Lake Tahoe Family Ski Vacation Highlights

The weather has been great here in Lake Tahoe, as we finish up a family ski vacation. Sking in the New Year around Lake Tahoe ski resorts is an adventure in itself. Driving around the lake from South Lake Tahoe to Northstar-at-Tahoe and Squaw Valley USA takes a lot of concentration to arrive before the lifts start turning. It's not because of the distance, but, rather because I was so tempted to stop and take in the magnicent, changing views of blue lake and white capped mountains every ten minutes.

Here's some highlights of our trip so far this week:

• Great flight in on Southwest with only a 10 minute wait for skis to be unloaded - no charge to bring them.
• Stayed at the Marriott Timber Lodge - woke up with the Heavenly Gondola just out the door.
• Took a lesson on Sierra snow all over the Heavenly Nevada side - remember, I always say take a lesson for something new.
• Enjoyed a special improvisational dinner at FiRE + iCE - watch your dinner grilled in the round.
• Skied my first time at the North end of the Lake at Northstar-at-Tahoe.
• Dined at the really good Nevada Ciera Steak and Chop House - after strolling through the slots and poker tables.
• Went on a tour of Squaw Valley USA with Jonny Moseley - yes, I saw him do a forward flip - no, I did not!
• Cheered with thousands of revellers in Nevada and back into California on New Year's Eve!
• Drove back to South Lake Tahoe on Highway 89 - Emerald Bay is something to see.
• Took on the Face and skied the Wave at Kirkwood - we definitely earned our Skull and Crossbones Kirkwood hoodie.

Today, the wind is picking up and the Heavenly Gondola is on hold. This could mean another classic Sierra storm may be on the way, but we are heading home tomorrow. This afternoon looks nice for a stroll on the shores of Lake Tahoe with my family.

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_{Image Lake Tahoe Copyright Mike Doyle}