A WONDERFUL WINTER GETAWAY

Seasonal fun awaits in Reno/Tahoe

By Heather Turk

Whether you’re looking for a place to hit the slopes or somewhere to celebrate the holiday season, Reno/Tahoe is the perfect winter vacation destination.

Those in search of some fresh powder to ski or snowboard needn’t look any further than the closest ski resort to Reno, Mt. Rose. Located only 22 miles from The Biggest Little City in the World, the Lake Tahoe property ensures visitors spend less time on the road and more time having fun. Boasting the highest base elevation of any Tahoe resort at 8,260 feet, Mt. Rose has more than 1,200 acres of slopes for guests of all skill levels to enjoy. skirose.com

If ice skating is more your thing, Northstar California has a 9,000-square-foot ice skating rink in addition to its many diverse trails. Celebrating its 50th anniversary this season, the Lake Tahoe ski resort just happens to be a great place to get into the holiday spirit as well. Throughout Noel Nights in December, visitors can enjoy twinkling lights, merry music and seasonal food and beverages in its Village — plus the occasional visit from St. Nick! Additionally, guests can savor a glass of bubbly (or apple cider) during

The ice skating rink at Northstar California is a favorite with families

Visitors can take photos in the National Automobile Museum’s 1926 Ford Model T car

a daily 2 p.m. tōst, one of the resort’s more unique traditions. northstarcalifornia.com

For even more festive fun, one of Reno’s coolest attractions, the National Automobile Museum, gets into the holiday spirit each December with special holiday-themed décor and events. Guests can get their photo taken with Santa, enjoy Christmas carolers roaming the “streets” of the 105,000-squarefoot museum in period attire and more while seeing over 225 rare automobiles — many from renowned collector William Fisk Harrah. Highlights from the collection include a one-of-a-kind 1892 Philion Steam Road Carriage and a 1949 Mercury Series 9CM driven by James Dean in “Rebel Without a Cause.” automuseum.org

Mt. Rose is known for its outstanding snow conditions — even on warmer winter days