How to get from
Palisades Tahoe to Reno Tahoe Airport (RNO)
Adults
Age 13+Children
Age 0-12Route details
Distance:
58 km / 36 miles
Driving Time:
1hr
*Subject to weather and traffic conditions.
Shared Shuttles may take longer
People often ask
The drive from Palisades Tahoe to Reno–Tahoe International Airport (RNO) typically takes 50–70 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. Travel times are usually shortest outside weekend peak periods and storm days.
In winter, delays are common on Highway 89 and I-80, so it’s smart to build in extra time if snow is expected.
There is a shuttle that runs from Palisades Tahoe to RNO throughout the winter with multiple departures daily. The Shuttle services most major hotels and the village centre and drops you off directly at the airport.
Shuttles are a popular choice for skiers who don't want to deal with winter driving or rental cars
The most convenient option is a pre-booked shuttle or private transfer, which offers door-to-door service and avoids the hassle of navigating snowy mountain roads. Shuttles are cost-effective for solo travellers, while private vehicles provide more flexibility and faster travel times as well as being good for larger groups and families.
Both choices are ideal if you’re carrying ski gear or travelling during peak winter weather.
You can, but availability in the resort area is inconsistent—especially early in the morning, late at night, or during storms. Pricing often surges during busy travel days, making rideshares more expensive than a scheduled shuttle or private transfer.
If you need guaranteed transportation to make a flight, booking ahead is the safer option.
Most travellers allow 3–3.5 hours before their flight time: about 1–1.5 hours for the drive (longer in winter) and 1.5–2.5 hours to clear airport check-in and security.
On storm days, you may need to leave even earlier, as chain controls, slow traffic, or temporary closures on I-80 can significantly extend travel times.
The earliest shuttle departure is 6:45 am and the latest is 5:45pm. If you need to travel outside of these times it's best to book a private transfer.
About travelling from Palisades Tahoe, CA to Reno Tahoe International Airport (RNO)
Nestled in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, Palisades Tahoe is the largest ski resort in the Tahoe region, offering more than 6,000 acres of terrain across its two linked mountains — Palisades and Alpine Meadows. Famous for hosting the 1960 Winter Olympics, the resort is often hailed as the birthplace of extreme skiing in the United States thanks to its expansive alpine bowls, steep faces, glades, gullies, and long cruiser runs. Yet, beginners and intermediate skiers and snowboarders are also well-served, particularly on Alpine Meadows, which has a gentler slope and sweeping views of Lake Tahoe. Visitors can enjoy generous snowfall, smooth turns, and plenty of powder days.
Off the mountain, the Olympic Museum at High Camp tells the story of the Games with memorabilia and exhibitions, while the village comes alive with lively après-ski bars, music, and events throughout the year. Après favourites include Timberline Bar for drinks, Hearthstone Café for casual dining, and La Vida Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Lounge for relaxed meals. Morning coffee stops like Bean & Barrel or Lakeside Coffee Co. are popular for fueling up before hitting the slopes. On Alpine Meadows’ side, the vibe is quieter and more relaxed, with Summit Lodge and a few slope-side cafés perfect for warming up.
During the summer, Palisades Tahoe shifts focus to festivals and outdoor fun. The Tahoe Artisan Festival spotlights local makers, while the Adventure Film Tour brings top outdoor films to mountain audiences. Hikers can take the Aerial Tram or Shirley Canyon Trail to High Camp for panoramic vistas and easy-access alpine trails that pass waterfalls, lakes, and rugged peaks.
When you’re wrapping up your trip, Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is the most convenient place to fly out of, sitting just an hour from Palisades Tahoe. Ridebooker can get you back to the airport without dealing with rental cars, winter roads, or the stress of driving yourself. We offer shuttles as well as private options like taxis, SUVs, and vans for larger groups. You can also depart from Sacramento Airport (SMF) or San Francisco Airport (SFO), but RNO remains the quickest and easiest choice for most travellers.