This article is sponsored by Squaw Valley, home to 2,800 vertical feet of pure mountain bliss. To learn more about Squaw Valley visit Squaw.com.
Home to extreme skiers and Olympians, Squaw Valley has earned a reputation as a mountain for hardcore skiers and snowboarders.
But did you know that Squaw is one of the best resorts to learn how to ski and ride in North America?
The Terrain
While most mountains keep beginner terrain at the bottom of the hill, Squaw takes its novices 2,800 feet above the base village. There they'll find one of the few mountaintop beginner areas in the ski world. Under the guidance of instructors from the world-class Squaw Valley Snowsports School, beginners can take in beautiful views of Lake Tahoe while basking in the blissful sun.
Beyond the beginner area, Squaw's acclaimed terrain is surprisingly diverse. With 3,600 acres of pillowy powder snow and perfectly groomed cruisers draped over six peaks, there are enough runs and glades to keep you busy for days, while an extensive network of 33 lifts ensure you'll always spend more time on snow then in line. Experts will want to hit the steep lines, chutes and glades found on K-22 and Headwall. Families, on the other hand, will love Emigrant and Siberia Express. And everyone will love the four terrain parks, each catering to different ability levels.
Did we mention the night skiing? With a 3.2 mile floodlight run, Squaw truly earns its reputation for having the most exciting terrain in Lake Tahoe.
Fun In The Sun
Besides the blissful ski conditions, Spring skiers and boarders can take advantage of the California sun at High Camp, a mid-mountain paradise replete with a heated swimming pool and hot tub. Ditch your gear and throw on a swim suit in the locker room, then take a high altitude dip. The 25-foot diameter hot tub gets very popular thanks to its toasty 102 degree temp, while the surrounding deck is perfect for a cocktail from Umbrella Bar. And if that weren't enough, there's even a skating rink. No wonder this place hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics.
Back down at the base the action continues with snow tubing and miniature snowmobiles for kids.
Lodging and Dining
Squaw Valley's lodging options almost rival its terrain. For close proximity to the slopes, book a room at The Resort at Squaw Creek. Take in stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains from amenity-filled rooms and suites, then grab a drink and some tasty grub at Sandy's Pub. Or make a reservation at Six Peaks Grille, where chef Chad Shrewsbury serves sustainable seafood, California raised beef and farm-fresh ingredients.
For a completely unique vacation experience, head just down the mountain to Harrah's and Harveys Lake Tahoe, where you can enjoy the best of Las Vegas in the heart of the pristine mountains. With two hotels and casinos, not to mention spas, nightclubs, comedy showcases and an array of fine dining, all in a waterfront location, you might completely forget about the following day's ski lesson. But with free shuttles back up to Squaw Valley, it's easy to enjoy the best of both worlds.
For more information on Squaw Valley, including how to book a vacation, reserve a ski or ride lesson and where to dine, visit Squaw.com.
