Story Courtesy of Snowpak.com
Squaw Valley is the iconic king of Lake Tahoe ski resorts, and thankfully for us, hasn’t lost its soulful charm since the resort’s beginnings over 60 years ago. Below is the ultimate guide to a Squaw Valley visit.
Lounge in luxury, ski the most challenging terrain of the far west, and kick back with local characters over a few $2 happy hour drafts. Squaw has a well-earned reputation for rekindling the adventurous spirit in us all, so be prepared to let loose and let yourself live a little.
Recommendations: Stay…at the Olympic Village Inn for fully equipped suites and mountain views.
Ski…GS Bowl into Strawberry Fields off KT-22 on a powder day.
Fine Dining…Six Peaks Grille offers unparalleled views and gourmet local fare.
Cheap Eats…Stop by Fireside Pizza Company for fast, fresh pizza with the family.
Après…at Le Chamois for cheap drafts and lively conversation.
Shop…for men’s and women’s boutique clothing with laid-back style at Kalifornia Jean Bar.
Off The Slopes…tour the recently renovated Olympic Museum for a glimpse at 1960 history.
Terrain: Squaw boasts 3,600 skiable acres, over 170 trails, 4 terrain parks and 16 bowls spanning across 6 peaks. Intermediate and advanced skiers will find the most terrain here, but the unique beginner area at the top of the mountain offers space for safe learning and natural progression to longer slopes. Annual snowfall averages 450 inches, but El Nino seasons can top out at 650-plus. Stunning views of surrounding peaks can be seen from almost anywhere, and when it’s not snowing, expect sunshiney California days. Squaw Valley skiers and riders also have access to all 2,400 acres at Alpine Meadows.
Lodging: Hotels and inns dot across Olympic Valley and most mid-range options offer comfortable rooms and great service; splurge on luxury lodging for the ultimate Squaw experience.
Luxury: The condominium suites at Squaw Valley Lodge offer all the comforts of home in an elegantly understated setting; enjoy mountain views, ski-in/ski-out luxury, and spa.
Mid-Range: Book a room at the Plumpjack Squaw Valley Inn for slopeside access and California casual luxury.
Value: The family-friendly Olympic Village Inn offers simple rooms and suites at the base of the resort.
Food: True to hip California form, Squaw Valley chefs serve up fine dishes sources from the best local and regional farms; the wine lists are some of the best you’ll see in ski country.
Book well in advance for a martini and classic American fare at the Six Peaks Grille.
Indulge in a flatiron steak and award-winning wine list at Plumpjack Café.
22 Bistro features social plates like brussels sprout fondue and kobe beef sliders, as well as creative cocktails.
Nightlife: Squaw Valley nightlife is features old-time ski bars, classy lounges, and DJs spinning for late night dance parties on weekends.
Stop by Cornice Cantina for apres ski and stay for music and dancing with cheap drinks and valley locals.
The Auld Dubliner offers a classic Irish bar scene with live music, good beer, and whiskey.
Don’t miss Rocker at Squaw on Fridays and Saturdays for DJs and dancing; big screens in the media center pay homage to Squaw ski heroes.
Shopping: The best finds are at local-run shops and boutiques offering everything from spirits to handmade jewelry, but you’ll find plenty of sportswear stores if you need some new shades or a Patagucci fix.
Fine art photographer Keoki Flagg has a gallery in the village featuring his award-winning, internationally acclaimed creative images.
The newly opened Kalifornia Jean Bar offers a stylish selection of men’s and women’s boutique clothing.
Shop the rare labels at Uncorked Wine Bar for the perfect bottle of pinot.
Activities: Squaw Valley is a haven for outdoor recreation, and the Olympic history infuses a unique cultural experience to the mix.
Head to the SnoVentures Activity Zone for tubing and mini-snowmobiling with the kids.
The Olympic Museum displays memorabilia, athlete uniforms, and historical video of the 1960s games.
Retreat to off-the-beaten-path Squaw scenery with a guided dog sled tour through Squaw Valley Meadow.
Tips: Squaw Valley and neighboring Alpine Meadows are now under the same management; enjoy both resorts with your Squaw lift ticket, and a free shuttle between the bases.
Load the tram from 3-7 pm on Saturdays for night skiing, which is included in some lift ticket packages.
This profile of Squaw Valley ski resort in Lake Tahoe is part of the “Ultimate Guide To Skiing In Tahoe” – by Snowpak.com
