Diamond Peak at 60: A Tahoe Tradition

By Kirsten Alexis | Wednesday, December 10, 2025

On November 19, 1966, Ski Incline began what would become a legacy in the Lake Tahoe skiing industry.

Developed by Art Wood and Harold Tiller and designed by legendary U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame member and resort consultant Luggi Foeger, Ski Incline was the first ski resort in the western United States to utilize man-made snowmaking systems, providing skiers with incredible conditions throughout the season.

Now operating as Diamond Peak Ski Resort, the locally loved Incline Village resort prides itself on being community-owned and -operated, providing skiers and snowboarders access to an inclusive environment and world-class terrain for everyone on the mountain to enjoy and make safe and steady progress.

What Makes Diamond Peak Unique: Terrain, Tree Runs and a Welcoming Vibe

“The grooming is fantastic, and we are often getting feedback from skiers saying it’s some of the best they’ve ever skied,” says Paul Raymore, marketing manager for Diamond Peak Ski Resort. “Diamond Peak also has some of the best tree runs in Tahoe, and on a powder day the glade zones are the place to be. You can usually find powder stashes days after a storm if you know where to look.”

A laid-back and welcoming atmosphere sets Diamond Peak apart from the larger ski resorts in the region. Here, you can walk right from the parking lot to the chairlift and never have to wait too long in line, even on the busy holidays and weekends. Non-skiers are welcome too, and they often like to gather on the sun deck of the Base Lodge and enjoy delicious food, drinks, live music and DJs.

This relaxed environment makes it an ideal place for beginner and intermediate skiers, as there are a multitude of gentle runs and passionate and experienced instructors eager to help you gain confidence and make progress.

Many first-timers choose Diamond Peak because it is less intimidating, and they can get easy access to private or small group lessons.

Lessons for Beginners and Intermediates: How Diamond Peak Helps You Progress Safely

In a first-time ski or snowboard lesson, you will get a chance to learn the fundamentals in a safe, dedicated area with your instructor. Here, you will learn about your gear, proper form and how to turn and stop correctly to get you confident and ready for the slopes.

“As you progress, they teach you the fundamentals on terrain within your level so you can build a strong foundation and be able to practice on your own and improve safely,” Raymore says. “Then we recommend folks get acquainted with our trail progression chart, designed to help you learn which trails to start with and which trails to try next, allowing skiers and riders to work their way up from the easiest to more difficult terrain."

Iconic Lake Tahoe Views and Community Events at Diamond Peak’s 60th Anniversary

Last, but not certainly least, there are the unparalleled views of Lake Tahoe – this is what Diamond Peak is famous for! – which can be seen from nearly every run. If you’re looking for the best views, Raymore shares that they can be found at the top of Crystal Ridge and Snowflake Lodge.

“Crystal Ridge is our iconic trail from the summit,” he says, “which is probably the most photographed because the views of Lake Tahoe are unreal. It almost feels like you’re going to ski right into the lake! For those who aren’t ready to go to the top, Snowflake Lodge, our mid-mountain lodge accessed via Lakeview Chair, is a great place for intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders to take a break and enjoy the views with a cocoa or cocktail in hand.”

Every year, Diamond Peak engages with the community in local events, including those hosted at their resort such as the Luggi Foeger Uphill/Downhill Festival, Ullr Fest and Dummy Downhill. These events provide a wonderful chance to test your skills and get to know the locals and visitors who continue to make Diamond Peak their home resort. It’s definitely hard to leave before closing time!

This year, in honor of their 60th “Diamond” Anniversary, Diamond Peak will be celebrating with a multitude of exciting community events, nostalgic ski gear giveaways and $60 lift tickets on select dates. They will also be gathering photos, stories and old memorabilia to share throughout their resort, website and social media accounts.

If you have any photos and memories from your time at Diamond Peak, share them to celebrate this incredible milestone!

 

More Info:
diamondpeak.com

Special Deals: 
diamondpeak.com/news/60th-anniversary-parties-promotions

Buy Tickets:
diamondpeak.com/tickets-passes-rentals


About the Author Kirsten Alexis
Kirsten is an outdoor adventure enthusiast, writer and photographer. You can typically find her hiking, paddleboarding, cross-country skiing and checking out new spots to share in the Tahoe Donner region. She has been lucky to call Tahoe her second home since she was a child and aims to inspire people to experience Tahoe and fall in love with the beauty and adventurous spirit of the region through her blogs and content.