Sugar 'N' Spice at Sierra at Tahoe

The 2.5 mile "slow zone" run at the beginner-friendly Sierra at Tahoe is also a wide run where you can practice turns as well as stopping and speed control. There are lots of other beginners on this slight slope and skiing it about 3 to 4 times during your visit is enough to get you ready for some more advanced slopes. // sierraattahoe.com

This 2.5-mile beginner run Sierra at Tahoe is a great way to learn the fundamentals of skiing and riding. It starts out with an almost imperceptible gradient that turns into a wide, gentle groomer where you can practice turns, stopping, and speed control. There are also beginner trails off of the Easy Rider lift, as well as magic carpet bunny slope assists. Check out the special online rates for first-timers. // sierraattahoe.com

Around the World at Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe

One of the best beginner areas in the region is at Mt. Rose-Ski Tahoe, on the North Shore. At 2,621-feet, Around the World is a lengthy beginner run that gives you ample time to practice your turns. Access it, and the rest of the sizeable beginner area, via the Galena chair. // skirose.com

Upper Main Street at Northstar California

Northstar, near Truckee, offers a “Green Run Guarantee” that promises if you haven’t learned to ski or snowboard a qualifying beginner run in three lessons, the fourth lesson is free. Take the gondola up to the ski and snowboard school, located at the base of the Big Easy lift at mid-mountain; there are also magic carpets. Once you’ve mastered the basics, hop the Arrow Express lift and take the long way back to base via Upper Main Street, which morphs into the Lower Main Street and Village runs. // northstarcalifornia.com

Rainbow Ridge at Homewood

At Homewood near Tahoe City, you don't have to be an advanced skier to get great views. Rainbow Ridge is the resort’s signature run, a two-mile gentle groomer that extends from the summit to the top of the Madden Triple Chair. Access it via the Old Homewood Express lift. Bonus: Homewood is where the locals ski when they want a break from the crowds, and the resort’s “Where the mountains meet the lake” slogan makes for a unique snow sport experience. Don’t miss out because this is the resort’s last season as a public ski area. // skihomewood.com

Lupine to Mountain Run at Palisades Tahoe

Although known for its steeps, cliffs and back bowls, Palisades—formerly Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows—is also one of the best ski areas in the nation for beginners. Twenty-five percent of the resort is dedicated to servicing those just starting out, and there are also ski and snowboard lessons for all levels and ages. Take the tram to High Camp at mid-mountain, which gives you access to lifts that will take you to an array of short, high-elevation green runs. Ready for something longer? From High Camp, take Lupine to Mountain Run. At the Base Area, the Palisades Tahoe Kids center has magic carpets for littles and first timers. // palisadestahoe.com