Scout loves
- True ski-in/ski-out access to Northstar California Resort.
- Elegant mountain lodge design with cozy fireplaces and sweeping alpine views.
- Exceptional service and après-ski atmosphere with slope-side fire pits.
- Renowned spa featuring a heated outdoor pool and whirlpool.
- Excellent dining options including Manzanita and the Backyard Bar & BBQ.
Scout tips
- Rooms facing the slopes offer the best views—worth the upgrade.
- Expect a resort fee that covers Wi-Fi, valet parking, and shuttle service.
- The mountain-side location means limited nightlife nearby.
- Dining is on the pricier side but matches the quality and service.
- Take advantage of the complimentary shuttle to Northstar Village for shopping and après-ski.
SCOUT REVIEW
The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe is the pinnacle of alpine luxury in Northstar, California. Perched mid-mountain with direct ski-in/ski-out access, this five-star retreat caters perfectly to travelers who want to blend upscale comfort with mountain adventure. The design channels a refined lodge aesthetic—think stone fireplaces, warm timber beams, and plush furnishings that make it feel both grand and inviting.
The hotel’s standout feature is its effortless access to Northstar’s slopes. Guests can step out from the ski concierge terrace, clip in, and be skiing within moments. The dedicated ski valet takes care of everything—warming boots, storing gear, and even handing you your skis as you head out the door. After a day on the mountain, unwind at the sprawling Ritz-Carlton Spa, soak in the outdoor hot tubs under the snowflakes, or sip a craft cocktail by the outdoor fire pits while watching skiers descend the slopes.
Dining is another highlight. Manzanita, the signature restaurant, serves sophisticated California mountain cuisine in a stylish yet relaxed setting. The Backyard Bar & BBQ is ideal for a more casual post-ski meal, offering hearty comfort food and a lively outdoor vibe. Guest rooms and suites feature luxurious bedding, deep soaking tubs, and fireplaces, many with stunning views over the mountains or forest.
While the resort’s secluded mountain setting ensures peace and quiet, guests can easily reach Northstar Village via a quick shuttle for more dining, ice skating, and après-ski options. Whether you’re here for a romantic escape, a family ski vacation, or a luxe mountain retreat, the Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe delivers the perfect balance of adventure and indulgence.
Who should stay here
Luxury travelers, couples, and families seeking five-star comfort, top-tier service, and seamless ski-in/ski-out convenience at Northstar.
Location
Set mid-mountain at Northstar California Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe offers prime ski-in/ski-out access directly to the slopes via the Highlands Gondola. The hotel is just a 15-minute shuttle or gondola ride from Northstar Village, where guests will find shops, dining, and après-ski fun. Truckee is about 15 minutes away by car, and Lake Tahoe’s north shore is a 20–30 minute drive, making it easy to explore the wider region while still feeling tucked away in the mountains.
- Ski-in Ski-out or slopeside
About Northstar
Northstar California Resort is one of the lesser known Tahoe ski resorts, so most people who come here are pleasantly surprised. The resort has undergone gigantic improvements in recent years and the European-style village is now a vibrant and happening place that has a wonderful homely feel. There’s a variety of accommodation options, shops, bars and restaurants on pedestrian-only walkways that meander around buildings and an ice-skating rink. Oh, and the skiing is pretty good too!
Read more about Northstar and other hotels in the area.
Hotel Amenities
- arcade/game room
- babysitting or childcare
- beauty services
- children's club
- concierge services
- dry cleaning/laundry service
- elevator/lift
- full-service health spa
- gift shops or newsstand
- hair salon
- health club
- massage - spa treatment room(s)
- pets allowed
- porter/bellhop
- room service (24 hours)
- safe-deposit box at front desk
- sauna
- shopping on site
- ski storage
- ski-in/ski-out access
- smoke-free property
- spa services on site
- spa tub
- steam room
- supervised childcare/activities
- swimming pool - children's
- swimming pool - outdoor
- valet parking (surcharge)
Available: This selection is currently available for this price. Once you submit an inquiry our agents will confirm your booking via email and send you an invoice for a deposit. You will need to pay a 25% deposit within 7 days (unless otherwise specified) to secure the booking.
On Request: Our agents need to confirm availability of this room. Once you submit a request we will endeavour to get back to you by the next business day to confirm availability (some properties may take longer). If prices are listed they are the exact prices for your dates, room selection and room occupancy. Where prices are not listed we will confirm the price when we confirm availability. In either instance, you are not committed to your selection until after we confirm availability and price. Once you agree to that confirmation, you will be sent an invoice and will need to pay a 25% deposit within 7 days (unless otherwise specified) to secure the booking. If your requested room is not available, we will present alternative options.
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