When I first moved to Lake Tahoe nearly 20 years ago, the city of Reno had a reputation as a faded Las Vegas that was down on its luck. It was the city that was not on the radar of any skier I had talked to despite its close proximity to world-class skiing. But that has all changed.
This oft-overlooked city, nestled in the shadow of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the country. And if that’s not enough of a reason to grab your interest, here are some other points we like about the “Biggest Little City in the World.”
Image by Aaron Feen
Reno is located just down the hill from some of the best ski resorts in the country, including Palisades Tahoe, Northstar, and Heavenly. These resorts offer a wide variety of terrain, from steep chutes to wide-open groomers, and there’s something for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. And with an average of over 300 inches of snowfall per year, there’s no shortage of fresh powder to play in.
But it’s not just the skiing and snowboarding that makes Reno a great place to live. The city is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with plenty of opportunities to see live music, theater, and art exhibitions. And if you’re a foodie, you’ll be in heaven – Reno is home to some of the best restaurants in the state, serving up everything from traditional Basque cuisine to modern farm-to-table fare.
Another great thing about Reno is its affordability. While housing prices have risen in recent years, the city is still significantly more affordable than other major ski destinations. And with no state income tax, you’ll get to keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket.
But perhaps most importantly, Reno is a city that’s committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The city has made a commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, and there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in local environmental activism and advocacy. And with the beautiful Lake Tahoe just a short drive away, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy and protect the natural beauty of the area.
You can literally see the Chutes @ Mt Rose from downtown Reno.
Of course, no city is perfect, and Reno does have its downsides. The city can get hot in the summer, with temperatures often reaching into the triple digits. And while the skiing and snowboarding opportunities are world-class, the snowpack can be inconsistent in some years. But these downsides are far outweighed by the benefits of living in Reno, and there are plenty of ways to beat the heat and enjoy the area’s natural beauty even when the snow is thin.
So if you’re on the hunt for a ski town that feels more like a city, Reno is an excellent choice.