South Lake Tahoe’s evening economy has been quietly reshaped over the past few years. While gaming remains part of the picture, it is no longer the sole reason people step inside casino resorts after sunset. Dining rooms, cocktail lounges, and small-scale entertainment venues now carry much of the appeal.
This shift matters because it broadens who feels welcome. Visitors looking for a late dinner, locals meeting friends for drinks, or couples seeking something low-key after a day outdoors are all finding reasons to stay out longer. The result is a nightlife scene that feels less narrow and more resilient across seasons.
Casino Dining Scene Expands
Casino restaurants in South Lake Tahoe have evolved far beyond the standard buffet model. Many properties now focus on chef-driven menus, redesigned dining rooms, and longer operating hours that cater to both visitors and locals. These upgrades are part of a wider effort to make casino spaces feel like standalone destinations rather than extensions of the gaming floor.
That broader approach mirrors changing leisure habits. Some guests still enjoy a brief stop at the tables, while others prefer entertainment that feels more casual or flexible. In the same way people might research alternative formats, such as the sweepstakes platforms players can check out here at GamblingInsider.com, casino operators are responding to a desire for choice rather than a single, fixed experience. Dining becomes the anchor, with gaming as an optional extra rather than the main event.
High-profile renovations underscore that strategy. A major example is the multi-million-dollar overhaul at Harveys, now Caesars Republic, which included the addition of Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen as part of a push to elevate non-gaming appeal, as detailed in this overview of casino renovation insights. The investment signals confidence that food-led experiences can drive foot traffic on their own.
Entertainment Beyond The Gaming Floor
Beyond restaurants, casinos are putting more energy into lounges, comedy rooms, and interactive spaces that do not rely on headline concerts. These venues are easier to program year-round and appeal to a broader age range, particularly on quieter midweek nights.
This diversification reflects a larger economic reality. Tourism in the Greater Truckee–South Lake Tahoe area generates roughly $4.47 billion in annual impact. Dining, arts, and entertainment make up a significant share of that spending, reinforcing why casinos are keen to compete in these categories rather than depend solely on gaming revenue.
Smaller-scale entertainment also creates a more relaxed rhythm. Instead of planning an entire trip around a single show, visitors can wander between dinner, drinks, and a short performance. That flexibility encourages longer stays and repeat visits, especially outside peak summer and winter periods.
Visitor Interest In Casual Gaming
Casual gaming still plays a role, but its position has changed. For many guests, it now sits alongside dinner reservations or a lounge visit rather than defining the entire night. This matters because it lowers the barrier to entry for people who might otherwise avoid casino environments altogether.
Spending patterns support that interpretation. In the wider Tahoe region, food service revenue rose 8.3% last year to $43.3 million, while arts and entertainment spending increased 5.3%, according to local tourism data. Those gains suggest that experiences tied to eating, socialising, and light entertainment are becoming central to how visitors allocate their budgets.
For South Lake Tahoe, this balance helps stabilise demand. When gaming traffic dips due to competition or changing habits, restaurants and lounges can still draw steady crowds. The atmosphere becomes less transactional and more social, which aligns well with the town’s broader hospitality culture.
What This Means For Tahoe Nights
Taken together, these trends point to a nightlife economy that is more durable and inclusive. Casino properties are no longer betting everything on the gaming floor; instead, they are building layered experiences that appeal to different moods and budgets. That approach supports year-round tourism and gives locals more reasons to engage with spaces that once felt visitor-only.
For residents, the benefit is straightforward. More dining and entertainment options mean livelier evenings without needing a special event or peak-season crowd. For visitors, it reinforces South Lake Tahoe’s reputation as a place where nights can be just as varied as days on the lake or slopes.
The bigger picture is about adaptability. By investing in food, drink, and accessible entertainment, casino resorts are helping anchor the evening economy in ways that feel sustainable. In 2026, that balance may be one of South Lake Tahoe’s quiet advantages.
Shoulder-Season Playbook: Big Impact, Better Value in South Lake Tahoe
Timing is everything for your next event.
When you’re mapping out a leadership retreat, incentive getaway, or multi-day meeting, timing can make all the difference. In South Lake Tahoe, shoulder season is where savvy planners find the sweet spot. Fewer calendar constraints. Less hustle. More options. And a destination that still delivers that unmistakable lake-and-mountain wow factor.
Why Shoulder Season Works
Shoulder season is the quiet achiever of Tahoe event planning. It’s when the destination feels open, adaptable, and ready to work with you.
With fewer competing bookings, hotels and venues have greater availability and flexibility. That means meeting rooms configured to fit your flow, smoother load-ins, and easier coordination across multi-day programs. It also means your stakeholders see a stronger return on investment without sacrificing experience.
And make no mistake, the experience still delivers. You’re meeting where North America’s largest alpine lake meets the Sierra Nevada peaks. Crisp air fuels clear thinking. Big views inspire big ideas. Your attendees still get the awe, and then some.
Sweet-Spot Weeks to Know
And make no mistake, the experience still delivers. You’re meeting where North America’s largest alpine lake meets the Sierra Nevada peaks. Crisp air fuels clear thinking. Big views inspire big ideas. Your attendees still get the awe, and then some.While Tahoe’s shoulder seasons shift slightly year to year, two planning windows consistently deliver the best mix of value, flexibility, and seasonal appeal for meetings and group activities in South Lake Tahoe.
Late April through early June marks spring’s transition on the South Shore. The lake begins to shine, the mountains hold onto their final traces of snow, and the destination feels refreshed. Golf courses reopen, lower-elevation trails become accessible, and lake cruises, kayaking, and paddleboarding begin to ramp up. Longer daylight hours and clear air support productive meeting days paired with outdoor receptions, scenic breaks, or casual team-building.
During spring, indoor venues remain plentiful and adaptable, while outdoor activities can be layered in as conditions allow. It’s a smart choice for incentive programs and strategy sessions that benefit from a sense of renewal without committing fully to summer logistics.
Late September through earlyNovember delivers one of Tahoe’s most focused and visually rewarding seasons. Fall color arrives in nearby valleys, temperatures settle into a comfortable range, and the lake takes on a calm, reflective tone. Hiking remains accessible, lake cruises continue into early fall, and cooler evenings naturally lend themselves to fireside networking, private dinners, and relaxed social gatherings.
Fall shoulder season also brings consistency. Weather tends to be stable, days are still bright, and leaf peeping is in its prime.
A quick planning note: Tahoe is a mountain destination, and shoulder seasons come with character. Spring may include lingering snow at higher elevations, and fall evenings cool quickly. The upside is choice. South Lake Tahoe’s walkable meetings district, flexible indoor venues, and experienced local partners make it easy to build programs that stay smooth, comfortable, and compelling regardless of what the weather decides to do.
The Value Equation
his is where shoulder season delivers its strongest planning advantage.
Planners often see more favorable room rates and added concessions during these windows. That can translate into additional breakout space, enhanced AV support, or flexible food and beverage minimums. Venues have more room to accommodate special requests and last-minute adjustments, making programs easier to fine-tune.
Many groups choose to reinvest those savings into experiences that elevate the agenda. A hosted welcome reception with lake views. A guided outdoor activity between sessions. A surprise guest speaker or team excursion. Value extends beyond the hotel stay. Group dining and off-site experiences often avoid peak-season premiums and rigid requirements, allowing budgets to stretch further across the full program. Add in Visit Tahoe’s helpful event value tips, and you’ll discover just how affordable your lakeside retreat can be.
Let’s Plan (Without the Headaches)
Shoulder season planning in South Lake Tahoe is refreshingly straightforward.
Start by browsing a wide range of venues, from large-scale, flexible spaces like the Tahoe Blue Event Center to boutique and lakefront options designed for more intimate groups. The destination offers a mix of casino resorts, luxury lodges, and eco-conscious properties, making it easy to match the stay to your program’s tone.
Detailed room and venue specs help planners align space with session needs from the start. Access through Reno-Tahoe International Airport keeps travel simple, with convenient shuttle options and a scenic drive that sets the tone before attendees even arrive.
A Smarter Way to Meet
Shoulder season in South Lake Tahoe isn’t about scaling back. It’s about meeting smarter. With timing on your side and the lake as your backdrop, these windows create a clearer path to meetings and incentives that deliver on every level. So let’s start planning your event. Browse South Shore venues, explore room and meeting specs, and send us your RFP. We’ll help you turn smart timing into an even better experience.
OLYMPIC VALLEY, Calif – World-famous skiers and snowboarders are pulling out their tutus, tights, and tube socks in anticipation of the 2026 Pain McShlonkey Classic, Tahoe’s funkiest ski competition of the year. The public event is happening March 21st at Palisades Resort to raise money for the Shane McConkey Foundation and their mission of inspiring student action to protect the planet.
Dressed in their most ridiculous outfits, sixty local amateurs will have the opportunity to compete against the top ski pros in this race down the Palisades mountain. Each contestant will start atop the K22 lift, known for some of the steepest lines in America, and traverse its slopes to finish the fastest. The winner will be given the coveted Pain McShlonkey Golden Saucer, putting them among other iconic winners including Olympian Daron Ralves, Freeskier Michelle Parker, and Media Personality “Donny Pelletier” – the men’s 2025 winner. The event will conclude with activities open to anyone, including the Epic Gear Raffle where $20,000 of prizes will be awarded.
“The Pain McShlonkey is hilarious, celebratory, and fun,” remarks Vicki Isacowitz, a Truckee business owner who volunteered for last year’s event. “It’s really fun to celebrate Shane with […] the best winter athletes. It’s a time for friends, both new and old, to come together”.
The money raised from the event will fund the Shane McConkey Foundation’s annual EcoChallenge, which challenges and guides students countrywide to solve an environmental issue in their community. The initiative was started by the organization’s founder Sherry McConkey to carry on her husband’s extreme ski legacy and empower students to protect the environment he cherished. In 2025, the foundation gave away $27,500 to student projects.
Sherry reflects on why the Pain McShlonkey is so important. “Life is so serious right now and there’s so much going on in the world. We’re seeing global warming, we’re seeing plastic everywhere, we’re seeing overconsumption,” she says. “I love the Pain McShlonkey because it’s a day to not take life seriously. You can come to appreciate our beautiful planet and support the children that are so essential for its future.”
Registrations for the Pain McShlonkey opened February 1st. For more info, go to shanemcconkey.org
TRUCKEE, Calif. – When Julie Bacon became pregnant with her first child, she found herself at a crossroads. One path led to her putting her favorite hobbies on a shelf, hanging her surfboard on the wall, and her mountain bike in its storage rack. The other was a road she had not seen traveled often, and it didn’t consist of giving up what made her happy. She found herself leaning towards the latter.
The Mothership Collective explores the idea of expanding through motherhood, rather than being limited by itProvided/Julie Bacon
So Bacon searched and searched, longing to find like-minded individuals who felt as though they, too, wanted to live the way she was living as an expectant mother – dancing the night away, catching that wave or hitting the trail.
“I saw this narrow version of motherhood,” Bacon said. “And really, I just kept wondering to myself, ‘Are there other women out there who are mountain-biking pregnant? Are there other women who feel this way…who don’t feel seen?”
Bacon pondered the very idea of a woman being valued as more than just a mother, but rather, a value that defines a woman based on her passions, her joys, and all the little things that make her who she is.
And so she began building, brick by brick, a community she was desperate for, and sure enough, The Mothership Collective started taking shape.
“It’s become a lot of things. The Mothership is a resource for people, a blog that shares women’s experiences and stories, it’s now a private facebook community chat.”
After only being launched a month ago, the Facebook page has over 1000 members. The Mothership Collective Instagram page has neared 27,000 followers.
Bacon has spent hours reading direct messages from women who finally feel seen, heard, and understood.
“People are reaching out saying ‘Hey, I’ve had really gnarly postpartum depression and needed to see this,’ or ‘I’ve had a really rough pregnancy and I’ve read the blog about how it’s okay to not like being pregnant’,” said Bacon. “It’s been so emotional, in the best way. I had postpartum depression myself, and I felt like building this group pulled me out of that, and really brought me back to myself.”
The Mothership Collective currently hosts events in the Tahoe/Reno areaProvided/Julie Bacon
Along with their ever-expansive social media presence, comes the risk of backlash, and poses an answer to the question many outdoorswomen were asking, including Bacon, “can I stay active, in the ways I love, while pregnant?”
The Mothership Collective says yes, absolutely, and there are tons of other women who are doing it too.
“We just posted a woman rock-climbing, super pregnant, and it’s going pretty viral right now. Some of the comments are gnarly, but it makes me so proud to be a mom when it was something I felt nervous about becoming.”
Through this controversy, The Mothership Collective opens itself up even more to what was once a very undisclosed topic of conversation.
In response to the negative comments about the pregnant rockclimber, Mothership wrote, “That photoshoot made some people uncomfortable. Not because it was unconsidered, but because it challenged expectations.”
Bacon created a safe space for women to look at their own interests, experiences and skills, and decide for themselves what motherhood looks like for them.
“We couldn’t find ourselves represented anywhere online. Not because we didn’t exist, but because we weren’t being shown. And that absence? That silence? That’s loud.”
This concept also ties into the illustration for their merchandise, and with the help of her pregnancy buddy and local Tahoe City artist, Byrn Merrell, Bacon found a way to convey The Mothership Collective’s message.
“The design is really about empowering women. It’s about women who love being moms, but also themselves, and that’s why you have the really funky alien disco vibes. You have a pregnant woman surfing, you have a woman lounging and eating a slice of pizza,” said Bacon. “Because being an outdoorsy mom isn’t always summiting a mountain, sometimes it’s laying in a park eating a slice of pizza.”
A variety of merchandise styles are available on The Mothership Collective websiteProvided/Julie Bacon
Along with the joys of rocking awesome merch, meeting face-to-face brings an intimate experience to the fellowship.
“People can connect virtually right now and find that support, which is awesome, but the magic in meeting people in real life, I think, is just hard to describe,” Bacon said.
Moving forward, Bacon and the Mothership have some exciting things in store.
Their next upcoming event, Galentine’s Getdown, will be held at Donner Ski Ranch on Saturday, February 14.
This event isn’t just for ripping ski moms or women, either. “Dads also need community, and they can come make friends,” Bacon added. “There’s a lot of partners who are coming.” Bringing the family is highly encouraged.
Attendees can expect retro ski gear, glitter, wigs, and a whole lot of love. There will also be discounted rates for Donner’s magic carpet and tubing, along with food and drinks available for purchase.
“We’re going to have a female DJ there, we’re going to have a gear raffle,” and if you’re looking to just hang out on the deck, and meet people without skiing, that’s great too.
Those planning on taking part in the mountain activities are asked to reserve spots in advance here.
With goals to take The Mothership Collective across the country, Bacon is hoping to, one day, have chapters in multiple states where events can be held.
Until then, she encourages women to live by The Mothership Collective’s tagline: Stay Weird, Raise Legends.
To learn more about The Mothership Collective, view their blog or to shop their merchandise, visit mothership-collective.com
The Mothership Collective’s next event will be held on February 14Provided/Julie Bacon
Jeff Anderson, Hydrologist for NRCS Nevada measures snowpack at Mt. Rose SNOTEL site.Petra Molina / Sierra Sun
MOUNT ROSE, Nev. — Most people in Tahoe would agree the Sierra Nevada snowpack is one of California’s most valuable natural resources. For some, that value is tied to powder days and packed parking lots at ski resorts. In reality, the snowpack’s importance extends far beyond winter recreation.
Skiers and snowboarders care about depth and quality. Hydrologists — and anyone who relies on Sierra snowmelt — focus on something else: how much water the snow actually holds. That measurement is known as snow water equivalent, or SWE.
On average, the Sierra snowpack supplies about 30% of California’s annual water needs. Its ability to store precipitation through the winter and release it gradually in spring is why it’s often called the state’s “frozen reservoir.”
As of Feb. 2, the Lake Tahoe Basin snowpack sits at about 60% of median, with individual basin percentages ranging from 24% to 43%. Although this winter has brought high precipitation, much of it has fallen as rain rather than snow, resulting in a below-average snowpack — though still within the range of previous dry years.
Based on historical snow accumulation data, the chance of returning to normal snowpack levels by April 1 in the Tahoe, Truckee and Carson basins is slightly less than 30%.
“Hopefully, the dry pattern is going to change here in a couple weeks,” said Chad Blanchard, federal water master for the Carson-Truckee rivers. “But even if it doesn’t, we’re going to be in OK shape with the reservoirs because of how much we’ve stored from the rain and carryover storage from previous years.
Data from snow surveys and forecasts produced by the California Department of Water Resources’ Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit play a critical role in reservoir operations, agricultural allocations and municipal water supplies.
Unfavorable conditions for Northern Nevada
Outside the Sierra, conditions are more concerning. Other northern Nevada basins are reporting record-low Feb. 1 snowpacks, based on Snow Telemetry data dating to 1981. Record lows have been recorded in the Humboldt, Owyhee, Snake, Clover-Franklin and Northern Great Basin watersheds.
According to NRCS Nevada, the chance of recovering to a median peak snowpack this season is less than 10% based on historical data. The Upper Humboldt and Owyhee basins would need near-record snowfall for the remainder of the winter to reach normal peak levels. Without a major shift in weather, streamflows are expected to be lower than any of the past three seasons, when snowpacks were above normal.
From left to right; NRCS Hydrologist Jeff Anderson, Federal Water Master Chad Blanchard, NRCS State Public Affairs Specialist Heather EmmonsPetra Molina / Sierra Sun
So how is snowpack measured?
Teams from the California Natural Resources Agency and Nevada’s Natural Resources Conservation Service conduct manual surveys by forcing a hollow aluminum tube into the snowpack. The extracted core reveals both depth and water content.
Snow cores extracted during snowpack measurements. Petra Molina / Sierra Sun
“Dr. James E. Church, a professor at UNR, developed the snow tube design,” said NRCS hydrologist Jeff Anderson. “It allows researchers to core the snowpack and weigh the tubes with and without snow. The difference in weight reveals the snow’s water content.”
Snow tube is weighted. Petra Molina / Sierra Sun
Known as the father of snow surveying, Church pioneered the field in the early 20th century. In 1905, he established the first Sierra weather observatory atop 10,776-foot Mount Rose near Reno and later developed standardized methods for measuring snow depth and water equivalent — techniques that still guide snow science today.
Not only are gondolas fun to ride in, but they can revolutionize a ski resort by providing ways for non-skiers and beginners to get up the mountain safely and comfortably to more snow and better views. Here are Tahoe ski resorts’ enclosed people movers and what they’ve to serve their customers better:
Sugar Bowl’s Village Gondola
Sugar Bowl is known as Tahoe’s first ski resort, built in 1939, and has still been independently owned for more than 80 years. Along with bringing downhill skiing to Tahoe and its ties to Walt Disney and Austrian ski culture, it also built the first chairlift in the State of California…and the first gondola in the west.
Built in 1953 and originally known as “the Magic Carpet”, Sugar Bowl decreased the amount of time it took to get up the mountain from 30 minutes to 7. It reportedly cost around $250,000 to build it at that time, and materials (especially steel) were hard to find because of the Korean War.
Offering peaceful aerial views through the Sierra Nevada range up to its Village (a base area having America’s only snowbound hotel), the gondola was rebuilt by CTEC in 1983 with the addition of 50 new cabins. It travels at 800 feet per minute and can move a thousand passengers per hour.
Heavenly Mountain Resort’s Village Gondola
Celebrating its 70th anniversary this winter, Heavenly Mountain Resort has well-known ski industry pioneers who also transformed the ease and accessibility of Tahoe’s slopes. Before it built the Heavenly Village Gondola, the South Lake Tahoe resort originally had the tram—a 25-person transporter that was installed on the California base 60 years ago. The tram was rebuilt in 1986 to double its carrying capacity from 25 to 50, along with improving the ability to move several hundred people up the mountain in an hour.
The Village Gondola was built in 2000, starting from the Heavenly Village in the middle of town 9,136 feet up to the middle of the mountain where there is a day lodge, several chairlifts that lead to the top, and summer/winter activities. An Observation Deck and gift shop are available to stop at.
Heavenly Gondola Maintenance Team Lead Rafael Lizaola says that the tram and gondola serve different functions, and you can get a whole lot more people up the hill with a gondola.
“We have 135 carriers on this lift that can take 535 people per hour up the mountain,” Lizaola says. He explains that the tram just offers a different way to get up the mountain and accessing the famous Gunbarrel run; it appeals more to locals, and the California base has more parking. However, a lot of Heavenly’s guests stay at Stateline, making the gondola a great way to get up above all the action and get gorgeous panoramic views of the lake.
“Gondolas are starting to get popular for sure, there are a whole lot more of them at ski resorts now. They keep people out of the weather as they move people up the mountain,” he says. He believes that the gondola cost around $10 million to build in 2000, so he can’t imagine what it costs now. However, being in his 21st year at the resort, Lizaola said the gondola was instrumental in how it made them able to expand its summer operations, by making sightseeing, hiking trails, a mountain coaster, restaurant, summer tubing hill, and two other chairlifts more accessible to those who only come to Tahoe in the warmer months.
“The gondola made it a year-round operation up here,” Lizaola says. “Ski resorts are definitely going for more gondolas these days; in general, they’re pretty fast and have the opportunity to create more revenue for the mountain.”
Northstar California’s Chondola
Known for its family-friendly ski slopes, village, and world-class mountain biking trails in the summer, this 50-year-old resort built its first Big Springs Express gondola in 1985. The gondola was renovated in 2015, and the six-person cabins travel at five meters per second, getting skiers to the top in 5-6 minutes. It leads to Northstar’s mid-mountain where the Big Springs day lodge has food, beverages, and other services. You can see the halfpipe from here and it’s also the base for several chairlifts leading to higher up the mountain.
It’s also where the Zephyr Lodge and Tahoe Mountain Club’s Schaffer’s Camp lie…and speaking of the Zephyr Lodge, the Taho Zephyr Express leading up to it was built as a “Chondola” in 2006. A Chondola is a hybrid lift with chairlifts and gondola cabins on the same rope, and the one at Northstar is one of the few remaining in the US.
The newest gondola on Northstar’s slopes is the Northstar Highlands Gondola. Built in 2009, this lift was constructed as part of the Ritz-Carlton development, giving its guests ski-in and ski-out access to Northstar’s slopes.
Palisades Tahoe’s Base to Base Gondola
Known mostly for hosting the 1960 Olympics, not very many people may know that Palisades Tahoe is also the first ski resort in North America to be home to a tram, Funitel, and gondola.
The Aerial Tram was the first enclosed transporter to be built—constructed in 1968 in what was originally called the “Cable Car”, the tram carries 85 with ski equipment or 110 people without. It connects the Village at Palisades with High Camp, where a museum, restaurant, ski runs, and hiking trails await.
In 1998, Palisades Tahoe built the Funitel, which is a combination of French words “funiculaire” and “téléphérique.” With a carrying capacity of 28 people per cabin, the Funitel is different from a gondola in that it is attached to two cables instead of one, giving them more stability in heavier winter storms. Traveling at a speed of up to 20 feet per second, the Funitel can get 4,000 people up to the Gold Coast Lodge per hour.
Palisades Tahoe’s newest lift is its Base to Base Gondola, built in 2022 to connect Palisades and Alpine. The building of this lift was no easy feat—33 lift towers and four terminals hold the Base to Base Gondola up and over the peaks…including traveling over the resort’s famed KT-22. The 16-minute ride covering 2.4 miles cost a pretty penny to build ($65 million) but the main reason Palisades wanted it was to relieve traffic between the two base areas (and call itself the largest resort in California) after Alterra Mountain Company acquired both resorts. Since the Base to Base Gondola has been in service (and it put a parking reservation system in place), a Palisades spokesperson said that around 53,000 vehicles stayed off the roads last season.
Homewood Mountain Resort’s Gondola Coming in the 2026/27
Even though Homewood Mountain Resort was closed last season as its owners worked with the TRPA (Tahoe Regional Planning Agency) to revise its 2011 Master Plan, Homewood will be available to the public for skiing and snowboarding this winter with a tentative opening date of December 12, 2025.
There’s been a lot of talk of access over the last three years with the nonprofit Keep Homewood Public forming to make sure the mountain stays available to everyone despite it being privately owned, but the one thing both parties can agree on is the need for a gondola. Currently it takes close to 10 minutes to get up the Madden Chair, which is torture for skiers and riders on a powder day looking at all that fresh snow in an era of instant gratification.
On January 22, 2025, the TRPA and Placer County gave Homewood the vote of approval on all of the amendments made to the Homewood Master Plan, giving the resort the green light to start planning future Master Plan developments including the gondola. Homewood VP/GM Andy Buckley says that replacing the gondola will not only get people to its mid-mountain more comfortably and faster, but it will give beginners and first-timers access to better terrain with unparalleled views.
“It’s important because we’re so close to the lake, it’s quite difficult to make snow which can make the lower area hard to access,” Buckley says. In other words, improving snowmaking systems at higher elevations gives beginners better learning terrain with the views that more advanced skiers and riders already enjoy.
And while a gondola is a lot more expensive than a chairlift (Buckley says each cabin is similar in cost to a Porsche), it’s worth it in considering Homewood’s long term goals.
“Non-skiers will use it in the future. There’s no destination there to begin with; when we build a mid-mountain lodge it will allow people to get there (expected to start construction in 2029),” says Buckley.
The gondola components and its cabins are currently being stored indoors in Reno, and each cabin holds up to eight people. The transport system can carry up to 1500-2400 people per hour depending on run speed with all cabins online. The new gondola will more than triple the current upload capacity of the old Madden lift.
“Imagine sitting on the deck of the lodge looking out to the lake and watching your kids learn how to ski. It’s a piece of Homewood that’s often lost because the real experience is up above. The gondola gives us that connection.”
Homewood’s plan is to start installing the gondola in May 2026.
Editor’s note: This article originally appeared in the Winter 2025/26 edition of Tahoe Magazine.
Jack Sierra Hall, age 70, passed away on January 5, 2026. He was born on November 19, 1955, in Tampa, Florida, to Jesse and Lethia Hall. In his youth, Jack had the good fortune of moving to Anna Maria Island, where his lifelong love for the water and the outdoors began.
Jack later moved to Nevada, where he met his beloved wife, Cheryl, and together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and shared values. Though Nevada became home, Jack never lost his connection to the water. For decades, he cherished time at Lake Tahoe, where he kept a boat and enjoyed countless days on the lake.
An avid outdoorsman, Jack embraced life fully—enjoying ranching, riding dirt bikes and Harleys, off-roading, snowmobiling, and hunting with his family. One of his greatest joys was watching his children and grandchildren play sports. He never missed a game and took great pride in being present for every moment.
A true craftsman, Jack founded Jack Hall Construction and was known for his integrity, skill, and attention to detail. Many clients became lifelong friends.
Jack was preceded in death by his wife, Cheryl, and his sister, Deborah. He is survived by his daughters, Corie and Sierra; his son, Alex (Tracey, spouse); his grandchildren, Drake, Stetson, and Sawyer; his siblings; his longtime partner in love, Samira; and many family members and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held March 14 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Gall Catholic Church in Gardnerville, Nevada.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Carson Valley Little League in Jack’s memory.
William Glen Harvey was born December 25th, 1945, in a suburb of St. Louis, Missouri. His childhood was part city-kid and part country-boy. His family moved to a farm in Southern Missouri in a small town of Redford. There was no running water in the early days of farm-life, and they were one of the first of the surrounding neighbors to have indoor plumbing. There were many adventures during his time there that made for great story-telling later in life.
He served honorably in the US Navy submarine squadron aboard the USS Archerfish and the USS Pickerel during the Vietnam era. His career path after the military took various directions from working on a barge on the Mississippi River, to the police department, to woodworker/antique refinisher, hardware/construction, to shipper. However, much of his adult life was devoted to his passion of working with wildlife.
His patience, his calming presence, and his easy-going demeanor made him an ideal candidate for animal/human interaction. He worked with exotic animals in preserves, sanctuaries, and educational programs. During this time-frame, he personally raised both a cougar and a tiger from infancy that were abandoned by their moms. He bottle-fed both of them, but their being on different feeding schedules didn’t allow much time for sleep. The two, though different, grew up as siblings and learned from each other with Bill’s guidance. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that he treasured.
He also volunteered and worked in programs re-introducing wolves back into the wild, re-population, and public education helping to raise money for those causes. He was a cruelty investigation officer for the Humane Society, worked with Animal Control, and for Missouri Wildlife Rescue, offering rehabilitation, protection, and release. Bill said that working with animals may not have paid as well as other fields, but that it was extremely rewarding, and he wouldn’t have traded it.
After retiring, he could almost always be found working on some type of project that needed fixing or doing. He loved nature, our home on the river, and was a friend to any and all animals. He loved his family and friends, and was so grateful for our many wonderful memories, and for our Catholic faith. He enjoyed playing guitar and singing, especially songs that told a story.
After an almost year-long ordeal with cancer and complications, giving it his positive, determined yet calm, “one day at a time” best effort, Jesus called him home. He passed on January 1st, 2026. By those who had a chance to know him, his family and his friends, he is truly missed and always will be. I/we love you, sweet William.
He is survived by Mary Delaney and many loving cousins.
Donations may be made in Bill’s memory to The Wounded Warrior Project, The Veterans Guest House of Reno, NV and The Endangered Wolf Center in Eureka, MO.
Richard joined the Navy to see the world and returned to get married. He worked 33 years at IBM. Richard showed Belgian Tervurens in dog obedience, tracking, agility, and confirmation. He also had the dogs certified as therapy dogs, volunteering for 26 years at local hospitals.
Richard is survived by daughters: Beth Symons of South Lake Tahoe, Nancy Regan of AZ, Juli Pywell of Roseville, Yvonne Graser of Roseville, and Yetti – his last dog.
Whether you’re unwinding after an outdoor adventure or simply seeking a moment of calm, South Lake Tahoe’s day spas offer restorative experiences inspired by mountain landscapes and crystal-clear lake views. From luxe bodywork to unique cultural rituals, there’s a way to pamper your body and mind in every season.
Perched within the serene grounds of Edgewood Tahoe Resort, this Forbes Travel Guide 4-Star Spa invites guests to relax in a refined mountain setting with treatments designed to soothe both body and spirit. Signature options include restorative gemstone and specialty massages, body rituals, and facials that marry luxury with the natural tranquility of Lake Tahoe. The spa lounge area features a hot tub that is for clients of the spa only. Learn more.
Waterfront and restorative, The Spa at The Landing blends the calming influence of the lake with a menu of body therapies, facials, and restorative treatments featuring organic products and natural botanicals. With its focus on alignment and overall renewal, this spa provides a peaceful complement to lakeside adventures and relaxation. Learn more.
Serenity Spa at the Marriott Grand Residence Lake Tahoe
Located inside the Marriott Grand Residence Club, Serenity Spa offers a warm and tranquil setting for guests to indulge in full-service massages, facials, and wellness treatments. It’s an easy way to unwind after a day on the trails or slopes, with customizable spa packages and a welcoming retreat atmosphere. Learn more.
Reflections Spa provides a serene escape within one of South Lake Tahoe’s most iconic properties. With rejuvenating treatments designed to melt away stress and melt into mountain views, this spa experience pairs well with a day of gaming, dining, or live entertainment. Learn more.
Rooted in the Japanese tradition of healing and renewal, Onsen Spa at Bally’s combines thermal features like hot baths with a selection of massage and bodywork offerings. It’s a soothing complement to the energy of nightly entertainment and gaming on the South Shore. (Note: Onsen details are informed by local listings and spa hotel guides.)Learn more.
More Ways to Restore in Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe’s wellness scene extends beyond traditional day spas, inviting you to explore experiences that engage body, mind, and nature:
Tahoe Forest Baths offers a rare Japanese cedar enzyme bath experience, one of only two of its kind in the U.S., promoting detoxification, stress relief, and relaxation through warm, natural cedar and active enzymes.
Bliss Experiences provides curated classes and workshops — from forest bathing to mindful movement — that connect visitors with nature and deeper personal renewal.
OMNI Tahoe Wellness Center in the heart of South Lake Tahoe focuses on holistic well-being with a variety of fitness and wellness offerings beyond traditional spa services. Guests can enjoy infrared-heated yoga in the Solar Studio, non-heated classes like aerial hammock and TRX in the Lunar Studio, and other movement-based experiences designed to enhance strength, flexibility, and recovery. It’s a great complement to outdoor adventure and post-play relaxation in Tahoe’s mountain environment.
From deep-tissue massage to cedar enzyme baths and bespoke healing workshops, South Lake Tahoe’s spa and wellness offerings are as varied as the landscape itself. Whether you’re seeking recovery after sledding, skiing, or biking — or simply craving a tranquil retreat — there’s a restorative experience here to suit every traveler.
TAHOE BASIN, Calif./Nev. – For anyone chasing fresh powder, the forecast may be lining up in your favor. A more active winter pattern is setting up across the Sierra next week, with multiple chances for snow and cooler temperatures returning to the region.
Bryan Allegretto, a forecaster with OpenSnow, says snow showers could return to the Sierra on Monday.
“A weak cold front on Monday could bring snow showers to the northern Sierra, with snow levels around 7,000 feet,” Allegretto wrote on OpenSnow. “That could bring some snow to the roads during the day on Monday if the showers are heavy enough over Donner Pass. There’s a better chance for snow-covered roads Monday night as snow levels drop to around 6,000 feet.”
Forecast models remain split, with some suggesting only light snow showers Tuesday and Wednesday, while others indicate the potential for a more significant storm Tuesday into Tuesday night, Allegretto explained.
“Carry chains and be ready for wintry travel through the northern Sierra starting Monday morning and possibly lasting into Wednesday,” he said.
The National Weather Service is echoing a similar outlook, calling for a more active weather pattern beginning late Sunday night and continuing through next week.
“Snow levels on Sunday start around 7,500 to 8,500 feet,” meteorologists said in their forecast discussion. “By Monday, snow levels drop to around 5,500 to 7,000 feet, and by Monday night into Tuesday, they could fall to near 4,000 feet.”
Temperatures are also expected to cool, returning to seasonal averages for mid-February.
Looking ahead, Allegretto said the region may catch a short break in the storms Thursday and Friday before additional snow showers return around the 14th. Larger systems are possible between the 15th-18th.
Proposals to close Northern Nevada schools. Elimination of a Reno program for gifted students. Job cuts. Canceled teacher raises.
Three years after Nevada school leaders celebrated a historical, 26 percent K-12 education funding increase, a number of their districts now face financial outlooks so dire that at least one is eligible for a state takeover and several are mulling options more often seen during a recession.
What happened?
Superintendents across the state say flat K-12 education funding, increased costs that have chipped away at their reserves, declining student enrollment and policy changes under the state’s new funding formula have created a perfect storm for their budgets.
Carson City, Douglas County, Elko County and Washoe County are among the school districts that are facing budget deficits forcing them to make tough decisions.
The Washoe County School District announced last week it has reduced its budget deficit projected for next year from $18 million to $5.7 million by doing things such as eliminating programs, shifting certain expenses outside of the general fund and reducing positions. It’s also preparing to consolidate schools and close down older campuses that need costly repairs and have declining enrollment.
In December, the Douglas County School Board rejected proposed contracts with its teachers and bus drivers unions, which included modest pay increases for some, as the district is grappling with a $5 million budget deficit that’s expected to reach about $7 million by 2027 if it doesn’t make any changes.
Last month, the board voted to declare a fiscal emergency. Superintendent Frankie Alvarado said this designation allows the district to renegotiate previously approved bargaining agreements with its employee unions.
The school board is also expected to vote this week on proposals such as consolidating two Gardnerville K-5 schools, and possibly adding sixth grade, and consolidating two Gardnerville middle schools.
Dave Jensen, the former superintendent of the Humboldt County School District and a school finance expert, said while some adjustments to the state’s funding formula can help, he said he doesn’t think the problem will be fixed as long as the state doesn’t take action to increase revenue for education.
“We’re going to see more and more school districts become insolvent,” Jensen said.
Increased costs
After the 2023 legislative session, the pressure was on for school districts to approve much-need raises for their staff.
In addition to historic per-pupil funding increases passed during that session, the Legislature also approved a $250 million matching fund that districts could tap into to provide those pay bumps. Lawmakers renewed that funding during the 2025 session, but the base per-pupil funding amount is staying relatively flat for the next two years: $9,416 per student for 2025, a $2 increase, and $9,486 in 2026, a $70 increase.
But Jensen said this funding is far from enough to cover the compounding costs of the salary increases districts gave out, which includes other pay bumps teachers received for longevity and continuing education, and recent contribution rate increases for the state’s pension.
Elko County School District Superintendent Clayton Anderson said that while his district wants to be fiscally conservative with the new funds, it gave teachers and support staff raises of 11 percent to stay competitive with other school districts that were approving double-digit raises.
“It made it real tough for us to look at our staff and say, ‘Yeah, sorry, we gotta put this towards the ending fund balance. We can’t help you out,’ because then you risk losing staff to every other district,” Anderson said.
Students during a passing period at Elko High School in Elko on Dec. 15, 2021. (David Calvert/The Nevada Independent)Provided Mark Moore / mark@mooretahoe.com
Student enrollment declines
Meanwhile, school districts across Nevada and nationwide are experiencing student enrollment declines amid lower birth rates and as students move to charter schools, private schools or even out of the area altogether because of factors such as housing costs.
State data shows enrollment statewide was on the rise until the 2019-20 school year, when it peaked at about 500,000 students. This school year, the state has about 474,000 public school students.
While it’s not experiencing a budget deficit, the Clark County School District’s per-pupil funding decreased by about $43 million after its student enrollment dropped to fewer than 280,000 this school year, more than 4,000 students less than it had projected. That pushed some schools to make cuts after classes were already in session.
The Elko County School District’s enrollment for this school year, about 9,000, is about 1,000 less than it had six years ago, and it predicts it will continue to decrease by 1 percent or more per year for the next several years.
Anderson said the district is looking to cut $15 million after its projected revenues decreased to about $125 million, $7 million of which was driven by enrollment-related per-pupil funding decreases. It has already implemented $3 million in cost-saving measures.
The Douglas County School District’s enrollment has fallen by about 1,000 students during the past decade, a 17.4 percent decrease. For the 2025-26 school year, the district’s enrollment dropped by 165 students, resulting in a revenue decline of about $1.8 million, and the prior year, its enrollment declined by 117 students and revenue dropped by $1.2 million.
Documents show the district’s finances have been on a rollercoaster. Its revenues have bounced up and down since 2018, reaching $59 million in 2025, and its ending fund balance reached as high as about $11.6 million in 2022.
Alvarado said when he interviewed for the Douglas County superintendent job less than two years ago, he remembers thinking that metric showed the district’s finances were “healthy.”
“There were no red flags up in the air,” he said. “My first six weeks on the job … I was told every meeting that we don’t anticipate any budget issues and we have positive financial reporting.”
But an analysis shows that in 2023, the district’s expenditures began outpacing its general fund revenue. By 2025, the district had depleted its ending funding balance and had a deficit of just under $1 million in its general fund and just under half a million in its special education fund.
The district’s financial state meet the conditions needed for the Department of Taxation to declare a severe financial emergency, which would allow the department to assume control over the district’s financial management, but Alvarado said the department is choosing not to place the district under receivership at this time because it believes it can fix its budget over time.
“I was hired to come in and clean this place up, and unfortunately I have to make all the unfavorable decisions to put us in a stabilized budget position,” Alvarado said.
Carson City School District Superintendent Andrew Feuling speaks with other district leaders before the start of presentations to a joint meeting of the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means and Senate Committee on Finance at the Legislature on March 25, 2023, in Carson City. (David Calvert/The Nevada Independent)Provided / Hans Baumann
Shifting to a new funding formula
School leaders say the new funding formula that the Legislature approved in 2019 to replace the previous 50-year old model has also created challenges for their districts.
Jensen said that prior to the Pupil-Centered Funding Plan (PCFP), the state used a single enrollment count day to determine a school district’s per-pupil funding base for the entire school year.
“So if you had some declining enrollment, you weren’t penalized for it and from our perspective, that made sense because I couldn’t reduce a teacher mid-year … and if I had to make some adjustments, we would at the end of the year in preparation for the new school year,” he said.
But under the new formula, districts’ enrollment is looked at on a quarterly basis, which can result in funding fluctuations throughout the school year. One of the core principals of the PCFP is that dollars follow the students.
“And so now school districts cannot effectively budget for a declining enrollment because we don’t know how many we’re going to lose yet each quarter,” Jensen said.
The state’s previous funding formula included a mechanism that partially protected school districts from per-pupil funding decreases through a one-year “hold harmless” provision that allowed them to be funded at the same enrollment level as the preceding school year unless the decrease is greater than 5 percent, in which case their funding could be based on the higher of the prior two years’ enrollment.
“What that did is it gave districts some stability and it smoothed out that revenue volatility … so you wouldn’t have to do any kind of draconian reductions,” said Carson City School District Superintendent Andrew Feuling.
Under the new funding formula, a similar provision only kicks in when a school district’s enrollment drops by at least 5 percent.
The superintendents say that’s a threshold that’s too high to hit. Anderson said the Elko County School District’s enrollment declines have hovered between 3 percent and 4 percent.
The Douglas County School District has gotten closer, 4.75 percent.
Elko County School District’s Chief Financial Officer Cassandra Stahlke, who sits on the state’s Commission on School Funding, told the panel of school finance experts during its Jan. 16 meeting that a hold harmless trigger between 3 percent to 4 percent would be more helpful to school districts, but also recommended there should be some funding decrease to encourage school leaders to make budget adjustments for the next year.
Humboldt County School District Superintendent Dave Jensen during his presentation to a joint meeting of the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means and Senate Committee on Finance at the Legislature on March 25, 2023, in Carson City. (David Calvert/The Nevada Independent)Action shots: May begins with summer vibes
More funding need
Superintendents say the overall problem is that while the state did make progress in increasing K-12 education funding, it’s still not where it should be to meet the needs they are facing.
Since 2021, the Commission on School Funding has produced reports on what funding level would be optimal for K-12 education and what policies could be implemented to get there. One such policy is property tax reform.
But Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro (D-Las Vegas), and Republicans, including Gov. Joe Lombardo, have either not committed to supporting legislation in line with the commission’s ideas or have downplayed them and called them nonstarters.
Cannizzaro and Lombardo did not respond to requests for comment by publication time on whether districts’ current financial outlook will make them reconsider these types of legislation.
Jensen said without a significant funding boost, the only way school districts can mitigate their funding challenges is by letting staff go as their salaries and benefits typically make up the majority of district expenses.
“We’re a people-centered profession,” Jensen said. “If you’re going to save money, that equates to people. There’s not a lot of wiggle room.”
INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. — The Rotary Club of Tahoe-Incline is now accepting funding requests for 2026 from nonprofit organizations, service groups, and community-based projects that strengthen and enrich life in the Tahoe region and beyond. Through its Community Funding Request Program, Rotary proudly supports a wide range of initiatives that address education, public safety, health, youth development, human services, and global humanitarian needs.
Funding is made possible through the club’s signature fundraising event, Best Ball for a Cause, along with contributions to the Rotary Foundation. Grant awards are evaluated based on community benefit, demonstrated need, and alignment with Rotary’s mission of service above self. Grants are not awarded for general operating expenses, salaries, tuition, travel, or tournament entry fees.
“Our club is passionate about supporting projects of all sizes that create real, measurable impact,” said a representative of the Rotary Club of Tahoe-Incline. “From local classrooms to global clean water efforts, Rotary is committed to investing in solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities.”
Rotary’s past and current grantee support reflects this wide-reaching commitment. Local funding has included more than $335,000 in “Angel at Your Door” COVID grants benefiting 65 families and 85 local businesses in partnership with The Dave and Cheryl Duffield Foundation. Additional investments include 60 field jackets and sponsorship support for the Volunteer HASTY Rescue Team, laptops for Incline Elementary and Middle Schools, the Incline Elementary Maker Space, literacy initiatives at Incline Middle School, Books on Wheels mobile libraries, the North Tahoe Children’s Choir, and virtual reality equipment for the Incline Village Library.
Rotary has also supported critical social service organizations such as Sierra Community House and Pet Network Humane Society, awarded scholarships to local high school seniors, and contributed $1,400 to Wreaths Across America to honor veterans at Lone Mountain Cemetery. A $5,000 grant to Incline Elementary School helped expand its art program, reinforcing the importance of creative and analytical skill development in young learners.
Beyond local efforts, the Rotary Club of Tahoe-Incline actively supports global and humanitarian initiatives. The club contributes $2,000 annually toward Rotary International’s global polio eradication campaign, a worldwide effort that has brought polio to the brink of elimination. In 2026, the club will complete a $12,000 Global Grant supporting water, sanitation, and hygiene improvements at Cambuyo Schools in the Philippines, where unsafe water conditions previously made the school’s supply unusable due to E. coli contamination. This project is being completed in collaboration with several Rotary clubs.
The club is also developing a community education initiative with the Empowerment Access Foundation, local law enforcement, and social service partners including Tahoe Family Solutions to raise awareness and prevention strategies related to human trafficking. In addition, Rotary collaborates with Helping Hands to support older adults through monetary donations and hands-on volunteer service that helps seniors remain safe, connected, and independent in their homes.
Funding applications are available online and accepted, and awarded, on an ongoing basis. Applicants will be contacted following the review process, and funding announcements will be made accordingly.
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – Bread & Broth announced the awarding of its 2025 Volunteer of the Year Award to Cheryl Breitwieser. Each year, Bread & Broth’s Advisory Board nominates and selects an outstanding volunteer from our current roster of over 270 active volunteer members. As an all-volunteer organization, Bread & Broth is fortunate to have numerous exceptional volunteer who selflessly give their time to ease hunger in our community. Cheryl stands out as an extraordinary contributor, offering her dedication and passion to the organization.
Since joining Bread & Broth in 2015, Cheryl Breitwieser has played many vital roles within the organization. She currently serves as a member of the Bread & Broth Advisory Board and is the Co-chairperson for the Bread & Broth 4 Kids’ Program. In addition to co-directing the Kid’s program, Cheryl acts as a Team Lead once a month for food bag packing and delivery sessions. She is also responsible for procuring all food items for several key initiatives, including the B&B 4 Kids School Weekend Food program, School Healthy Snack program, B&B 4 Tots program, and the School Summer Break program.
Cheryl BreitwieserProvided
Throughout the year, Cheryl coordinates and attends school functions, child fairs, Cram A Cruiser food/fundraisers, and other events that support local children. Most weeks, Cheryl is in Grace Hall at least twice a week doing inventory and stocking the shelves in the Kid’s room. Thanks to her tireless efforts and ongoing promotion of the B&B 4 Kids program, 190 LTUSD students and 87 Tots attending childcare centers that serve low-income families receive bags of nutritious, kid-friendly food every week.
The Bread & Broth annual Volunteer of the Year Award is supported by the Pay It Forward Project, which is associated with the El Dorado Community Foundation. The Pay It Forward Project focuses on promoting volunteerism and assists volunteer organizations with volunteer projects in both the South Lake Tahoe and Carson Valley communities. Alongside the plaque awarded by Bread & Broth, Cheryl received a gift certificate for a local restaurant from the Pay It Forward Project.
Cheryl is an exceptional volunteer, deeply committed to alleviating hunger among children in the community. Bread & Broth is extremely fortunate to benefit from her dedication and tireless support, which has made a meaningful difference in the lives of food-insecure children.
STATELINE, Nev. – The Tahoe Knight Monsters fell at home to the Utah Grizzlies by a final score of 9-6.
In the first period, the Grizzlies struck early as Luke Antonacci found the back of the net just 49 seconds in. Under three minutes later, it was Reed Lebster who tallied his 23rd goal of the season to give Utah a 2-0 lead at the end of the first.
In the middle period, the Knight Monsters came to life. Devon Paliani scored his team-leading 21st goal, and Jake Durflinger added on with his fifth to tie the game at 2. However, Mike Gelatt would answer for Utah, scoring his first career ECHL goal to put Utah up 3-2, and Danny Dzhaniyev would tack on another one to put Utah up 4-2. The Knight Monsters would answer with a goal from Kevin Wall to make it a one-goal game, but Evan Friesen scored on Utah’s first power play to give the Grizzlies a 5-3 lead after 40 minutes of play.
In the final frame, Utah would make it 6-3 with a goal from Reilly Connors. Although Wall would score his second of the night to make it 6-4, Utah would score two straight goals from Connors and Noah Ganske to jump in front 8-4. After a late pair of power play goals from the Knight Monsters, scored by Jake McGrew and Luke Adam, Lebster would score his second of the game on an empty net to make the final score 9-6 Utah.
The Knight Monsters return home on Friday, February 6, 2026, to take on the Utah Grizzlies for night one of Retro Weekend at Tahoe Blue Event Center. Puck drop is at 7:00 pm, with pregame coverage on the Knight Monsters broadcast network beginning at 6:50 pm. Ticket packages for the 2025-26 season are now available. For more information, visit www.knightmonstershockey.com
LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. – It’s an exciting showdown this Sunday, February 8, as the Seattle Seahawks return to the Super Bowl after 11 years to face off with the New England Patriots at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.
Whether you’re in Lake Tahoe on vacation or you’re local looking for a spot to watch the matchup, here’s a roundup of places in the basin that are showing the game and offering some amazing deals along the way:
Known for its iconic views of Lake Tahoe from the Ski Run Marina, Riva Grill on the Lake is opening their second floor, for the second year in a row, to Super Bowl spectators for a watch party on their 12-foot screen.
In addition, there will be an 80″ screen showing the game, including surround sound, in the restaurant’s lounge, a favorite spot for sports lovers alike.
If you’re arriving hungry, fear not, because Riva Grill’s chefs have you covered.
“We will be featuring Pulled Pork Nachos, Cheesesteaks, Buffalo Chicken Dip, New England Shrimp and Lobster Roll sliders, amongst superbowl favorites like wings, potato skins, and mozzarella sticks,” said Kimberly Bjerke, Group Sales Manager. “People can count on Wet Woody®, Beer, and cocktail specials to sip on during the game!”
Riva Grill is a great establishment for those looking for a smoke-free, family friendly environment, along with the perks of free parking for patrons.
“There’s no cover charge,” said Bjerke. “We expect people to come in and have a good time.”
It’s the Super Bowl plus a stunning view, you really can’t go wrong.
Riva Grill is located at 900 Ski Run Blvd in South Lake Tahoe.
Riva Grill will offer guests stunning views of Lake Tahoe while watching the Super Bowl Provided/Kimberly Bjerke
Tipsy Putt is a great place to shake off Big Game day jitters between plays with local beer, delicious food, and mini golf.
With two 100″ screens, one on their golf course and one in the back of the venue, along with 16 TVs surrounding the place, guests are sure to catch all the hard-hitting action.
They’ll be offering a Super Bowl deal which includes a group shareable package for $49. “It gets you 20 wings, eight pulled pork sliders, and a big order of chips and guac,” said Mitch Rittiman, General Manager. “For larger groups, they can double it as well.”
To complete your food order are beer pitchers on sale for $19.
Tipsy Putt books 400-500 parties a year, so if you’re interested in watching the Super Bowl here, you’re encouraged to visit tipsyputt.com/tipsy-putt-tahoe or call (530) 443-4376 to your reserve table or book a party.
“We’re a group experience atmosphere,” Rittiman said.
Tipsy Putt is located at 4101 Lake Tahoe Blvd, Suite #101 in South Lake Tahoe.
It’s a quadruple celebration at Caesars Republic and Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, offering a variety of options with four different styles of watch parties for Sunday’s game.
Option one: If you’re 21 or older, the Caesars Sportsbook Video Stadium is the ultimate viewing party. For $170 per person, guests can enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet, an open bar with cocktail service, and three large, built-in screens.
“This is a top-end experience,” said Abigail Jestis, Senior Director of Food and Beverage, noting that kiosks for betting are located close by if you’re feeling lucky.
Doors open at 2:30 p.m., and food is served at 3 p.m.
Option two: Next is Harrah’s Special Events Center, showing the game on multiple big projector screens. This experience also includes an all-you-can-eat buffet and open bar.
For $150 a person, guests will receive a wristband when doors open at 2 p.m.
There are a limited number of tickets for this event for sale, so don’t miss your chance to snag them while you can.
Option three: Harrah’s Center Stage is offering tiered-seating and table side delivery from Caesars Eats to keep you nice and comfortable while enjoying the Super Bowl.
For $60 a person, you can sit in sofa seating and relish in a snack bucket.
$40 per person will allow you to sit in the front row, and $30 will get you highboy seating.
All tiered-seating options come with two free drinks per person.
Doors open and food starts at 2 p.m.
Option 4: Possibly their best deal yet, Caesars Republic is offering an all-inclusive experience for $75 at El Jefe Cantina and Restaurant.
There will be multiple screens to watch the game on, and includes game day buffet and two drink vouchers.
“We’re going to be doing drink specials, so buckets of beer, buckets of seltzer,” added Jestis. “And as a regular, we also do $5 margaritas every day, a $7 beer and shot special everyday, and those things are there to leverage once you’ve had your two free drinks.”
The Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino is always ready to host, and this year’s Super Bowl is no exception.
With two viewing experiences to choose from, guests can decide which style they’d prefer. Both events are ages 21 and up.
Inside their Revolution Ballroom, the Golden Nugget is offering stadium-style viewing with premium seating options and an all-you-can-eat buffet. In addition, this high-end package includes raffle entries, drink tickets and parking. Standard seating starts at $99 per ticket.
To take it up a notch, VIP seating and amenity options are available for $149 per ticket.
Doors open at 2:30 p.m.
Golden Nugget’s second option is a sportsbar ambiance inside Bill’s Sportsbook, allowing guests to witness every element of the game on its giant screens surrounding the walls of the entire venue.
There is a $100 food and beverage minimum spend per person. Act fast to score a spot as seating is limited.
Doors open at 2:30 p.m. and reservations must be claimed by 3:30.
Crystal Bay Casino is hosting their Ultimate Big Game Watch Party in the iconic Crown Room.
They will have 14 flatscreen TVs and one massive jumbo screen, along with raffles, Super Bowl squares, prizes and of course, “killer food & drinks—plus nonstop game-day energy.”
“Grab your crew, claim your seats, and let’s turn game day into a full-blown party,” said Sam Shear with Terrapin Ridge Productions.
Doors open at 1 p.m. and the event, hosted by Chango, has a free entry.
Crystal Bay Casino is located at 14 NV-28 in Crystal Bay, Nevada.
Located inside The Village of Palisades Tahoe are several places to soak in the all the Super Bowl plays.
After taking some laps on the mountain, you can head over to Rocker where they’re offering food and drink specials starting at $5. The vibe here is upbeat, and provides a great after-snow selection of local and regional draft beers.
Bar One, located inside Olympic House, is a more relaxed setting, and will be showing the game while Oh! Burger provides food to those who are hungry.
“Watching the Big Game at Palisades Tahoe is about more than football—it’s about the atmosphere,” said Patrick Lacey, PR Manager at Palisades Tahoe. “Whether you’re at Rocker or Bar One, you’re surrounded by good energy, great specials, and fellow fans who’ve just spent the day on snow, no matter which team you’re rooting for.”
In addition, the cute and cozy Little Bear Cafe will be serving Big Game sandwich specials all weekend long.
Palisades Tahoe is located at 1960 Olympic Valley Road in Olympic Valley, California.
To try and decide each week where and what to eat in and around the basin can be a challenge – there are so many amazing choices. In this feature we’ll dive into dishes that will surely satisfy those hunger pangs and leave you wondering where to go next.
I’m well aware that many of you will see the name of this week’s feature and automatically have a vision of what is (and definitely what isn’t) a Philly Cheesesteak. If you’re one to nitpick, you may want to skip this article because while there are plenty of familiar ingredients, it’s not straight line traditional – and that’s not a bad thing. I’m not one to be insanely particular about what a Philly Cheesesteak should be. Just give me the flavors and vibes that are close enough, make it delicious, and I’ll be happy. And was I ever happy with this week’s feature.
I feel like with this dish we have to start with the stromboli of it all. If you’ve never been to Incline Bak’d then you’re missing out on a sourdough that’s hand crafted in house and beyond amazing in the flavor department. Before getting baked, it’s loaded with chopped sirloin steak, sweet peppers, onions, mozzarella, and provolone cheese.
Now when I tell you this thing is huge, I really need you to believe me. If you’re not bringing your appetite (and a handful of friends) this is going to give you multiple amounts of leftovers. The beef is super tender and rips away perfectly with each bite. The peppers and onions add just the right amount of sweetness and texture, and the cheese is top notch on the gooey factor.
The dough walks the line beautifully between crispy and chewy and even those cheesesteak purists who are die hard team hoagie roll, I bet would give this dough a thumbs up. Even with the size, I found myself not being able to stop eating. I said I was done multiple times but keep coming back for another bite. Eventually, I did eat it all (with the help of my wife) but not before it became super tasty leftovers.
Incline Bak’d is located at 120 Country Club Dr. Ste 28 in Incline Village. For ordering and menu information visit them online at inclinebaked.com or via phone at 775-298-2245.
Arty the Party at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe – 9 p.m.-12 a.m., Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, 15 Highway 50. 9:00 PM, Friday and Saturday Nights. You can Party with Arty the Party at Harrah’s. It’s the best disco, dance, R&B, and soul party in Lake Tahoe! For more information, visit https://visitlaketahoe.com/event/arty-the-party-at-harrahs-lake-tahoe/2026-02-06/ or call (800) 427-7247.
Casual Sports Night! – Everyone is invited – 7-8:30 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3460 Spruce Ave. A group of people come to hang out and have a great time playing a “ball” game; Basketball, Volleyball or Pickleball. all skill levels are welcome to participate Come meet and mingle with other people interested in building relationships. We look forward to seeing you there
Daily Live Music – 12-8 p.m., Gunbarrel Tavern. Daily live music at multiple locations in the Village, including the corner stage at Azul Latin Kitchen, Basecamp Pizza, and Gunbarrel Tavern. Additional dates: 2/6, 2/7, 2/8, 2/9, 2/10, 2/11, 2/12. For more information, visit https://theshopsatheavenly.com/event/live-music-gunbarrel-tavern/2026-02-06/.
Kanekoa – 8-11 p.m., 14 State Route 28. Kanekoa returns to the Crown Room on Friday February 6th 2026. Doors 7PM, Show 8PM $20 ADV/ $25 DOS For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1371198487770284/.
DJ DELO in the Mix – 9-11:30 p.m., AleWorX Stateline. For more information, visit https://laketahoealeworx.com/event/dj-delo-in-the-mix/2026-02-06/.
DJ Dillon Francis at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe – 7:30-9:30 p.m., Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, 15 Highway 50. Friday, February 6, 2026, 9:00 pm, DJ Dillon Francis in the South Shore Room at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe. Ticketmaster.com. Dillon Francis is a Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum DJ and producer known for his explosive live sets and genre-blending sound. From global festival main stages to iconic club residencies, his high-octane performances and larger-than-life personality have made him one of electronic music’s most in-demand artists worldwide.For more information, visit https://visitlaketahoe.com/event/dillon-francis-at-harrahs-lake-tahoe/ or call (800) 427-7247.
Dueling Pianos at Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe – 8:30-10:30 p.m., Harveys Lake Tahoe, 18 Highway 50. Join us at the Mountain Bar located on Caesars Republic casino floor for a free show you don’t want to miss. Put your favorite song request in, grab a drink at the Mountain Bar and enjoy the fun! Playing Friday and Saturday at 8:30 PM. They play your favorite sing-alongs and are very appealing to the happy crowd. Van is a Guinness World Record Holder for the longest piano marathon: 39 hours, 976 songs. Proceeds went to VH-1 Save the Music Foundation. For more information, visit https://visitlaketahoe.com/event/dueling-pianos-at-caesars-republic-lake-tahoe/2026-02-06/ or call (775) 588-6611.
Jose “Manny Maze” DJ Meza – 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m., Noel’s Coffee and Apothecary. For more information, visit https://tahoemusic.live/?page=5.
Ski with a Ranger at Heavenly Mountain Resort – 1-2 p.m., Heavenly Mountain, 4080 Lake Tahoe Blvd. The USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit is pleased to announce the return of Ski With A Ranger at Heavenly Mountain Resort. Skiers and snowboarders are invited to Ski With A Ranger beginning Friday, Jan. 30, 2026. Tours will depart from the top of the Heavenly Gondola every Friday at 1:00 p.m. The tours last approximately one-hour and will continue through April 3, conditions and weather permitting. For more information, visit https://visitlaketahoe.com/event/ski-with-a-ranger-at-heavenly-mountain-resort/2026-02-06/ or call (775) 586-7000.
Ski with a Ranger at Sierra at Tahoe Resort – 1-2 p.m., Sierra, 1111 Sierra at Tahoe Rd. The Eldorado National Forest offers guided tours at Sierra at Tahoe Resort through the Ski with a Ranger conservation education programs. Get ready for an adventure with our Ski With a Ranger conservation education series at Sierra-at-Tahoe! Led by conservation experts in partnership with Sierra, this series is designed to educate the community on the natural history and ecology of our beautiful region and the Forest Service’s role in ski area management. For more information about Ski with a Ranger, contact Conservation Education Specialist Reanna Suela at Reanna.Suela@usda.gov.
Spirit Dinner Brooks’ Bar & Deck at Edgewood Tahoe – 5:30-8 p.m., Brooks Bar & Deck at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, 100 Lake Parkway. Join us on Friday, February 6, 2026, for the Frey Ranch Whiskey Dinner event. A specially curated menu is seamlessly paired with signature spirits to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience. $125 per person, including taxes, fees, and gratuity. Experience an unforgettable evening, showcasing the signature spirits of Frey Ranch, perfectly paired with a specially curated menu. We are excited to offer exclusive insights into the history and passion behind these exceptional spirits, alongside Colby Frey, co-owner of the Frey Ranch Distillery, as our guest of honor, where he will share his knowledge and insights on this amazing experience.For more information, visit https://visitlaketahoe.com/event/spirit-dinners-brooks-bar-deck-edgewood-tahoe/2026-02-06/.
Valentines Experience – Good Putts. Better Company. – 10-12 a.m., Tipsy Putt – South Lake Tahoe, 4101 Lake Tahoe Boulevard, Suite # 101. Good Putts. Better Company. This Valentine’s season, we’re putting a playful spin on date night. Good Putts. Better Company. runs all February long and turns your Valentines outing into a low-pressure social experience: perfect for couples, friends, and anyone celebrating connection and conversation. Take part in our Valentine’s Date Night Scavenger Hunt, a complimentary, lighthearted experience added onto any round to encourage conversation, friendly competition, and memorable moments—all at your own pace.For more information, visit https://eventvesta.com/events/132365/t/tickets or call 530-443-4376.
Wine Tasting on the M.S. Dixie II – 5-8 p.m., M.S. Dixie II at Zephyr Cove Resort, 760 U.S. Hwy 50. Sip & Sail: A Wine Country Journey on Lake Tahoe. Join us aboard the M.S. Dixie II for an unforgettable evening that pairs the rich flavors of California’s wine country with the perfect appetizer. A curated selection of premium wines by Joyce Wine Co. As we cruise Lake Tahoe, you’ll discover the story of water flowing from the Sierra Nevada to the Central Valley—home to world-class vineyards producing varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris. For more information, visit https://visitlaketahoe.com/event/wine-tasting-on-the-m-s-dixie-ii/2026-02-06/.
Saturday, February 7
Alex Ramon “Magic” – 7:30 p.m., The Cabaret At Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe, 18 Hwy 50.
Hayes Carll & Ryan Montbleau – 7 p.m., Crystal Bay Casino, 14 Highway 28. Same ol’ thing, broken hearts and busted strings. Additional dates: 2/7, 2/7. For more information, visit https://www.bandsintown.com/e/107516688?app_id=pkvts0on0m&came_from=287&utm_medium=api&utm_source=partner_api&utm_campaign=event or call (775) 833-6333.
DJ Montague – 9-11:30 p.m., AleWorX Stateline. For more information, visit https://laketahoealeworx.com/event/dj-montague-5/2026-02-07/.
Tahoe Club Crawl Fall/Winter 25/26 – 8-11 p.m., Tahoe Club Crawl, 31 US HWY 50. Tahoe Club Crawl is an organized VIP nightlife tour of the Tahoe South. With the purchase of your ticket, you will receive a welcome shot at 3 out of 4 stops, appetizers, free indoor games at Tipsy Putt and VIP entrance into Peek Nightclub, Lake Tahoe’s hottest Club! You will meet amazing people and have the night of your lives. We meet every Saturday at 8:00 PM Aleworx Stateline, unless told otherwise. Be Sure To Check Out our Ice Cream Shop, Aloha Ice Cream Tahoe “Winner of Best Ice Cream in Tahoe 7 Years In A Row” (Opened Seasonally) For more information, visit https://tahoeclubcrawl.ticketsauce.com/e/tahoe-club-crawl-fall-winter-25-49?aff=cityspark.
Tuesday, February 10
Tahoe’s Tricky Bird ID Series – 6-7 p.m., Struggling to tell apart those look-alike woodpeckers and raptors in Tahoe? Curious about the subtle differences between similar species? Want to strengthen your ID skills for woodpeckers, sapsuckers, and raptors… both in flight and during their life stages? Look no further! TINS and birding enthusiast Rich Chambers are here to help. Join us for a free, fun, and informative 3-part online class series where Rich will guide participants through some of the toughest bird ID challenges specific to the Tahoe and Truckee region. Through expert tips, clear comparisons, and real world examples, you’ll sharpen your skills and gain confidence in identifying these tricky species. The series will be held on three consecutive Tuesdays from 6:00-7:00 PM on January 27, February 4, and February 10 with a Carson Valley Raptor Field Trip (optional) to conclude the course on February 11. Register for the online class below. We hope to see you there! Fill out my LGL Form! For more information, visit https://www.tinsweb.org/upcoming-events/tahoes-difficult-bird-id-class-jb6tr-fysdp.
Wednesday, February 11
Candle Making Workshop – 6-8:30 p.m., South Lake Brewing Company, 1920 Lake Tahoe Blvd. Sierra Soapbox Candle Co. will lead this Candle-Making Workshop with instruction and all the necessary materials. You’ll learn about the fundamentals of candle-making and blend your own scent from a menu of options. For more information, visit https://www.southlakebeer.com/store#!/Candle-Making-Workshop-Ticket/p/808322762 or call (530) 578-0087.
Carson Raptor Outing Rich’s Tricky ID Class – 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., In the winter months, Carson Valley is one of the best places to view raptors of all kinds. This field experience exclusively for students actively enrolled in Rich Chamber’s free Tricky Bird ID Virtual Course to come out with TINS and observe the many species of hawks and eagles from 9:30am-12:30pm. The agricultural fields of the valley provide food for migrating raptors including various species of rodent. Wintering raptors typically include Bald and Golden Eagles, Rough-legged, Ferruginous, and Red-tailed Hawks, Northern Harriers, American Kestrel, Prairie Falcon, and possibly others. This is a driving and caravan-style bird tour with many stops off and on the road. Be sure to bring your binoculars! Fill out my LGL For more information, visit https://www.tinsweb.org/upcoming-events/august-tby-outing-g5jgt-gl5fl-dle96-ylcy7-ktsg4-rsj3b-wwalh-2b9x6-tk7tb-bkh8h.
Thursday, February 12
Meet the Author – Martha O’Sullivan – 3-4 p.m., bff tahoe, 2540 Lake Tahoe Blvd. Meet contemporary romance author Martha O’Sullivan as she shares Sierra Fall-a heartfelt new love story set in Lake Tahoe. For more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/meet-the-author-martha-osullivan-tickets-1390812099429.
Bollinger Champagne Wine Dinner at Osteria Sierra – 5:30 p.m., Osteria Sierra at Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, 111 Country Club Drive. Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino will host a Bollinger Champagne wine dinner at Osteria Sierra on Thursday, February 12 at 5:30 p.m. The Bollinger Champagne Wine Dinner will feature a four course prix fixe menu crafted by the resort’s culinary team and thoughtfully paired with iconic Bollinger Champagne selections. Guests will enjoy popular vintages ranging from Bollinger Rosé to La Grande Année. For more information, visit https://www.exploretock.com/osteria-sierra/ or call (775) 832-1234.
Hydrology Snowshoe with TRTA – 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Join us and the TRTA in search of wildlife, water features, and spectacular scenery from a beachy waterfront. Discuss natural history topics related to winter ecology, including how various animals and plants cope with the short days, heavy snow, and freezing temperatures associated with winter in Tahoe. This two-mile, easy, out-and-back trek is family-friendly and appropriate for ages 8 and up. If the trails are covered in snow, TINS or the TRTA can provide snowshoes upon request. TINS can also provide binoculars by request. Please bring some snacks, as we will enjoy a lakeside picnic at tables near the lakeshore. Sign Up Here Difficulty: Easy Distance 2 miles round trip Location Sugar Pine Point State Park ($5 Parking Fee) For more information, visit https://www.tinsweb.org/upcoming-events/winter-wildlife-nordic-ski-wrer8.
At 29, Luana Lopes Lara reached a milestone that usually belongs to executives with decades behind them. Her entry point was not a record deal or a family empire, but a valuation jump at a young prediction-market company.
Lopes Lara, a co-founder of Kalshi, has been reported to be the world’s youngest self-made female billionaire after a funding round that valued the company at about $11 billion. In the same reporting, her net worth was estimated at around $1.3 billion, putting her ahead of prior headline holders such as Taylor Swift and Scale AI co-founder Lucy Guo.
The path behind the headline runs through Brazil’s elite ballet training circuit, MIT computer science, and a long fight over whether event-based contracts are finance or gambling. Kalshi’s growth and its decision to expand into elections and sports have made the company a test case for regulators and courts.
The valuation that made the headline
The billionaire label was tied to Kalshi’s reported $1 billion investment round and the implied value of Lopes Lara’s equity. Because the company is private, the figure is best read as a snapshot based on venture pricing, not a daily mark.
The comparison set has been unusual. Swift’s billionaire status has been linked to touring and music rights, while Guo’s wealth has been associated with an early stake in Scale AI. Lopes Lara’s wealth sits inside a market structure: contracts, clearing, and the belief that traders will keep showing up.
A training ground far from Silicon Valley
Before she wrote code, Lopes Lara trained as a ballerina at the Bolshoi Theater School in Brazil, a program known for rigid discipline. Accounts linked to a Forbes profile described an environment that treated endurance as a baseline rather than a virtue.
“Lit cigarettes under her thigh while she extended one leg to her ear,” Lopes Lara told Forbes, as paraphrased in later coverage. “Most intense years of her life,” she added.
The schedule was as relentless as the culture, with academic classes early and ballet training stretching into the night. Those years later became a reference point for how she talks about pressure and competition in business.
MIT, a co-founder, and a late-night question
After a brief professional stint in Austria, Lopes Lara moved to the United States and enrolled at MIT to study computer science. There she met Tarek Mansour, her future co-founder, and later worked internships in New York finance, including at Five Rings Capital.
The Kalshi idea grew out of a simple observation: investors constantly form views about the future but cannot always trade those views directly.
“We saw that most trading happens when people have some view about the future, and then try to find a way to put that in the markets,” Lopes Lara told Forbes.
Kalshi launched around that gap, offering contracts tied to events such as elections and sports, with prices that function as probabilities.
A regulated exchange, built the slow way
The product forced an early question: what regulator, if any, would sign off? The founders passed through Y Combinator and then spent months persuading lawyers and agencies that their contracts belonged in derivatives, not in state gambling codes.
In a breakdown of the story, BonusFinder described how the team approached dozens of law firms and struggled to find representation willing to take the case. The delay mattered because, without the right status, there was no legal basis for the exchange to proceed.
“Right out of college, we were taking on an insane amount of risk. It was two years without a single product, nothing launched, and if we didn’t get regulated, the company would go to zero,” She told Forbes.
Kalshi’s breakthrough came after Jeff Bandman, a former CFTC official, helped guide the process. In November 2020, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission granted Kalshi a certificate to operate as a designated contract market.
Election contracts and the CFTC fight
Regulatory approval did not end the conflict. Political event contracts became a flashpoint, with opponents arguing they could damage public trust and supporters describing them as information markets.
In 2024, the CFTC attempted to block Kalshi’s congressional control contracts, and Kalshi sued. Reuters later reported that, in October 2024, a federal appeals court upheld a decision allowing the contracts, finding that the agency had not backed its public-interest claims with adequate evidence.
“Doing it legally was something we couldn’t compromise on,” Lopes Lara told Forbes. “To build the biggest financial exchange in the world,” She added, describing the company’s ambition.
The election fight also fed Kalshi’s legitimacy argument: that it wanted federal oversight, not gray-market volume.
Sports markets, state pushback, and what growth looks like
Sports contracts became one of Kalshi’s most visible categories, and that visibility drew legal challenges from state regulators who argued the products functioned like unlicensed sports betting.
Reuters reported that in January 2026, a Massachusetts judge ruled Kalshi could not offer sports event contracts in the state without proper licensing, rejecting the company’s argument that federal derivatives oversight preempted state gambling rules. Disputes in other states, including Nevada, have pointed in a similar direction.
At the same time, Kalshi’s own figures suggest rapid expansion, with weekly contract volume surpassing $1 billion and year-over-year growth of nearly 1,000% cited in media coverage. Partnerships mentioned in the reporting include Robinhood, Webull, Google Finance, and the National Hockey League.
The company’s growth has therefore coincided with a patchwork legal landscape, with courts testing whether event contracts fit comfortably within existing market law.
A Billionaire Story with a Policy Tail
The “ballerina turned billionaire” hook compresses a complicated shift into a single biography. It also lands amid predictions that prediction markets are pushing toward mainstream platforms, while facing arguments that they blur into gambling.
For Lopes Lara, the billionaire label is attached to both a personal trajectory and a broader policy debate about what markets should be allowed to price. Kalshi’s next chapters, in courtrooms and funding rounds, will likely decide how durable this category becomes.
California’s expanded “Slow Down, Move Over” law officially took effect Jan. 1, adding lifesaving protections for all stranded drivers and passengers on the roadside. The strengthened requirement compels drivers to move over, or slow down if unsafe to do so, for any stopped vehicle using hazard lights or emergency indicators, including everyday drivers experiencing mechanical trouble or emergencies.
The change, authorized under Assembly Bill 390, legislation sponsored by AAA, comes during a nationwide spike in roadside deaths that safety leaders are calling a crisis.
With AB 390 now in effect, California joins 28 other states, and the District of Columbia, with expanded Slow Down, Move Over protections to include all stopped vehicles.
Violations in California can result in:
• Fines up to $1,000, and
• Points on a driver’s record for unsafe behavior near stopped vehicles.
Roadside deaths are rising
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, using data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System, reveals roadside fatalities are rising sharply. In California, the number of people killed roadside increased nearly 77% from 2014 to 2023. This alarming trend in people killed roadside is driven by higher speeds, distracted driving and limited shoulder space on modern freeways, data shows.
Additional recent national findings highlight the severity of the problem:
• According to the Emergency Responder Safety Institute, 46 emergency responders were killed last year in the U.S. after being struck while assisting at roadside scenes — police officers, firefighters, EMTs and tow truck operators.
• Tow operators face some of the deadliest conditions on America’s roadways.
• Hundreds of stranded drivers are killed every year while waiting for help or attempting simple fixes like changing a tire.
The Auto Club of Southern California says these numbers reflect a growing crisis, not isolated incidents.
“Slow Down. Move Over, and let’s protect every person stranded on our roadways. Together, we can turn a moment of caution into a statewide culture of care,” said Toks Omishakin, California Transportation Secretary. “Under the leadership of Gov. Gavin Newsom, the California State Transportation Agency, Office of Traffic Safety, California Highway Patrol and Caltrans are coming together to make roadside stops moments of safety, not tragedy.”
“Whether you’re a stranded driver or a first responder, standing just feet from high‑speed traffic has become increasingly deadly,” said Auto Club Corporate Communications Manager Doug Shupe. “This law equips California drivers with a clear, enforceable rule that can prevent more needless deaths.”
“Everyone traveling on California’s roads and highways deserves to arrive safely at their destination,” added Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy. “The provisions added to the Move Over law will help keep more people safe and continue protecting the highway workers and first responders risking their lives to serve others. When we make conscious decisions to benefit the safety of our fellow travelers and dedicated public servants, it creates a safer, more enjoyable travel experience for all.”
“Too many Californians are losing their lives simply because passing drivers fail to slow down or move over,” noted CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “This expanded law makes clear that every person on the roadside, whether a driver or a passenger, deserves the same margin of safety. Obeying ‘Slow Down, Move Over’ is not just a courtesy; it is a legal responsibility that saves lives.”
“As you head out on your next trip, keep in mind that the driver with a flat tire or other roadside car trouble could very well be you,” OTS Director Stephanie Dougherty said. “Please move over a lane or slow down for highway workers, first responders, tow truck drivers and other stopped vehicles on the side of the road or shoulder. Make safety the destination we all share by looking out for every vehicle and person on the roadside.”
What’s at stake
Daniel Lazaro, a tow truck operator for Preferred Towing, lost his friend at the roadside in October last year. Carlos Trejo, 57, was struck and killed while helping a stranded auto club member on 1-110.
“Carlos was a caring person who would always bring up his family in a joyful and proud way, especially his grandchildren,” said Lazaro. “As he would clock out every day to go home, he would always tell everyone clocking in to be careful and to be safe out there.”
Understand the law
An October 2025 national study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found:
• 36% of drivers captured on roadside video did not slow down or change lanes — violating the law entirely.
• Drivers were least likely to protect tow operators, with only 58% complying near stopped tow trucks.
• Two‑thirds of drivers said they were familiar with “Slow Down, Move Over” laws, yet many could not accurately explain what was required.
• The research also found that while some drivers do change lanes, many fail to reduce speed, leaving dangerously little margin if something goes wrong.
Simple rules that save lives
As of Jan. 1, drivers must take these simple actions when approaching a stopped vehicle:
1. Change lanes away from the stopped vehicle, if safe to do so.
2. If changing lanes is not possible, slow down to a safe, reasonable speed.
The message is clear: See hazards or a stopped vehicle? Slow down. Move over. Save a life.
Douglas County’s first Community Services Director is seeking the District 4 County Commissioner seat presently held by Wes Rice. Rice has said he’s not seeking re-election.
Republican Scott Morgan, who retired as assistant county manager a year ago, was the director of Community Services until January 2023 when he shifted into the position vacated when Jenifer Davidson was named county manager.
“I am running because I care deeply about the future of our Stateline community, our economy and Douglas County as a whole,” Morgan said. “The Tahoe Township commissioner has a proud and long- standing history of experienced, steady leadership that protects our economy, support public safety, protects private property rights, and demands efficient, accountable government.”
Morgan serves as the executive director of a nonprofit organization assisting fractured families and helping children who have suffered abuse and neglect. In addition, he is also the owner of a consulting business specializing in government finance, strategic planning, and leadership.
Morgan’s public service career includes over three decades of leadership with Douglas County, where he was hired in 1994 as Parks & Recreation Director and later led the expanded Community Services Department. His responsibilities spanned parks and recreation, senior services, public transportation, social services, public health, animal services, and emergency response. In July 2023, he postponed retirement to serve as Assistant County Manager, providing stability during a key leadership transition.
He listed the development of the 83,000-square-foot Douglas County Community & Senior Center, completed ahead of schedule and under budget and now regarded as one of the most successful multi-generational facilities on the West Coast among his achievements.
Over his career, Morgan has overseen or facilitated more than $150 million in public infrastructure projects including parks, trails, community centers, floodplain and river access improvements, and public safety facilities. He also founded Douglas County’s first public transportation system and played a key role in securing long-term funding for trails, open space, and river projects.
Morgan, during his tenure with Douglas County, ran the social services division with exceptional efficiency. His leadership reduced long‑term care costs, saving county taxpayers more than $2 million annually, and redirected over $1 million in property tax funds annually from social services to the county’s general fund to support public safety salaries and road maintenance.
Morgan listed several priorities as a county commissioner, including protecting the Lake Tahoe economy, supporting public safety, promoting senior independence and aging in place, protecting floodplains and agricultural lands, supporting responsible tourism, demanding fiscal responsibility and delivering efficient, small, and accountable government
Raised on a family farm in southern Minnesota, Morgan credits his upbringing with instilling a strong work ethic, faith, and commitment to service. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota, learned to fly at age 16, and met his wife, Kristi, while playing football at the University of Minnesota–Crookston. The couple has been married for 41 years and have two sons and four grandchildren.
“I believe Douglas County works best when we focus on what unites us—building strong communities, practicing fiscal discipline, and respect for the people who live and work here,” Morgan said. “I would be honored to continue serving the community as County Commissioner.”
Following weeks of intensified national attention surrounding federal immigration enforcement in Minnesota, Truckee High School students joined the country in the national shutdown on Jan. 30 by participating in a walkout in protest of Operation Metro Surge.
FLASH TO THE PAST: Truckee High School walkout organizer Randy Garcia holds a sign comparing today to Germany in the 1940s. Photos by Lola Barta
The operation was deployed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security with the stated purpose of apprehending undocumented immigrants and deporting them. Instead, the surge has resulted in the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens by federal agents, harassment and detention of U.S. citizens, thousands of arrests, many of whom claim to have been denied due process, and a general terrorizing of the Twin Cities.
As the nation processed these events, fear became even more prominent in the Truckee community. On Jan. 27, Superintendent Kirsten Kramer sent an email to Tahoe Truckee Unified School District families acknowledging potential immigration activity on campuses and how the district would handle it, sparking conversations among Truckee High students about how they could voice their opinions.
Almost immediately following that email, word spread of a national shutdown calling for no work and no school. The “no school” aspect proved difficult for many students, who risked possible truancy. Instead, local students took matters into their own hands.
An Instagram account created under the name @truckee._walkout announced that students who wanted to “stand for justice against ICE practices and defend human rights” should exit class at the beginning of third period for a peaceful walkout. Randy Garcia, a senior committed to Pitzer College, was the driving force behind the account and event planning.
“It felt very empowering to organize the event, especially seeing the outcome,” said Garcia. “I felt the need for us, as youth of Truckee, to come out and make a statement — not only to show our Hispanic community that they are not alone, but also to make it clear that violence should not be tolerated in our country and that everyone deserves basic human rights.”
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SMILE AND WAVE: Sophia Killian, left, walks down the street with a beaming smile after a cop passes by.
CAN YOU HEAR ME? Ethan Linde pokes his head out of a sunroof as he yells down Donner Pass Road, “No ICE, no peace! Get ICE off our streets!”
PURPLE FOR A PURPOSE: Olive Garcia holds a sign criticizing ICE’s arrest process.
Walkouts also took place at North Tahoe School and Alder Creek Middle School, with students protesting outside on campus then returning to class, and reports of up to 50 North Tahoe High School students who left school to go to Kings Beach or Truckee protests, according to TTUSD administration.
Garcia, along with others in the Truckee High student body, made posters prior addressing ICE and the current government.
THE SMALL PRINT: Kyla McCarthy Smith, second from right, holds up a sign during the THS walkout on Jan. 30.
When the clock struck 10:50 a.m. on Friday, Truckee High students got up from their seats and, instead of heading to their next classes, walked toward the exit doors. Together, over 250 students made for the front of La Bamba, the Mexican restaurant across the street, careful to stay off school property, to stand for what they believe in.
Alian Gomez was one of the senior boys leading the charge. When he marched outside the school alongside Garcia and her friends, he says he knew they were making their mark. He shared the driving reason for his decision to skip third period: “I was trying to send a message, and that was that immigrants work very hard daily, and we aren’t criminals. All we seek are better opportunities and a better life for our families.”
The group of students marched and chanted as they made their way down Donner Pass Road toward Safeway. Gomez led the crowd with his crew, blasting music from a speaker and repeating the chant, “No justice, no peace — get ICE off our streets,” with hundreds of students following behind. When they reached Safeway, students surrounded the Gateway intersection with chants and cheers that brought many people to tears.
SOME BEATS: Yandel Luna and Alian Gomez, center left and right, blasted music, using sound and energy to amplify their message.
Community members drove by giving thumbs up and honking repeatedly, others waved flags representing both Mexico and the United States from their car windows, and even younger students from Truckee Elementary passed by smiling.
“The atmosphere was one of the best parts,” Gomez said. “It was very beautiful to see everyone get together and fight for what’s right.”
At the end of the day, Garcia, filled with emotion, shared her hopes moving forward.
“My goal is to fight against current ICE practices, because no human being deserves to die simply for expressing their beliefs or for looking a certain way,” she said. “No one deserves to live day by day in fear that something bad will happen to them or their loved ones. As youth, we must come together and stand up for what is right, even when we have different views, because if we don’t stand up for change, then who will?”
Perfectly positioned at more than 6,200 feet above sea level, Lake Tahoe is an ideal place for Olympians to live, train, and explore.
Here is a list of Olympic athletes who call Lake Tahoe and the surrounding area home, as well places to visit and take in Lake Tahoe’s Olympic legacy. Looking for somewhere to watch the Olympics while you’re in town? Check out Sports Bars here.
Jamie Anderson is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and South Lake Tahoe local. Anderson competed in her third Olympic Games in Beijing, after winning gold in the slopestyle competition in 2014 and 2018. Jamie Anderson may be known for long, cerebral runs, but she has plenty of big air tricks in her bag as well.
Anderson swept the slopestyle and big air events at the 2021 X Games in Aspen and won the slopestyle events at the Mammoth World Cup 2022. Considered a favorite by many, this South Lake Tahoe local is certainly deserving of a few cheers.
Maddison Michelle “Maddie” Bowman is an American freestyle skier who quickly made her mark on the sport with a breakout performance at the Winter X Games in 2012. She captured a silver medal in the superpipe. From there, Bowman established herself as one of the most dominant halfpipe skiers of her era, claiming X Games gold medals in 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and again in 2018.
Her career reached its pinnacle at the 2014 Winter Olympics, where she delivered a standout performance to earn the gold medal in ski halfpipe. Bowman returned to Olympic competition in 2018, finishing 11th against a highly competitive field. Known for her consistency, technical skill, and competitive drive, Bowman remains one of the sport’s most accomplished athletes.
Hannah Teter is an American snowboarder and Olympic champion known for her smooth style and consistency on the halfpipe. She rose to international prominence at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Torino, where she captured the gold medal with a standout performance. Four years later, Teter proved her staying power by returning to the Olympic podium with a silver medal at the 2010 Games in Vancouver.
Beyond the Olympics, Teter built an impressive competitive résumé, including a bronze medal at the 2005 FIS World Championships in Whistler, British Columbia, and six World Cup victories throughout her career. Recognized for both her talent and longevity in the sport, Teter remains one of the most accomplished and respected figures in women’s snowboarding.
David Wise is an American freestyle skier and one of the most decorated athletes in men’s halfpipe history. A two-time Olympic gold medalist, Wise captured back-to-back titles in 2014 and 2018, cementing his reputation as a dominant force on the world stage. His breakthrough moment came at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, where he made history by becoming the first Olympic champion in the debut of the men’s freeski halfpipe event.
Wise’s success extends well beyond the Olympics. He is a five-time X Games gold medalist, earning top honors in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2018, and 2023. Notably, he entered the Sochi Games with strong momentum after securing his third consecutive X Games gold in Aspen earlier that year.
A 2022 Olympian and eight-year member of the U.S. Ski Team, Cashman returns to the Winter Games driven by a desire to continue challenging expectations in alpine skiing. A technically focused racer specializing in Giant Slalom and Super Giant Slalom, she has built her career on determination, consistency, and a belief that elite performance is possible without following a traditional development path.
O’Brien began skiing at Palisades Tahoe through the Mighty Mite program before starting her racing career with Team Palisades Tahoe. She later attended Burke Mountain Academy, where her performance led to selection for the National Training Group and, in 2016, a spot on the U.S. Ski Team.
Since joining the team, O’Brien has built an accomplished career, including winning the NorAm overall title in 2019, earning eight national championship titles, and competing at the 2022 Winter Games. She was also a member of the U.S. Team Event that won gold at the 2023 World Championships. Growing up in a family of ski racers helped shape her lifelong connection to the sport.
With what has to be the coolest last name of any Winter Olympics athlete, Sugar Bowl Ski Team & Academy’s Luke Winters officially punched his ticket to Beijing after securing a career-best 10th place in Slalom racing. In 2019 Luke won his first national championship title at the alpine combined at Sugarloaf, Maine. He followed that performance up with a second national title in slalom at Waterville Valley, New Hampshire.
A member of the United States cross-country team, North Lake Tahoe’s JC Schoonmaker is entering his first-ever Olympics with a full head of steam after securing a pair of top-10 finishes and a national title at Soldier Hallow, Utah.
A California native and Alaska resident, Hannah Halvorsen is headed to her first Winter Games two years after suffering a traumatic brain injury from a crash. Halvorsen is hoping her comeback story ends with a gold medal win. Halvorsen recently posted a career-best seventh place at a World Cup event in Dresden, Germany.
Hailing from Truckee and growing up in a family of skiers, the multi-talented athlete, Maureen Lebel has competed in all ski disciplines and finished third overall at the North American Cup.
Hurt has two World Cup podiums and made her Olympic debut in 2022. She recently spent the offseason training at home in Palisades Tahoe and is coming off a breakthrough season, with a strong focus on mental preparation — an area she describes as non-linear but essential to high-level performance.
Tahoe’s Olympic Legacy
1960 Winter Olympics Games
The Squaw Valley Winter Olympics | Photo: Craighton Miller
The Squaw Valley Winter Olympics in 1960 are remembered by many as the last of the small Olympics. Originally standing a “snowball’s chance”, the Olympic event near Tahoe’s north shore could have arguably never happened if not for a tie-breaking vote by World War II hero, Jo Marillac.
The legacy of the 1960 Olympics continues into the present. When officials were unsure if a skier had missed a gate in the men’s slalom, they asked CBS-TV if they could review a videotape of the race, giving CBS the idea of inventing “instant replay”.
Champions Plaza
Spirit of Competition Sculpture | Photo: Lake Tahoe News
Next time you’re driving through South Lake Tahoe, be sure to visit the Champions Plaza, located on the corner of U.S. 50 and Lakeview Avenue across from Lakeview Commons and take a selfie with the 11-foot bronze sculpture inspired by local Olympic athletes.
Start Your Own Winter Olympics
You might not be good enough to qualify to represent your country during the Olympics, but your family can start their own Olympic Games in South Lake Tahoe each winter. With thousands of acres of skiable terrain at local ski resorts and a massive backcountry with never-ending progression, and even ice skating rinks, you don’t have to look far to find a worthwhile and memorable experience along Lake Tahoe’s south shore.
Whisk your Valentine away somewhere magical! Plan the perfect dinner with our Valentine’s Day Restaurant Guide in Lake Tahoe. The Jewel of the Sierra offers breathtaking views and a refreshing change of pace. With a whole host of activities to suit any couple’s passions – whether you’d like to cruise the lake, carve some powder, or refresh at a resort – South Shore Lake Tahoe has it all. Below, we’ve included a list of the most romantic restaurants, so you can pair your daytime adventures with a dinner to remember. While reservations aren’t always necessary here, for Valentine’s Day in Lake Tahoe, we strongly recommend reserving your table in advance.
Romantic Restaurants on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe
Friday Station Lakeview restaurant inside Harrah’s Lake Tahoe
For couples who want to get fancy, may we suggest:
The Chart House | Perched atop a hill near Kingsbury Grade, overlooking exquisite Lake Tahoe, Chart House is a legendary seafood restaurant known for its excellent cuisine. Make your reservation now: (775) 588-6276
Evans American Gourmet Cafe | Their menu features a blend of cuisine styles from around the world. Make your reservation now: (530) 542-1990
Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen| Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe | You can count on any Gordon Ramsay restaurant to deliver! From the lobster risotto to Gordon’s famous Beef Wellington to his favorite dessert (Sticky Toffee Pudding), savor the flavors of this world-famous chef’s menu. Make your reservation now: (775) 588-2411
For couples seeking elevated cuisine in a casual atmosphere, we recommend:
Kalani’s | Kalani’s restaurant, first opened in 2004 and featured in Bon Appetit, creates unique dishes by blending the fresh ingredients of Hawaiian regional cooking with Asian and European techniques and influences. Make your reservation now: (530) 544-6100.
The Loft at the Heavenly Village | Taste At The Loft wants to make your Valentine’s Day date feel special. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with an intimate, upscale dinner at Taste at The Loft. Enjoy artfully prepared cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. Perfect for couples looking for a refined and romantic experience in the heart of Heavenly Village. Make your reservation now: (530) 523-8024.
Riva Grill | Riva Grill features beautiful, wooden boat-inspired decor, lake views and an amazing cocktail selection. Give your date what they really want this year, a Wet Woody® on the water + dinner you can’t say no to. That’s unforgettable. Celebrate love with our dinner specials, cozy lakefront views, and the perfect setting for a romantic evening. Make your reservation now: (530) 542-2600.
For couples who are seeking something only to be found in Tahoe…
Gastromaniac – Homemade Pasta & Pizza | At Gastromaniac, you can get a classic pie to go, or you can also pick up some handmade pasta to cook back at your rental cabin or suite. Make your reservation now: (530) 600-2110.
The Grove on the Lake at Camp Richardson Resort | Celebrate love lakeside with a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner at The Grove. Enjoy a cozy alpine atmosphere and stunning lakeviews. Perfect for couples looking to toast the night with great food, wine, and mountain charm. Make your reservation now: (530) 314-4650.
MacDuff’s Pub | A local’s favorite, MacDuff’s Pub is a great choice if you’re seeking a casual, cozy, and unique atmosphere and a menu with no bad choices. Be forewarned; the truffle mac’n’cheese is habit-forming! Make your reservation now: (530) 542-8777.
Naked Fish Sushi | If sushi is your go-to for dates, check out Naked Fish. Featuring specialty rolls like the Tahoe Crunch and Surf’n’Turf, and a chef’s sashimi plate that is hard to beat, Naked Fish stands out. They pick up their fish from 200 miles away to ensure that it is of the highest quality. Make a reservation now: (530) 541-3474.
For couples who love a good steak, check out:
Ciera Steak + Chophouse| Bally’s Lake Tahoe. Stateline’s only AAA Four-Diamond restaurant serves perfectly prepared cuts of meat, including pistachio-encrusted rack of lamb and the incredible 30-ounce Wagyu “Tomahawk” rib steak, complemented by a selection of 300 premium wines and champagnes. Enjoy delicious food and impeccable service. Make your reservation now: (775) 588-3515.
Friday’s Station Steak & Seafood Grill | Harrah’s Lake Tahoe. Lake views at every table, and a 1,000-bottle display wine cellar make this restaurant special. Make your reservation now: (775) 588-6611.
SaltgrassSteakhouse | Golden Nugget Hotel Casino. Discover the superior flavors of Saltgrass while enjoying menu favorites like our massive Silver Star Porterhouse, our homestyle Country Fried Steak, and our slow-braised BBQ Pork Ribs. Make your reservation now: (775) 588-1010.
Sage Room & Steak House | Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe. An elegant steak house, The Sage Room is popular with locals and guests alike. Make your reservation now: (775) 588-2411.
JWB Prime Steak and Seafood | Margaritaville Lake Tahoe Resort. JWB Prime Steak and Seafood delights both resort guests and locals with a laid-back luxe dining experience. Offering a contemporary menu of prime steaks, fresh seafood, and a raw bar, all paired with world-class wines and hand-crafted cocktails. Make your reservation now: (530) 544-5400.
Many hotels are offering Valentine’s Day deals as well. Whatever your plans are for Valentine’s Day in Lake Tahoe, we hope you and your sweetheart make some fond memories to last a lifetime!
Special Events
This Valentine’s Day, fall in love with wine all over again. Love at the Lakefeatures more than 20 premium wineries, curated bites from our award-winning restaurants, and live music – creating an unforgettable Valentine’s celebration at the Golden Nugget Lake Tahoe.
Saturday, February 14, 2026, 5:00 – 8:00 pm, Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise aboard the M.S. Dixie II Paddle wheeler. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a special, romantic dinner with Lake Tahoe Cruises aboard the MS Dixie II. A unique and special way to celebrate. Live music, dinner, and a night you won’t forget.
Valentine’s Day Dinner at the Idle Hour. Saturday, February 14, 2026, 6:30 pm. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a curated food and wine pairing dinner, thoughtfully crafted to complement each course and elevate every moment. Set against the glow of candlelight and lakefront ambiance, this is a night meant to be savored—one course, one sip, one memory at a time.
Check out Valentine’s Day at Lake Tahoe on Instagram
Lake Tahoe is an outdoor lover’s playground year-round, but there’s something especially magical about winter, when the landscape is blanketed in snow and perfect for getting outside together. You don’t have to be a skier to enjoy it, either. Sledding and snow tubing are some of the easiest (and most fun) ways for families and groups to embrace the season. Throughout the Tahoe area, you’ll find plenty of free sledding and tubing hills that are great for casual snow days, last-minute adventures, and travelers hoping to keep things budget-friendly. These spots tend to appeal to families with older kids, laid-back explorers, and anyone who doesn’t mind putting in a little extra effort for that classic, DIY winter experience. Prefer something a bit more polished? Tahoe’s paid tubing parks feature groomed runs, tow lifts, and on-site amenities that make the day smoother and less physically demanding. An ideal option for families with younger children, first-timers, or visitors who simply want to show up and slide. No matter your style, sledding and tubing offer a welcoming, laughter-filled way to experience Tahoe in winter.
Winter Fun For Everyone
Sledding and snow tubing are the kind of winter traditions that make everyone smile, whether you’re traveling with little ones, big kids, or a mix of both. As you pick your hill, think about comfort levels—gentle slopes are perfect for toddlers and first-timers, while older kids will love spots with a little more speed; groups with varying ages often appreciate tubing parks that offer options for everyone. Need rentals or an easy, ready-to-go experience? Head to a managed location. Hoping for a quieter outing? Smaller public hills and off-peak times can make all the difference.
Tubing and Sledding Locations
Tahoe’s snow tubing parks are ready to roll for the season, offering fun for all ages and skill levels. From groomed lanes to laughter-filled runs, tubing is one of the easiest ways to dive into winter play.
Situated on top of Echo Summit on forty acres, Adventure Mountain is perfect for all sorts of snow play, including snow tubing. With up to fifteen machine-groomed sledding runs and a base elevation of 7,350 feet above sea level, this family-owned & operated resort guarantees affordable fun for the entire family. Learn more.
Blizzard Mountain at Sierra at Tahoe Resort:
Blizzard Mountain at Sierra at Tahoe Resort
Sierra-at-Tahoe has always been a fun, family resort, and it comes as no surprise that they have an entire dedicated area called Blizzard Mountain. They have two rope-tow tubing lanes, so you can get even more runs in. Whether the kids are into snow tubing in Lake Tahoe or just some simple winter fun, Blizzard Mountain has it all. Snowball kits, outdoor fire pits, and picnic tables are provided. Blizzard Mountain will be Open (weather permitting) Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays + Sundays.Learn more.
Hansen’s Tubing Hill:
Hansen’s Tubing Hill
For those looking for a bit of seclusion but not too far from the hustle & bustle of Stateline, Hansen’s Resort & Tubing Hill is right up your alley. After dropping off the skiers/snowboarders at Heavenly, take the little ones to Hansen’s for their own fun & excitement. There’s even an easy to view area where parents can watch their kids sliding down. The tubing runs are groomed daily, with high “walls” and a well-planned small hill below to stop you. Learn more.
Tubing at Heavenly Mountain Resort:
Tubing at Heavenly Mountain Resort
Combine the fun of a gondola ride with a bit of tubing at the top of the world. Heavenly Mountain Resort’s tubing hill is located at the top of a scenic ride from the center of Heavenly Village. Their park has four lanes that are 500 feet long and have a 65-foot vertical drop. In addition, their tubing hill has a magic carpet that’ll help whisk you up to the top for another run. Please visit www.skiheavenly.com/explore-the-resort/activities/winter-activities.aspx for updated operational information. Learn more.
Tahoe Snowmobile Track & Tubing Hill:
Tahoe Snowmobile Tubing Hill
Looking to create the ultimate winter-time experience for the entire family? Well, for those that want to try their hand at snowmobiling along with hillside tubing, Tahoe Snowmobile is perfect for you. Located next to the Tahoe Blue Event Center, you can experience it all without having to drive anywhere. Learn more.
Tube Tahoe:
Tube Tahoe
The newest edition to the list of amazing snow tubing locations is Tube Tahoe in Meyers. Located at the Tahoe Paradise Golf Course off US Highway 50, it’s focused on providing a safe, family-friendly environment. Their goal is to become “Tahoe’s Family Tube Hill”… in other words, everyone returns home with positive memorable experiences. Tube Tahoe is aiming to have the longest “resort-quality,” machine-groomed tubing lane in the area. Learn more.
Safety, Etiquette, and Leave-No-Trace
A few simple habits can make your sledding day safer and more enjoyable for everyone. Stick to the far edge when hiking back up, move out of the run out zone as soon as you finish a ride, and keep a close eye on little ones, or better yet, have an adult stationed at the bottom to guide them; most importantly, never sled toward roads or parking lots. Before you head out, do a quick sweep for trash and pack out everything you brought so these hills stay beautiful, following Leave No Trace and doing your part to Keep Tahoe Blue helps ensure the next family gets the same postcard-worthy experience.
Free Sledding Spots
Want a classic Tahoe snow day without the added cost? South Lake Tahoe is home to several dependable sledding spots where there are no lift tickets or tubing fees, just bring a sled (or rent one in town) and enjoy the sweeping mountain views. These laid-back hills are ideal for travelers who prefer a simple, go-at-your-own-pace kind of adventure. If choosing to visit unofficial areas, be sure to park only in safe, legal parking spots with all four tires on the inside of the white fog line, pay attention to and heed “No Parking” signs and avoid blocking gates.
We also recommend purchasing a sturdy, reusable sled instead of plastic which can easily break apart in cold temperatures. Please be sure to pack out all trash and everything brought in and used including broken sleds and plastic pieces.
Taylor Creek Sno-Park: With its beautiful alpine scenery and wide-open play areas, Taylor Creek makes it easy to turn sledding into a full winter outing. A Sno-Park permit is required for parking, but the payoff is good access and plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the snow. It’s a solid pick for mixed-age groups that want space to roam.
Echo Lakes Sno-Park: If you have a Sno-Park Pass, you can utilize this plowed parking lot to access hills by Echo Summit to sled at.
As you can tell, there are a whole plethora of places to try your hand at sledding and snow tubing while in South Lake Tahoe. From magic carpets whisking you to the top of quaint slopes for your little ones to play on, to open hills surrounded by snow-covered pine trees. You’ll find it here in Lake Tahoe.
