Heavenly Valley Neighborhood Guide

Heavenly Valley History

The history of Heavenly Valley traces back to the indigenous Washoe and Paiute tribes who cherished the area’s natural beauty. They often described one high valley as “heavenly,” a name that later inspired the Heavenly Valley Resort.

The resort opened in December 1955 with the iconic Gunbarrel lift. By 1968, it became the first ski resort to span two states—California and Nevada. The opening of the Gondola in 2000 connected the mountain directly to Heavenly Valley, enhancing the resort’s year-round appeal with scenic and easy access to outdoor activities.

In 2002, Vail Resorts acquired Heavenly, introducing significant improvements to the area and making it one of the most sought-after mountain destinations in the U.S.

Recreation and Activities

• Outdoor Adventure: Heavenly Valley has 4,800 acres of skiable terrain and 30 lifts. The Heavenly Gondola provides stunning views of Lake Tahoe and easy access to the Adventure Peak area, perfect for family-friendly winter activities.
• Parks and Nature: Van Sickle Bi-State Park’s scenic trails are a short walk from Heavenly Valley. The Taylor Creek Visitor Center draws visitors yearly for the October salmon run.
• Water Activities: KJ’s Watersports and Tahoe Blue Adventures offer boat rentals and guided tours, and Lake Tahoe Boat Rides and Action Watersports provide relaxing cruises. However you like to enjoy the water, you’ll find the perfect option.
• Golf: Golfers will love the two top-tier courses nearby. Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course combines challenging play with stunning lake views, while Lake Tahoe Golf Course offers a more relaxed experience amidst towering pines.
• Dining: From gourmet pizzas at Base Camp Pizza Co. to fresh seafood at Kalani’s, there’s something to satisfy every craving in Heavenly Valley.
• Shopping: More than 40 shops provide plenty for shoppers to explore. Local favorites like On Tahoe Time offer Lake Tahoe-themed apparel, while The North Face provides high-quality gear for outdoor adventures.
• Community Events: Free daily live music keeps the energy high, while seasonal events like the Fall Ale Fest bring fun and festivities to the valley.
• Entertainment: Ice skate in the winter or play mini-golf in the summer. And don’t miss the magic shows at The Loft Theatre or the latest films at Heavenly Village Cinema.

Heavenly Valley Real Estate Services

Heavenly Valley’s real estate market offers a range of options, from cozy ski condos to expansive properties with panoramic lake views. The area is highly sought after by those looking for vacation homes that combine proximity to world-class skiing with privacy and luxury. Owning a home here can provide consistent rental income during peak seasons and be an excellent long-term investment. It’s both a lifestyle upgrade and a smart financial choice.

For expert guidance on buying or selling in Heavenly Valley, the River Rock Realty team is here to assist.