Incline Peak- North Lake Tahoe

When I think about my backcountry experiences in Lake Tahoe, Incline Peak always comes to mind. This was the first peak I skied when I got here five years ago and will always have a special place in my heart.

The access to a variety of aspects and shorter, less committing shots of skiing makes this zone a perfect place for a quick morning ski or a full day of laps with great views.

The main trailhead parking is on the side of the Mount Rose Highway (431) heading up from Incline to Reno. Once parked, you'll descend a short pitch to reach Incline Lake and will cross the lake. This is a great time to check out snow conditions on the aspects you can see above as there are many different options to choose from. In the right conditions you will be able to see the E/NE facing bowl with tons of great features to ski around along with glimpses of the SE face.

Left: Crossing the lake you can see both aspects mentioned and their conditions

As you make your way through the first set of trees you will find yourself at the bottom of a larger bowl. You'll want to start hiking towards the upper right hand corner of the bowl to have the easiest access to the upper pitches. Once here, you'll turn skiers left uphill for a few steeper pitches heading towards the true summit.

Right: My wiggles adjacent to the uptrack on the lower bowls

Being a resident of Incline this is the perfect peak to see how a storm's snow is shaping up or just enjoying the sunshine & views with good company. Another Tahoe classic that is a must ski for anybody who likes good views and good skiing.

Attached below is a caltopo map for this zone : https://caltopo.com/m/NB649

Below: Catching the SE face in prime conditions at sunrise