Homewood defines Tahoe charm. With seven lifts, 60 runs and 1,650 feet of vertical, it’s dinky by Squaw standards, but the resort compensates for its size with a prime location and beautiful lake views—Homewood is closer to the water than any other resort in the Tahoe Basin. With a small local following, the slopes rarely get crowded. Arrive at 1 p.m. on a powder day, and you can still get fresh lines for the rest of the afternoon. Make sure to run some laps beneath the high-speed quad on the backside. For a challenge, hike out to Hobbit Face and plow the double-black powder. True, Homewood’s base facilities are a bit dated, but not for long. The owners hope to break ground soon on a boutique hotel and a new village designed to resemble a town square; skihomewood.com.