How close are you to Heavenly ski resort?
Rainbow Mountain is conveniently located on Ski Run Boulevard on the way to Heavenly. Ski area access is approximately one half mile up the street.

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What ski areas are around Lake Tahoe?
There are over 20 ski areas around the lake. The big six are Heavenly, Squaw, Kirkwood, Northstar, Sierra-at-Tahoe, and Alpine Meadows. Heavenly, Kirkwood, and Sierra-at-Tahoe being closer to the South Shore and Squaw, Alpine, and Northstar situated on the North Shore.

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How long does it take to drive to the North Shore resorts?
Given normal winter driving conditions it usually takes about one hour and twenty minutes to drive to any of the North Shore resorts. The Tahoe Queen (big 400 passenger boat) also has daily departures to the North Shore with bus connections to Alpine and Squaw. This is an entire day's trip (depart approx. 7:00am and return back approx. 7:00pm) but certainly a unique excursion.

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Is there public transportation to all the ski areas in Lake Tahoe?
Each of the big six resorts have bus transportation that departs from central South Lake Tahoe locations and hotels.

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What is the winter weather like in Lake Tahoe?
Winter weather changes dramatically in a short period of time. Generally speaking, our weather is much milder than Utah, the Rockies, or the eastern ski resorts. The California Sierra Nevada Mountains are noted for huge amounts of snow fall accompanied by clear blue skies and reasonably mild temperatures (not frigid cold). Of course, one must remember that weather is unpredictable and anything can happen.

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Does Rainbow Mountain carry shaped (parabolic) skis?
Yes, we have a huge selection of shaped skis. We have picked out models that will match and benefit skiers at every ability. Rainbow Mountain inventory is 80% new each year. This assures you that you are getting quality equipment that is well maintained.

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Do you carry snowboards?
Yes, we carry new snowboards from K2 and Burton. Our Performance Package includes K2 Boards,with K2 Boots and Burton Strap Bindings. Our Demo Package includes Burton Boards, Burton Boots and Burton Strap Bindings.

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Does it take very long to rent equipment?
Usually not, especially if you pre-purchase your rentals for 20% savings!.

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I don't know how many days I'm going to ski/board. How do you charge for your rentals?
With over thirty years in the rental business, Rainbow Mountain knows there are a lot of variables that influence how many days a person skis. Therefore, (if not purchasing an online voucher) we will not collect payment from you until you have completed your ski vacation. You are only charged you for the type of package you rented and for the number of days you had the equipment out.

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I'm arriving into Reno, how long does it take to get to South Lake Tahoe?
If you are renting a car, drive time is approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. Upon leaving the airport, take US 395 South towards Carson City, go through Carson City and turn right onto US 50 to South Lake Tahoe.

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I'll be arriving in the afternoon, can I get my rentals the night before?
Certainly, we are conveniently open until 7:30 pm everyday (beginning Dec. 15). There is no additional charge for renting the night before (between 2 - 7:30 pm).

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I have skied a few times each year for a few years, are those new shaped (parabolic skis worth trying)?
You bet, these skis have been designed to help you progress and perfect a carving turn versus a sliding turn. When a skier begins to feel a carving turn their level of confidence improves and the control and sensation that goes along with this technique is exhilarating. Beginners to experts enjoy shaped skis.

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What happens if I call the 800 number and I get a voice mail?
We do not staff our 800 number continuously. Please leave a message and we will return your call in a timely manner. We do provide excellent customer service and will make your ski or board rental experience as efficient and pleasurable as we can.

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