How to get from
Heavenly to Reno Tahoe Airport (RNO)
Adults
Age 13+Children
Age 0-12Route details
Distance:
93 km / 58 miles
Driving Time:
1hr 15mins
*Subject to weather and traffic conditions.
Shared Shuttles may take longer
Return Route:
People often ask
The journey from Heavenly Ski Resort in South Lake Tahoe to Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) usually takes 1 to 1.25 hours in good conditions. The route follows US-50 out of the Tahoe basin before joining US-395 north toward Reno.
In winter, travel times can increase due to snowfall, chain controls, or holiday traffic. It’s wise to allow extra time during peak ski season, especially for early-morning or evening flights.
Yes, shuttle services operate from Heavenly and South Lake Tahoe to Reno-Tahoe Airport. Ridebooker offers both shared shuttles and private transfers, providing door-to-door service from hotels and vacation rentals.
Shuttles are a popular choice for ski travelers who want to avoid winter driving, parking, and unpredictable road conditions.
Most travelers should plan to leave Heavenly at least 3 to 3.5 hours before their scheduled departure time. This allows for the drive, potential winter delays, and airport check-in time.
For early-morning flights or during busy weekends and storms, leaving even earlier provides a safer buffer and reduces stress.
The easiest and most reliable option is a pre-booked shuttle or private transfer. This removes the need to drive in winter conditions and ensures a scheduled pickup timed to your flight.
Private transfers are faster, work to your schedule and will drop you off wherever you like, while shared shuttles offer a more budget-friendly alternative that picks up from most hotels in the resort.
Both options mean you will be driven by proffessional drivers that are used to the roads and conditions in vehicles that are prepared for them with appropriate tires.
Uber and Lyft do operate in South Lake Tahoe, but availability for longer trips to Reno can be unpredictable, especially early in the morning or during snowstorms. Prices may surge, and drivers may cancel due to distance or road conditions.
For time-sensitive airport travel, most visitors prefer a scheduled shuttle or private transfer rather than relying on rideshare apps.
The earliest shuttle from Ridebooker leaves at 7am and the latest is at 8pm. Early bookings is recommended as these time slots tend to fill quickly during busy periods. For travel outside of these hours, a private transfer is required.
Yes, booking in advance is strongly recommended—particularly during peak ski season, holidays, and weekends. Last-minute availability can be limited, and prices may be higher closer to departure.
Pre-booking secures your pickup time, locks in pricing, and gives peace of mind when traveling in winter conditions.
About travelling from Heavenly, CA to Reno Tahoe International Airport (RNO)
Perched on the California–Nevada state line, Heavenly Mountain Resort earns its reputation with massive lake views and sprawling terrain. The mountain covers 4,800 acres, blending sheltered glades, wide boulevards of groomed snow, and steeper lines off areas like Milky Way Bowl and Galaxy for those who want more of a challenge. Intermediates have a field day here, with blue runs that roll on for miles and link different parts of the resort. From the top, Lake Tahoe dominates the horizon providing an iconic view that’s hard to beat, especially when the sun lights up fresh snowfall.
Heavenly’s base is split between the two states. On the California side, Heavenly Village is the main hub, with the gondola ascending right from the centre of town. This is where most visitors gravitate for rentals, après, and food. Blue Dog Pizza stays busy well into the evening, Kalani’s serves up a more upscale dinner, and California Burger Co. is a reliable après hangout. On the mountain, spots like Sky Deck and California Lodge keep lunch breaks quick and easy.
When the snow melts, the resort pivots to sightseeing, hiking, and lake adventures. The Scenic Gondola opens access to forest trails and panoramic lookouts, and the Van Sickle Trail network is within walking distance from Heavenly Village. Down by the lake, people flock to paddleboard, swim, or rent boats. Summer events like Brews, Jazz & Funk Fest, Live at the Bijou, and outdoor movie nights bring an easygoing, festive atmosphere to South Lake Tahoe.
Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is the most practical place to fly out of when you’re wrapping up a trip to Heavenly. With Ridebooker handling your return transfer, you can skip the hassle of arranging a rental car or navigating the mountain roads yourself. Professional local drivers handle the journey along U.S. Highway 50 and through the high desert around Reno. The trip usually takes about an hour, depending on the weather. Since Heavenly’s village is walkable and fully connected by shuttles, most visitors never need a car during their stay — making a door-to-door transfer the easiest way to get back to RNO for your flight.