With fall upon us, snow bunnies are already planning their winter vacations. One of our favorite locations to shred the gnar is Lake Tahoe in Northern California. Tahoe’s stunning cobalt blue water and excellent snow beckons travelers from around the globe to experience all the region has to offer. In the heart of the city is Resort at Squaw Creek, which has its own chairlift that offers direct access from the resort to the slopes.
The property is tucked into the hillside, affording sweeping views of the valley and dramatic mountains. Accommodations range from deluxe rooms to fireside suites and bi-level penthouses, with the latter offering one- to two-bedroom options. Home to the 1960 Olympics, Squaw Valley is a winter playground for novice and expert skiers and snowboarders. To get to the top of the mountain, guests can take the only funitel in the United States to access over 3,600 acres of terrain and challenging slopes. The Olympic Ice Pavilion affords panoramic views and a sense of history atop the mountain. Step up on the podium for your own medal ceremony and photo op before lunch overlooking the surrounding mountain views.
For any level of skier, North Face guides can help lead the way and stay with you throughout the day. Billy Haupert was our guide (request him by name) and gauged our skill level before creating a custom plan for the afternoon. Other perks include Priority Lift Lane access, hidden groomers, and a complimentary ThermoBall Jacket from North Face. Up to four skiers can be booked per guide and rates begin at $699 for the day if booked in advance, not inclusive of lift ticket or pass. Also make sure to request a stop at the only ski-up Starbucks in the world for a hot cup of coffee or cocoa.
After time on the slopes, make a reservations at the hotel’s Six Peaks Grille. The venues offers garden-to-glass cocktails and innovated winter concoctions that utilize everything from chocolate ganache to pulverized peppermint sticks. For dinner, guests can expect dishes such as Chicken Involtini, a crispy prosciutto-wrapped, organic chicken, fontina and mountain sage, and peppered anisette glaze. The woodfire offerings utilize local pecan and apple woods to add distinctive flavors to rack of lamb, Berkshire pork chop and Angus beef.
For additional winter activities, an ice skating arena is snuggled in the resort overlooking the valley, as well as dogsledding and snowshoeing offerings nearby. Rooms begin at $169 a night.
