Squaw Valley
There is that time of year dreaded by some yet welcomed by others...Wintertime.While a time of freezing temperatures and constant travel advisories in most of the country, in California we are blessed to have a much milder weather pattern. This of course comes with its share of issues such as the rain at the lower elevations and the snow over the mountains, however with temperatures almost always above freezing and even our share of sunny 60 degree plus days, we should be grateful.
For those of us in San Francisco or the Greater Bay Area, we have access to one of the most beautiful and accessible mountain playgrounds in the country, Lake Tahoe. Accessible by major highways (Highway conditions found here) in all but the heaviest of snowstorms, this paradise roughly four hours east of San Francisco offers access to beautiful scenery, excellent accommodations and food to fit whatever your needs are.
Most people think of Tahoe in the winter as a haven for skiers and snowboarders, and while this is true there are also a number of activities that are both easily practiced and inexpensive for the whole family. If you plan to go up and are traveling with a family or are possibly learning to ski, I would recommend avoiding the major resorts and opting for one of the lesser known options. While I am a big fan of Squaw, Kirkwood, and Alpine and that do offer almost every service imaginable, by going to one of the more family oriented resorts such as Homewood or Sierra at Tahoe they are usually less expensive and cater to a beginner to average skier clientele.
For those of you not interested in skiing or snowboarding there are numerous options from the active outdoors to indoors sipping warm beverages and snuggling by a fire. Here are just a few.
On your way or during your stay, head over to Truckee and visit one of the many restaurants while shopping in this historic mountain town.
Dinner and Gambling at the Hyatt in Incline Village which offers a very low key gambling experience compared to the more pronounced competition of Reno or South Lake Tahoe.
If you want to have the mountain experience without actually getting on skis, two mountains that offer access to the top of the mountain via their gondola is Heavenly and Squaw Valley . For Squaw Valley, you can take the tram to spectacular views of the mountain at their “High Camp” in which you have access to restaurants, bars, ice skating and even a heated pool and Jacuzzi.
For something a little more active, hit one of the many snow parks run by the state of California. These are located conveniently near the highway or the larger towns and are free to use. Bring your sleds, snowshoes, or backcountry skis and even your dog and spend an afternoon playing in the snow. One of the areas that is easily accessible is off the Highway 80 exit for Boreal/Castle Peak in which you can park your car just outside of the Boreal Inn and walk across to the recreation area. IMPORTANT NOTE: For all snow park areas listed here, there is no cost for usage, however there is a cost to park from December 1 – May 30. You can pick up a day pass for $5 or an annual pass for $25 at many convenient places listed on the park website.
For a much more tiring experience, try out some snow shoes or try cross country skiing at Tahoe Donner Cross Country for a great workout. This is a great opportunity to rent equipment and explore the outdoors on a well marked and groomed track. Whether you want a quick hike on snow shoes or decide to try skate skiing, this is an excellent workout and will definitely warrant a warm adult beverage near the fire afterwards.
And of course for the active skiers and snowboarders of the group, in and around Lake Tahoe is a congregation of 12+ ski areas including such world famous resorts as Squaw Valley, Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood, Alpine Meadows and Sugar Bowl among others. If you plan to head to try one of these or other mountains, check out their stay and ski deals or check out Costco or REI to get discounted lift tickets.
This year there are numerous options for stay and ski deals at the resorts or if you are travelling with a larger group, have a look at Craigslist Vacation Rentals or Vacation Rentals by Owner and you can select from some spectacular accommodation options.
Leave the dreary rainy days and traffic in the city and head up to Tahoe as soon as and as often as you can.
|
|
