Travel planner - SNOWY SOJOURN

Travel planner - SNOWY SOJOURN



Ski and snowboard your way through this white wonderland this winter season

With layers of fresh snow and delight fully sunny weather, Lake Tahoe makes for a quintessential destination for a skiing or snowboarding trip this winter. The best way to soak in the beauty is to put on a pair of skis or strap a board to your feet and hurtle down a snow-covered mountain. But wait ­ there's more to this ski heaven. You are not just skiing and bundling up by the fire with s'mores and hot cocoa to relax those tired legs. Try your luck at one of south shore's hip casinos, let your inner star shine with karaoke at a quaint bar or indulge in high-end shopping and dining along the lake's north shore.

OLYMPICS VIBE

This is your chance to witness expert skiers sliding down the mountain's famed steeps ­ what else do you expect from a place that played host to 1960 Winter O l y m p i c s ! Sprawled across six peaks on Lake Tahoe's western shore and boasting of a wide range of beginner and intermediate excit ing runs along with advanced lift systems, Squaw Valley can be easily dubbed as one of the world's finest ski destinations. A vibrant ski culture, unlimited mountain energy and dramatic scenery define this vast white playground. Alternatively, you can board a cable car and head to High Camp for an hour of ice skating at the Olympic Ice Pavilion (open year-round) or, indulge in a relaxing spa treat ment amid snowy mountains. Even if you're a non-skier who favours snowball fights over skiing, you won't regret visit ing this winter wonderland.

SKIING MADE EASY

With abundant annual snow fall, well-spaced red fir trees, and acres of backcountry ter rain, the place has everything you need for a perfect ski va cation. What makes it unique is the fact that even a begin ner can access the mountain's summit. Even if you don't ski or snowboard, you can spend an entire day watching world class athletes shredding pow der. Cap the day with sou venir shopping and on mountain dining. Free shut tle services, availability of up to-date ski and snowboard equipment and gear, and and easy rental process makes the experience effortless and un forgettable.

OUTDOORSY FUN

Lake Tahoe offers enough outdoor activities to keep you busy all summer. This is when the days are hot and sunny and the nights are cool, perfect for sleeping in a tent. Hike from Emerald Bay to Lester Beach on the Rubi con Trail, go kayaking or mountain biking, try paddle boarding, parasailing and jet skiing or simply grab a beer at a popular bar and chat with the locals. TIP: Even in the middle of summer, Lake Tahoe's waters can feel like ice. If you're swimming, make sure to take frequent breaks to warm up.

Shikha Shah

 Oct 08 2017 : The Times of India (Mumbai)