winter 2014 -15
the
ultimate
tahoe winter
breaking into the
back country
hot music
for cold nights
THE MOST SNOW IN TAHOE SHORTEST LIFT LINES AND LEAST CROWDED SLOPES
For passionate skiing families and adventure enthusiasts alike, Sugar Bowl-Royal Gorge offers an extraordinary mountain resort experience with four great mountains, endless cross country trails, a world-class ski team and academy, and a magical
GRANT BARTA & CATH HOWARD
snowbound village. Visit sugarbowl.com for more info.
TahoePowderMag.com @TheTahoeWeekly facebook.com/TheTahoeWeekly P.O. Box 87 | Tahoe City, CA 96145 (530) 546-5995 | f (530) 546-8113
SHARE TAHOE POWDER > Free, digital download at TahoePowderMag.com or issuu app on iTunes
explore
nathan vetter · sierra-at-tahoe
tahoe’s many faces 4 lake tahoe map
tahoe powder has been a dream of mine for many years now, and I’m excited to debut our first edition for the 2014-15 winter season. Tahoe Powder focuses on skiing and snowboard in our beautiful, amazing mountain community that is Tahoe. It also explores the unique Tahoe lifestyle that attracts visitors from around the world. In our first issue, our writers explore the many sides of Tahoe from some of the not-to-bemissed runs at Tahoe’s 15 downhill resorts to the nightlife that entertains us when the sun goes down. From family time on the sled hill to music festivals that go on for days, Tahoe offers something for everyone. We invite you to explore Tahoe’s many faces, and fill your days and nights with the best that Tahoe has to offer.
where are you?
5 the ultimate tahoe winter your winter checklist
11 breaking into the back country check out a snowcat tour and ride to the top in style
14 hot music for cold nights winter music festivals
15 when the sun goes down tahoe’s best nightlife
16 the competitve edge show ‘em what you got in one of tahoe’s many ski & snowboard competitions
18 sending it in tahoe’s terrain parks terrain parks
20 satiate your family’s appetite family dining
21 dining on a dime happy hour, budget meals, tips & more
22 family fun good old-fashioned fun for the entire family
TAHOE POWDER
Look for Powder’s sister publication – Tahoe Summer – this spring.
24 celebrate winter like a local
– Katherine E. Hill
26 explore tahoe’s winter trails
events you won’t want to miss
where to play with snowshoes and what trails are dog friendly
2
WIN A SNOWBOMB PLATINUM PASS > Share your favorite Tahoe photos @TheTahoeWeekly #tahoepowder
27 snowmobiling from mild to wild the outfitters
Who are we? Publisher & Editor In Chief Katherine E. Hill publisher@tahoethisweek. com, ext. 102 Sales Manager Annmarie Snorsky sales@tahoethisweek.com, ext. 100 Art Director | Production Alyssa Ganong production@tahoethisweek. com, ext. 106 Graphic Designer Mael Passanesi graphics@tahoethisweek. com, ext. 101 Associate Editor Jenn Sheridan entertainment@ tahoethisweek.com, ext. 104 Adminstrative Manager Michelle Allen Contributing Writers Mark McLaughlin Tim Hauserman Nicole Cheslock Ann Lindeman Tahoe Powder is a publication of Range of Light Media Group, which also publishes The Tahoe Weekly magazine and Tahoe Summer magazine. Tahoe Powder is published annually each November. Reproduction in whole or part without the publisher’s express permission is prohibited. Tahoe Powder is not responsible for unsolicited submissions
28 glide until your heart’s content the skinny on skinny skis
30 birth of winter sports in tahoe how it all started
32 daron rahlves q&a take it from a pro
On the cover | Dan Krenicki of Truckee logs some air on a deep, powder morning at Kirkwood Mountain Resort. jason abraham
elevatedimg.com
A HOME REPRESENTS YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS, PURSUITS, AND LIFESTYLE
IN A DISTINCT MANNER NO ONE ELSE CAN IMITATE.
Martis Camp $3,250,000
Glenbrook $8,500,000
Incline Village $7,450,000
Squaw Valley $3,795,000
Kirkwood $2,695,000
Tahoe Donner $6,750,000
Old Greenwood $2,790,000
Northstar $3,995,000
sierrasothebysrealty.com Squaw Valley 530.581.1800
Incline Village 775.832.4900
Tahoe Donner 530.587.3505
Tahoe City 530.282.1436
Zephyr Cove 775.588.7710
Truckee 530.582.6111
South Lake Tahoe 530.494.7600
Pocket-sized travel tools
DID YOU KNOW?
Tahoe receives an average of 409” of fresh powder each year
Tahoe Weather App Chasing powder can be a full-time job, but the Tahoe Weather App makes it easy. Daily forecasts, road closures and up-to-the-minute resort Web cams are just a few of the features to help you plan your trip. The daily snow blog from OpenSnow and the streaming satellite images lets you know a few days in advance when a storm is rolling in so you know when to call in sick for work.
NV
Lake
Tahoe
iTunes | Free
DID YOU KNOW?
ScoutSki.com
LAKE TAHOE · TAHOE POWDER
One of the newest players on the destination-booking scene is Scout, where you can book your next Tahoe ski vacation. Scout helps skiers and riders book that next ski trip by offering accommodations only at properties that Scout staff have visited and would personally recommend.
4
Scout also distinguishes itself by offering each guest a printed field guide for locations across the country including guides to resorts in North and South Lake Tahoe. In each pocket-sized booklet, travelers will find local resort descriptions and mountain stats, ski rental and repair shops, transportation options, lodging, nightlife and even grocery stores and post offices. - JS
CA
DID YOU KNOW?
The highest peak in the Tahoe Basin is Freel Peak at 10,881’
DID YOU KNOW?
Lake Tahoe is 22 miles long and 12 miles wide
The deepest point in Lake Tahoe is 1,645’
ultimate
tahoe winter by jenn sheridan
whether it’s rolling groomers, scenic views or adrenaline-pumping steeps you seek, Tahoe has it all. We’ve rounded up some of the best runs at each resort to create the ultimate winter. Wax those skis, buckle those boots and see how many of these runs you can carve up this season.
5
the
TAHOE POWDER · THE ULTIMATE TAHOE WINTER
the perfect combination of blue skies and fresh white fluffy stuff at alpine meadows · jason abraham
ALPINE MEADOWS > The Pacific Crest Bowls were named to honor the Pacific Crest Trail, which runs along the ridgeline of the resort.”
diamond peak
just another bluebird day · jeff engerbretson
alpine meadows the pacific crest bowls Recently renamed to help identify some of Alpine Meadow’s best terrain, the Pacific Crest Bowls were named to honor the Pacific Crest Trail, which runs along the ridgeline of the resort. The South Bowls, which include terrain accessed by High T and the Sherwood lifts, include open bowls and wide trees. The North Bowls include Wolverine, Beaver and Estelle bowls with intermediate to advanced terrain.
squawalpine.com THE ULTIMATE TAHOE WINTER · TAHOE POWDER
boreal 49er Best known for its terrain parks, Boreal also offers quick groomers off the 49er lift. Enjoy laps while watching the park rats throw down from the lift.
rideboreal.com
diamond peak
6
crystal ridge Named one of the World’s 100 Best Ski Runs by CNN Travel, Crystal Ridge is must-stop run for scenic views and photo opportunities. Stop at the summit and snap a picture of Lake Tahoe and Washoe Lake before heading down the trail. At times, skiers may feel like they are skiing into Lake Tahoe due to the stunning views. An intermediate trail, this is perfect for family photos. heavenly mountain resort
diamondpeak.com
donner ski ranch the face A staple in Tahoe ski history, Donner Ski Ranch was the first resort to allow snowboarding in bounds. This small ski area is big on its breathtaking views of Donner Lake, including from The Face on the frontside of the ski hill. The resort is a great place for beginner skiers and riders, who can get down from every chair lift on both sides of the mountain.
90 mph on 16-foot skis
Ski racing in the Sierra Nevada dates back to the 1850s when miners would climb the mountains and then race down them on 9- to 16-footlong longboards reaching speeds of up to 90 mph.
donnerskiranch.com
heavenly ridge run The Ridge Run offers some of the best views in Tahoe. From the top, skiers and riders can look into Desolation Wilderness and over the lake. This intermediate run takes skiers and riders to the base of the Canyon Express and the Sky Deck.
The Plumas Ski Club relives the longboarding past in the Sierra with races each winter in historic Johnsville.
skiheavenly.com
plumasskiclub.org
25%
40%
35%
0%
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BOREAL MOUNTAIN RESORT (530) 426-3666 | rideboreal.com
7,200’
500’
480
30%
55%
15%
0%
•
5
DIAMOND PEAK (775) 831-3211 | diamondpeak.com
6,700’
1,840’
655
18%
46%
36%
0%
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2
DONNER SKI RANCH (530) 426-3635 | donnerskiranch.com
7,031’
750’
505
25%
50%
25%
0%
GRANLIBAKKEN (530) 581-7533 | granlibakken.com
6,200’
300’
10
25%
40%
35%
0%
6,540’CA 7,200’NV
3,500’
4,800
20%
45%
35%
0%
HOMEWOOD MOUNTAIN RESORT (530) 525-2900 | skihomewood.com
6,230’
2,510’
2,010
15%
40%
45%
0%
KIRKWOOD (877) 547-5966 | kirkwood.com
7,800’
2,000’
2,300
12%
20%
38%
30%
MT. ROSE SKI TAHOE (775) 849-0704 | (800) 754-7673 | skirose.com
8,260’
1,440’
1,200+
20%
30%
40%
10%
NORTHSTAR CALIFORNIA (530) 562-1330 | northstarcalifornia.com
6,330’
2,280’
3,170
13%
60%
27%
0%
SIERRA-AT-TAHOE (530) 659-7475 | sierraattahoe.com
6,640’
2,212’
2,000
25%
50%
25%
0%
SODA SPRINGS (530) 426-3901 | skisodasprings.com
6,700’
650’
200
30%
50%
20%
0%
SQUAW VALLEY (530) 583-6955 | squawalpine.com
6,200’
2,850’
3,600
25%
45%
30%
0%
SUGAR BOWL (530) 426-1111 | sugarbowl.com
6,883’
1,500’
1,650
17%
45%
38%
0%
TAHOE DONNER DOWNHILL (530) 587-9444 #2 | tahoedonner.com
6,750’
600’
120
40%
60%
0%
0%
HEAVENLY (775) 586-7000 #1 | skiheavenly.com
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Reno
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Truckee
3
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TAHOE POWDER · THE ULTIMATE TAHOE WINTER
2,400
7
TERRAIN PARKS
1,802’
MILITARY DISCOUNTS
SHUTTLE BUS
6,385’
TERRAIN
NIGHT SKIING
NOVICE
CHILD CARE
SKIABLE ACRES
ALPINE MEADOWS (530) 581-8374 | squawalpine.com
EXPERT
VERTICAL ELEVATION
ADVANCED
BASE ELEVATION
the resorts
INTERMEDIATE
- KH
ditch
the car
> Take the bus
KIRKWOOD > A skull and cross bones sign guards the entrance to a steep drop into the Wagon Wheel Bowl.”
(no, really)
Tahoe Area Regional Transit provides bus services around the North Shore including resort stops daily. On the South Shore, look for the BlueGo buses with service to South Lake, Minden and Carson City.
> After hours Take the free Night Rider anywhere in North Lake Tahoe and the West Shore.
> Ski shuttles THE ULTIMATE TAHOE WINTER · TAHOE POWDER
Most resorts provide free shuttles to and from resorts from downtown areas. Check each resort for details. As well, a free ski shuttle on the North Shore offers service between Incline Village, the West Shore and Olympic Valley (free vouchers are available at lodging properties).
> Airport shuttle
8
After landing at Reno Airport, catch a ride on the shuttle to North or South Lake Tahoe. For details, visit laketahoetransit.com on the North Shore or tahoetransportation.org for South Shore. - JS
abe greenspan takes on kirkwood’s steeps · corey rich · kirkwood
homewood rainbow ridge Beginners can enjoy views of the lake from Rainbow Ridge. This top-to-bottom run winds around the mountain weaving through trees and ending at the base area.
skihomewood.com
kirkwood the wall Those looking for a knee-shaking experience should head up Chair 10 to The Wall. A skull and cross bones sign guards the entrance to a steep drop into the Wagon Wheel Bowl. After surviving the pitch, skiers and riders are treated to a mountain playground of natural half pipes and rollers.
kirkwood.com
mount rose the chutes For the ultimate adrenaline rush, head over to The Chutes for some of the easiest access to extreme terrain in Tahoe. This 200-acre area features 16 black diamond and double black diamond runs, some with sustained pitches of 40 degrees for more than 1,000 feet. The Chutes are easily navigated from eight entry gates. For the longest drop, check out El Cap or Yellowjacket.
skirose.com
northstar california sugar pine glade An enchanting forested run, Sugar Pine Glade is a hidden powder stash that sometimes holds fresh snow for days after a storm. Those seeking secluded runs and fresh tracks will not be disappointed.
northstarcalifornia.com
the
Checklist Pacific Crest Bowls Alpine Meadows 49er Boreal Crystal Ridge Diamond Peak The Face Donner Ski Ranch Ridge Run Heavenly jordan nield enjoys the soft pillows at sierra-at-tahoe · nathan vetter
northstar california
sierra-at-tahoe huckleberry canyon gates Those seeking an off-piste adventure should head to Huckleberry Canyon for a side-country experience. Accessible from five back-country gates at the top of Grandview Express, the Huckleberry Canyon is 320 acres of cliff drops, cornices, rock chutes, open bowls, gladed runs and powder pillows. Not for the faint of heart.
sierraattahoe.com
Rainbow Ridge Homewood The Wall Kirkwood The Chutes Mt. Rose Sugar Pine Glade Northstar Huckleberry Canyon Sierra-at-Tahoe Cream Puff Soda Springs
cream puff The perfect mountain for learning, Soda Springs provides a great progression from beginner to intermediate and advanced trails. Start off on Cream puff to build confidence before heading on to the bigger runs.
Silver Belt Gully Sugar Bowl Mile Run Tahoe Donner
9
skisodasprings.com
KT-22 Squaw Valley TAHOE POWDER · THE ULTIMATE TAHOE WINTER
soda springs
We’re the ones we’ve been waiting for. Skis and boards designed by women, for women.
squaw valley kt-22 Known for the adrenaline-pumping steeps, this lift offers access to runs that make the pros. Head over to Chute 75 or Moseley’s Run to test the nerves. photo by hank de vre · squaw valley
squawalpine.com
sugar bowl silver belt gully SUGAR BOWL > Skiers slip into the notch at the top of the ridge and ski through an elevator shaft just wide enough to make turns wall to wall.”
Once a popular run for those willing to hike, the Silver Belt Gully is now accessible from the top of the Lincoln Lift. The top of the gully provides views of Donner Lake and surrounding peaks. Skiers slip into the notch at the top of the ridge and ski through an elevator shaft just wide enough to make turns wall to wall. From there, several options are present including slipping into the Key Hole or dropping into Hot Wheels Gully. sugar bowl
sugarbowl.com
tahoe donner mile run
THE ULTIMATE TAHOE WINTER · TAHOE POWDER
Beginners can enjoy practicing their turns on the Mile Run. This lengthy trail wraps around the ski area boundary giving first timers the chance to practice technique. More advanced riders may enjoy Skip’s Plunge, which takes riders on an adventure through the trees.
tahoedonner.com
Getting the kids on the slopes >
10
You’ve got a great day of skiing or riding planned at your favorite resort, but first you need to get the kids to the mountain. So, after you spend a hour getting them dressed and loading up the gear, how to make it from the car? Wagons are at the ready | Include a collapsible wagon when you’re packing the car for the trip to transport kids and gear to ski school. If you’re spending the day at Northstar, the resort provides little red wagons to its guests, so grab one.
Coordinate the drop off | Just like the school carpool, get to know your neighbors with kids at your hotel and coordinate a carpool to get the family to the ski area, drop off the kids and everyone’s gear in front of the lodge, and that leaves one parent on car duty who can make a quick return to hit the lifts.
Parents’ ticket | Purchase an interchangeable parents’ ticket, which is offered at nearly every ski area, then swap out the ticket and the babysitting duties for the day. - KH
breaking into the
back country
hazel birnbaum takes advantage of a pedestrian-free zone at kirkwood · corey rich · kirkwood
fresh tracks, no lines and no traffic are just a few of the reasons skiers and riders want to venture into the back country. For those who enjoy a human-powered experience and the ability to explore the mountains on his or her own terms, back-country skiing and riding are the ultimate rush. However, once one steps beyond the resort boundaries, skiers and riders take their lives into their own hands. With unpredictable snow conditions, no trail maps and no guarantee of
a quick rescue should something go wrong, skiing in the back country can quickly become a dangerous endeavor. It is each skier’s and rider’s responsibility to educate themselves on how to avoid risks. Many resorts and companies in Tahoe have created programs where skiers and riders can learn how to navigate the back country with experienced teachers and guides. If the back country has you dreaming of fresh tracks, check out one of these programs to get you started. >
SKI & SNOWBOARD RENTALS N O RT H TA H O E’S L A RG ES T D E M O FL EE T
Pick up anywhere — drop off anywhere! 4 Convenient North Shore Locations • Open 7:45am–7pm, later on Fridays** **Call each store to confirm closing times
TAHOE POWDER · BREAKING INTO THE BACK COUNTRY
by jenn sheridan
•
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TAHOE CITY 583-6415
530
TRUCKEE 582-0900
530
SQUAW VALLEY KINGS BEACH 530 583-5665 530 546-5800
riding in style >
HOMEWOOD
“Ride in the resort’s new Bombardier snowcat to steep bowls, perfectly spaced trees and intermediate glades in pristine powder.”
sit back, rest your legs and take in the views · corey rich · kirkwood
Backcountry Adventure Center Sugar Bowl
take in the views atop ellis peak at homewood resort
BREAKING INTO THE BACK COUNTRY · TAHOE POWDER
With a long-standing uphill travel policy and open boundary, Sugar Bowl has allowed skiers and riders to skin up the resort runs and explore the terrain just outside of its boundary. However, with an increased number of people wanting to explore outside the resort, it became obvious that an educational program would be beneficial for the resort and its customers.
12
ALL YOUR FRIENDS ARE EATING THEM Now available at Safeway and Raley’s
tahoetrailbar.com
fresh and deep · sugar bowl
Sugar Bowl teamed up with Alpine Skills International to offer classes and guided trips into the back country from the base on the resort. Get a taste for the adventure with one of several guided tours including one-day trips outside of Sugar Bowl or along Anderson Ridge, or overnight adventures to Lost Trail Lodge or Squaw Valley.
For those ready to commit to traveling in the back country, the Backcountry Adventure Center offers skills classes including certifications from American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education. Skiers and riders who began touring with Alpine Skills International have gone on to join guides on ski mountaineering trips to Mount Shasta and beyond including peaks in Antarctica and Europe. Guided tours range from $199 to $990 and classes are between $159 and $1,600.
sugarbowl.com
>
GET IN THE KNOW
Expedition: Kirkwood
Sierra Avalance Center sierraavalancecenter.org
Kirkwood Mountain Resort
expedition.kirkwood.com
For those who are comfortable in expert or advanced terrain, Expedition: Kirkwood offers cat skiing at Marten Point. Avalanche beacons, probes and backpacks are provided. Groups of four enjoy the freshest turns during four-run sessions following big storms.
tahoemountainschool.com
Wilderness First Aid, AIARE courses
Mountain Adventure Seminars mtadventure.com
AIARE, Mountaineering, Climbing, Skiing courses
Squaw Valley Avalanche Awareness Clinics squawalpine.com
Intro to Avalanche safety, AIARE Level 1
Expedition: Kirkwood expedition.kirkwood.com
Backcountry Awareness, AIARE Level 1, Level 1 refresher
Forest Service National Avalanche Center fsavalanche.org
earn your turns the oldfashioned way · corey rich · kirkwood
Homewood Snowcat Adventures
THE TOOLS >
North American Ski Training Center skinastc.com
AIARE Level 1-3, Mountaineering, Climbing, Skiing courses
Avalanche Awareness Tutorial
Homewood Mountain Resort Debuting this season, Homewood Mountain Resort will offer guided tours on more than 750 acres on the flanks of Ellis Peak. Groups of up to 10 people will ride in the resort’s new Bombardier snowcat to steep glades, perfectly spaced trees and intermediate glades in pristine powder. All-day packages are lead by experienced guides from the North American Ski Training Center.
Tahoe Mountain School
avalanche.org
Participants will enjoy runs of up to 1,828 vertical feet from the 8,740-foot summit of Ellis Peak. Tours are geared toward advanced skiers and riders, however, private tours may be booked for intermediate groups. Tours start at $399 per person with discounts for passholders.
skihomewood.com
Lake Tahoe Community College ltcc.edu
AIARE Level 1-2
Alpine Skills International alpineskills.com
Avalanche Awareness, AIARE Level 1-3, AIARE Refresher
- JS
Snacks for your pack >
The downside to escaping the resort boundaries is the serious lack of slopeside dining options. Don’t fear, we have a few tips for staying fueled when made-to-order cheeseburgers are not an option. Grab & Go | Peanut M&M’s are my personal favorite for any sort of outdoor adventure. Nuts and chocolate provide a little kick to keep moving and the hard candy shell ensures they won’t melt in your pack. Bars, blocks and goo packs are available from companies such as Tahoe Trail Bar and are the perfect way to keep a charging athlete from bonking.
Sandwich hacks | After a long day in your pack, that ham and cheese sandwich might not look so hot. Bagels and tortillas are often more durable choices. Pack veggies in a separate bag to keep the bread/ bagel/tortilla from getting soggy.
ally worth the extra weight. Bring a favorite broth mix to a boil, mix the hot broth with quinoa or rice and veggies and seal it tight. The hot broth will cook the other ingredients just in time for a warm treat when you reach your destination.
Thermos cooking | While its not the minimalist option, having a hot meal at the summit is occasion-
See the recipe for do-it-yourself bars on page 26. - JS
TAHOE POWDER · BREAKING INTO THE BACK COUNTRY
However, Expedition: Kirkwood provides the perfect progression for the intermediate skier looking to take his or her skiing to the next level. The Discovery Series is a threeday program that puts skiers and riders in a small group with experienced coaches who will teach the techniques needed to navigate Kirkwood’s signature chutes, steep cornices and huge bowls.
Classes and clinics also are available starting with Intro to Backcountry and Backcountry Awareness classes and building up to certifications from the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education. Experienced skiers looking to practice skills also may enjoy AIARE refresher courses. Discovery Series sessions are $195. Private guided tours range from $370 to $500 for in-bounds and $435 to $635 for out of bounds. Cat skiing tours start at $250 per person.
13
With plenty of adrenaline-pumping terrain in bounds, it’s hard to see why anyone would need to leave the resort boundary.
Daily avalanche forecasts and reports
Hottest Tickets for Summer Reggae in the Hills June 12-14 Calaveras County reggaeinthehills.com
Sierra Nevada World Music Festival June 19-21 Boonville, Calif. snwmf.com
High Sierra Music Festival July 2-5 Quincy, Calif. highsierramusic.com
Wanderlust Festival HOT MUSIC FOR COLD NIGHTS · TAHOE POWDER
July 16-19 Olympic Valley, Calif. squaw.wanderlustfestival. com
Guitar Fish Festival Early August Cisco Grove, Calif. guitarfishfestival.com
Outside Lands Early August San Francisco outsidelandssf.com
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Burning Man Aug. 31-Sept. 7 Black Rock Desert, Nev. burningman.com
Lost Sierra Hoedown Late Sept. Johnsville Ski Bowl, Plumas County lostsierrahoedown.com
hot music for cold nights
snowglobe music festival
by jenn sheridan
while music festival season usually lands during the summer, there’s no reason to stop the party when the weather turns. Get tickets now for the hottest events of the winter.
SnowGlobe Music Festival Dec. 29-31 Lake Tahoe’s biggest New Year’s Eve party returns for the 4th year featuring some of the biggest headliners yet in South Lake Tahoe. Get some friends together for EDM artists from all over the world, along with local vendors and food trucks for a three-day celebration to kick off the New Year.
Weekend jams All season Northstar hosts live music and DJs on the Village Stage during weekends from Nov. 14 to April 19. | northstarcalifornia.com The Big Blue View Bar at Homewood is the place on Saturdays to check out DJs throughout the season, weather permitting. |
skihomewood.com
Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows will host Music on the Mountain on Saturdays at Squaw and Sundays at Alpine featuring live music at iconic locations around the mountain. |
squawalpine.com
Live Big Air ski and snowboard demonstrations take place during each event featuring some of Tahoe’s best local athletes and the festival culminates with a dazzling fireworks display during the final set. This year’s headliners include bass heavyweight Skrillex, English electronic duo Disclosure and Russian/German producer Zedd. Porter Robinson returns to the SnowGlobe stage this year along with Australian producer Flume.
dj cat at heavenly mountain
Atmosphere, Phantogram, Flux Pavilion, Odesza, Emanicipator Ensemble, Bro Safari, Justin Martin, Cherum, The Floozies, Branchez and Djemba Djemba round out the line up with more artists to be announced. VIP and general admission tickets are on sale. | snowglobe.com
Look for the DJ cat at Heavenly Mountain Resort. This retired grooming machine features a custom-built DJ station with 52 high-powered speakers pumping out 1,200 watts. The DJ cat brings the party to the skiers during the season at Heavenly. | skiheavenly.com
when the sun goes
down by jenn sheridan
the lifts stopped
March 20-22 Get ready for three days of boot stomping with national, regional and local bluegrass bands and acoustic roots artists, complemented by craft brews and local wines, spirits and foods – all from California. Modeled after the Winter WonderGrass Festival in Avon, Colo., this event brings the community together for great music and great food at Squaw Valley. Past headliners at the Winter WonderGrass Festival have included Greensky Bluegrass, Leftover Salmon, Dead Winter Carpenters, The Infamous String Dusters and Les Claypool’s Duo de Twang. | squawalpine.com
The Montbleu Casino is home to some of the hottest club scenes on the lake. The Opal Ultra Lounge has been hailed as one of the best bachelor and bachelorette party spots around with hot go-go dancers, heart-thumping DJs and body painting nightly. VIP packages and bottle service are available, as well. Step back in time for Boogie Nights at Blu every Friday, Saturday and Monday. Dig out the disco suits and party with celebrity impersonators to the hottest hits of the 70s and 80s. “Mosey down to the Tourist Look out for a fresh Club, where they’re serving face on the block. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino free beer tomorrow.” is slated to open this winter bringing rock ‘n’ roll to the South Shore. Hard Rock will be teaming up with Heavenly Mountain Resort to create some great late-night après, so be sure to check it out. CATCH A SHOW IN CRYSTAL BAY
From concerts to comedy, the Crystal Bay Casino delivers on live performances. Headliners such as Les Claypool, Talib Kweli, Slightly Stoopid and Macy Gray, as well as a long list of cover bands including Super Diamond, Zepperella and Purple Haze have shared the Crown Room stage. Tahoe Comedy North keeps a solid line up of comedians in the venue, as well. midi matilda · spring equinox festival · brian walker · sierra-at-tahoe
Spring Equinox Festival March Welcome the warm days of spring at Sierra-at-Tahoe during the Spring Equinox Festival. The festival includes a free concert series over three weekends, parties and more giving guests the chance to reminisce about a great day on the hill while enjoying free music with friends in the plaza at Sierra-at-Tahoe. | sierraattahoe.com
MINGLE WITH THE LOCALS
Bass Heavy Wednesdays at The Grid Bar and Grill in Kings Beach gives local electronic music fans something to look forward to every hump day. Featuring local DJs and affordable cover charges, it’s the place to be for the midweek party. Head to Truckee for a taste of the Wild West at the Pastime Club featuring live music on weekends and some of the cheapest drinks in town. Then mosey down to the Tourist Club, where they’re serving free beer tomorrow. •
Get the lowdown on the latest in live music and late-night vibes in Tahoe at TahoePowerMag.com.
TAHOE POWDER · WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN
WonderGrass Tahoe
HITTING THE CLUBS IN STATELINE
15
the infamous stringdusters · wondergrass tahoe
turning at 4 p.m. and the happy hour specials ended more than an hour ago, but you’re not ready to call it a night. Luckily, Tahoe’s nightlife is just as exhilarating as a day on the hill. Whether it’s a hot night on the dance floor or a dark corner in the local’s hangout, we’ve scoped out some of the best late-night options that Tahoe has to offer.
see how the pros do it FIS Skicross World Cup and Snowboard World Cup March 4-8 / Squaw Valley will host two World Cup events for the first time since hosting the Alpine Championships in 1969. Featuring local Olympic athlete Nate Holland, the Ski and Snowboard cross will put four athletes at a time on a fast course of jumps, banked turns and wideopen high-speed sections. squawalpine.com
Newschoolers Invitational
THE COMPETITIVE EDGE · TAHOE POWDER
March / Formerly the Tanner Hall Invitational, this event brings the best in park and pipe competitors to the slopes of Sierra-at-Tahoe. Tanner Hall, an accomplished, all-around freeskier with multiple X Games gold medals in both slopestyle and superpipe, will invite 15 of the best skiers in the world to participate in a one-of-a-kind event with a feature built in conjunction with Snow Park Technologies that will progress skiing and offer a different format than traditional slopestyle contests. sierraattahoe.com
High Roller Hold ‘em
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April 4 / Infusing X Gamesworthy big air competition with a South Lake Tahoe gambling twist, the High Roller Hold ‘em brings some of the top competitive snowboarders to Heavenly to showcase their moves on a monster jump while betting a hand of cards on a huge jackpot. The Heavenly Angels host an after-party with a live DJ, fireworks and local athlete exhibition. heavenly.com
the
pain mcshonkley fun · squaw valley
competitive edge Tahoe Rim Tour & Race
Feb. 1 | The 8th annual Tahoe Rim Tour &
by jenn sheridan
give that competitive itch a little scratch with any one of these great events. Whether its racing, freestyle or just being silly, the Tahoe region provides the place to show off your skills. Just because an Olympic medal may not be in your future, there’s no reason to miss out on suiting up and going for the gold.
Jibs 4 Kids
Jan. 10, Feb. 14, March 14 | Jibs 4 Kids is a freestyle competition geared toward kids ages 12 and younger at Homewood. The competition is open to kids of all skill levels with the goal of improving park-riding abilities celebrating a passion for snowsports. | skihomewood.com
Uphill Downhill Dash
Jan. 31 | Some prefer the challenge of the
climb while others enjoy the rush of the descent. This race combines the exhilaration of both into one human-powered competition. Starting at the base lodge at Diamond Peak, racers skin, snowshoe or run to the top of Crystal Express, ski, snowboard or snowshoe down Crystal Ridge and then climb back uphill to Snowflake Lodge at mid-mountain. A less competitive recreational course is available from the base area to Snowflake Lodge. | diamondpeak.com
Race takes cross-country skiers on one of the most scenic tours of North Lake Tahoe. Beginning at the North Tahoe High School, racers climb the ridge and admire stunning views of the lake before ending at the Cross Country Center at Northstar. | northstarcalifornia.com
Valentine’s Day Race
Feb. 14 & 15 | Racers of all abilities are invited to race their loved ones in a head-to-head competition on the Epic Mix Race Course at Northstar. Fun prizes are awarded to winners in each category, with proceeds benefitting local nonprofits. | northstarcalifornia.com
Mountain Dew Butter Box Rail Jam
Feb. 21 | Skiers and riders of all ages are invited to compete in the Butterbox Rail Jam. Terrain park crews will build a variety of features to challenge competitors to show off his or her skills. Prizes are awarded to winners in each age bracket. | northstarcalifornia.com
Rahlves’ Banzai Tour
Feb. 21-22, March 7-8 & March 14-15 | Lay
it all on the line for a chance to race Olympic athletes Daron Rahlves and Nate Holland and a piece of the $80,000 purse with stops at Alpine Meadows, Kirkwood and Sugar Bowl. Skier and boardercross meets big mountain skiing in this head-to-head race over natural terrain. Winners from each stop compete in a Super Final against Rahlves and Holland. “I’m trying to get ready and stay strong,” said Rahlves. “This could be the year I get beat.” Tag #RahlvesBanzai to share your training photos. | rahlvesbanzai.com
Chutes Fest
February | Advanced skiers and riders put it on the line choos-
ing the best route down the El Cap chute at Mt. Rose for prizes. Excellent technical skiing and riding is often favored over high speeds and antics. | mtrose.com
The Great Ski Race
March 1 | The Western United States’ largest cross-country
ski race starts at the base of the Tahoe Cross Country Ski Area and heads over to the Cottonwood Lodge in Truckee. After all that hard and hearty skiing, there is an awesome party at the finish line. The event is the annual fundraiser for the Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue. Who are they? The folks who come get you in a blizzard when you get lost. | thegreatskirace.com
Face/Off Fridays
North Face Park and Pipe Open
March 21-22 | The North Face Park and Pipe Open Series is an opportunity for amateur skiers and riders to compete alongside professional athletes in slopestyle, half pipe, big air and rail jam competitions at Heavenly. The event is a pipeline for upcoming athletes to develop skills and qualify for top-level competitions. | thenorthfaceppos.com
Billy Dutton Uphill
April 12 | While many folks seem to like to ski down from the top
of the mountain at Squaw Valley, a large group of hearty souls race from the bottom to the top of the tram every year. The Billy Dutton Uphill is a 3.2-mile race with more than 2,000 feet of climbing. There are divisions for skiers, snowshoers and runners. It’s a benefit for the Far West Nordic Ski Association. | farwestnordic.org
March | Skiers, snowboarders and snow skaters are invited
March 13 | The greatest ski competition known to man or woman this tribute to skier Shane McConkey pits skiers on ski blades against each other in a Chinese downhill competing for the coveted Golden Saucer at Squaw Valley. An event that got its start as a late night, behind-the-scenes competition between X Games athletes, Pain McShlonkey has grown to attract professional and amateur athletes from near and far. | shanemcconkey.org
an Olympic medal may not be in your future, there’s no reason to miss out on suiting up and going for the gold.” the chutes · mt. rose
TAHOE POWDER · THE COMPETITIVE EDGE
Pain McShlonkey
“Just because
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to test their skills during weekly rail jams at Diamond Peak all month. Features are located next to the Base Lodge Deck for prime spectator opportunity. Prizes are awarded for best performance. | diamondpeak.com
sending it
in
tahoe’s parks
by jenn sheridan
ij valenzuela · homewood mountain resort
looking to lock down that backside misty or test yourself in the rail garden? Tahoe’s terrain parks provide a variety of experiences appealing to anyone from the first-time park shredder to the X-Games hopeful. Each resort’s terrain park has a unique vibe and character, which makes each visit an opportunity for a new adventure.
SENDING IT IN TAHOE’S PARKS · TAHOE POWDER
Explore creative features Heavenly’s terrain parks are a sampling of unique features built from repurposed materials that push riders to find creative ways to explore the park. Starting with the HEAVENLY > Progression Park where groms Riders can push their limits can nail his or her first rail, on a medium-sized jump Heavenly’s parks grow to the line and signature snow features built by Snow Park High Roller Park where riders Technologies.” can push their limits on a medium-sized jump line and signature snow features built by Snow Park Technologies. This season, Heavenly and SPT are working to bring back an 18-foot, competition-quality half pipe.
ALPINE/XC SKIS • SNOWBOARDS • SNOWSHOES
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• Skis, Boards, X/C, Snowshoes • Tuning, Repairs, Race Prep • Junior Ski Lease Program • Moonlight Snowshoe Tours Skier: Lynn Kennen Photo: Hank DeVre
TAHOE PARK/SUNNYSIDE 1785 West Lake Blvd.
Next to Firesign Cafe
(530) 583-9920 HOMEWOOD 5393 West Lake Blvd.
Next to Homewood Post Office
(530) 525-9920 www.westshoresports.com
Stomping grounds of Olympians The regular stomping grounds of Olympic athletes such as David Wise and Shaun White, Northstar is known for building parks for some of the best skiers and riders in the NORTHSTAR > country, however, it doesn’t The Progressive parks offer start there. Beginning with a smooth transition from the first air to massive jumps Northstar’s Terrain Based in The Straits.” Learning program, first-time skiers and riders learn from the beginning to use terrain features to build proper technique. The Progressive parks offer a smooth transition from the first air to massive jumps in The Straits. Features that flow Sugar Bowl is looking to redesign its terrain parks this year focusing on introducing a better-flowing park. Taking a nod from the surf and skate scene, Sugar Bowl’s parks will use natural terrain to build features that flow with the mountain and keep riders moving. Rather than building separate areas with small, medium and large features that focus on going big, Sugar Bowl will incorporate a more playful approach with features of all sizes and an emphasis on creative lines.
Snow Park Technologies, or SPT, dominates the course-building industry in the United States with it’s innovative snow sculpting at ski resorts throughout Tahoe, along with creatheavenly’s new high roller half pipe · heavenly ing more than 250 competition courses for the likes of X Games, Red Bull and the U.S. Open. Check out SPT’s latest custom creations at Heavenly, Northstar, Sierra-at-Tahoe and Squaw Valley this season. - KH
Urban-style on the West Shore With a stunning backdrop of Lake Tahoe, Homewood’s terrain parks provide some of the best photo opportunities in the region. What the West Shore lacks in urban development, Homewood makes up for with its urban-style Foundation Bowl terrain park, which debuts this season. Built in an unused building foundation near Homewood’s mid-mountain Big Blue View Bar, the bowl will add unique character to the resort’s terrain park offerings.
ED Z'BERG SUGAR PINE POINT STATE PARK
Cross Country Ski Trails Free Nordic Skiing on 20 Kilometers of Groomed Trails
(parking fee)
SNOWPHONE
for up-to-date trail information
(530) 525-7982 squaw valley
Progressive flow Squaw Valley has teamed up with Snow Park Technologies to create unique features for riders of all abilities. From the small features of Sno-Ventures to the large jump line in Gold Coast, each park creates a progressive flow. When SQUAW VALLEY > conditions permit, Squaw Squaw Valley features one Valley features one of the of the region’s few 22-feet region’s few 22-feet Super Super Pipes.” Pipes and public skier and boarder cross courses.
TAHOE POWDER · SENDING IT IN TAHOE’S PARKS
Shred indoors Get those moves dialed before taking them to the snow. The Bunker at Woodward Tahoe features a launch pad that boosts skaters, bikers, skiers and riders into a 42-foot foam pit. Specially developed Parkskis and Parkboards allow snowsport athletes to shred the indoor ramps year-round. The foam pit provides a safe landing for practicing flips before sticking them on the mountain.
SierraStateParks.org Parks.ca.gov/?page_id=510
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Resort-wide terrain features Known for often having the earliest opening date, skiers and riders can look forward to getting the first jibs of the season at Boreal. A nearly resort-wide terrain park, Boreal features jumps and jibs for skiers and riders of all styles. BOREAL > Groms can get their start at Skiers and riders can look the mini-shred park while the forward to getting the first CORE park offers the next jibs of the season at Boreal.” step for progression. Boreal teamed up with Neff clothing company to create Neff Land, a pirate-themed park with more than 30 custom features including a life-sized ship helm, cannons and more.
FACIAL & WAX STUDIO
“Borrow an Etch A Sketch until your meal arrives.”
MICRODERMABRASION BOTANICAL FACIALS & PEELS
EXPERT WAXING
5 3 0 .41 2 . 0 4 4 6 Cara Mia Cimarrusti Esthetician/Owner
425 N. LAKE TAHOE BLVD #17
TAHOE CITY , CA.
ABOVE THE BLUE AGAVE
satiate
your family’s appetite by nicole cheslock
one of my fondest memories from childhood ski vacations is going out for a warm, freshly baked chocolate chip cookie – the gooey kind with semi-melted chips - with my mom. If we had been in Tahoe, this would definitely have taken place at the Wildflour Bakery in the Olympic House at Squaw Valley.
SATIATE YOUR FAMILY’S APPETITE · TAHOE POWDER
After whooping it up on a powder day or a full day under the Sierra sunshine, children and parents will find a handful of casual dining options throughout Tahoe. Classic eateries include independently owned pizza places, diners and restaurants with fare that will appeal to everyone in the family.
Day Spa
Relax Lakeside
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Escape from the cold and dry weather with a Champagne & Rose or Cranberry Antioxidant Relax Lakeside Scrub and warm up from Escape to the islands in the Spring & Summer with thea Mango inside out with a or Coconut Lime Scrub calming Hot and warm up from the inside outStone with a calming Hot Stonetreatment! treatment any time of the year! Come in9am and see- why we everyday were voted Hours 7pm Best Massage in North Lake Tahoe!
(530) 583-3200 Hours 9 am - 7 pm everyday
(530) 583-3200
www.massageonthelake.com
589 North Lake Blvd. upstairs Tahoe Citywww.massageonthelake.com - CA 589 N. Lake Blvd. upstairs, Tahoe City
Fire & Ice This is one restaurant where you will not stay in your seat. Choose from a variety of proteins, vegetables, starches and sauces and walk over to the large grill where chefs will put on a show as they toss spatulas and bowls while preparing your food. | fire-ice.com | South Lake Jax at the Tracks Housed in a 1940s diner, Jax at the Tracks’ welcoming atmosphere is complete with comfy booths, enticing ice cream shakes and a classic American children’s menu. Young ones, and those with a creative spirit, can borrow an Etch A Sketch until your meal arrives. The large menu includes Chicken Pot Pie, Maryland Blue Crab Cakes, Kobe meatloaf, burgers, stuffed chicken breast wrapped in prosciutto with mushrooms, goat cheese and cream of chipotle sauce and other homemade comfort food. jaxtruckee.com | Truckee
Lake Tahoe Pizza Company Original, whole wheat, corn or gluten-free dough, homemade sauces and a history dating back to 1973, make Lake Tahoe Pizza Company a family favorite. laketahoepizzaco.com | South Lake
Moe’s Original Bar B Que Moe’s Original Bar B Que has been impressing lakefront diners since opening in summer 2014. Specialties include Alabama-style pulled pork, ribs, wings, turkey, chicken and tantalizing sides including delectable cornbread. Delicious and sensibly priced, the array of salads, sandwiches and plates include tofu, blackened mahi-mahi and Southern-fried catfish, fulfilling hearty vegetarians and pescetarians. If you prefer to kick back on a comfy sofa, take out Moe’s hearty To Go Family Packs. moesoriginalbbq.com | Tahoe City
Smokey’s Kitchen If you’re fortunate enough to beat the traffic and roll into town while everyone is still awake and eager to dine, stretch your legs and dine at Smokey’s Kitchen where the portions are ample and the prices are low. From pulled pork, beef brisket, shredded chicken and barbecue salmon plates to Cobb, Cesar and Spinach salads, Smokey’s boasts a large smoker out back. Typical children’s menu includes macaroni and cheese, burgers, grilled cheese, chicken fingers and corn dogs. Family Meal Packs to go also are popular. smokeyskitchen.com | Truckee
Visit TahoePowderMag.com for more information on the food & wine scene in Tahoe.
dining on
a dime by jenn sheridan
we get it. Skiing and boarding isn’t a cheap activity. After spending all your money on new gear, lift tickets and passes, and lodging, you still need to eat. Before settling for ketchup soup and saltine crackers from the condiment bin, check out these happy hour deals for a hearty meal that won’t break the bank.
gunbarreltavern.com
T’s Rotisserie
For a portable meal for less than $10, head to T’s Rotisserie in Incline Village. The burritos are large enough to satisfy this writer for more than one meal. They start with tri-tip, chicken or pork hot off the rotisserie, add flavorful rice and beans, veggies and your favorite condiments for a winning combination. The vegetarian option is just as filling with added avocado. Southern barbecue-style plates also are available with various meat combinations and choice of sides such as cucumber salad, beans and rise, potato salad or coleslaw. |
(775) 831-2832
Mamasake
When I think of dining on a budget, sushi rarely comes to mind, however, Mamasake in the Village at Squaw Valley offers a deal so good you’ll be able to fuel up before leaving the resort and still have enough money to put gas in the car for the ride home. Enjoy a hand roll and a beer for $5 or try Mamasake’s signature Mama’s Balls. A mixture of kani kama, tofu, tuna and shrimp in inari pockets, tempura with cilantro oil, sriracha and chives, these balls will definitely hit the spot. For a bigger appetite, buy one roll and get a second half off. |
mamasake.com
breakfast
Sunnyside
| One of the most popular specials in town is only offered one night a week. Wednesday nights is Fish Taco night at Sunnyside Resort with a choice of grilled, Cajun or beer-battered fish tacos offered for half the price. Arrive early as the restaurant is often packed wall to wall with people seeking a fish taco. For as little as $6.50, you’ll have enough money left for a $5 margarita or $4 Pacifico beer. sunnysideresort.com
Unbuckle Après Party
It’s no secret that something about fresh powder makes us skiers and riders lose our minds. Suddenly, nothing is more important than being first in line for fresh tracks. We’ll wake up before the sun, cut off truckers on icy highways and push our own mothers out of the way for first turns. In a hot pursuit of cold smoke, many skiers and riders will find themselves waiting
Before “Start the party heading down the hill, stop at the Tamarack by unbuckling Lodge at Heavenly Mounyour boots and tain Resort for an adultsonly good time. Start the enjoying halfparty by unbuckling your priced drinks.” boots and enjoying halfpriced drinks and a special menu featuring discounted food including Tamarack’s signature barbecue nachos. After fueling up, warm up those dance moves with live DJs and the ripping ladies of the Heavenly Angels. |
skiheavenly.com
in line hours before the lift opens with an empty stomach. Save yourself from bonking before brunch and use that extra time to your advantage with a little pre-planning. Pack that backpacking stove and your favorite breakfast fixings for a hot meal in line before the lifts start turning.
Looking for more dining deals in Tahoe? Visit TahoePowderMag.com.
TAHOE POWDER · DINING ON A DIME
| If you prefer to end your day on the California side of Heavenly Mountain Resort, stop in to the Gunbarrel between 3 and 6 p.m. on weeknights for daily happy hour specials. Specials include Taco Tuesday with all-you-can-eat tacos for $2 each. Wednesdays are locals’ nights. Show a pass from any Tahoe resort and receive 2 for 1 on food. Wet your whistle on Thursdays with $3 beer specials. Monday to Friday offers $3 well drinks and $2 tall boys of PBR.
“Arrive early as the restaurant is often packed wall to wall with people seeking a fish taco.”
- JS
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Gunbarrel Tavern
Don’t skip
“Old-fashioned fun to spice things up on your next Sierra sojourn.”
familyfun
sure to put a smile on your face · heavenly mountain resort
by ann lindemann
skiing and snowboarding
are the superstars of the winter recreation world, but there’s plenty of room for a supporting cast of family fun options in Tahoe. In recent years, ski areas have diversified, offering appealing alternatives for your brood. Read on and you’ll also find ideas for old-fashioned fun to spice things up on your next Sierra sojourn. DASHING THROUGH THE SNOW
FAMILY FUN · TAHOE POWDER
Based in Stateline, Nev., the Borges Family Sleigh Rides offer rides in antique sleighs pulled by Belgian Draft horses for a unique on-the-snow adventure. HIT THE WALL
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Indoor rock climbing walls are a great way to let the younger set burn off a lot of that extra energy. High Altitude Fitness in Incline Village boasts the largest indoor climbing gym in the region. Over in Truckee, Tahoe Sports Haus has more than 3,000 feet of vertical space for everyone. Climb the walls at Squaw Valley’s Aerial Tram building with a 30-foot-tall wall featuring 800 feet of climbing fun. MUSH
Dog sledding has a long history in the region, with Truckee holding America’s first dog sled competition in 1915 that was attended by Jack London. Today, dog sledding adventures offering thrilling tours of the beautiful Sierra scenery. Wilderness Adventures based at the Resort at Squaw Creek offers thrilling hour-long tours in Squaw Valley Meadow. On the south side of Tahoe, Husky Express specializes in dog sled tours in the beautiful Hope Valley.
some old-fashioned fun · wilderness adventures
SWING THROUGH THE TREES
The Treetop Adventure Park on Tahoe’s West Shore offers one of most unique outings for the entire family – a tour through the trees using Zip lines, rope bridges and various obstacles. Kids as young as 5 may enjoy the fun at the park. And, yes, it is open in the winter. TAKE IT INSIDE
When the weather is nasty, head indoors for some kid-friendly activities. Kids will enjoy a variety of exhibits and projects at the KidZone Museum in Truckee. The Tahoe Maritime Museum on the West Shore is chock-full of maritime history and includes a simulated boat that the kids can drive on Lake Tahoe. And, check out the “Ghost Ships” exhibit this winter. Explore Tahoe’s winter ski history at several local museums including the Western Ski Sports Museum at Boreal, or head to Tahoe City to explore the Museum of Sierra Ski History & the 1960 Winter Olympics, and the Gatekeeper’s Museum, which features an exhibit on black bears.
Blackwood Canyon | Enjoy this public snowplay area on the West Shore south of Tahoe City. You’ll need to bring your equipment. Boreal | Five lands of tubing fun awaits for the entire family at the Playland tube park. Donner Ski Ranch | Enjoy three lanes of tubing fun, and you won’t have to make the track back uphill, just sit back and enjoy the ride the Magic Carpet. Granlibakken | Families adore this Tahoe City sledding area and quaint lodge.
choose from several indoor climbing adventures
Heavenly | Take the gondola to the top and enjoy the Adventure Peak play area featuring snow tubing, sledding, cross-country and snowshoeing options. Homewood Mountain Resort | A family favorite located on Lake Tahoe’s West Shore, Homewood offers a snow play area near the South Lodge.
Mount Rose | One of the most popular sled hills in the region, it’s crowded on the weekends at this public snowplay area near the summit where you’ll need your own sleds or tubes. Northstar California | Enjoy being transported by tow lift to the top of this tubing area located just above the gondola. North Tahoe Regional Park | Bring your own gear or rent sleds on site for a day of fun in Tahoe Vista. Sierra-at-Tahoe | This locals’ favorite ski area also is a great place to get tubular. Located east of Echo Summit, Sierra offers a super sledding and tubing area that parents can view from the nearby deck. Soda Springs | This beloved Donner Summit ski area has a great tubing area for all ages with tubing at Planet Kids for the littlest ones.
new buddy It’s your turn to watch the kids in the lodge while your significant other gets in his or her
Squaw Valley | Maybe you already knew about Squaw’s mountaintop ice skating and hot tub options, but did you know about the cool mini snowmobiles for kids 6- to 12-years-old? Also check out the stellar snow tubing.
runs for the day. Guess
Tahoe City | Located just outside of town, a small sledding hill makes for great fun. But, you’ll need your own sled.
same lodge.
Tahoe City Winter Sports Park | Enjoy sledding on the golf course in the winter with rentals available at the clubhouse. Tahoe Donner | Check out the sledding at Trout Creek Recreation Center. For details on these activities, go to visitinglaketahoe.com. Looking for more activities to enjoy
Incline Village | Bring your sled to the golf course driving range that transforms in the winter into the perfect ski hill located next to the Chateau.
meet your
with the family? Visit TahoePowderMag.com.
what? All of those other parents who are now on babysitting duty are hanging out in the
Take this opportunity to meet your new Tahoe buddy, swap ski stories from the day, and enjoy a drink while the tykes have fun with their new play date for the afternoon. - KH
2014/15 Platinum Pass
Five FREE Lift Tickets FREE Two Night Stay FREE Rentals/Tuneups Discount Lift Tickets Two FREE XC Passes
ALL FOR ONLY
snowbomb
$99!
(retail price $200)
Use code ‘POWDER’ on SNOWBOMB.com
TAHOE POWDER · FAMILY FUN
Adventure Mountain Lake Tahoe | This snow park is a popular spot for tubing and sledding. Families must pay for parking, but the groomed hills are free. Bring sleds and tubes, or rent them on site.
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TUBE TIME
celebrate winter like a local by tim hauserman
every winter day scott sady · squaw valley
winter film series · dave nettle
at Tahoe can be an event. You could be bombing down a mountain or gliding across a meadow. Or, you could just be quietly marveling at the beauty of our favorite hunk of deep blue, while it lies peacefully in stark contrast against all that bright, white snow. But, while Tahoe folks enjoy those moments of quiet relaxation, they also realize that it is good to celebrate winter with a bunch of friends. So, they are putting out the welcome mat for us to have some fun together.
Winter film series
CELEBRATE WINTER LIKE A LOCAL · TAHOE POWDER
Nov. 5
Nov. 13
Stept Productions presents “Ten and Two” at Hacienda del Lago in Tahoe City at 7 p.m.
Alpenglow hosts its Winter Film Series featuring Dave Nettle at 7 p.m. at the Squaw Valley Conference Center.
steptproductions.com
“Mr. Plant” showing Nov. 7 Volcom Stone presents “Mr. Plant” starring Pat Moore and friends at Olympic Valley Lodge. volcom.com
“No Turning Back” showing
Nov. 7-8 Harrah’s Lake Tahoe hosts a showing of Warren Miller Entertainment’s “No Turning Back.”
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squaw.com
Shop the swap Nov. 8 Get the best deals on gear at the Ski & Snowboard Swap from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Truckee Community Recreation Center.
“Pretty Faces” showing Dec. 7 Tahoe Arts Haus Cinema in Tahoe City hosts a showing of “Pretty Faces,” the first crowdsourced, crowd-funded, all-women’s ski movie. unicornpicnic.com
‘Tis the Season Tahoe has its own way of doing everything, and that includes celebrating the holidays. Where else would you find Santa donning skis or a snowboard as the mood strikes him and then enjoying the powder at nearly every Tahoe resorts, often accompanied a band of his merry elves. Then, join the locals for pictures with Santa, holiday festivities, tree lightings, caroling and more in towns around the Lake. visitinglaketahoe.com
Backcountry Ball Dec. 12 Music, an auction, drinks, dinner and more are featured at this annual benefit for Sierra Avalanche Center at Sugar Bowl’s Mt. Judah Lodge from 5 to 11 p.m. sugarbowl.com
“Pretty Faces” showing Montbleu hosts a showing of “Pretty Faces,” the first crowd-sourced, crowd-funded, all-women’s ski movie.
November “Ten and Two” showing
December
Olympic Valley | alpenglowsports.com
Cross-country ski swap
unicornpicnic.com
Tahoe Adventure Film Festival Dec. 13 Check out the latest in adventure sports from around the world during the Tahoe Adventure Film Festival at MontBleu. Montbleuresort.com | South Lake Tahoe
Nov. 15
Winter film series
Tahoe City Cross Country hosts its Ski Swap to buy and sell cross-country, snowshoe, back country, kids and cycling gear, along with kayaks, sleds, clothing and more.
Alpenglow hosts its Winter Film Series featuring Chris Davenport at 7 p.m. at the Squaw Valley Conference Center.
tahoexc.org
alpenglowsports.com
“Less” showing
Ring in the New Year
Nov. 23 Homewood Mountain Resorts present a showing of Level One Productions’ new ski film “Less” at the South Lodge at 6 p.m. level1producations.com
“No Turning Back” showing
Nov. 28-29 Squaw Valley hosts a showing of Warren Miller Entertainment’s “No Turning Back.” squaw.com
Dec. 18
Dec. 31 Celebrate the transition into 2015 in style from fireworks at Northstar, Squaw Valley and Heavenly, to kid-friendly celebrations around the region (ringing in the New Year at 9 p.m. to get the little ones to bed on time), to gourmet dinners and dancing the night away. visitinglaketahoe.com
Alpenglow Mountain Festival Feb 21-28 The second annual nine-day festival focuses on human-powered winters sports, including back-country and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowbiking. Almost all of the activities are free including instruction, demos, special events and nightly presentations and films. alpenglowsports.com
Lake Tahoe Restaurant Week Jan. 9-16 Dozens of South Lake Tahoe restaurants feature specially priced menus highlighting the theme “Made with Altitude.” In addition to great food at reduced prices, look for live music at a number of establishments including Basecamp Pizza, Himmel Haus, Hard Rock Cafe and the Beacon Bar and Grill.
Feb. 27-March 8 Ski races, parades, SnowFest Queen coronations, polar bear swims, bizarre contests and a whole bunch of great food have been the hallmark of the annual SnowFest celebration of winter for more than 30 years. snowfest.org
Winter film series Jan. 15
Stack your favorite s’mores ingredients & pop under the broiler for a few seconds to melt.
alpenglowsports.com
Don your best Viking attire to honor Ullr, the Scandinavian god of winter and snow, at the 6th Annual Ullr Fest at Diamond Peak. A Torchlight Parade, bonfire, live music, ski races, food and lots of fun all centered around Ullr. Prizes will be awarded for the best Ullr attire. diamondpeak.com
February Winter film series Feb. 12 Alpenglow hosts its Winter Film Series featuring Melissa Arnot at 7 p.m. at the Squaw Valley Conference Center. alpenglowsports.com
Sugar Bowl 75th celebration Feb. 14 Celebrate 75 years of Sugar Bowl dominating Donner Summit with a celebration at Mt. Judah Lodge with live music, prizes, drinks, raffle and more. sugarbowl.com
Cover a cast iron skillet with your choice of chocolate & top with marshmallows. Bake at 450 until toasty.
Oven s’mores
Alpenglow hosts its Winter Film Series featuring Mike Douglas at 7 p.m. at the Squaw Valley Conference Center.
Jan. 23-25
S’mores dip
Use graham crackers, cookies or fruit slices to scoop up the gooey goodness.
tahoesouth.com
Ullr Fest
S’mores hacks
brrrrr...the polar bear swim is always a snowfest highlight · snowfest
March Gourmet Ski Tour March 8 What could be finer then an easy stroll, snowshoe or ski while partaking of food from some of Tahoe’s finest restaurants? Well, following it up with a bit of music and dancing at the Tahoe Cross County lodge and a round of margaritas, of course. tahoexc.org
Taste of Truckee March 22 Did the Gourmet Ski Tour whet your appetite for food on snow? Check out the Taste of Truckee at Tahoe Donner for more on-snow deliciousness and wine. Go for a ski first and work up an appetite for this event. tahoedonner.com
Go gourmet > Add strawberries & sub out a biscuit for the graham crackers. > Use Nutella instead of chocolate. > Skip the marshmallows & stack peach slices and Brie with the chocolate. > Dip your toasted marshmallows in Bailey’s, Kahlua, bourbon … use your imagination. > Sub your favorite cookie for the graham crackers. > Add peanut butter. > Add a mint chocolate in the middle.
Keep up with the latest events at TahoePowderMag.com.
TAHOE POWDER · CELEBRATE WINTER LIKE A LOCAL
January
SnowFest
25
celebrate winter and ullr, norse god of snow, at diamond peak’s ullr fest · jen schmidt
explore tahoe’s winter trails
Do-it-yourself bars These vegan, gluten-free bars are my favorite alternative to store-bought bars.
Pumpkin Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
Blackwood Canyon
Pole Creek Trail System
Intermediate
Easy to strenuous
|
The meadows in Blackwood Canyon offer a great place to get into the wilderness off Highway 89 on the West Shore. Follow Highway 89 south from Tahoe City and park at the Kaspian Recreation Area. Skiers can glide along the road (not plowed in winter) or through the meadows. For a longer outing, head up the mountain to Barker Pass. Snowmobilers should follow the road about 2.5 miles, then take a left across the bridge and continue up Barker Pass Road to large open areas, some steep bowls and many roads.
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Unmarked trails follow roads along Pole Creek and Silver Creek Drainages. The trailhead is 6 miles south of Truckee on Highway 89. There is some parking on the west side of the highway. Trails follow U.S. Forest Service roads.
Tahoe Meadows Easy to Intermediate
|
2 C oats (whole rolled)
Intermediate
1 C light brown sugar
A marked route of 3 to 6 miles follows old logging roads and Cabin Creek Road off Highway 89 south of Truckee. Enjoy gentle, rolling slopes. Parking is limited.
On Mount Rose high above Lake Tahoe, Tahoe Meadows offers an expansive area where skiers can stretch their legs and snowmobilers can enjoy the back country. Head up Highway 431 from Incline Village until you reach the meadows before the summit. This is a busy area on the weekends, so visit during the week. Snowmobiling is allowed on the north side of Highway 431 only from the staging area to service road 051. Follow this road northwest to the 1,000-acre riding area.
Donner Memorial State Park
Sugar Pine Point State Park
Easy
Easy to moderate
½ C peanut butter 1 C pumpkin puree EXPLORE TAHOE’S WINTER TRAILS · TAHOE POWDER
(alternative: sweet potato puree)
1 C granulated sugar 1 t pumpkin pie spice (or to taste)
1 t cinnamon (or to taste) 1 T vanilla extract 1/3 to ½ cup pumpkin seeds (or any preferred seed or nut)
26
Combine all ingredients and stir by hand. All measurements are approximate, so adjust to taste. Spread batter into a foil-lined pan and bake at 350˚ for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool before slicing. Store in freezer and don’t forget to pack them on your next outing. This recipe was adapted from averiecooks.com. - JS
Cabin Creek Trail |
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The park is mostly flat and open year-round. Skiers can enjoy the forests and boulder fields, glide down to the lake and meander through the park. There is an unmarked, 9.6-km, skier-packed trail starting near the Emigrant Trail Museum at Donner Lake. For the more adventuresome, glide over the hills into Coldstream Canyon.
Easy to Intermediate
Taylor Creek Easy
Hope Valley |
Hope Valley offers 60 miles of groomed and ungroomed trails in this breathtaking area south of Lake Tahoe. Explore on your own or visit the yurt, operated by Hope Valley Outdoors, at the corner of Highways 88 and 89.
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The Ed Z’berg/Sugar Pine Point State Park is a spectacular spot to cross-country ski or snowshoe among the dense forests of the West Shore of Lake Tahoe. The park offers more than 18 km of marked ski trails. Winter camping also is available.
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Developed for the beginner, the well-marked series of trails on the South Shore allows skiers to explore the area. The terrain is mostly flat and is good for the entire family. Turn on Cathedral Road and park in the Sno-Park. Marked trails start at the parking lot with three trails near Fallen Leaf Lake. On the lakeside of Highway 89, follow the road to the Visitor Center to access the Tallac Historic Trail.
snowmobiling from mild to wild by ann lindemann
2014-15 Season Pass
A term used to define a person that tears it up on a snowmobile.
midweek excluding blackout dates (check dates on the website)
530-582-9090
Eagle Ridge Snowmobile Outfitters The beautiful Jackson Meadows north of Truckee offers hundreds of miles of snowmobiling adventures with Eagle Ridge, which specializes in personalized tours for families, team-building and corporate retreats. Also, check out the moonlight tours or 2-day excursions, including a night at a local hotel. |
eagleridgesnowmobiling.com
Full Throttle Tahoe Based in North Lake Tahoe, Full Throttle specializes in self-guided tours for folks who want to explore Tahoe at his or her own pace. These guys also happen to be the crew for the Alpine Assassins, so they can offer details on great local trails to explore for any ability level. Self-tow packages also are available. |
fullthrottletahoe.com
Lake Tahoe Adventures This longtime outfitter is based in Meyers on the south end. For snowmobile newbies, Lake Tahoe Adventures offers a snowmobile track to get accustomed to the machines in a safe environment. Don’t miss the popular Summit Tour that explores the beautiful Hope Valley. |
laketahoeadventures.com
Plan your Tahoe trip Lake Tahoe Snowmobile Tours Boasting the best views of Lake Tahoe, Lake Tahoe Snowmobile Tours has been around since 1985. Personalized tours available for all ages, abilities and group size leaving from Brockway Summit | laketahoesnowmobiling.com
TahoePowderMag.com or pick up a copy of our sister publication,
Tahoe Weekly
“Snowmobiling can be both an adrenaline junkie’s fix, as well as a dream for those seeking stunning vistas off the beaten track.” North Tahoe Winter Adventures Not sure that you want to commit to a two-hour snowmobile tour? Take a sled for a spin on a machine-groomed track at North Tahoe Regional Park in Tahoe Vista. | northtahoeparks.com Zephyr Cove Snowmobiling Zephyr Cove Snowmobiling is conveniently located near Stateline near the casinos. It offers not only 45 miles of groomed trails, but also free shuttle service to and from select lodging properties. | zephyrcove.com
TAHOE POWDER · SNOWMOBILING FROM MILD TO WILD
coldstreamadventures.com
$2195
www.coldstreamadventures.com
Fortunately, Tahoe-Truckee offers a variety of snowmobile tour companies that can accommodate your every need. Here’s a sampling, but remember to check online and call ahead to snag the specifics.
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tours start at $125 double
DEFINED > SLEDNECK
outdoor winter adventure can only be achieved with planks attached to your feet? Think again, because snowmobiling can be both an adrenaline junkie’s fix, as well as a dream for those seeking stunning vistas off the beaten track. What’s more, it’s an equal opportunity activity as all ages and skill levels are welcome.
Coldstream Adventures Coldstream Adventures offers tours in Truckee and North Tahoe. Check out the 3.5-hour tour that includes lunch at a cozy wilderness cabin in Coldstream Canyon. Season-long gold passes are available for snowmobiling addicts.
ADVENTURES
snowmobile tours
27
think exhilarating
COLD STREAM
@TheTahoeWeekly facebook.com/TheTahoeWeekly
tahoe city cross country
glide
until your heart’s content by tim hauserman
“It winds, drops, climbs and rolls first, giving you a bit of everything you could want in a cross-country ski.”
GLIDE UNTIL YOUR HEART’S CONTENT · TAHOE POWDER
tahoe boasts the largest concentration of groomed cross-country ski trails in North America with more than 450 kilometers of trails within an hour’s drive of the lake. You can glide until your heart’s content and your legs collapse. It’s enough to satisfy the interests and desires of any Nordic addict. But, just in case you are deprived of the time to ski all 450 of those luscious kilometers, I’ve taken on the difficult duty of skiing the area’s trails and zeroing in on a few of the most scenic for you to explore. It’s a tough job, but someone had to do it. Here are a few of my recommendations, now get out there and explore.
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Views of Big Blue // While rolling up and down through the forest is all part of the fun of a day at Tahoe Cross Country, what makes the place unique are the views of Lake Tahoe. The short, steep journey to the top of the Lakeview Trail dishes out the most dramatic view, but my favorite place to enjoy a bit of blue is on Silver trail. Silver provides a beautiful and peaceful view of Tahoe from its trailside hut, but it winds, drops, climbs and rolls first, giving you a bit of everything you could want in a cross-country ski. Stop midway at the hut to enjoy the view and sun while sipping a cup of hot chocolate.
tahoe donner cross country
Peaceful, pleasant trails // There’s a lot of competition to be the most scenic trail at Tahoe Donner with more than 100 kilometers of trails. You can get a long, sustained workout by climbing onto Hawks Peak and up to the top of the Drifter trail. The all-encompassing views of Euer Valley, Castle Peak and the Frog Lake Cliffs are an excuse to take frequent breaks to enjoy the vistas and gasp for breath.
But, my vote for the best views is to drop down into Euer Valley itself, catch the Last Round Up trail, where your nearly level loop around the valley will provide you with a peacefully pleasant skate ski while surrounded by high peaks.
Just start climbing in the open bowls and the further you go up, the better the views get of Elephant’s Back, Round Top, Caples Lake and the Kirkwood downhill resort.
royal gorge cross country
Lake Tahoe overlook // The Northstar
NOVICE
500
20 KM
20%
50%
30%
0%
CAMP RICHARDSON (530) 542-6584 | camprichardson.com
6+
35
N/A
10 KM
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
CLAIR TAPPAAN LODGE (530) 426-3313 | clairtappaanlodge.com
7
13
N/A
13 KM
60%
40%
0%
0%
DONNER MEMORIAL STATE PARK (530) 587-7892 | parks.ca.gov
5
16+
N/A
N/A
67%
20%
13%
0%
GRANLIBAKKEN SKI AREA (800) 543-3221 | granlibakken.com
2
7.5
N/A
N/A
25%
75%
0%
0%
60 miles
N/A
N/A
20 miles
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
KIRKWOOD (209) 258-7248 | kirkwood.com
24
80
4,200
80 KM
20%
60%
20%
0%
•
NORTHSTAR CALIFORNIA (530) 542-6584 | northstarcalifornia.com
18
35
600
35 KM
47%
32%
21%
0%
•
NORTH TAHOE REGIONAL PARK (530) 546-5043 | northtahoeparks.com
N/A
11
N/A
11 KM
45%
50%
5%
0%
ROYAL GORGE (530) 426-3871 | royalgorge.com
60
200+
6,000
200+ KM
32%
50%
18%
0%
•
9
•
SQUAW CREEK CROSS COUNTRY (530) 583-6300, x6631 | squawcreek.com
9
18
400
18 KM
60%
25%
15%
0%
•
2
•
•
SUGAR PINE POINT (530) 525-7982 | parks.ca.gov
5
18.7
N/A
13.6 KM
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
•
•
TAHOE CITY WINTER SPORTS PARK (530) 583-1516 | wintersportspark.com
2
3
N/A
3 KM
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
•
•
TAHOE CROSS COUNTRY (530) 583-5475 | tahoexc.org
23
65
3,000
65 KM
20%
50%
30%
0%
•
3
•
•
TAHOE DONNER CROSS COUNTRY (530) 587-9444, x2 | tahoedonner.com
56
100+
4,800
100+ KM
18%
20%
11%
1%
•
5
•
•
HOPE VALLEY OUTDOORS (530) 694-2266 | hopevalleyoutdoors.com
DOGS OK
GROOMED
20
SNOWSHOE TRAILS
ACRES
10
EXPERT
KILOMETERS
AUBURN SKI CLUB (530) 426-3313 | auburnskiclub.org
TERRAIN
CHILDREN’S SCHOOL
TRAILS
the resorts
1 •
• •
•
•
1 •
•
•
3
•
•
•
2
•
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TAHOE POWDER · GLIDE UNTIL YOUR HEART’S CONTENT
and easy ski with beautiful views of Squaw Valley? Check out the 18 kilometer of trails looping through Squaw Meadow at the Resort at Squaw Creek. Perhaps you will be joined by a team of dog sledders, which are popular on the trails.
29
Meadows loops // Looking for a quick
“Razorback is the place to go in the springtime, when it’s north-facing slopes hold the snow and keep it fresh.”
GUIDED TOURS
cross-country network starts at mid-mountain and includes a number of short, interconnected trails. Your eventual destination should be the Lake Tahoe overlook viewpoint. You can get there via the easier Lumberjack and Tahoe trails, or challenge yourself a bit with Zuniga’s Zen and the Timbuktu Loop.
WARMING HUTS
Razorback, on the other hand. is the place to go in the springtime, when it’s north-facing slopes hold the snow and keep it fresh longer then other parts of the trail system. Here via Claim Jumper you reach the crux of the trail, a steep ascent to the ridge line. Once you’ve reached the ridge, enjoy the cruise along the top, finding jaw-dropping views of Sugar Bowl and a wide expanse of wilderness to the south.
main Kirkwood trailhead near the downhill resort provides a maze of winding in the trees, to get to some of the best views available anywhere, head to the Schneider Camp trailhead. If you are feeling fit, you can ski all the trails, but the focus is on Outpost and the Last Round Up.
ADVANCED
To get to Point Mariah, you head over Snow Mountain, which is dang pretty all by itself, before cruising along the east ridge out to Mariah Point, your turn-around spot. From its viewpoint, you can see a big chunk of the Pacific Crest between Sugar Bowl and Squaw Valley in one direction, and the deep cleft in the mountains that is the Royal Gorge of the American River, in the other.
Climb the open bowls // While the
INTERMEDIATE
Breathtaking views // It’s a tough choice between Point Mariah and Razorback for the most scenic trail at Royal Gorge. Perhaps it depends upon when you are skiing and whether you are looking for a longer ski with less climbing, or don’t mind a kick ass climb at the end to reach your view.
birth of
winter sports in tahoe by mark mclaughlin
“In 1910, an old steam engine from an abandoned lumber mill was hauled in by wagon and used to power an uphill lift for toboggans and skiers. Some ski historians believe that this was the first mechanical lift of its kind in the United States.”
winter sports have deep roots in Truckee and Lake Tahoe, with Northern Californians enjoying railroad excursions to Sierra snow as early as the late 1860s. The birth of Truckee’s original Winter Carnival in 1895 opened with a bang due to that winter’s extraordinary 685 inches of snowfall near Donner Pass. The mid-winter event grew out of economic desperation among the town’s business community as the demise of logging, commercial ice harvesting, and the collapse of the Comstock silver boom was devastating to the region. To promote Truckee’s unique position as a destination for winter sports with easy railroad access, in late 1894, civic leader Charles McGlashan and other businessmen approved construction of a massive ice palace containing a large, indoor skating rink, retail concessions and more. Outdoor activities included dog sled races, toboggan and horse-drawn sleigh rides, cross-country ski races, and moonlight ice skating parties on Donner Lake. McGlashan pitched Southern Pacific Railroad on the concept of using excursion trains from Sacramento and Oakland to bring thousands of winter tourists to Truckee.
BIRTH OF WINTER SPORTS IN TAHOE · TAHOE POWDER
Despite early skepticism about the project, Truckee residents decorated their town in red, white and blue bunting as they framed a wooden ice palace. The building was wrapped with wire netting that formed a veneer of ice when sprayed with water in subfreezing temperatures.
A ski jumper uncorks one at Tahoe City’s Olympic Hill, circa 1932 | Courtesy North Lake Tahoe Historical Society
The first ice palace covered an acre of ground in downtown Truckee. It blocked traffic and spooked horses, but it was an immediate success at drawing winter visitors from the nearby train depot. Smiling skaters promenaded around the 700-foot
30
Across the Truckee River, just south from downtown was Hilltop, a small hill that provided an excellent place to sled and ski. In 1910, an old steam engine from an abandoned lumber mill was hauled in by wagon and used to power an uphill lift for toboggans and skiers. Some ski historians believe that this was the first mechanical lift of its kind in the United States.
courtesy mark mclaughlin
Winter sports had a slower start at North Lake Tahoe, but in 1926, the Linnard Steamship Company purchased the Tahoe Tavern Hotel near Tahoe City. The new management decided to open the luxurious 223-room, summer resort during the winter months. Transportation to the lake was provided by Southern Pacific Railroad, which maintained a track from the transcontinental line in Truckee to the hotel.
John “Snowshoe” Thompson carried the mail over the Sierra Nevada from Placerville to the Carson Valley in the dead of winter in the 1850s climbing over the steep mountain peaks and then skiing on longboards to his Southern Pacific trains brought thousands of winter sports enthusiasts to the mountains · Courtesy Mark McLaughlin
Truckee’s toboggan ride was considered the “most thrilling on Pacific Coast,” circa 1895. Note the ice palace in the background · Courtesy Truckee Donner Historical Society
Initially, the main attractions were ice skating and tobogganing, but soon a Winter Sports Grounds was developed on a slope about half a mile west of the hotel (current location of Granlibakken Resort). A double toboggan slide was built, and then shortly after a 65-meter trajectory jump was constructed. Before long, the Tahoe Tavern’s winter sports program included downhill skiing and exhibition ski jumping. To entertain guests, the hotel hired Lars Haugen and other nationally ranked Norwegian ski jumpers to perform daring leaps. While working at the Tahoe Tavern, Alf Engen and brother Sverre had a signature move where they hit the jump simultaneously, clasped hands in mid flight, and then broke away for the landing. These professional performances drew hundreds of spectators to the Tavern and the future for winter sports looked bright as the crowds swelled.
People came to Truckee and Tahoe City for winter sports from throughout the West. Until winter plowing commenced on trans-Sierra Highway 40 in 1932, Southern Pacific Railroad provided all transportation into the mountains with “Snowball Express” specials. Soon automobiles became the most popular way to reach ski resorts, which sprouted along Highway 40 like weeds during the 1930s. The opening of Sugar Bowl ski area 75 years ago in 1939, which boasted steep, alpine slopes accessed by California’s first chairlift, signaled the debut of the region’s first upscale, European-style ski resort. Truckee’s annual ice carnivals were the first in the West and a real boost to the town’s vitality. Charles McGlashan realized early on that tourism would be the main economic pillar for the small mountain community that he loved. The dream of the Truckee-Tahoe region as a Mecca for winter fun has succeeded beyond anyone’s imagination. The legacy continues with the North Lake Tahoe and Truckee Winter Carnival, a 10-day mountain Mardi Gras known as SnowFest! It’s scheduled this winter from Feb. 27 to March 8. Make sure you get out there and enjoy the timeless fun of winter sports. Tahoe historian Mark McLaughlin is a nationally published author and professional speaker. His award-winning books are available at local stores or at thestormking.com. Read more columns at TahoePowderMag.com.
destination on the 90-mile round-trip journey. Snowshoe Thompson made the journey without a map or compass, with no blanket or camping gear. He rarely stopped to rest and often travelled at night when the snow was hard and fast. He would rocket down the slopes reaching 60 mph on his 10-foot longboards carrying mail sacks that weighed 100 lbs. Monuments to Snowshoe Thompson stand today
TAHOE POWDER · BIRTH OF WINTER SPORTS IN TAHOE
oval, indoor rink serenaded by musicians. The ceiling was lit by 20 arc lights and tall cedar and pine trees decorated the palace roof. Daring toboggan riders could climb a 75-foot high tower near Truckee’s Commercial Row and enjoy an exciting slide 150 feet to street level. The San Francisco Chronicle proclaimed it the “most thrilling ride on the Pacific Coast.”
By 1928, professional ski jumps had been constructed at Hilltop and the Tahoe Tavern’s Winter Sports Grounds, now called Olympic Hill. That year, Tahoe City applied to host the 1932 Winter Games, but the effort was rejected. The Olympic Committee decision was based on a lack of previous winter sports events, but also influenced by the erroneous perception that most of California enjoys a year-round Mediterranean climate. That would change by 1960 when Squaw Valley successfully hosted the Winter Games.
at Boreal Ski Resort and Squaw Valley, with the annual Sierra Snowshoe Thompson Ski Race commemorating his feats held in Hope Valley.
- KH
31
Female skiers using cloth sails to tap wind energy for an easy cruise, circa 1927 · Courtesy Truckee Donner Historical Society
Did you know?
daron rahlves: on speed
sugar bowl
as told to jenn sheridan
after 13 years racing with the U.S. Ski Team, Daron Rahlves continues to push the envelope in skiing. A ski ambassador for Sugar Bowl, Rahlves helped launch the Rahlves Banzai Tour as a nod to Sugar Bowl’s historic Silver Belt Race. The Banzai puts a modern twist on the Silver Belt with four skiers or boarders racing headto-head in timed heats similar to a ski-cross event. Going into its fifth season this winter, Rahlves stopped to reflect on the event. on the course: “Tahoe mountains are built
AND, ON THAT NOTE · TAHOE POWDER
for this kind of event. Each run is about 1 to 1½ minutes. The course utilizes as much natural terrain as possible and is built to slow racers down in tight areas and let them run when it’s open.”
on the competitors: “I like people finding out
what they’re made of. I want people who come out just to say they did it along with those who compete to win.”
on competition: “I’ve always been a competi-
tor. It gives you a way to see where you stand.”
on expanding the tour: “I want to keep it in
32
Tahoe. We thought about growing, but I think it’s better to bring people here. The mountains are perfect for this event.”
on the tour’s success: “It seems like more
on the next generation: “Each event raises
money for local ski teams. For every beer and Red Bull sold during the après parties, a dollar is donated to the resort’s team. At the end, we raffle off sponsor products. It’s all about helping the next generation and the ski community.”
on showing off: “Show us how you’re training
for the Banzai Tour. Tag #rahlvesbanzai on Instagram and your photos will automatically be posted on rahlvesbanzai.com.”
portrait by grant barta · sugar bowl
Rahlves’ resume ON THE PODIUM > 7 U.S. National Titles 15 U.S. National Podium finishes 28 World Cup Podium finishes 12 World Cup Wins 3 World Championship Medals 1 X Games win in SkierX
ON FILM > Matchstick Productions “Pull”
people are joining the tour in a stronger way. It’s cool when people start supporting what you want to do.”
Rage Films “Enjoy”
on inspiration: “Two years ago, a local guy,
Atomic Skiing “Skiing Is ______”
Shawn McGee, made the semi-finals. He was fired up and motivated to train. The next year, he came back and almost won the overall title. I was impressed seeing his commitment.”
Rage Films “Down Days” Warren Miller Entertainment “Children of Winter” Matchstick Productions “In Deep” Warren Miller Entertainment “Dynasty” Teton Gravity Research “Light the Wick”