So, you want to ski or snowboard in Tahoe. You don’t want to buy a season pass, because that’s a big chunk of change, or you like going to different resorts. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, one of the greatest things about riding in Tahoe is the variety. Big and small, you can find something fun and interesting at every resort.* I still need to get to Tahoe Donner, but I can say that I’ve had fun at every other place I’ve been to at Tahoe. Can you say you’ve been to all 14 of Tahoe’s ski resorts?
Here’s what you can do: Go to the resorts that are still locally-owned. Many people think these resorts are small, compared with someplace like Squaw or Heavenly. While looking at a trail map, a place like Diamond Peak looks tiny. But it skis much bigger than you would expect. Especially if you are not a hardcore black diamond skier/boarder hucking off of cliffs. (And actually, Mt. Rose, Sugar Bowl and Sierra have plenty of challenging black diamond runs, including cliffs.
And here’s the trick – most of these places still have deals:
Deals like Donner Ski Ranch’s $40 Tues-Thurs tickets. Or Mt. Rose’s Two-fer Tuesdays and other specials. Or discounted Diamond Peak, Homewood, Sierra or Sugar Bowl tickets from any number of places.
* What’s that you say? You’re a hardcore skier or boarder who says that there’s nothing challenging at Soda Springs? Well, have you gone down those green runs backwards (or for snowboarders, riding switch?). You think Boreal is a “boring hill”? Well, have you actually tried riding over a flatbox, or launching off of a kicker? Diamond Peak’s groomers are too boring? Have you ever gone through the trees? What about a bump run? Yes, snowboarders can do bump runs too (ideally when they’re powdery or slushy). It’s hard. And fun, once you figure it out.
If you’re bored, you’re not challenging yourself. And challenging doesn’t just mean steep groomers.