A Winter Escape Close to Home: Experience Lee Canyon, Just 45 Minutes from Las Vegas

When Las Vegas locals want a true winter experience without a long drive, Lee Canyon delivers. Located just 45–60 minutes from the city, this alpine retreat offers fresh mountain air, snowy slopes, and a full-day getaway that feels far removed from everyday routines—yet close enough to enjoy anytime. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Lee Canyon makes it easy to turn a free morning or weekend into a memorable day on the mountain.

Because it’s so close, locals can head up early, enjoy the snow, and still be home by dinner.

The New Hillside Lodge Changes the Game

Lee Canyon has elevated the local mountain experience with the debut of the Hillside Lodge, a 10,000-square-foot, two-story facility designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and connection to the outdoors. With modern architecture that blends seamlessly into the landscape, the lodge offers sweeping views of the canyon from both indoor and outdoor spaces.

The heated outdoor terrace and patio dining areas create the perfect place to relax between runs, while the ski-in, ski-out bar has quickly become a go-to spot for locals meeting up for après-ski. In fact, it’s already being called one of the best après scenes around, offering a laid-back mountain vibe just outside the city.

Better Food, More Comfort, Easier Days

Inside the Hillside Lodge, guests will find a refreshed bistro with reimagined food and beverage options designed to satisfy a range of tastes. In addition, the on-site grill serves familiar resort favorites, making it easy to refuel and head back out. Expanded restroom facilities further improve the overall experience, especially on busy winter days.

As a result, Lee Canyon now feels less like a quick stop and more like a true mountain hub.

New Lifts Mean More Time on the Slopes

Lee Canyon has also expanded its terrain and accessibility with two new lifts, giving locals more options and smoother flow throughout the mountain. The Ponderosa chairlift, a Skytrac fixed-grip quad, spans 1,500 feet and moves up to 1,800 riders per hour. Located on the southeast side of the mountain, it serves popular runs like Bonanza Ridge, Foxtail Alley, and Limber Pine Lane, making it ideal for skiers and snowboarders looking to build confidence and improve technique.

Meanwhile, the Alpenglow surface lift offers a gentle, beginner-friendly introduction to the slopes. Because it’s designed specifically for new riders, it helps locals ease into winter sports without feeling overwhelmed.

Smarter Access, Shorter Lines

To keep everything running efficiently, Lee Canyon introduced RFID lift access gates that automatically scan passes stored in your pocket. This technology reduces lift lines and eliminates manual scanning, allowing guests to move seamlessly from run to run. With lift operators focused fully on operations, the entire experience feels smoother and more relaxed.

Simply put, you spend more time riding and less time waiting.

A Major Investment in a Local Favorite

With a $17 million investment, Lee Canyon has undergone a remarkable transformation that directly benefits the local community. From upgraded facilities and dining to new lifts and modern technology, every improvement enhances the winter experience for Southern Nevada residents.

Make Lee Canyon Part of Your Winter Routine

You don’t have to leave the state—or even the region—to enjoy winter in the mountains. Lee Canyon offers Las Vegas locals an easy, reliable, and rewarding way to ski, ride, relax, and reconnect with the outdoors all season long. Grab your gear, plan a day up the mountain, and experience winter—right in your own backyard.

🌄 Road Trip from Las Vegas to Yosemite via Tioga Pass – Your High Sierra Winter Escape Starts Here | Start planning your road trip from Las Vegas to Yosemite via Tioga Pass and turn a winter drive into an unforgettable High Sierra adventure. Check road conditions, map your stops, and hit the road when the mountains are calling.