Hi Moms, we're going to Tahoe and I would love to get your input/advice on couple of things:
1. Chains for the Tires? Do you have to have these, or only if it's snowing like crazy? Where can we get some (cheap)?
2. What's your favorite place to ski? I'm wondering about less expensive options, but would also like to go somewhere that's less crowded as well. In the past we've gone to Heavenly, and that seemed like a good fit, but wondering if anyone has input on other places you've liked.
Thanks for any info you have!
M.
Wow, thank you all so much! I really had no idea there were so many places to ski there.
I really like the idea of going to a place that has a village like atmosphere for anyone in our group who may be done skiing before others.
Also, thank you for the info on the chains. I've never been the one to do the drive there, and I remember a couple years ago being with friends and having to drive around searching for chains during a snowstorm, all the stores were sold out, etc, so I'm glad to understand how the whole thing works now! I don't have four wheel drive, so I might just get a pair anyway and then at least we'll have them for the future. Thank you all sooo much!!
P.S. A friend told me a tip last night: rent skis here in the city before you go. Apparently it's cheaper (and it sounds easier too).
I would be on the safe side & bring chains. Just try the car repair/supply stores like Grand Auto. One time we went up w/o ours (couldn't find them), had to buy some up there & spent a FORTUNE on them! As far as cheap, Boreal & Soda Springs, the first 2 you come to, are supposed to be the least expensive. Both have other options besides skiing as well. Just google cheap ski resorts in Tahoe & see what comes up. Have fun!
I used to live in Tahoe so you're asking the right person. I had a 4-wheel-drive truck and I never had to use chains. But if you don't have 4-wheel you'll definitely need chains this time of year. The roads get really icy and you never know when the weather will change.
As far skiing goes, try Mt. Rose. It seems like it isn't as crowded there as other resorts.
Hope this helps. T.
Rent a SUV with 4 wheel drive. Borreal is a little cheaper but I really liked Northstar and Squaw Valley. Maybe you can try lookin for coupons. Have a good time!
Hi M.,
While it's always good to carry chains when you are in snow country, it's not usually necessary. When we take our non-4-wheel drive vehicle up we just watch the weather carefully. For the hundreds of times I've made this journey, I've only had to use chains a handful of times. If it's going to snow (at all) then be sure to grab some chains before you go. You'll pay an arm and a leg to buy them up there.
As for resort recommendations, it's really about what kind of terrain you're looking for. The less expensive options would be Diamond Peak or Boreal, but I would definitely recommend Alpine Meadows or Northstar (although Northstar tends to be crowded), as their hills are larger and with more challenging terrain, and their VERY family friendly. And you're looking for more of a challenge, Squaw is the best - although it's also the most expensive.
Have a wonderful time!
Chains are only necessary if the weather is bad.
Villages are great to have with families in case some don't make it through the day they can shop or walk around in the village...just a thought. I love Squaw - terrain is the hardest here but the village is great and apparantly Northstar has the same village b/c it was designed by same people and the terrain is much flatter and easier there.
You can get discount tix at REI if you're a member - good 10-15 dollars off which is worth it. Squaw just introduced a new ticket system which you just put the ticket in your pocket and go through a scanner. We found this really helpful b/c we just bought one ticket and split up the day where one went in the morning and the other went in the afternoon! Not sure why they introduced something they are so easily losing money on but it works for us!
Have fun!
