Heavenly Mountain Resort - South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

I honestly can't give a solid review for experienced skiing at Heavenly since it was not only my first time at the resort, but my first time ever skiing. So I didn't hit any of the major runs. Though, I can give my opinion as beginner skier at Heavenly.

GOOD: Definitely one big resort.
So big there is a map!
I was also told that one of ski runs goes right past the Nevada border. Yes we are that close!

There is a gift shop at the front. They actually sell ski jackets, pants, helmets, skies, etc. Further inside and upstairs is a like a huge dressing room locker/shower area, though I didn't go to check it out. There is a bathroom there. And surrounding rooms are offices.

Up some stairs, and there is a small rental area in the back for skies, boots, and poles. The people were VERY accomodating and organized. You actually go from one section of the fitting to another until you are all geared up, and heading out. They make serious purpose to measure your feet exactly, and ask for your weight and height so you get proper skies. The people there are rather professional in handling ski equipment as well as concern for your safety.

Immediately outside are tables, and lockers that are about $6.00-$8.00 depending on size. It is computer operated.

As you walk out into the snow, there is an outdoor lift to the top, a practice area(First Ride) on the right, and a very beginner ring on the left. If you walk further left, it is the ski Tram.

Aside from the ski lifts, there is a Heavenly Tram, and a shuttle that takes you to Heavenly Village to ride the Gondola up to another area of Heavenly. The Gondola actually makes a stop to another gift shop and relax touristy area before finally reaching it's final desination to a snow play area, shop, and cafe, and other ski runs - a huge place for fun in the snow. For all lifts you have to have skis with you, but for the Gondola, you can go as a tourist.

The Heavenly tram was first built in 1963, and there has never been an accident ever. The cables have only been changed a few times, and they are planning on changing them pretty soon. But overall, the guys who've worked at Heavenly, say they go up and down the Tram everyday with no problems.

If you are looking for a place to ski; this place is it. The mountains are huge. Even the easiest runs ie) First Ride has a steep downhill, sharp turn.

You can definitely get a sense of difference in elevation. Down below, you get the more "drier" slush of snow, as you move up, there is fog, then sometime it actually snow, and you can feel your ears pop, and it being definitely a temperature change than below.

A really easy process to return your skies. The place is so huge there is definitely room to go around.

BAD: Probably because of it's popularity, there is a lot more people (and kids) at this resort. Of course, I'm making assumptions, since I went during Easter. But if you are looking for more peaceful space to ski, look elsewhere.

I won't recommend this place for absolute beginners. The easiest slopes are still rather steep.

Other info: Ski rentals must be turned in 4p.m. The places closes at 5.