continuing south on 267 when you leave Northstar. At the intersection with highway 28, next to Lake Tahoe in Kings Beach, turn left. You will soon cross back into Nevada at Crystal Bay. Continue toward Incline Village and turn left onto Nevada 431 (the Mt. Rose Highway). This road takes you over the summit and back down the east side to Reno.