Summer is officially on at Palisades Tahoe, California, and the mountain is rolling out a packed lineup of music, outdoor adventure, and family-friendly eventsโbecause who says the stoke stops when the snow melts?
Aerial Tram: Views, Vibes, and Vertical
The legendary Aerial Tram is back in action starting June 20 (weather and conditions permitting), ready to whisk you and your crew,ย including your pup,ย over jaw-dropping Lake Tahoe and Sierra views. In just 10 minutes, youโll be gliding up to High Camp at 8,200 feet. Ikon Pass holders ride free, and every Summer Sightseeing Aerial Lift Ticket comes with a $5 food voucher. Not a bad way to kick off your day above the lake.
High Camp: Where Summer Adventure Hits Its Stride
Your tram ticket is your all-access pass to High Campโs summer playground. Think mountaintop roller skating, disc golf, and, once the snow finally lets go, hiking trails that deliver panoramic lake views. Itโs the kind of spot where you can let loose, breathe deep, and take in the high-alpine energy.
Washoe Cultural Talks: Learn the Landโs Story
Palisades Tahoe teams up again with the Washoe Tribe to offer free Washoe Cultural Talks at High Camp. Join tribe members for stories, artifacts, and a closer look at the deep roots of Olympic Valley and the Sierra. Talks kick off at 10 a.m. on June 27, July 18, August 23, September 26, and October 10.
Summer Hiking: Walks with a Wild Side
Guided Naturalist Walks depart from High Camp every day the tram is in operation. These free, 1.5-mile loops through the meadow are a chance to geek out on local plants, animals, geology, and history. Two daily departuresโ11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.โso you can fit a walk between all your other mountain missions.
Via Ferrata: Climb Tahoeโs Iconic Tram Face
Ready to get vertical? The Via Ferrata is open for summer, letting you scale Palisades Tahoeโs most famous rock face with the help of fixed cables and local guides from Alpenglow Expeditions. No experience neededโjust bring your sense of adventure and a healthy respect for heights.
More Ways to Play: Treetops, Bikes, Mini Golf, and More
- Olympic Valley Treetop Adventure Park: Ropes courses for all levels.
- Bike Rentals: Available from June 20, perfect for cruising the Truckee River or heading to the lake.
- The Village: 9-hole mini golf and a bungee-jump trampoline, both just $10 a pop.
Kids Adventure Camp: Mountain Magic for Groms
Starting June 16, Kids Adventure Camp runs Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., for ages 5โ13. Itโs unplugged, hands-on mountain funโnature crafts, scavenger hunts, tram rides, and more. Pricing starts at $160/day or $700 for a five-day block. Ikon Pass holders get 10% off with code IKONSUMMERKIDS (child must be a passholder; bring your pass for check-in).
Events: Live Music, Yoga, Bingo, and Big Races
Weekly Staples:
- Bluesdays: Free blues concerts every Tuesday, 6:00โ8:30 p.m., June 24โAugust 26.
- First Street Yoga: Free outdoor yoga every Wednesday, 5โ6 p.m., July 2โAugust 20. No registrationโjust show up.
- The Great Bingo Revival: Family-friendly bingo with prizes every Thursday, 5โ7 p.m., July 17โAugust 21.
- Sunsets Live Music Series: Free local music on select Fridays, 5โ7 p.m., July 18โAugust 22.
One-Offs and Must-Do Events:
- Big Blue ยฝ Marathon (June 14): Race from Palisades to the Truckee River.
- Broken Arrow Skyrace (June 19โ22): Elite and recreational runners tackle epic Sierra trails, vertical climbs, and post-race celebrations.
- TrailCon (June 24โ25): The heart of trail runningโpanels, keynote, Hall of Fame, vendor village, and more.
- Western States Endurance Run (June 28): The original 100-miler, from Palisades Tahoe to Auburn.
- Wild Lotus Yoga Festival (July 11โ13): Yoga, meditation, and music in the Village.
- Tevis Cup (July 20): The oldest 100-mile endurance trail ride on horseback.
- Brews, Jazz & Funk (August 16): Live music and beer from 10+ breweries.
- Alpen Wine Fest (August 31): 40+ wineries, live music, and mountain views.
- Guitar Strings vs. Chicken Wings (September 5): Six bands and six restaurants battle for โBest Wingsโ and โBest Band.โ
- Adventure Van Expo (September 20โ21): Vendors, live entertainment, food, and beverages.
- Oktoberfest (September 27): German beer, music, dancing, and games.
- Made in Tahoe Festival (October 11โ12): Artisans, workshops, and live performances celebrating all things local.
Full summer schedule available at Palisades Tahoe. All events are subject to change.
Deals & Packages: Save While You Stay and Play
- Ikon Pass holders can save up to 25% on summer lodging through November 30, 2025, in The Village at Palisades Tahoe.
- Bluesdays Lodging Discount: Save 25% on MondayโWednesday night stays for the free music series.
If youโre looking for a summer thatโs equal parts mountain adventure and laid-back Tahoe vibes, Palisades Tahoe is the place to be.