Northstar vs Sierra-at-Tahoe
Comparing Northstar (CA) and Sierra-at-Tahoe (CA) on price, terrain, snowfall, and lift wait. Numbers from the 2026 season.
Northstar
Truckee, CA
Epic pass
Window price$199
Online (advance)$127
Season pass$1,051
Sierra-at-Tahoe
Twin Bridges, CA
Independent pass
Window price$185
Online (advance)$89
Season pass$749
Side-by-side
| Stat | Northstar | Sierra-at-Tahoe | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Window lift ticket | $199 | $185 | Sierra-at-Tahoe |
| Online (30+ days) | $127 | $89 | Sierra-at-Tahoe |
| Season pass | $1,051 | $749 | Sierra-at-Tahoe |
| Annual snowfall | 350" | 400" | Sierra-at-Tahoe |
| Skiable acres | 3,170 | 2,000 | Northstar |
| Vertical drop | 2,280' | 2,212' | Northstar |
| Runs | 100 | 50 | Northstar |
| Lifts | 20 | 11 | Northstar |
| Summit elevation | 8,610' | 8,690' | Sierra-at-Tahoe |
| Beginner terrain | 13% | 25% | Sierra-at-Tahoe |
| Advanced terrain | 27% | 25% | Northstar |
| Average lift wait | 12 min | 8 min | Sierra-at-Tahoe |
The Match
Sierra-at-Tahoe is cheaper at the gate ($89 vs $127 entry). Northstar is significantly bigger (3,170 vs 2,000 acres). Pass affiliation: Northstar is Epic, Sierra-at-Tahoe is Independent.