Homewood Mountain Resort’s old motto was “our skiing is out of sight.” Though the slogan, like the resort, has been updated, its essence is still accurate. Tucked into Tahoe’s west shore, most of the area extends beyond the three runs visible from the lakeside parking lot. Speaking of views, the entire upper mountain offers vistas of that large, sparkling lake.

Bought in 2006 by the same real estate investors who handle San Francisco’s Ghirardelli Square, the company also took over Alpine Meadows this winter. Big changes are afoot for the now-sister resorts, with Homewood scheduling future slope-side condos, an ice rink and retail shops in a walking village. Plans also include a new 40,000 square foot base lodge to house dining, rentals and ski school.

On the hill:

• The skiing:
Opened originally in 1959, this mid-size family resort has always had good bones, which the new owners recognized over its dilapidated infrastructure. Over 55 runs include 20 very capable black diamond choices and a plethora of blue squares. Beginners shouldn’t be fazed by those expert runs seen from down below - there’s ample easy terrain on the main mountain, Homeward Bound is a nice meander back to the base and the younger crowd (or limber, older) will enjoy the Shredwood Forest Terrain Park.

• The Lift Time:
Heading into their second winter of new ownership, this season unveils a new high-speed quad chair (that’s the name, Quad Chair), which shaves the ride time from 19 down to five minutes. In all, the resort has eight lifts spread over 59 runs.

Long reputed as weather sheltered, Homewood is the calmer haven when other resorts will be on wind hold. Beware, if driving from the south shore, that those very same storms will often close Highway 89 around Emerald Bay.

• Runs to steer clear of:
Beginners need to know that the only green circle run back to base puts you in the South Lodge. The runs at North Lodge visible from the road are all rated black diamond, but intermediates can find two blue runs back to the bottom. Lombard Street or Last Resort are gentler choices for end-of-day legs.

Off the hill:

On weekends, the South Lodge deck serves up barbecue, but this isn’t your Uncle Louie’s cinder-infused barbecue. Homewood takes it up a notch, grilling top sirloin and oak-fired chicken, plus all the fixings. Also weekends only, the Mid-Mountain Pavilion is a local’s favorite for enjoying an adult beverage while soaking up some deck time and views of Lake Tahoe.

Of course, food is available mid-week inside the North and South lodges. The North Lodge grills up hot panini sandwiches, served with either pesto or chipotle sauce. Or try the sports bar next door, with flat screen televisions, so you can still catch the game after a full day on the hill.

• Retail shops:
A retail shop is open daily at the North Lodge (the one directly on Highway 89), and offers the little bits and pieces left behind like sunscreen, glove liners and goggles.

• Rentals:
Again at the North Lodge, snowboard and ski rentals are available for all ages, every day. For juniors enrolled in Homewood’s Snow Rangers Academy, ski and snowboard rentals can be done at the South Lodge in the Children’s Center. There, the registration desk opens daily at 8:30 a.m.

• Lessons:
For adults (13 and up), group lessons start at 10 a.m. each day. Those new to the sport should try the package, which includes a 90-minute lesson, beginner lift ticket (upgradeable after class) and gear rental. Those savvy to skiing and riding, but new to the resort, can book private lessons from 9 a.m. every day. This way, an hour can provide skill tips combined with a competent tour guide.

If you crave the old, humble Homewood feel, visit soon; but if you prefer the experience of a suave, polished ultra-resort, simply wait a few years. Either way, the skiing and riding at Homewood will always be ’outta sight.

See it in our guide.

See today's snow conditions.