Heavenly Gondola

The Heavenly Gondola travels 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) up the mountain from Heavenly Village in 15 minutes. Stop midway at the 9,123-foot (2,780-meter) Observation Deck viewing platform for photos. Then, at the top, embark on three summer hiking trails or hang out at the Tamarack Lodge.

Wintertime provides scenic views of the snowcapped Sierra Nevada and a chance to go skiing or just relax in the lodge. Summertime allows for hiking at the top, a ropes course, or maybe even a spot of ziplining in addition to scenic views over Carson Valley and the Desolation Wilderness.

• Even those afraid of heights will feel safe in the fully enclosed gondola.

• This is a great group activity for skiers and non-skiers alike.

• The three hiking trails at the top are available for summertime use.

• Dress in layers for the elevation change and cooler air at the top of the mountain.

• Scenic gondola rides are included with the Heavenly season pass.

• The Heavenly Gondola is accessible for wheelchair users and snow-adapted wheelchairs are available to borrow at the top.

The Gondola departs from the middle of Heavenly Village. Located on the California-Nevada border in South Lake Tahoe, Heavenly is easily accessible by car from Lake Tahoe resorts such as Northstar and Squaw Valley or Tahoe City.

A gondola ride at Heavenly Lake Tahoe offers very different experiences in winter and summer, but the scenery is equally breathtaking. However, keep in mind that ticket prices go up on holidays.

Ride back down to the village and spend some time in the pedestrian mall; here, you can browse souvenir shops and boutiques. If you're with kids, take them to the arcade or ice skating at the Heavenly Village Outdoor Ice Rink. If you're a winter sports enthusiast, the Heavenly Mountain Ski Resort itself has 97 runs and 30 lifts, a ski school, and terrain parks spread between California and Nevada.

The Heavenly Gondola in South Lake Tahoe is a 2.4-mile (3.9-kilometer) run up the mountain, which comes out to about a 15-to-25-minute ride one way. The ride gives you panoramic views of Lake Tahoe as each gondola features four glass sides for safety and ultimate viewing. Plus, all ages are welcome to ride.

Yes, the gondola ride at Heavenly is free with the purchase of a Heavenly Resort lift ticket. If you purchase your lift ticket, you can rest assured you’ll have access to the Heavenly Gondola. Make sure you know what day winter sports start at Heavenly as opening day changes from year to year.

The gondola at Heavenly has operational hours of 10am until 4pm Monday through Sunday with its ticket offices open 9:30am until 5pm Monday through Sunday. Keep in mind you do need a gondola ticket (or a lift ticket) to ride the gondola and your day and time are subject to availability.

Yes, Heavenly Gondola is open year-round for sightseeing, which includes summer, too. There’s a lot to enjoy even in the warm weather on the gondola ride as it gives you some of the best views of South Lake Tahoe from the sky. Plus, you’ll stop at its Observation Deck for more panoramic views.