Where to Ski Reno-Tahoe Oct 2019

W I N T E R VA C AT I O N G U I D E

SKI

RENO TAHOE

2019 2020

UNMATCHED VARIETY! EPIC SNOW!

CELEBRATE THE BEST OF WINTER

Ski a different resort every day of the week

Awesome Events and Indoor Fun

20-foot drifts and sunny 4 of 5 days

World-Class Skiing and Riding Adventures

CONTENTS 2019 2020

ESSENTIALS Welcome to Tahoe 3 Where to Ski 4 Calendar 9 Skiing by the Numbers 12 Where to Stay 14 Driving Here 30 Flying Here 32

ON THE

COVER Brennan Lagasse ямБnding fresh tracks.

PHOTO BY RYAN SALM, COURTESY DIAMOND PEAK SKI RESORT THIS PAGE: COURTESY ALPINE MEADOWS

wheretraveler.com

2

WELCOME TO WORLD-CLASS SKIING

I

t’s the dream: Riding Tahoe’s big white winter wave! Epic months

of snowfall the last two seasons filled social media with images of untracked snow, luring skiers and riders from around the globe. Does your dream look more smoothly groomed? Tahoe has hundreds of miles of silky carveable trails. Don’t want to ride lifts? Try snowshoes, cross-country skis, a snowmobile tour or a cruise boat to Emerald Bay. Pick your escape, then make Tahoe’s winter magic happen for you and yours this season.

R E N O + TA H O E

WHERE TO SKI

Maximizing the Tahoe Ski Experience What’s the perfect Lake Tahoe ski spot for you? Don’t wait another winter to discover it! Chaco Mohler

HEAVENLY MOUNTAIN RESORT



THIS PAGE, FROM TOP: COURTESY ALPINE MEADOWS; COURTESY NORTHSTAR CALIFORIA RESORT. OPPOSITE: COURTESY HEAVENLY MOUNTAIN RESORT

SQUAW VALLEY/ALPINE MEADOWS

FEEL—Hard charging.

CROWD—Full spectrum, family to extreme.

Squaw Valley, the host of the 1960 Winter Olympics, is married by a shared lift pass to neighboring ski resort Alpine Meadows. By acreage and lift capacity, the combo is one of country’s largest ski experiences. There’s terrain for everyone, from first-timers to local racers to freeriders at the top of their sports. A gondola to connect the two lift systems is in the works, but for now, free shuttles run between resort base areas.

New this season is a chairlift from the Alpine base area to its Sherwood Forest backside runs. The Village at Squaw Valley has entertaining restaurants, bars and shops.

NORTHSTAR CALIFORNIA

T

he largest concentration of ski resorts in North America equates to 21 downhill and cross-country ski resorts, all contained in one of the most beautiful winter landscapes on earth. Go big at resorts with state-of-the-art lift networks that tie together multiple peaks. Or taste Tahoe’s amazing variety of skiing, where a so-called “small” resort may, on any given day, have both epic ski conditions and no crowds. When an Alaskan-low rolls through the Sierra, a number of Tahoe resorts will have legitimate claim to the “Best Skiing in the West” for the days that follow.

Generations of World Cup racers and Olympic ski champions have called Tahoe home. Snowboarding is core to this place—from the invention of the half-pipe to the home of Jamie Anderson. Yet Tahoe is also a perfect place to learn to ski or snowboard, with smaller resorts that specialize in first-timer success. Add

ALPINE MEADOWS

in multiple ski towns and a dusk-todawn nightlife, you get the Tahoe vibe—part excitement, part endless possibilities.

HEAVENLY MOUNTAIN RESORT

FEEL— Cruising party fun.

CROWD— International.

Heavenly has so much to offer: 4,800 acres with every variety of terrain and gorgeous views in all directions.

Go big here, with long verticals and 1,600-foot plunges in double-black diamond canyons. Heavenly’s sweet spot, however, is wideopen groomers, 34 miles of them.

High elevation, the West Coast’s largest snowmaking operation and tree-protected powder can often give this big mountain stellar conditions.

The resort also has zip lines, tubing lanes and various large lodges at its multiple entrances. For après-ski action, start at the Unbuckle dance party at Tamarack Lodge.

FEEL— Family luxury.

CROWD—Relaxed and well-dressed.

Northstar is often rated as one of the country’s best family resorts. It specializes in long, well-groomed intermediate runs served by fast chairlifts and full-service “California luxury.”

Its children and adult instruction programs are excellent. There is an entertaining variety of terrain parks for new school skiers and riders, inner-tubing, and in the middle of its mountain village, ice skating.

NORTHSTAR CALIFORNIA RESORT

5

KIRKWOOD MOUNTAIN RESORT

Where to Ski



THIS PAGE, FROM TOP: ©DOMINIC GENTILCORE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; COURTESY DIAMOND PEAK SKI RESORT. OPPOSITE: COURTESY KIRKWOOD MOUNTAIN RESORT

KIRKWOOD MOUNTAIN RESORT

FEEL—Backcountry.

CROWD—Locals and “core” regulars.

On dry roads, this scenic High Sierra canyon is less than an hour’s drive south from Lake Tahoe. Kirkwood’s location on the Sierra Crest and high elevation often gives it one of the nation’s deepest snow packs. Wideopen slopes, canyon gullies and big bowls make for a powder hound’s heaven. Kirkwood Village has a limited number of hotels, restaurants and watering holes.

SIERRA-AT-TAHOE

FEEL—Old School/New School.

CROWD—Passholders and Northern Californians.

Sierra has a relaxed California vibe with excellent terrain parks and tree skiing. Located atop the Sierra Crest off U.S. Highway 50, about 30 minutes south of Lake Tahoe, the resort usually receives plentiful snowfall.

Intermediate abilities have a wide selection of runs to explore. Experts have steep moguls or, in powder, perfectly spaced, old-growth trees and gate-accessed Huckleberry Canyon.

SUGAR BOWL RESORT

FEEL—Intimate variety.

CROWD—Generations of Nor Cal skiers.

Sugar Bowl is a historic resort perched minutes away from Interstate 80 on Donner Summit. It’s been a favorite of San Francisco elites since the 1940s, and some of those families still own the place. The resort includes an old, gondola-accessed lodge and a modern lodge and base with convenient parking. New lifts and trails have been added in recent years. The resort sits in a snow belt so some winters, it boasts one of the deepest bases in the country.

MT. ROSE SKI TAHOE

FEEL—Town hill.

CROWD—Enthused Reno passholders.

Mt. Rose is convenient skiing for Reno residents and visitors staying at the city’s plethora of options for lodging. Its ski runs are less than half-an-hour from most Reno hotels.

The resort has outstanding beginner runs, entertaining intermediate fare, and The Chutes, some of the longest continuous steeps in Tahoe.

MT. ROSE SKI TAHOE

MATCH UPS With 21 downhill and cross-country ski resorts, Tahoe has the perfect match for every type of terrain, climate and skill.

Experts: Squaw Valley, Kirkwood, Heavenly.

Intermediates: Northstar, Heavenly, Alpine Meadows.

Beginners: Squaw Valley, Boreal, Diamond Peak.

Pipe and Park: Northstar, Squaw Valley, Sierraat-Tahoe, Boreal.

Powder: Kirkwood, Alpine Meadows, Sugar Bowl.

Blizzard Days: Northstar, Homewood, Sierraat-Tahoe Spring Days: Alpine Meadows, Heavenly, Mt. Rose.

Low-Snow Seasons: Heavenly, Northstar, Diamond Peak, Boreal.

Party Time: Heavenly, Squaw Valley.

Cross-Country Skiing: Royal Gorge, Tahoe Cross-Country, Tahoe Donner, Kirkwood.

DIAMOND PEAK SKI RESORT

7

BATTLE OF THE SEASON PASSES A season pass to your “home mountain” in another part of the country might also give you free days at some of Tahoe’s greatest resorts.

California Gold Pass The ultimate pass to Tahoe skiing, the Gold Pass is good every day at 32 California and Nevada downhill and cross-country ski resorts and fully-transferable. Friends, families and companies can share a pass. Ultimate flexibility comes at a price: post October 1, a Gold Pass costs $3,250.

Epic Pass Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood are part of the Epic network—all with very different characters and attributes—making this pass popular with Reno and Tahoe locals. Available in multiple forms, Epic Pass provides access to 60 ski resorts in total!

High elevation, eastern location, and upgraded snowmaking often give Mt. Rose some of Tahoe’s best skiing conditions.

DIAMOND PEAK RESORT

FEEL—Family fun.

CROWD—Locals and in-the-knows.

Diamond Peak combines some of the best views in the ski world with a friendly local vibe. The lower slopes include beginner runs, crisscrossing intermediate trails, and a new terrain park. The Crystal Express lift whisks riders up to the top of the Tahoe Rim for 360-degree views. Go for advanced turns in the trees or fly down the intermediate carpet of Crystal Ridge.

Mid-mountain Snowflake Lodge features breathtaking views while a large base lodge has needed amenities.

HOMEWOOD MOUNTAIN

FEEL—At one with nature.

CROWD—Locals and families.

Homewood remains one of Tahoe’s classic family-friendly resorts. Skiing its upper runs, it feels like you’re headed straight into Lake Tahoe’s sparkling blue water—an enchanting view! The runs are an enjoyable mix of intermediate trails and tree-skiing, and are often uncrowded. Homewood’s protected lower elevation makes its lifts less affected by high winds on storm days, but also often more affected by warm weather.

BOREAL MOUNTAIN

FEEL— Party-On. CROWD—Park and half-pipe boarders, pre-teen & up.

This small ski area is right off an onramp to Interstate 80, serving built-inthe-ground half-pipe and terrain park hits. Top to bottom lights keep the action going till 9:00 p.m. Next to the slopes is the lodge and the year-round Woodward gym of foam pits, jumps and ramps.

SQUAW VALLEY/ALPINE MEADOWS

8

W HERETRAVELER ® SKI RE NO+TA HOE

2019–2020

FROM TOP: COURTESY HOMEWOOD MOUNTAIN; COURTESY SQUAW VALLEY/ALPINE MEADOWS

Powder Alliance Local favorites Sierra-at-Tahoe and Sugar Bowl are both part of this 19-resort network. Two of the closest resorts to Sacramento, they are convenient alternatives for Northern California skiers.

HOMEWOOD MOUNTAIN



Ikon Pass Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows are the big Tahoe draws for holders of this pass. 41 of America’s favorite ski resorts are part of the Ikon Pass network, including Mammoth Mountain (located approximately 3 hours south of Tahoe).

Where to Ski

• Granlibakken is conveniently located near Tahoe City with a liftserved run, sled hill, rental shop and warming hut. The ski hill is open daily on holidays and Friday-Monday during the rest of the winter season.

• Tahoe Donner has terrain that is 40% beginner, served by a new beginner chairlift—no wonder the resort specializes in first-timer and family lessons, teaching children as young as 3.

• Soda Springs has an eight-decade-plus history of teaching all ages to ski. It also has a large inner-tube hill and snow play area.

TOP EVENTS Reno Santa Pub Crawl December 12 A benefit for local schools that includes over 30 bars and lounges, and hundreds of Santas, elves, reindeer and friendly Grinches.

Merry Days & Holiday Nights December 13-31 Two weeks of shows, performances and events at the Village at Squaw Valley, included Twisted Nutcracker, dinner with the olympians

and “World’s largest torchlight parade.”

SnowGlobe Music Festival December 29– January 1 Spectacular music festival with Skrillex, Fisher, Louis the Child, GRiZ, Vince Staples and more, in Bijou Community Park, South Lake Tahoe.

Ullr Fest January 24-25 Two days and nights of

GRANLIBAKKEN

events at Diamond Peak ski resort, Incline Village, including torchlight parades, bonfire, live music, and costume contests.

US Freestyle Mogul Nationals March 19-22 The best bump skiers in the country come to Squaw Valley to compete where Jonny Moseley developed his Olympic Gold Medal skills.

Winter WonderGrass Festival March 27-29 Four stages and over 25 bands at Squaw Valley—the

best of new and traditional bluegrass music, plus beer tasting and yoga.

Gunbarrel 25 Ironman March 28 Can you ski or ride 25 times down Heavenly’s famous Gunbarrel run’s 1700 vertical feet of moguls? Take on the field!

36th Annual Snow Golf Tournament April 18 Smack an orange tennis ball around a 9-hole course on Alpine Meadows’ upper mountain, where “handicaps” include tough footing and unplayable lies.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: WINTER WONDERGRASS AT SQUAW VALLEY, SNOW GOLF ATOP ALPINE MEADOWS, SUBSTITUTE FOR MILK AND COOKIES ON RENO’S SANTA PUB CRAWL, HEAVENLY’S GUNBARREL RUN.



TOP: COURTESY GRANLIBAKKEN; RIGHT, CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: ©DYLAN LANGILLE; ©PEDRO MONTEIRO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; ©KYRIEN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; ©HEAVENLY MOUNTAIN RESORT

THE REST

9

“Fun for the whole family. From bunny slopes to black diamonds, we all had a great time here.�

- Brian B. (5-star review on Google)

Plan your visit: DiamondPeak.com

R E N O + TA H O E

WHERE TO SKI

Skiing by the Numbers SKI TERRAIN

SUMMIT ELEVATION

8 Lifts, 33 Trails, 380 Acres

7,700'

7 Lifts, 30 Trails, 655 Acres

DOWNHILL RESORTS

Boreal® Mountain Resort 530.426.3666 rideboreal.com

Diamond Peak

775.832.1177 diamondpeak.com

Donner Ski Ranch

530.426.3635 donnerskiranch.com

Heavenly® Mountain Resort 866.736.8245 skiheavenly.com

Homewood Mountain Resort

530.525.2992 skihomewood.com

Kirkwood Mountain Resort

877.KIRKWOOD kirkwood.com

Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe 800.SkiRose skirose.com

Northstar California™ 800.Go.North NorthstarCalifornia.com

Sierra-at-Tahoe® Resort 530.659.7453 SierraAtTahoe.com

Soda Springs

530.426.3901 skisodasprings.com

Sugar Bowl

530.426.9000 sugarbowl.com

Tahoe Donner Downhill

530.587.9444 tahoedonner.com/downhill-ski

12

ABILITY LEVEL (%) BEGINNING

INTER.

ADVANCED

500'

24

32

44

8,540'

1,840'

18

46

36

8 Lifts, 52 Trails, 500+ Acres 2 Moving Carpets (ski & tube)

8,012'

750'

25

50

25

28 Lifts, 97 Trails, 4,800 Acres

10,067'

3,500'

20

45

35

8 Lifts, 64 Trails, 2,010 Acres

7,880'

1,650'

15

40

45

15 Lifts, 86+ Trails, 2,300 Acres

9,800'

2,000'

12

30

58

8 Lifts, 60+ Trails, 1,200 Acres

9,700'

1,800'

20

30

50

20 Lifts, 100 Trails, 3,170 Acres

8,610'

2,280'

13

60

27

14 Lifts, 46 Trails, 2,000 Acres

8,852'

2,212'

25

50

25

5 Lifts, 15 Trails, 200 Acres

7,300'

550'

30

40

30

42 Lifts, 270+ Trails, 6,000 Acres

9,050'

2,850'

25

45

30

13 Lifts, 103 Trails, 1,650 Acres

8,383’

1,500’

17

45

38

5 Lifts, 16 Trails, 120 Acres

7,350’

600’

40

60

0

Squaw Valley / Alpine Meadows 800.403.0206 squawalpine.com

VERTICAL DROP

W HERETRAVELER ® SKI RE NO+TA HOE

2019–2020

Barton Center for Orthopedics & Wellness ehabilitation

CLEARING GATES CLEARING GATES

Orthopedics

erformance Wellness

FROM FROM

CLEARING HEIGHTS CLEARING HEIGHTS

TO TO

Lila Lapanja, Barton Athlete

FIND FINDYOUR YOUR EXCELLENCE EXCELLENCE

TRAINING TRAINING PROVIDED PROVIDED

BY BY

Whether Whether you’re you’re vying vying forfor the the world-circuit world-circuit oror onon thethe road road from from aa comeback, comeback, our our sports sports performance performance trainers trainers share share in in your your goal. goal.

The The Center Center forfor Orthopedics Orthopedics && Wellness Wellness is is where where wewe make make dreams dreams happen. happen.

530.539.6600 530.539.6600 BartonOrthopedicsAndWellness.com BartonOrthopedicsAndWellness.com

R E N O + TA H O E

The multiple destinations in Reno-Tahoe have unique advantages and charms.

Chaco Mohler

WHERE TO STAY

W H E R E T R AV E L E R . C O M

EMERALD BAY LAKE TAHOE



THIS PAGE: COURTESY SQUAW VALLEY ALPINE MEADOWS. OPPOSITE: ©AUBREY LAUGHLIN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Where to Stay

GREAT DINING SPOTS ABOUND!

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE / STATELINE

NORTH LAKE TAHOE

TRUCKEE

Tahoe’s South Shore has a huge variety of lodging options for every budget. Heavenly Village’s gondola is only steps from numerous hotels and the casino resort towers just over the border in Nevada. Sierraat-Tahoe and Kirkwood ski areas are 30-45 minutes from South Tahoe. This is a large, yearround resort community with a full variety of family-friendly dining, plus outstanding highend restaurants. Heavenly Village and surrounding blocks have fun shops, boutiques and eateries. This town is famous for après-ski and nightlife, including free shows and 24-hour action at Stateline’s over half-a-dozen casino/resorts. Tahoe’s scenic southern shoreline is gorgeous in winter with excellent snowshoeing near historic estates.

Lake cruises to Emerald Bay run year-round.

The North Shore is a charming mix of small hamlets and lakefront lodging in California and a couple of casino resorts in Nevada. Tahoe City, Kings Beach and Homewood are communities located on the California side of the border with Incline Village and Crystal Bay stationed in Nevada. In and between them are excellent dining choices.

Depending on choice of lodging, shuttles may be available to Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows, Northstar, Diamond Peak, Homewood and Mt. Rose. Or stay close to the slopes at The Village at Squaw Valley or The Village at Northstar. There are groomed cross-country skiing trails at Tahoe Cross-Country, Northstar, North Tahoe Regional Park and Resort at Squaw Creek, ice-skating at Tahoe City Winter Sports Park, Northstar and Squaw Valley.

This bustling ski town has unique restaurants, shops, and nightlife, particularly in its historic Old West downtown.

Nearby ski resorts are Northstar, Squaw/Alpine, Sugar Bowl, Boreal, Donner Ski Ranch and Tahoe Donner, most with their own shuttles. Excellent cross-country resorts nearby are Royal Gorge and Tahoe Donner. Lodging options are scattered throughout the town and at nearby Donner Summit.

Donner State Park Museum tells the famous stories of the pioneers who first crossed these mountains. The state park is also home to the Pioneer Monument, commemorating the parties that made the trek.

Backcountry skiing, snowshoeing and winter climbing are all popular pursuits on the peaks surrounding Donner Summit, weather permitting.

15

FEATURED PLACES

What’s the ideal basecamp for your winter holiday?

Stateline/Heavenly Village Casino-resorts a block from a ski lift Large hotel-entertainment complexes can be found on the Nevada-California border, including Hard Rock Hotel, MontBleu and Harrahs/Harveys. Nightclubs, gaming, spa and dining options abound. One block into California is Heavenly Village, with the ski resort gondola at its center. Marriott’s two properties feature multi-room residences that are ideal for groups and families.

Village at Squaw Valley Scenic beauty and ultimate convenience At the end of a spectacular valley, the village is surrounded by high capacity ski lifts. Free shuttle buses travel to nearby Alpine Meadows ski area, included with a Squaw pass. The Village and adjacent base area has a mix of restaurants and shops and a variety of lodging options, many offering covered parking.

16

W HERETRAVELER ® SKI RE NO+TA HOE

RENO This four-season destination is nestled on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada and a convenient home base for travelers who want to experience the best of what northern Nevada and Lake Tahoe have to offer.

Reno-Tahoe International Airport is a quick jump from many northern and southern California airports, and new, nonstop service to Chicago, Atlanta, Houston and New York City make for an easy winter getaway. Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe and Diamond Peak are just a 30- and 45-minute drive from downtown Reno, respectively. Heavenly and North Tahoe ski resorts are approximately an hour’s drive from Reno, under most winter conditions.

Driven in part by a local tech boom, with companies like Tesla, Apple, Google, Amazon

and Switch heavily invested in the destination, the Reno area is experiencing a resurgence of entertainment, dining and the arts. The Nevada Museum of Art continues to be a bastion of regional and international artistry, and the burgeoning food movement has revitalized the culinary scene, with niche restaurants drawing from local farms and ranches, and contributing to more than a dozen new award-winning breweries near the downtown area. Music and nightlife still highlight the sparkling high-desert town when the sun goes down, and eclectic shops, eateries and specialty cocktail bars can be found throughout the growing Riverwalk and Mid-Town districts. Heavenly and North Tahoe ski resorts are approximately an hour’s drive from Reno under most winter conditions.

2019–2020

©ANDREW ZARIVNY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Natural Retreats, Lake Tahoe Relax in beautiful surroundings Tahoe and the surrounding communities have a huge variety of lodges in picturesque spots, some with multiple amenities. Some are small gems like Zephyr Cove Resort, right on the lakeshore. Cedar House in Truckee conducts its own backcountry or specialty tours.

Granlibakken has its own surface lift and small ski hill just outside Tahoe City. Distinctive lodges line the lakeshore of South Lake Tahoe and dot the west and north shores of the lake.

RENO SKYLINE



Major Reno Resorts, Nevada Marry indoor and outdoor excitement Staying in hotel-casinos in Reno and doing day-trips to nearby ski areas is an ideal vacation alternative for some couples and families. The Row combines three iconic Reno casino resorts— Silver Legacy, Eldorado and Circus Circus—into a huge, indoor buffet of fun, food and music. Close to the airport, Grand Sierra Resort is a self-contained complex of restaurants, gaming, spa, nightclubs, bowling and more.

Winter Fun Headquarters!

Where will you drop into the largest concentration of ski resorts in North America?

CALIFORNIA

N

NEVADA Sparks 80

RENO 395

Sacramento 90 miles

Reno/Tahoe International Airport

San Francisco 180 miles

Donner Summit 7,239 feet

Tahoe Donner

Boreal Soda Springs

Mount Rose 10,778 feet

89

Mt. Rose

80

Truckee Donner Lake

267

Donner Ski Ranch Sugar Bowl Royal Gorge

89

Squaw Valley USA Squaw Creek Cross-Country

Kings Beach Carnelian Bay

Tahoe Cross-Country

Alpine Meadows

Crystal Bay

Tahoe City

Homewood Tahoma

Sugar Pine Point

CARSON CITY

Sand Harbor

50

28

(1,645 feet)

Sunnyside

395

Incline Village

Deepest Point in The Lake

Homewood

50

LAKE TAHOE

Cave Rock

50

Meeks Bay

San Francisco 190 miles

Diamond Peak

Lake Forest

Granlibakken

Sacramento 100 miles

431

North Shore Casinos

Northstar California

Zephyr Cove

89 Emerald Bay Vikingsholm

Stateline

Valhalla/Tallac Historic Site Mount Tallac 9,735 feet

Meyers

Minden

Stateline

Heavenly SOUTH Mountain Resort LAKE TAHOE Freel Peak 10,881 feet

88

395

89 50 Sierra-at-Tahoe

88

Kirkwood Hope Valley

89

17

Grand Sierra Resort Make your winter getaway a GRAND one.

HIGHLIGHTS Located in the heart of the beautiful Reno-Tahoe region, Grand Sierra Resort is an all-encompassing destination resort. The resort has been voted the “Best Overall Gaming Resort and Hotel in Reno” five years in a row!

There really isn’t any better place to stay while enjoying everything the Reno-Tahoe region has to offer.

• Nearly 2,000 Luxurious Rooms & Suites • 12 Unique Restaurants & Eateries • Full Service Spa & Fitness Center • Year-Round Resort Pool & Hot Tubs, winter Ice Rink • The Grand Theatre, Top Name Entertainment • LEX Nightclub • 7 Lounges & Bars

reservations and information 800.501.2651 online grandsierraresort.com

Luxury. As the premier resort destination in northern Nevada,

DETAILS

Grand Sierra Resort consistently creates a world-class

TYPE OF PROPERTY

hospitality experience that is unmatched anywhere else in the region. The Resort offers “next level” luxury accommodations in The A tower, as well as their exclusive Concierge level rooms.

Restaurant Row. Choose from seven unique restaurants and

eateries including Charlie Palmer Steak, Rim Pan Asian Bistro, The Grand Buffet, Reserve Wine Bar, Uno Mas, California Pizza Kitchen, Grand Café and more.

Entertainment. You’ll never be bored at Grand Sierra, we have

something for everyone, all under one roof. The Grand Theatre features top name entertainment like KISS, Willie Nelson,

Contemporary Luxury Resort, Concierge Floors NUMBER OF ROOMS 1989 ROOM AMENITIES

• • • • • • • • • •

Flat screen TVs Wet bars, refrigerators in suites Writing desks and chair Wireless Internet access In-room coffee makers Bottled water Hair dryers Iron and ironing boards In room safes available 24-hour room service

RATES & PACKAGES

Pitbull and Kevin Hart. LEX nightclub hosts some of today’s

Ready to hit the slopes?

hottest DJs like Snoop Dogg, Marshmello and Diplo. Exciting

Visit GrandSierraResort.com or call for ski

24 hour casino action is always available, and family friendly

season rates.

activities include a 50 lane bowling center, a movie theater, virtual reality arena and more.

Relax. n

fire i s

r ne

ear r

nd res r

i

an infini

ea ed a anas and an i e s a ing rin

r

full service Spa will pamper you with steam rooms, saunas, massage therapy, facials and more.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Lake Tahoe 50 US Highway 50, Stateline, Nevada 89449

COMFORTABLE. CONTEMPORARY. SPACIOUS. Picture state-of- the-art facilities, modern amenities and music always setting the tone against the backdrop of mesmerizing views of Lake Tahoe and the world-renowned Sierra Nevada mountains. The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Lake Tahoe

is a full resort offering multiple restaurants, bars, and entertainment outlets. Stroll the halls viewing rock n’ roll memorabilia or get your game on in our 24 hour casino.

When you’re done playing in the resort, tap into the rock star inside of you with a hotel experience that brings together lavishness, quality

and edge. We’ve cranked the wow factor to eleven in every room, featuring modern amenities and facilities, picturesque views of Lake Tahoe and its alpine peaks and the kind of rock ‘n roll memorabilia you can only find at a Hard Rock Hotel & Casino resort.

reservations and information 844.588.7625 online HardRockCasinoLakeTahoe.com

Sound Of Your Stay: PICKS. WAX. TRACKS

DETAILS

With a commitment to offering authentic experiences that

NUMBER OF ROOMS 539

rock, Hard Rock Hotels & Casino Lake Tahoe provides guests with The Sound of Your Stay®, a free all-encompassing music amenity program that gives guests access to a song download via their room key & the ability to check out a complimentary Fender guitar or Crosley Vinyl Record player.

Rock Om

Rock Om delivers a customized yoga experience to guests from the comfort of their own room, allowing them to refresh, rejuvenate and re-energize the mind, body and spirit through the power of music. The program consists of complimentary

ROOM AMENITIES

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Hair dryer Premium pillows & linens Luxurious bathroom toweling Pure natural bath products Wireless internet In-room safe Multi-line telephone with voicemail Bedside outlet for mobile phones Iron and ironing board Pet-friendly rooms available 24 hour fitness center access 24 hour casino

in-room yoga videos and gear, which are led by renowned

RATES & PACKAGES

producer, musical director and sound ambassador, DJ Drez,

• Book online with code NV2020 for 15% off our best available rate. must book by December 20, 2020. Blackout dates and holidays are excluded.

• Visit HardRockCasinoLakeTahoe.com for seasonal packages

and his wife, musician and yogi Marti Nikko.

Casino

Enjoy over 400 slot machines and multiple table games on e energi ed ga ing res r

s

s er Bar

i ia

r

a is

a ed in

e ga ing

r

an en

i

rsB

®

and

e ear en er Bar re

e

Marriott Grand Residence Club®, Lake Tahoe 1001 Heavenly Village Way, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

HIGHLIGHTS Luxury meets comfort at this grand mountain resort set in the heart of picturesque Heavenly Village.

Discover spacious accommodations and superb amenities for your next Lake Tahoe escape.

• Guest rooms, studios, 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom residences

• Adjacent to Heavenly® gondola • On-site Serenity Spa • Heated Outdoor Pool • Free Wi-Fi

reservations and information 1.800.VILLAS.9 online Marriott.com/rnogr

Luxury on the South Shore. Ideally situated at the base of

DETAILS

Heavenly Mountain and just steps away from the gondola,

TYPE OF PROPERTY Luxury Mountain

®

you are in the perfect location to discover all that Lake Tahoe

Condominiums NUMBER OF ROOMS 199

offers. Experience rustic elegance in a bold, stone-and-timber

GUEST ROOM AMENITIES

mountain retreat. Here, comfort reigns supreme and grandeur

• Queen, King, or two Queen beds

is softened with a friendly casual style. Grand fireplaces

• Queen bed • Fully-equipped kitchen

welcome you inside the spacious lobby with gracious warmth.

Meanwhile, you are surrounded by ski trails, shopping and dining in the village, plus casinos and entertainment.

Spacious Accommodations. Choose from comfortable guest

rooms, studios, or spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom

STUDIO AMENITIES

RESIDENCE AMENITIES

• • • • •

One-, two-, or three bedroom residences Living and dining areas Fully-equipped kitchen Fireplace

residences, including a limited number of penthouses.

Residences feature separate living and dining areas, a fully equipped kitchen, a king-sized bed in the master suite, and a fireplace in most units.

Property Amenities. Relax and unwind in the heated outdoor

pool and whirlpool spas, rejuvenate with a spa treatment at the on-site Serenity Spa, or cozy up by the fire pit. Enjoy the convenience of free Wi-Fi, bell and concierge services, underground valet parking, ski storage, and more.

RATES & PACKAGES *Visit Marriott.com/rnogr for rates and seasonal offers.

THE ROW ROW Eldorado - Circus Circus - Silver Legacy

HIGHLIGHTS Three Threedistinct distinctresorts. resorts.One One amazing amazing experience. experience.THE THEROW ROWininthe the heart heart of of Reno, Reno,unties untiesthe theEldorado Eldorado Resort Resort Casino, Casino,Circus CircusCircus CircusHotel Hotel Casio Casio and and Silver Silver Legacy Legacy Resort Resort Casino.

Casino.

StretchStretching ing over six over citysix blocks, city blocks, THE ROW THE enROW compasses encompasses over 4,000 overluxury 4,000 luxury rooms rooms and suites, and suites, 25 restaurants, 25 restaurants, Reno’s Reno’s newestnewest luxuryluxury spa, 22 spa, bars 22and bars and lounges, 11 nightspots and 227,000

lounges, square feet 11 nightspots of casino space. and 227,000 THE square ROW isfeet Reno’s of casino ultimate space. destination.

THE ROW is With Reno’s over ultimate $100 million destination. of investment Over in renovated $100 million rooms of investment and suites, new in restaurants renovatedincluding rooms andRuth's suites,Chris new Steakhouse restaurants andand remodeled remodeled event event spacesspaces and common and common areasareas— - featurshowcases ing Topgolfnorthern Swing Suite Nevada’s - THEmost ROW expansive showcasesand northern modern Nevada’s option for most integrated expansive hospitality. and modern option for integrated hospitality.

reservations reservations andand information information 888.288.1833 888.288.1833online online therowreno.com therowreno.com email emailmconn@silverlegacy.com cenglish@silverlegacy.com

Bring your appetite. From From the the simple simple to to the the sublime, sublime, choose choose

DETAILS

from 25 unique dining options options in in aa variety variety of of distinctive distinctivesettings.

TYPE OF PROPERTY

The stars are always out downtown. Carrie Underwood, Jerry settings.

The stars are out Tim downtown.

Carrie Underwood, Gabriel Seinfeld, Hallalways & Oates, McGraw – You’ll see the hottest

Iglesias, Kevin Maroon 5 –inYou’ll see theFree hottest headliners and Hart, pop superstars downtown. cabaret headliners and pop circus superstars downtown. shows, world-class acts, in midway of funFree and cabaret Broadwayacts, midway andain Broadwaysshows, e r world-class d i ns circusfind r randof fun en er en It’s allproductions fun and games.you DJsllspin in the hippest style find the yourhottest brand hits of entertainment.

It’s all funwith and topnotch games. DJs spin the hottest hits in the hippest lounges cocktails creatively concocted by expert

lounges withExcitement topnotch cocktails by expert mixologists. is in the creatively cards withconcocted over 227,000 sq. ft. mixologists.

Excitement is in withslots, over poker 227,000 sq. ft. of casino space offering all ofthe yourcards favorite room, of casino space offering allmore of your favorite table games, slots, race and sportsbooks and Pick Loseand yourself raceyour and pleasure. sportsbooks more.in the sparkling waters poolPick Lose yourself in the massage sparklingand waters side,your thenpleasure. treat yourself to a luxurious sooth-

poolside, then yourself luxurious ing pedicure attreat The Spa. Stayto in athe heart ofmassage Reno. Weand offer a soothing pedicure.

Stay We offer a ed arie a da i in nsthei heart erof Reno. fine a in ariety of accommodations with o ersuites , and finely-appointed guestrooms, luxurious spa-themed fabulous pentguestrooms, luxurious spa/themed suites and fabulous houses that feature breathtaking cityscape views and make us penthouses that feature breathtaking views and the perfect place to stay for your Tahoecityscape ski vacation! make us the perfect place to stay for your Tahoe ski vacation!

3 Distinctive Casino Resorts connected

by Skywalks NUMBER OF ROOMS 4000+ ROOM AMENITIES

• Luxuriously appointed rooms and suites with upscale furnishings, fine linens • Flat screen LED TVs • High-speed Internet access • In-room Coffee • Hairdryers • Ironing boards • Refrigerator • In-room Movies • Complimentary Bottled Water Circus non-smoking rooms.

CircusCircus Circus100% 100% non-smoking rooms.

SHUTTLE SERVICES

• Airport shuttle

Marriott’s Timber Lodge® 4100 Lake Tahoe Boulevard, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

Nestled in the heart of Heavenly® Village on Lake Tahoe’s South

DETAILS

Shore, Marriott’s Timber Lodge puts you in the center of

NUMBER OF ROOMS 264

®

endless outdoor adventure and entertainment. This beautiful lodge-style resort features spacious one-, two- and threebedroom villas with separate living and dining areas, fullyequipped kitchens, gracious master suites, washer/dryers, and more. You can also enjoy our comfortable guest rooms with a king-size bed and kitchenette, perfect for that weekend getaway. Discover a diverse range of on-site amenities including free WiFi, a heated outdoor pool and splash pad, n si e res a ran fi ness en er and an a i n a ed a i i schedule for all ages. Venture off property and encounter world-class casinos, dining, shopping, art galleries, and all kinds of outdoor activities from skiing and snowboarding, to

VILLA AMENITIES

• • • • •

One-, two-, or three bedroom villas Living and dining areas Fully-equipped kitchen Washer and dryer Free WiFi

GUEST ROOM AMENITIES

• • • • •

King bed Mini-refrigerator Microwave Pull-out sofa bed Free WiFi

RATES & PACKAGES

*Visit Marriott.com/rnotl for rates and seasonal offers.

hiking and water sports. Look no further than Marriott’s Timber Lodge for your next mountain vacation.

reservations and information 1.800.VILLAS.9 online Marriott.com/rnotl

VRI Resorts The Lodge at Lake Tahoe, 3840 Pioneer Trail South Lake, Tahoe, CA 96150

Ideally located in the center of South Lake Tahoe, our studio, one-and

DETAILS

two-bedroom condominiums provide you with ample space to unwind

NUMBER OF ROOMS 260

after a day on the slopes, on the lake, or by the pool. Our partial and full kitchens offer all the conveniences of home which make it easy to prepare a refreshing snack or meal. Our great onsite amenities such as a heated pool (open seasonally) and hot tub (open year-round) make The Lodge at Lake Tahoe a premier spot to relax and enjoy the gorgeous weather.

ROOM AMENITIES

• Full kitchens and kitchenettes PROPERTY AMENITIES

• Heated pool and hot tub

Lake Tahoe Vacation Resort Tucked comfortably between Lake Tahoe’s majestic mountain range Enjoy the well-appointed

equipped with a refrigerator,

amenities of lake tahoe vaca-

microwave, stove top burners,

tion resort from the indoor/

coffee maker and many more.

outdoor pool, fitness center,

PROPERTY AMENITIES:

and sauna to the adjacent Ski

Restaurant/Bar, BBQ, Picnic

Run Marina and Heavenly®

Area, Indoor/Outdoor Pool,

Mountain Resort’s base lodge.

Marina, Massage Services, Sau-

Located just a mile from the

na, Fitness Center, Gift Shop,

casino district, the resort is

Concierge, Guest Laundry,

close to all area attractions.

Valet Parking

DETAILS

SHUTTLE SERVICE: Heaven-

TYPE OF PROPERTY:

ly Mountain Shuttle Service

Condo style full-service resort,

stop location.

featuring spacious Studio,

RATES & PACKAGES:

One and Two Bedroom units

Please call 1.800.438.2929

with kitchens, living and

• Promo Code: LTVA15

dining areas.

• 20% OFF Best Available Rate,

NUMBER OF ROOMS: 364,

two night stay minimum.

for 2 - 6 guests ROOM AMENITIES: Home away from home conveniences of a partial or full kitchen

reservations 800.438.2929 online laketahoevacationresort.com

RENO+LAKE TAHOE

MORRIS VISITOR PUBLICATIONS ADVERTISING JAMES G. ELLIOTT CO., INC. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Pat O’Donnell REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT - WEST Courtney Fuhrmann ACCOUNT MANAGER Susan O’Brien

t.susan.obrien@morris.com MVP I EXECUTIVE

PRESIDENT Donna W. Kessler CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Dennis Kelly VICE PRESIDENT, OPERATIONS Angela E. Allen DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL OPERATIONS Jamie Turner DIRECTOR OF CIRCULATION Scott Ferguson CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER - CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS Haines Wilkerson Unless otherwise indicated, emails for all of the above: firstname.lastname@morris.com

EDITORIAL & DESIGN GROUP PUBLISHER & EDITOR Chaco Mohler EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Margaret Martin MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer McKee CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Keller Vaz PHOTO EDITOR Vincent Hobbs ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR Kiara Bouyea

MANUFACTURING & PUBLICATION SERVICES DIRECTOR OF MANUFACTURING Donald Horton PUBLICATIONS SERVICES DIRECTOR Karen Fralick PUBLICATION SERVICES MANAGER Mickey Kibler IMAGE & RETOUCH MANAGER Erik Lewis MORRIS COMMUNICATIONS CHAIRMAN William S. Morris III PRESIDENT & CEO William S. Morris IV

RENO + LAKE TAHOE P.O. Box 5897, Tahoe City, CA 96145 Phone: 702.731.4748 www.wheretraveler.com Copyright 2019-20 by Morris Visitor Publications. All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, in whole or in part, without the express prior written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility to any party for the content of any advertisement in this publication, including any errors and omissions therein. By placing an order for an advertisement, the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher against any claims relating to the advertisement. Printed in U.S.A.

28

W HERETRAVELER ® SKI RE NO+TA HOE

2019–2020

The Village at Squaw Valley 1750 Village East Rd, Olympic Valley, CA 96146 Stay slopeside at The Village

to 8 outdoor hot tubs, steps

at Squaw Valley and you’ll be

from ski slopes, shopping, din-

in the heart of the fun and just

ing, and access to discounted

steps from the lifts at Squaw

lift tickets.

Valley Alpine Meadows.

SHUTTLE SERVICE: The free

Spend your days carving pris-

Squaw Alpine Express runs

tine corduroy, exploring the

continuously between the

trees, wide open bowls, and

base area of Squaw Valley and

the hidden stashes across our

Alpine Meadows offering you

mountains. When you stay

a combined 6000 acres of

with us you’ll have access to

skiing/snowboarding.

all 8 of our outdoor hot tubs

PACKAGES: Stay 3 nights in

plus shopping and dining

the heart of the action at the

right outside your door. Our

Village at Squaw Valley and

accommodations have pri-

the 4th night is on us. Book

vate balconies, fireplaces, and

now at squawalpine.com/4th-

full kitchens. We’re the perfect

night from $232/night.

home base for adventurous days spent exploring these legendary mountains.

AMENITIES: Private balcony, fireplace, full kitchen, access

reservations 855.923.7385 online squawalpine.com/lodging

Zephyr Cove Resort & Lake Tahoe Cruises 760 US Hwy 50 - Zephyr Cove, NV 89448 Steps from the shore, miles

ROOM AMENITIES: Variety of

from ordinary Lakefront Tahoe

cabin sizes to accommodate

cabins, freshly prepared

large groups or solo travelers,

meals, and endless activities

and everything between.

entice our guests to come

Pet-friendly lodging available.

back to Zephyr Cove Resort &

Cabin options may include a

Lake Tahoe Cruises year after

fully equipped kitchen and

year. For generations, visitors

private lakefront deck.

have found the setting and

RATES & PACKAGES:

simplicity of Zephyr Cove a

*Advanced purchase dis-

refreshing alternative to the

counts, AAA rates, and season-

densely developed areas

ally rotating offers year round.

of South Lake Tahoe – the

Check www.zephyrcove.com

perfect hub for launching

for the best rates.

all your Tahoe activities and adventures.

DETAILS TYPE OF PROPERTY: Lakefront resort with cabin and lodge rooms.

NUMBER OF ROOMS: 28 Cabins, 4 Lodge Rooms

reservations 800.23.TAHOE online www.zephyrcove.com

R E N O + TA H O E

Tahoe is an easy-to-reach “Winter Shangri-La!” CHACO MOHLER

DRIVING HERE

30

T

he great naturalist John Muir wrote, “Tahoe is surely not one but many.” This is even more true today than in Muir’s day, especially in winter. Thanks to modern four-wheel-drive vehicles and recent roadway improvements in the Sierra, it’s easier than ever to experience Tahoe’s scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, indoor entertainment and charming towns in the snow season.

For the many skiers and riders who live less than a half-day’s drive from the Tahoe Sierra, getting to and from the slopes is inexpensive, flexible and full of variety.

Three largely snow-free routes—Interstates 80 and 50 and State Route 88—travel from Northern California to Lake Tahoe, each passing through or near historic towns.

A stay or stop in the foothills coming and going to Tahoe can be a novel way to break up a ski trip and allow you and yours ways to experience new places. A number of historic Gold Rush towns, some with off-season lodging discounts, are less than an hour’s drive from Tahoe ski resorts.

W HERETRAVELER ® SKI RE NO+TA HOE

Skiers and riders who opt for the variety of accommodations in Reno are around an hour’s drive from multiple ski resorts. At some of the large casino resorts, leave your car in the free, covered garage and take a shuttle to and from the mountains.

If sightseeing is on your must-list, the 72-mile drive around the scenic shore of Lake Tahoe takes approximately two hours in the winter, with numerous tempting spots to stop along the journey.

The route experiences only temporary closures on either side of Emerald Bay after large snowstorms.

In favorable weather, Tahoe has a number of shorter but still very scenic drives.

Take the climb up “Old Highway 40” from Truckee to Donner Summit, or Nevada Route 431 from Incline Village to Tahoe Meadows. The route from South Lake Tahoe to Kirkwood passes through the splendid isolation of Hope Valley. Routes to and from historic Carson City, Carson Valley and Virginia City can make for an entertaining “day-off ” from skiing.

2019–2020



Cross the majestic Sierra on a freeway or highways cleared of snow throughout the winter.

©JENNIFER REDEKER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

W H E R E T R AV E L E R . C O M

Northern California / NV Route Map So much to see, ski and do, via highways which are kept clear in all but the largest snow storms.

LAKE TAHOE is most often reached by one

N

of two US interstate highways. I-80 is a main artery of American roads



©SUNDRY PHOTOGRAPHY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; ©JENNIFER WHALEN; ©GVDA/JASON SCALLIN 11 ELEVEN PHOTOGRAPHY; ©GROGL/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Reno

and often kept snow-free

20

5

from Sacramento to Reno.

80

Carson City

In Truckee, it connects with two Lake Tahoe-bound

Sacramento 50

88

80

roads: California Routes

LAKE TAHOE

89 and 267. I-50 travels from Sacramento to South

12

12

Lake Tahoe to Carson City. Reach Kirkwood and

205

San Francisco

South Tahoe via California

580

Route 88. Four-wheel drive

99

vehicles with all-season tires are adequate in most Tahoe storms; two-wheel

Fresno

vehicle drivers should carry

5

chains and, ideally, know how to install them.

FUN STOPS EN ROUTE

99

Bakersfield

Los Angeles  Sacramento

 Foothill Wine Country

 Nevada City/Grass Valley

 Hope Valley

Old Sacramento is near I-80 and I-50 and is a great stop for a meal on the way to Tahoe or a longer trek to the Railroad Museum.

Stock up at one of the 30+ El Dorado County tasting rooms, open daily or on weekends, some located just off I-50’s route to South Lake Tahoe.

Charming twin-downtowns of hotels, shops and restaurants on the way to North Lake Tahoe via California Route 20, with Victorian Christmas celebrations in December.

Located on California Route 88’s journey toward South Lake Tahoe, this huge Sierra Valley is perfect for a snowshoe or cross-country ski adventure.

San Diego

31

R E N O + TA H O E

FLYING HERE

W H E R E T R AV E L E R . C O M

Reno-Tahoe is one of the most convenient fly-in ski destinations on earth.

32

H

op on a plane at the nearest airport and start thinking snow-covered thoughts. You’ll soon be touching down at the gateway to the Sierra, and everything you left behind will fade into oblivion. You’re on your way to Lake Tahoe, and life, as you know it, is about to change.

Reno-Tahoe International Airport is served by 11 airlines with direct flights from major cities across the U.S. Hit the ground running at this airport, located right at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, with renowned casino resorts 10 minutes from the curb and ski resorts 50-60 minutes away. All gates are

W HERETRAVELER ® SKI RE NO+TA HOE

a short walk to the baggage carousels, which are 20 steps from the rental car counters, taxis, limos, buses, Uber or Lyft.

Renting a vehicle? All major car rental companies are represented at Reno Tahoe International Airport. The roads to Tahoe ski resorts are kept clear of snow in all but the worst weather. If you opt for a twowheel-drive rental, however, make sure that tire chains are provided and, if you’ve never installed chains, they show you how.

Two general aviation airports are also in Tahoe ski country. Truckee Tahoe Airport services private plane and charter flights headed for North Tahoe. Lake Tahoe Airport is in South Lake Tahoe.

2019–2020



Reno Airport is 2,000 feet lower in elevation than Tahoe’s ski runs and therefore snow-free.

BABAROGA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

CHACO MOHLER

Non-Stop to Ski Country Flights into Reno-Tahoe International increase in frequency during winter, arriving from Atlanta, Houston and other locales, all a quick trip from Tahoe ski country.

SHUTTLE SERVICE is available from RenoTahoe International to many local lodging properties. Shuttles run frequently to nearly

î¤

ŠASIANDELIGHT/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

all major Lake Tahoe lodging properties. The North Lake Tahoe Express shuttles run up to five times daily and cost $49 one way. South Tahoe Airporter runs almost hourly around the clock and costs as little as $30. Both North Tahoe and South Tahoe have inexpensive bus services. Free ski resort shuttles pick up from most lodging properties and central locations. Or step up to lodging located only steps from a ski lift.

33

Reno Tahoe is a study in contrast. It’s where America’s largest alpine lake collides with the Biggest Little City in the World. Where you can rock climb in the heart of downtown or rock out on top of a mountain.

Work hard and play harder. Here, we don’t do one dimensional. And neither should you.