The Mothership Classic returned in full force this year, bringing together an incredible community for a day of fun, friendly competition, and giving back. Hosted by High Fives Foundation and Arcade Belts, this beloved event once again transformed Palisades Tahoe into a retro-inspired ski celebration—where it’s not about speed, but about spreading stoke, high-fives, and making a difference.
The day started crisp and icy, but with bluebird skies overhead, spirits were high. Competitors and participants warmed up with Twisted Tree’s morning coffee, fueling up for a full day on the slopes. As the sun climbed, conditions softened, making for beautiful spring skiing in the afternoon—a perfect setting for the 22nd annual Mothership Classic on the legendary KT-22 chairlift.
One of the best parts of the event? The outfits. From throwback ski suits to full-on character costumes, the creativity was on full display. The on-snow presence of The Arch was a highlight, as skiers and riders got their own private line to cruise through—adding to the festive atmosphere.
While some aimed for the most laps, many were all about the most high-fives and smiles. Groups skied together, cheering each other on and embodying the spirit of community that makes this event so special.
This year’s Mothership Classic wasn’t just about fun—it was about making a real impact. And the numbers speak for themselves:
✅ 186 fundraising pages
✅ 149 in-person participants
✅ 9 incredible adaptive athletes
✅ Over $180,000 raised 💥
A massive thank you goes out to everyone who contributed, participated, and supported the cause.
Midday Fuel & Vendor Village Vibes
After a morning of shredding and high-fives, the Fireside Pizza party at lunch was a crowd favorite. Meanwhile, the Vendor Village kept the energy high, with amazing support from sponsors including:
🕶️ Smith Optics
🧥 Flylow Gear
🏂 Arcade Belts
⛷️ K2 Skis
🏔️ RMU
None of this would have been possible without the incredible team from Arcade Belts, the dedicated Palisades Tahoe crew, and, of course, the hardworking lift ops, events teams and volutneers. Their efforts ensured that the day ran smoothly and that everyone could enjoy a memorable, safe, and inspiring event.
There are 2 photo albums from the event, flip through the Alpine Media’s Album HERE and Nate Francis’ album HERE.
See You Next Year!
The Mothership Classic isn’t just a fundraiser or a ski event—it’s a testament to the power of community, resilience, and joy in the mountains. Thank you to everyone who joined, donated, and celebrated. See you in 2026 for another legendary day of spring skiing, high-fives, and impact!
