Kirkwood Calif.: SIGNPOST

Kirkwood Mountain Resort

2,300 skiable acres, not including out-of-bounds terrain; 2,000 vertical feet; summit elevation 9,800 feet; 500 annual inches; 65 trails; 12 lifts, including one high-speed quad. Lift tickets: adults $59; teens (13-18) $47; children (6-12) $13; 5 and under $6. All rates increase $3 during holiday periods.

Lodging

All lodging is booked through Kirkwood Vacations (800-967-7500; kirkwood.com/lodging). The Lodge at Kirkwood offers one- and two-bedroom condos at the base of the mountain, each with kitchens and fireplaces ($325-$579). The Mountain Club has its own fitness center and hot tub, and features hotel-style rooms, studios and one-bedroom condos ($205-$619). The newest in the village is the Meadowstone Lodge, across the street from the slopes, with two- and three-bedroom luxury condos boasting stone fireplaces, glass showers and modern kitchens ($425-$619).

Dining

The 141-year-old Kirkwood Inn, located just outside the resort’s entrance, is a local fave where the hearty comfort food is served in heaping portions (209-258-7304). Sorensen’s, a year-round log cabin resort about 20 minutes from Kirkwood, offers a Continental menu and a more refined ambience (800-423-9949). The Wall Bar & Grill is the best option for a good meal at the resort (209-258-7365).

Don’t Miss

Sign up for Expedition Kirkwood’s backcountry clinic ($125 per person, includes lift ticket), catskiing ($100), steeps camp ($120-$230) or a backcountry tour (from $150) at 209-258-7360.

Getting There From the Reno-Tahoe airport, take U.S. 395 South to Highway 88 West to the resort. From South Lake Tahoe, use Highway 89 South to Highway 88 West to the resort.

Information 209-258-6000; kirkwood.com. Snow phone: 877-547-5966

MARCH/APRIL 2005