TRUCKEE, Calif. – Nov. 21, 2012 – On the heels of last weekend’s snowfall and the resort’s successful snowmaking efforts, Northstar announced today skiers and riders will be skiing from the top of the mountain for the first time this season starting Thanksgiving Day.

“The combination of recent snowfall and our snowmaking efforts are allowing us to open to the top of the mountain in time for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend,” said Bill Rock, Northstar’s chief operating officer. “We are committed to consistently delivering the highest quality snow surface in the region, and will continue to open more terrain as conditions permit. We’re pleased to be able to offer skiers and riders access to eight more intermediate and advanced trails on the front side of the mountain starting Thursday.”

With the addition of the Comstock Express lift, the resort will be turning seven lifts, providing access to 15 beginner, intermediate and advanced trails with an 18-inch base. The eight trails expected to open on Thanksgiving include East Ridge, Delight, Dutchman, The Chute, Lower Powder Bowl, Tonini’s, Lower Grouse Alley and The Flume. The Summit Deck & Grille will also open for the season, allowing guests to dine at the top of the mountain. Daily ski school instruction and on-mountain dining at the Big Springs Day Lodge are also available to resort guests.

The Tahoe Local Pass remains unmatched in value, price and experience with access to more than 263 trails, 14 terrain parks and 10,270 acres of some of the best terrain in the world at Northstar, Heavenly and Kirkwood in California and Nevada 7 days-a-week with limited holiday restrictions. For just $459, the Tahoe Local Pass pays for itself after just four days and then passholders are skiing or riding for free the rest of the season. Season passes are on sale until December 2, 2012.

The lowest-price guarantee on lift tickets is available through the PEAKS 3-Day Advance ticket when purchased at least three days in advance online at www.northstarcalifornia.com/tickets or through Vail Resorts Central Reservations. With the PEAKS 3-Day Advance, skiers and riders can save up to 25 percent vs. the window rate.

Shops and restaurants in the Village at Northstar are open, and the resort’s new Tavern 6330’ recently debuted with a California-fresh twist on American classics, signature drinks for après ski and a bar just steps away from the last run of the day. The resort’s 9,000 square foot outdoor skating rink is also open from 12pm-9pm daily (conditions permitting), with skate rentals available for $10.

Those interested in planning a trip to Northstar can take advantage of the 3-2-1 Countdown to December package featuring three nights of lodging, two days of skiing/riding per person, and a $50 resort gift card. This offer is valid daily from December 1-24, 2012 and starts at $89 per person, per night. Some restrictions apply.

For the latest snow conditions and upcoming event information, visit www.NorthstarCalifornia.com or call the snow phone at 530.562.1330.