I've actually taken this on existing infrastructure (Amtrak has a bus from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe). The train to Sacramento from San Jose takes at least

I've actually taken this on existing infrastructure (Amtrak has a bus from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe). The train to Sacramento from San Jose takes at least 3 hours and the bus takes another 3 (in winter weather). It's not terrible if you want to go to Heavenly but would be completely useless if you wanted to go anywhere else. Also, last mile transportation in San Jose/SV, especially if you were carrying around skis would be a pain. Add in the fact that it costs $60 each way and it just isn't worth it. There used to be ski busses that did the route (and presumably would take you right to the slopes) but I have no idea if they still run. Those seem like a much better option.