A fresh coat of snow has covered the nearby mountain, which has excitable skiers and snowboarders anxious to slip into their gear on this gorgeous Sunday morning in Lake Tahoe.
Skiers and snowboarders revel in a visit to Squaw Valley, a full-service ski resort that received world-wide attention more than five decades ago when this anonymous Lake Tahoe ski resort stepped on the world stage for the first time, hosting the 1960 Winter Olympics.
Squaw has grown in stature since those magical Olympic moments, becoming a vacation destination for many winter enthusiasts who want the experience of big-time ski resort. What is less publicized regarding this winter wonderland is it’s a tremendous place for a summer vacation as well.
It won’t be long before the final group of skiers and riders take their last runs at Squaw, and the region makes its quick transition into summer mode.
Situated at the foot of the ski resort is one of Lake Tahoe’s finest lodging facilities – Resort at Squaw Creek. It offers convenient ski-in, ski-out capability during the winter months, but provides many more recreational pursuits in the summer and fall when ideal temperatures and the scenic mountain backdrops entice visitors to the outdoors.
That was the plan for Karen Moran of Folsom several years ago during a July visit to Resort at Squaw Creek. While her husband was busy attending a business conference, Moran and her twin teenage daughters rafted down the Truckee River, went horseback riding, played golf, and hiked.
“My husband is up here for a conference and we’ve been coming to Squaw Creek for several years,” Moran said. “I like it much better in the summer. There is more to do and you don’t have to travel up here and worry about stressful mountain driving (in snow). There’s just so much to do; we really look forward to it.”
Located on the north shore of Lake Tahoe, there are 405 luxury rooms and suites residing on the property at Resort at Squaw Creek.
There are two pretty cool options when you wake up each morning – stare out the window at a mesmerizing panoramic view of the nearby rugged mountainside peaks, or cram in all the activity a body can handle.
Resort at Squaw Creek’s heated outside pool is a hub of activity, starting in the early morning when ambitious guests can be seen swimming laps in the somewhat chilly mountain air.
The area includes a smaller “plunge” pool, a 120-foot waterslide, three hot tubs of varying sizes, plus a bar area that features some very refreshing alcohol and non alcoholic concoctions.
Other activities include:
- Golf – Late afternoon discounts, give families the opportunity to play a quick 9 holes from the family tees (approximately 150 yards from the green). Serious golfers will find a challenging course that can be penalizing with some tight fairways that require precise shot-making.
- Biking – A ride along nearby Highway 89 or leisurely pedaling on the TruckeeRiver bike path toTahoeCity are among the choices. Bike rentals are available at Squaw Creek.
- Hiking, backpacking – Squaw Creek’s nature trail begins just beyond the chairlift and connects to a variety of trails around Squaw Valley’s peaks. There’s also a guided hike up the Granite Chief trail that features wooded areas and waterfalls.
- Horseback riding – Nearby Alpine Meadows offers a guided horseback riding tour and gentle pony rides for the kids.
- Fly fishing –Squaw Creek’s on-site fly fishing center features guided trips to nearby ponds and the TruckeeRiver, catering to both fly-fishing beginners and enthusiasts.
- Tennis – Tournaments, clinics, lessons and private court reservations are available.
- Spa, fitness area: There is a first-rate spa for anyone seeking pampering. The fitness area includes an assortment of workout machines and free weights, and there’s a men’s and women’s steam room and dry saunas.
Speaking of diversity, a free shuttle ride lands one at Squaw Valley’s doorstep. An extended ski season could mean hitting the slopes in May. But even if the resort shuts down in April, there’s still visible snow on a cable ride to High Camp, which deposits visitors at 8,200 feet, and offers an extraordinary view of Lake Tahoe.
There’s no shortage of activities at Squaw Valley, which includes roller skating at the Olympic rink, mountain biking, climbing wall, zip line, disc golf, paintball, shopping, plus a large swimming pool and hot tub at High Camp. The Poolside Café is a great outdoor/indoor spot to grab lunch and a beverage.
The great thing about a visit to Squaw Creek is one never has to drive until departure time. Besides activities, there are numerous dining options as well.
For fine dining, Resort at Squaw Creek has the Six Peaks Grille. Other dining or snacking locations include Sandy’s Pub and Sweet Potatoes Deli.
For more information on the Resort at Squaw Creek, visit www.squawcreek.com or call (530) 583-6300.
