SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – This month, 120 eighth graders from Lake Tahoe Unified School District (LTUSD) left their desks for the twelfth annual Heavenly Mountain Resort Snowshoe Field Trip, hosted by the South Tahoe Environmental Education Coalition (STEEC).
Over the course of two days, 8th grade students rode the Heavenly tram to participate in interactive environmental education and explore the exciting careers of mountain operations, mechanics, and safety, in addition to meeting avalanche rescue dogs.
“The annual field trip provides an invaluable opportunity for students to step out of the classroom and engage in hands-on learning,” LTUSD eighth-grade science teacher Sabrina Zalles said. “This experiential approach not only reinforces our science curriculum but also fosters a sense of stewardship for Lake Tahoe.”
The curriculum included four lessons from STEEC partners, including Keep Tahoe Blue, Sugar Pine Foundation, Sierra Avalanche Center, and Heavenly Ski Patrol.
Students explored how the Lake Tahoe Basin watershed is interconnected while overlooking the lake, then reinforced those lessons through a snowshoe relay that demonstrated the erosion cycle and the link between human impacts and water quality. In the forest, they identified tree species and measured tree height and width like forestry technicians. Snow science and safety were also a focus as they examined layers of the snowpack from a hand-dug pit and learned the basics of avalanche safety and rescue.
One eighth-grade student remarked, “I have never seen Lake Tahoe from a mountain top.”
This field trip is made possible by a grant from Vail Report’s EpicPromise program. For more information or to support STEEC programs, visit www.steec.us.
Arty the Party at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe – 9 p.m.-12 a.m., Harrah’s Center Stage, 15 Hwy 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/2026-05-22/.
Carson Hodges Band – 5-9 p.m., AleWorx at the Y, 2050 Lake Tahoe Blvd. Rock/Blues/Funk/Pop/Alternative For more information, visit https://laketahoealeworx.com/event/carson-hodges-band-5/.
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/2026-05-22/.
Dueling Pianos at Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe – 8:30-10:30 p.m., Harveys Casino Resort, 18 Hwy 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/2026-05-22/.
Heavenly Village Summer Concert Series – 5:45-9:15 p.m., Heavenly Village, 1001 Heavenly Village Way. The Shops at Heavenly Village will host free outdoor concerts every Friday and Saturday evening Memorial Day Weekend through September 16, 2026, from 5:45 p.m. to 9:15 p.m.
Heavenly Village starts its Summer Concert Series on Memorial Day Weekend and runs through September 16, the Mexican Independence Day Celebration. All genres of music will be featured, with most shows on Fridays and Saturdays, holiday Sundays and the week of the 4th of July, and American Century Championship Golf. The free shows in this series are held on the stage between the Fire and Ice and Gunbarrel Tavern restaurants from 5:45 p.m to 9:15 p.m. For more information, visit https://visitlaketahoe.com/event/heavenly-village-summer-concert-series/2026-05-22/.
The Heavy Heavy w/ Skyway Man – 8 p.m., 14 NV-28. The Heavy Heavy w/ Skyway Man will make their Crown Room debut on Fri. May 22nd! $25 ADV / $30 DOS I Tickets: https://tixr.com/e/178035 Immediately filling a longtime void in the musical landscape, The Heavy Heavy delivers a soulful breed of rock & roll untouched by modern artifice. As audiences across the globe grew enchanted with their era-bending sound, the UK-based band began selling out headline shows in major cities like New York and Chicago, opening for the likes of Black Pumas and Band of Horses, and earning critical comparisons to Jefferson Airplane, The Band, The Mamas & The Papas, and more For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1454832039614174/.
IVCBA 3rd Annual Restaurant Week – Description Incline Village Crystal Bay Restaurant Week | May 16-25, 2026 IVCBA presents the 3rd Annual Incline Village Crystal Bay Restaurant Week, celebrating the restaurants, bars, and culinary talent that make our community special. From May 16-25, 2026, this 10-day event brings together local businesses, residents, and visitors for a community-wide celebration of food, flavor, and the vibrant spirit of Incline Village and Crystal Bay. IVCB Restaurant Week is an opportunity to elevate our community, support local businesses, and create lasting memories as local restaurants, cafes, bars, and food vendors will feature special menus highlighting signature dishes, beverages, and innovative creations. Additional dates: 5/22, 5/23, 5/24, 5/25, 5/26. For more information, visit https://business.ivcba.org/event-calendar/Details/ivcba-3rd-annual-restaurant-week-1728323?sourceTypeId=Hub.
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=3.
Lake Tahoe Summer Kick Off Classic Car Show at the Heavenly Village – Heavenly Village, 1001 Heavenly Village Way. Memorial Day Weekend, Friday, May 23 – Monday, May 26, 2025, Lake Tahoe Summer Kick Off Classic Car Show at the Heavenly Village. For more information, visit https://visitlaketahoe.com/event/lake-tahoe-summer-kick-off-car-bike-show-at-the-heavenly-village/2026-05-22/.
Memorial Day Weekend Summer Kickoff at Caesars Republic & Harrah’s Lake Tahoe – 6-11 p.m., Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, 15 Highway 50. Friday, May 22 – Sunday, May 24, 2026. Kick off summer this Memorial Day Weekend in beautiful Lake Tahoe with a multi-day celebration across Caesars Republic and Harrah’s. Enjoy live music, energetic nightlife, and non‑stop excitement as Tahoe comes alive for the ultimate Memorial Day Summer Kick Off Party. From drink specials at vibrant casino floor bars to BBQ in the Garden, it’s the perfect way to start the summer. For more information, visit https://visitlaketahoe.com/event/memorial-day-weekend-summer-kickoff-at-caesars-republic-harrahs-lake-tahoe/2026-05-22/ or call (800) 427-7247.
Tahoe Tommy – 5-7 p.m., The Grove, 1900 Jameson Beach Rd. Join us just outside the Grove Restaurant for a performance by Tahoe Tommy. For more information, visit https://camprichardsonresort.com/event/tahoe-tommy-19/.
Unknown Mortal Orchestra – 7 p.m., The Hangar- Lake Tahoe, 2401 Lake Tahoe Blvd suite b.
Saturday, May 23
9th Anniversary Celebration – 1-9 p.m., South Lake Brewing Company, 1920 Lake Tahoe Blvd. Memorial Day weekend marks our 9th anniversary, and we’re celebrating all day on Saturday, May 23rd! The party will start at 12 PM at the Brewery with: Live Music by Sierra Gypsies 5-8 PM & Kyle Kirchubel 12-3 PM Bounce House & Slide (including adult-only hours) Aerial performances by Cirque Du South Lake New Anniversary Beers & Slushies on tap South Lake Brewing Co. Food Truck Beer Games Specialty Anniversary Merchandise Free Bike Valet Free Entry Plan to kick off Memorial Day weekend with live music, tasty beers, games, and good times! For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1504724037830396/.
AL TAHOE FIREWISE Community BBQ – 11 a.m.-2 p.m., SLTFR Fire Station #2 (Al Tahoe), 2951 Lake Tahoe Blvd. On May 23, 2026, from 11am to 2pm, Al Tahoe Firewise® will host a Community BBQ event at Fire Station #2 (2951 Lake Tahoe Blvd and Star Lake) for all residents and owners within the Al Tahoe Firewise District boundaries. (Lake Tahoe to the North, Hwy 50 West, Truckee Meadow, South/East) Guest speakers (@ 12:30pm) will feature Calif. Fair Plan representative, Phillip Irwin, and Fire Chief, Jim Drennan. A $10 donation for delicious food is suggestion and appreciated. The event will highlight insurance and legislative updates and defensible space community projects featuring “Ladder Fuel” removal. “Firewise®” event participation and support helps mitigate fire risk and helps fund defensible space assistance for disadvantaged residents. Learn about Firewise USA®, meet our fire fighters and volunteers, and bid on or buy many unique fundraising items. We invite members of the community to visit our website or to contact us @ www.altahoefirewise.com for more information. or call 530-318-3852.
Bread and Butter Trio – 5-9 p.m., AleWorx at the Y, 2050 Lake Tahoe Blvd. Kick off summer in Tahoe w/ this talented band playing blues, Fleetwood Mac, pop etc For more information, visit https://laketahoealeworx.com/event/bread-and-butter-trio/.
Edible Wild Mushroom Foray – 12-2 p.m., Join us for a outdoor adventure into the fascinating world of fungi! Together, we’ll discover how mushrooms connect with trees, plants, and wildlife, and why they play such an important role in keeping ecosystems healthy. Through guided exploration and hands-on learning, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the intricate web of life beneath our feet. Perfect for kids and adults alike, this experience is a chance to slow down, get curious, and see nature from a whole new perspective. Sierra Nevada Alliance & Amongst the Trees invite you to connect with nature and community through adventure, shared experiences, and playful exploration! Led by local naturalist & guide – Luis “Luigi” Rubio. Sign up today for this fun and informative class to learn all about the edible uses of our native fungi! For more information, visit https://sierranevadaalliance.org/events.
Five for Fighting – 6 p.m.-12 a.m., Bowl Incline, 920 Southwood Blvd. Five for Fighting is the stage name of U.S. singer-songwriter John Ondrasik. His 2000 album America Town went platinum in the U.S. due to the success of the song “Superman (It’s Not Easy)” in late 2001. The 2004 album The Battle For Everything has also enjoyed chart success in the United States. John has also released a DualDisc of his 2004 album which has one side containing The Battle for Everything in its entirety and the other side being a DVD containing bonus footage and the “100 Years” music video. For more information, visit https://www.bandsintown.com/e/108035641?app_id=pkvts0on0m&came_from=287&utm_medium=api&utm_source=partner_api&utm_campaign=event.
Los Kingdom feat. Arielle Verinis and Dave Green – 3 p.m., 14 NV-28. Los Kingdom feat. Arielle Verinis and Dave Green + Special Guest Andrew Jed Sat. May 23rd 2026 I Doors: 7pm Show: 8pm I FREE RED ROOM “Local Series” SHOW! For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1438898877979469/.
Memorial Day Weekend Summer Kickoff Party – 2-10 p.m., Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe, 4130 Lake Tahoe Blvd,. Saturday & Sunday, May 23 & 24, 2026, 2:00 – 10:00 pm, Long days, mountain sunshine, lakeside adventures, ice-cold margaritas, and live music under the open sky—summer is calling, and Lake Tahoe is the place to celebrate the start of the season. For more information, visit https://visitlaketahoe.com/event/memorial-day-weekend-summer-kickoff-party-at-margaritaville-lake-tahoe/2026-05-23/.
Trey Stone Band – 1-5 p.m., The Grove, 1900 Jameson Beach Rd. Join us just outside the Grove Restaurant for a performance by Trey Stone Band. For more information, visit https://camprichardsonresort.com/event/trey-stone-band-6/.
Words to Water – Where Music Moves Hearts and water changes lives – Bowl Incline Sponsorship Opportunities About the event Words to Water is a powerful evening where music meets mission – a benefit concert dedicated to raising awareness and support for WaterHope’s life-changing work to provide clean, accessible water to communities worldwide. WaterHope is a nonprofit committed to ending the global water crisis by partnering with local leaders and communities to deliver sustainable water solutions that transform lives. TICKETS AVAILABLE For more information, visit https://business.ivcba.org/event-calendar/Details/words-to-water-1626396?sourceTypeId=Hub or call (775) 831-1900.
Sunday, May 24
Higher Elevation Music Orchestra Concert – 3-5 p.m., St. Theresa Catholic Church, 1041 Lyons Avenue. Higher Elevation Music Orchestra presents Chopin – Piano Concerto #2 featuring Natasa Veljkovic from Vienna, Austria. Also on the prgram Vaughan Williams – 5 Mystical Songs sung by Stuart Duke, bass, and Sousa – the Washington Post March. For more information, visit http://higherelevationmusic.org or call 628-236-7474.
Pray For Sun Party (Free Community Event) – 12-4 p.m., Description We’re calling in blue skies and good vibes this Memorial Day Weekend with a sun dance led by DJ Hardy, special bites made just for us by Crosby’s, and a popup from artist Beck Baumann. Beck creates joyful, whimsical mixed-media artworks built from handcrafted sequins, recycled materials, and playful bursts of color that feel like nostalgia turned shiny and new. Come move, mingle, shop her sparkling pieces, and manifest warmer days with us. For more information, visit https://business.ivcba.org/event-calendar/Details/pray-for-sun-party-free-community-event-1670304?sourceTypeId=Hub.
Tahoe Tommy Band – 1-5 p.m., The Grove, 1900 Jameson Beach Rd. Join us just outside the Grove Restaurant for a performance by Tahoe Tommy Band. For more information, visit https://camprichardsonresort.com/event/tahoe-tommy-band/.
Monday, May 25
Whiskey & Wolves – 1-5 p.m., The Grove, 1900 Jameson Beach Rd. Join us just outside the Grove Restaurant for a performance by Whiskey & Wolves. For more information, visit https://camprichardsonresort.com/event/whiskey-wolves/.
Thursday, May 28
Chart House – Duckhorn Wine Dinner – 7-10 p.m., Chart House, 392 Kingsbury Grade. Experience a chef-crafted five-course menu, perfectly complemented by five exquisite Duckhorn selections. For more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/chart-house-duckhorn-wine-dinner-stateline-tickets-1981373422243.
Yellowcard: The Up Up Down Down Tour – 7 p.m., Tahoe Blue Event Center, 75 U.S. 50. All Ages Welcome!
To try and decide each week where and what to eat 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.
While the name of this week’s feature might have you thinking it originated in the Netherlands, it actually is an Americanized version of a German pancake. According to the interwebs, the dish got its name in the early 20th century from a café in Seattle where the owner’s daughter mispronounced the word Deutsch (meaning German). Mispronunciation or not, this dish is delicious.
Social House’s Dutch BabyRob Galloway / Tahoe Daily Tribune
Instead of being flipped on a stovetop like a traditional pancake, this version relies on a hot oven and a cast iron pan to create steam, leaving you with a puffy goodness that’s topped with granny smith apples that have been stewed in white wine along with a house made blueberry compote and finished off with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
First off, this dish is about as light and airy as a pair of new Jordans. I was halfway tempted to just pick this whole thing up and fold it up like a taco and go to town, but the people around me might not have been as excited as me to do that. Instead, I simply pulled apart the pancake and made my own delicious bites grabbing combos of the fruit.
The apple’s tartness is mellowed a bit by the stewing, but it really balances out the sweetness from the compote perfectly. The actual pancake brings in some textures with a slight crispiness counterbalanced by a nice chewiness. There’s also an umbrella of freshness that flows over the entire dish making it a fantastic way to start out your day.
The Social House is located at 1001 Heavenly Village Way #3 in South Lake Tahoe. For more information and menu items visit them online at socialhousetahoe.com or reach them by phone at 530-539-4746.
TRUCKEE/TAHOE, calif. / Nev. – Voters across the Tahoe-Truckee region will head to the polls in the coming weeks for the 2026 primary elections, with California’s primary election scheduled for Tuesday, June 2, and Nevada’s primary election set for Tuesday, June 9. With voters spread across multiple counties and two states, keeping track of election information can get confusing. Here’s a county-by-county guide to early voting locations, vote centers and ballot drop boxes in the Truckee-Tahoe region.
California Primary Election – June 2, 2026.
Nevada County
If you’re mailing in your ballot, county officials say only ballots postmarked by June 2 will be counted. To ensure a timely postmark, voters should mail ballots no later than May 29, the Friday before Election Day. If mailing later, officials recommend bringing the ballot inside a post office and asking a clerk for a free hand-cancelled postmark, or instead using an official ballot drop box or vote center.
Beginning May 23, 11-day vote centers will open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., including weekends. On Election Day, vote centers will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Placer County ballot drop boxes opened May 5 and will remain available through Election Day on June 2. Some drop boxes are located inside buildings or gated areas and may only be accessible during normal business hours. Officials say ballots returned by mail must be postmarked by Election Day and received by the Elections Office no later than seven days after Election Day to be counted, they encourage voters to mail their ballot early, so it does not arrive too late.
County officials also remind voters not to place ballots in library book returns or unofficial drop boxes.
Vote Center
Fairway Community Center — 330 Fairway Dr., Tahoe City.
Will open 10 days before Election Day and operate from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. leading up to the election. On Election Day, hours will extend from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Ballot Drop Boxes, open 24/7 and close on Election Day at 8 p.m.
Tahoe City Old Fire House — 300 N. Lake Blvd., Tahoe City
Olympic Valley Public Service District Office — 305 Olympic Valley Rd., Olympic Valley
El Dorado County
El Dorado County voters will have access to several South Lake Tahoe ballot drop box locations ahead of the June 2 election.
Vote Center
An 11-day vote center at Lake Tahoe Community College will operate from May 23 through June 1 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. On Election Day, June 2, hours will extend from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Lake Tahoe Community College, University Room — 1 College Drive, South Lake Tahoe
Ballot Drop Boxes
South Lake Tahoe Library — 1000 Rufus Allen Blvd., South Lake Tahoe
24-hour drive-up drop box
Grocery Outlet — 2358 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe
Open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Holiday Market South Lake Tahoe — 2977 U.S. Hwy 50, South Lake Tahoe
Open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Nevada Primary Election — June 9, 2026
Washoe County
County official say If you received a mail ballot and choose to vote in person instead, you can surrender it at a voting center; if you don’t have it, you’ll sign an affirmation that you are not voting twice in the same election.
Early Voting and Ballot Drop Off
Incline Village Library — 845 Alder Ave., Incline Village
Washoe County early voting centers will operate May 23 through June 5 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Election Day Vote Centers
Open June 9 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Incline Middle School — 931 Southwood Blvd., Incline Village
Incline Village Library — 845 Alder Ave., Incline Village
Douglas County
Douglas County voters may cast ballots in person on Election Day, Tuesday, June 9, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Election Day Voting and Mail Ballot Drop Box
Kahle Community Center — 236 Kingsbury Grade Rd., Stateline, NV 89449
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – After 14 years of work, the Tahoe Basin Public Safety Complex finally broke ground on Wednesday, May 20. The complex will support the training of both students and professionals throughout the Tahoe Basin and is set to complete construction in fall of 2027.
The groundbreaking ceremony at the Tahoe Basin Public Safety Training Complex took place on May 20.Eli Ramos / Tahoe Daily Tribune
The complex is housed at the Lake Tahoe Community College (LTCC), and President Jeff DeFranco spoke on the efforts that it took to bring the complex to reality. After a land acknowledgement to the Washoe Tribe, he spoke on the partnership the college has had with the tribe, especially in their land and forestry focused programs.
“The students and professionals who will be trained here will help to protect this great part of the west,” said DeFranco. The complex will be the first comprehensive training site for emergency services, including the north shore, and will train forestry, EMT and fire academy students.
Measure F funds, voted on by the city of South Lake Tahoe, contributed $6.25 million to the project. Board president Tony Sears noted that they were able to leverage much of those funds to help bring the project to life. “This project represents why community colleges exist—to serve their community,” said Sears.
While Chancellor Sonya Christian of the California Community Colleges could not be present, Pamela Haynes spoke on her behalf and said, “Investments like this are critical. LTCC was selected to receive funding for this transformational facility and to be a leader for community colleges.”
Haynes also supported the growth of the workforce through the program, saying, “All roads lead to workforce.”
South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue Chief Jim Drennan, a longtime supporter of the plan for a complex, recalled the success of the first fire academy class. He said that it showed the demand for such training and the need to expand the program. “Having locally trained firefighters would allow us to take a really good look at the applicants,” said Drennan. “Back in 2006, I thought this would be a dream. But now, it’s a reality.”
Chief Jim Drennan and President Jeff DeFranco pose with a thank you plaque for the groundbreaking ceremony.Eli Ramos / Tahoe Daily Tribune
DeFranco took a moment of silence to recognize Neil Schnaible, who died in the line of duty on May 4 after suffering a heart attack and subsequent brain bleed. He was a graduate of the fire academy program and had recently been promoted to engineer.
DeFranco also thanked the many partners that helped make the complex possible, including Senators Alex Padilla and Dianne Feinstein, Representative Kevin Kiley, State Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil and Assemblymember Heather Hadwick. He also thanked the Division of State Architects, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, JKAE and the Cumming Group.
As part of the ceremony, Dr. Scott Valentine cut the first tree on the site, slicing off a small portion of the trunk and offering it as a coaster to DeFranco.
Dr. Scott Valentine fells the first tree at the Public Safety Training Complex.Eli Ramos / Tahoe Daily Tribune
During the groundbreaking ceremony, DeFranco showed off the shovel to the crowd and “mother of LTCC” Roberta Mason. The shovel, which has been used in many previous groundbreaking facilities for the college, has now broken ground for its ninth large facility.
The construction for the complex will take place in 2026-2027, and is projected to open in fall of 2027.
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – For the first time in many years, the girls track team at South Tahoe High School (STHS) took first place and the state title at the NIAA State Championships. The victory comes hot on the heels of the boys and girls teams both succeeding at regional championships. “It’s been a whirlwind couple of weekends of cool things these kids did,” said Coach Rob Canny III.
The girls track and field team poses at the state championships.Provided / Rob Canny III
On the May 15-16 NIAA State Championships, the girls team scored a total of 121 points according to Mentzer Timing, coming in first and netting them the title.
Canny shouted out several members of the team and their scores at the championships. Arya Saini scored a long jump of 18′ 7″. Jamie Lowe ran a 45.86 for the 300m hurdles. Peyton Conley got a 17′ 10.5″ on the long jump and a 37′ 7.5″ on the triple jump, and is on her second state championship in a row. Lyla Landy ran a 5:20:27 at the 1600m, leading the 4 x 800m relay with Madelyn Landy, Eva and Avery Griscom, medaling in all but one event.
“In my years of coaching, this is definitely one of my favorites overall,” said Canny. “These kids are amazing human beings, and to see their camaraderie and the support throughout the team is just amazing.”
Canny also praised the academic achievements of the team, with a special shoutout to Saini, Lyla Landy and Eva Griscom, longtime teammates who will be graduating.
The 4×100 team poses with their baton.Provided / Rob Canny
On the boys track team, Jackson Letton led the team where they won regionals with the 110m hurdles (with a time of 14.99) and 3rd place in the 300m hurdles with a 40.04 time. Canny said he looked forward to next year’s improvement on their team.
“It was a tough road in some ways, but this time, the girls team was just more dominant than the guys,” laughed Canny. “We’re looking forward to what we’re able to accomplish next season.”
ZEPHYR COVE, Nev. – Logan Robertson is a polite young man, soft-spoken and laden with titles: student body president, president of the National Honors Society chapter, member of Key Club and captain of cross-country, ski and track teams. He recently received his twelfth state title in track and field—making him the student with the most state titles for any division in track and field in Nevada. Through it all, he is profoundly humble and grateful for the opportunities his high school experience gave him.
“A lot of people talk negatively about Whittell… I don’t think it’s deserving of that,” said Robertson. “It offers everything a larger school does and more. We’re like a family.”
Originally, Robertson wasn’t so keen on it—like many students who attend Whittell, he saw his class and friend groups fracture when others began attending South Tahoe High School. “I lost a significant portion of my class and that made it a little difficult,” he said. “But I still found friends. At Whittell, more than other schools, you have to branch out to other grades.”
The small class sizes, as well as the passion of teachers who can work more closely with students, is something Robertson attributes some of his academic success to. “We know our teachers better and I feel like they care more because they know us on a personal level,” said Robertson.” He currently has a 5.0 GPA.
He added, “With our AP classes, we have a significant amount of AP courses offered compared to other schools. And we have a 90-100% pass rate in classes that average 50-60% nationwide. I think that is almost entirely driven by the ratio of students to teachers.”
And while his social life was something he worried about, Robertson feels grateful that his smaller class sizes have possibly contributed to a more positive environment. “It kind of forces people to be nicer because if someone is rude or mean to someone, they have to live with the consequences of their actions 24/7, because you’re around them all the time.”
As an advocate for the four-day week, Robertson also says it contributed to his success academically and helped him to find time for the many activities he involves himself in, especially sports.
Given his participation in sports, it’s no surprise that it has been a major part of his life. Robertson started as the only member of the cross-country team, which he has helped expand. He has also loved his time on the ski team, which competes at the 5A level—the highest division in Nevada.
Robertson says the culture of Whittell, where people are encouraged to perform to the best of their abilities, has been a major part of the teams’ stellar performances compared to schools of similar or larger size. “I don’t think me accruing all these state titles would have been possible at any other school.”
“I’ve found a ton of joy in these sport teams. Sports allows you to build a new friend group. You can reach out to people in a higher grade than you, it’s allowed me to have a tight-knit friend group,” said Robertson. To this day, he remains friends with teammates from other years, especially from the track team.
Logan Robertson stands at the winning spot on the podium.Provided / Logan Robertson
Robertson has also spent plenty of time in the community. While he organizes school dances and trash cleanups for the school as a student body president, he also interns with the Tahoe Douglas Rotary Club—which has given him the chance to learn about local causes and organizations like Vista Rise Collective and the Tahoe Coalition for the Homeless.
He’s also spent time at Barton. Both his parents are in the medical field, but his academic prestige allowed him to join the Barton Healthcare Career Observership, which allowed him to watch surgeries and observe medical practitioners at work.
As he looks towards college, Robertson said he was interested in going into the medical field. He recalled a car crash he witnessed a few years ago, where his parents jumped into action to perform CPR and brace a man’s spine. “I felt very helpless in that moment,” he said. It catalyzed his desire to help people into a concrete goal.
“I want to do anything I can to help people,” he said. “Every single department I was in during my observership, I was amazed at everything they were doing. It was very interesting to see how people go through helping people that injure themselves, like I have doing sports, every single day.”
After applying to 18 colleges (and getting acceptances to 17 of them), Robertson decided to go to the University of Nevada, Reno, where he’s received scholarships and will play on their club hockey team.
“Because of Whittell, I could apply pretty much anywhere I wanted for college and get significant scholarships,” said Robertson. He says he chose UNR because he wanted to keep those social connections going—and many other students will also be setting off to UNR come fall.
“I can’t overstate how lucky I am to live in Tahoe. It’s an incredible place, and I really love the mountains,” Robertson said. “I can’t really picture myself going to school in Kansas and even if I had a great deal and everything I wanted from the school, location is very important.”
While he’s leaving Whittell for UNR, Robertson gave advice to those who might take on positions that he’s had, like student body president and serving as a captain. “For student body president, make sure to work with your fellow councilmembers to inspire and involve the school. Don’t just influence your own group, influence the community. As a captain, focus on your fellow teammates, deepen your influence there and help people improve.”
Improvement, he says, is one of his core values, and something he’s looking forward to in college. “I mean like a lot of people, I’m nervous… there’s that worry about being a small fish in a big pond. But I’m looking forward to being in a bigger social group—to expand my peer group, hear from and meet more people and to be challenged.”
Robertson thanked his parents and coaches Dr. Paul Ryan and Brian Rippet for their support and credited them for his improvement as an athlete.
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – On Tuesday, city council met to discuss the Tahoe Bluefins swim club, parking agreement with Heavenly Mountain Resort and the long-term rental incentive program, among other items.
Mayor Pro Tem Keith Roberts and councilmember Heather Horgan were not present for this meeting.
Public comment and consent agenda
During public comment, Angie Reagan, who previously requested that the Mental Health Month proclamation be presented by Horgan, spoke again on her disappointment that Mayor Cody Bass presented the proclamation. She stated that the council not appearing at the “Talk Saves Lives”, mental health events or the free “Paradise Paradox” community screening was proof that they were not paying attention to mental health in the community.
Reagan also connected the cannabis tax (which used to fund nonprofits in the city) and Mayor Bass’s connection with cannabis business in town as more points against the council’s attention to mental health. Lastly, Reagan criticized the council for removing “Community for All” and “United Against Hate” from official city council priorities. “Mental health is whether people can access support before they reach the edge. It is whether struggling residents are treated with dignity, instead of inconvenience. It is whether leaders show up after the photo is taken.”
Ed Moser commented to request information on Heavenly Village’s development and its total costs in a report. He also commented on the consent agenda to oppose the second reading of the shared mobility devices ordinance, saying that the city still lacked infrastructure for them, that they were unsafe and had injured others.
Astrid Melin also commented and said that she had personal experience with how unsafe the scooters were, where an improperly parked one damaged her husband’s leased car, asking for people to be held accountable.
Council assured people that they were hoping the ordinance would tighten up the concern areas around the scooters. They passed the second reading along with the rest of the consent agenda.
Tahoe Bluefins
Parks and recreation director John Stark brought forward a suggestion from staff to authorize use of the general fund to sponsor the Tahoe Bluefins swim team, which would total $8,343 for a six-month agreement.
Coach Jeff Edmonds spoke on the team and advocated for its positive impacts on youth and the need in this community for swim experience. “This is a commitment that the community must support in order to maintain our programs.” He also said that money should not be a barrier to participation and asked for the city’s support there. Lastly, he advocated for them to change the practice time, which he said was late for younger members of the team.
Melin also spoke, saying that she did not see any other organized sports who were contracted to share with public times. She asked for the same standard to be applied to the Tahoe Bluefins as the high school team, which gets full access to the pool. “We are part of the economic activity this facility was designed to support.” She also asked for the city to consider their previous agreement, rather than a six-month agreement.
Several parents echoed these sentiments, also speaking on the positive impacts of the program on their children. Team members from the swim team spoke on their experiences and the importance of the club to them.
Moser spoke spontaneously to express his support for the Tahoe Bluefins swim team.
Councilmember David Jinkens asked about the potential cost for returning the previous agreement, which is what staff presented for a six-month agreement. Stark also clarified that the city helps to sponsor a 3rd grade swim program.
Councilmember Scott Robbins asked about the lifeguard ratio (1:20 vs. 1:25 as the American Red Cross states) as well as the schedule for the lessons for the swim lessons the rec center offers. He also spoke on the need for properly documenting agreements or arrangements, as well as modernizing previously made agreements.
Bass said he “very much supports the Tahoe Bluefins” and was looking for more equality among nonprofits using the rec center. “We want to broadly make a policy that applies to everybody.”
Council directed staff to produce policies for these kinds of programs before the start of the next school year, as well as accepting the proposed agreement for the Tahoe Bluefins, which passed unanimously.
Amendment to the parking agreement with Heavenly
Lieutenant Doug Sentell presented the assessment of the agreement for the 2025-2026 year. Heavenly reported parking 2,542 cars on the street over 39 separate days, averaging 65 cars a day. The police department issued 56 citations from November 1 to March 22, averaging 1.4 citations a day. They also noted citizen complaints from 1390 Ski Run Boulevard, where parked vehicles created substantial visual obstruction when exiting the complex, made worse on heavy snow days.
Given this data and the police department’s closure of Ski Run Blvd and Keller Road after a heavy snow day, they also wished to clarify and amend Heavenly’s agreement to plow and sand that roadway for parking if it was closed.
The recommendations were to move parking to the east side of the road, where there are no residences and to not penalize Heavenly if they did not plow and sand closed roads.
Heavenly general manager Shaydar Edelmann spoke in support of the amendments and thanked the city for their help on the peak snow days after unusual snow patterns in the past season.
A resident at the complex previously mentioned also asked for the city to not put up “no parking signs” in front of the complex, as they also utilize street parking.
The council unanimously passed the amendments.
Long-term rental incentive program update
Development services director Zach Thomas presented the item that was prepared by associate management analyst Lydia Zuniga. The long-term rental incentive program, previously run as the Lease to Locals program, is the only one in the city that is geared towards moderate-income earners.
The program has assisted 65 households and housed 155 people (including children) since 2021. Staff are looking at new grants, which given the current allocated funds, will exhaust the remaining new grant balance.
Staff recommended that city council pass a motion to allocate $80,000 from the general fund to continue operations.
“I do think we are seeing an uptick in interest now,” said Thomas, citing the end of the vacation home rental ordinance discussions as part of that.
Heather Cade-Bauer spoke on the topic during public comment, asking the city to consider an incentive program for people who are already renting long-term to locals.
The motion carried unanimously.
Reports from staff and city council
City attorney Heather Stroud recently represented South Lake Tahoe and the Sacramento Valley at the City Attorney Conference for the League of California Cities.
Bass opened the councilmember reports and suggested they bring an urgency ordinance to ban the sale and use of glyphosate in the city of South Lake Tahoe, which has been done in other cities.
Jinkens asked for discussions on the redevelopment of Nel’s Garden Center into new housing units.
Robbins spoke on enforcement and the allocation of public staffing resources for private parking at the Crescent V Shopping Center, asking staff to agendize a discussion on the topic.
The next city council meeting will take place on June 2.
The Made in Tahoe Spring Festival is a highly-anticipated community-centric event held at The Village at Palisades TahoeProvided/Kate Abraham
OLYMPIC VALLEY, Calif. – If you’re looking for a true Tahoe experience, the heart and soul of Tahoe’s beloved community will be celebrating all weekend long on May 23 and May 24 at The Village at Palisades Tahoe. From local artisans, organizations, businesses and entertainers to mouthwatering food and drinks, all crafted by Tahoe locals, the Made in Tahoe Spring Festival is a cherished tradition marking the start of another beautiful season in the basin.
As one of the biggest, free and family-friendly events in Tahoe, the Made in Tahoe Spring Festival boasts over 100 local vendors spread out across the charming and enchanting grounds of The Village at Palisades Tahoe, where goers can indulge in offerings ranging from hand-made jewelry, art, apparel, pottery, animal essentials, woodworks, and so much more.
“It is big, but it’s so much bigger than the size and the number of vendors,” said Caroline Ross, Executive Director of Palisades Village Neighborhood Company, the master community association and management entity overseeing The Village at Palisades Tahoe. “This event boosts economic vitality. People can come to the event, celebrate and invest directly into our community.”
The event has become a staple for businesses and the Tahoe community as a whole since its inception in 2014. Following COVID-19, the Village at Palisades Tahoe holds another Made in Tahoe event which takes place in October.
“In order to participate, you have to be local. You have to create, design, produce, live in the Tahoe community, and that extends to Truckee and South Lake,” said Ross.
The event aims to give vendors an opportunity to collaborate, get to know each other, generate business outside of the event and to create ideas. “A lot of our vendors have become close friends from doing the event. It’s pretty great,” Ross said. “We always encourage vendors to create something new and to curate their offerings based on the seasons, which is exciting. The event feels a bit different each year and each time people come.”
The event features a diverse range of offerings that are either made or inspired by the community, including local artisans, businesses, chefs, organizations, and entertainersProvided/Kate Abraham
As important as it is to the vendors, the attendee experience is also highly thought out. Keeping folks entertained shouldn’t be difficult with three different performance locations, two of them being musical stages offering a number of different genres. There will be new bands performing at Made in Tahoe for the first time, creating a platform of visibility for up and coming artists. Returning performers will be Wild Ginger, Indigo Grey, and Down the Rabbit Hole.
The third location, the Community Stage, will focus on performance art, making for an incredible highlight to the event.
“If there was a ‘not-to-miss’ experience, it would be to catch one of Moonlight Movement’s aerial performances,” Ross said. “We also have students from both InnerRhythms and Truckee Dance Factory performing.”
Children from as young as six years old to seniors in high school utilize the Made in Tahoe stage to show off their impressive dance skills. Additionally, Mr. D’s DJ services will be pumping out tunes throughout the day.
When it comes to food, the event has you covered as some of the best food vendors in the basin will be offering their delicious fares including Little Truckee Ice Creamery, Ta-Hot Donuts, Mountain Provisions, Tahoe Pops, MOGROG Rotisserie, Morelos Tacos, Slice of Switzerland, Super Swirl, EATS Cooking Co., and The Sliceshack.
There will be two bars featuring wine from Truckee River Winery, Tahoe Blue Vodka-made mules and local beers. Proceeds from the bars benefit the Tahoe Food Hub.
All of The Village’s brick-and-mortar restaurants and shops will be open for attendees to enjoy. “They are all very much ‘Made in Tahoe’ because they’re here living and breathing this village 365 days a year,” Ross said. Shops include Leffler Leather Goods, Alice’s Mountain Market, Estelle Sports, KTees Logo Wear, and more.
The event starts at 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on both Saturday, May 23 and Sunday, May 24. Partnering with the Lake Tahoe Bike Coalition and the North Tahoe Chamber, the event will provide free bike valet in the Tram Roundabout. TART and TART Connect microtransit services can also be used to get to The Village at Palisades Tahoe.
In partnership with the North Tahoe Community Alliance, North Tahoe Chamber TOT-TBID Dollars At Work, their mission is centered on reinvesting tourism revenue into the community, contributing to the region’s vitality, enhancing economic health and environmental stewardship. “We couldn’t do it without them,” added Ross.
The festival will provide the perfect close-out to Palisades Tahoe’s skiing season as their operations end at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 24.
“We’re stoked to welcome the Made in Tahoe Spring Festival back to Palisades Tahoe for closing weekend,” Patrick Lacey, Palisades Tahoe Public Relations Manager told the Tribune. “There’s no better way to celebrate another incredible season than by bringing together the local businesses, artists, musicians, and community members that make Tahoe such a special place. It’s the perfect kickoff to summer in the mountains.”
To see the Made in Tahoe Spring Festival full list of vendors, entertainment schedule, or operation updates, go to palisadestahoe.com.
The Village at Palisades Tahoe is located at 1750 Village East Rd in Olympic Valley, Calif.
There will be a variety of performances and entertainment across the two-day eventProvided/Kate Abraham
INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. — Barton Health is expanding access to specialty care in Incline Village with the addition of Sports & Physical Medicine services at its multi-specialty clinic. Patients can receive care from Katie Gollotto, DO, and Eric Ewald, MD, who provide expert evaluation and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions.
This expansion builds on Barton Health’s existing services in Incline Village, which include cardiology and plastic & reconstructive surgery, as part of an ongoing effort to meet the health care needs of the Lake Tahoe community. Barton Health has cared for the Incline Village community through orthopedics and sports medicine for more than 15 years and continues to strengthen its delivery of quality care through its membership with Cleveland Clinic Connected.
Barton Sports & Physical Medicine offers non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment for musculoskeletal pain and injuries. Specialists focus on restoring movement and function through advanced techniques, helping patients recover without surgery.
“Continuing to expand specialty services in Incline Village allows us to better serve the Lake Tahoe community with convenient access to high-quality care,” said Dr. Kandra Yee, Barton Health’s Chief Medical Officer. “In a community as active as ours, having sports and physical medicine closer to home makes it easier for residents to get the expert-level care they need.”
Dr. Gollotto is a board-certified sports medicine specialist and board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist with expertise in sports-related injuries, non-operative fractures, management of arthritis, and regenerative medicine. She is also a pool physician for the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team and provides team medical coverage for the Tahoe Knight Monsters and Lake Tahoe Lakers.
Katie Gollotto, DOProvided
Dr. Ewald is a board-certified physician who specializes in sports medicine and non-surgical orthopedic treatment, including management of arthritis, regenerative therapies, and non-operative fracture care. He also provides walk-in treatment for minor illnesses, infections, and injuries for patients at Barton Urgent Care and Quick Care and provides team medical coverage for the Tahoe Knight Monsters.
Eric Ewald, MDProvided
The multi-specialty facility is located at 925 Tahoe Blvd in Suite #105 in Incline Village. To schedule an appointment with Barton Sports & Physical Medicine, call 775.589.8915.
Additional comprehensive primary and specialty services are available at Barton Health with its Stateline campus only 22 miles from Incline Village. For more information, visit BartonHealth.org.
LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. – Tahoe Bike Month returns June 1 with a full month of cycle-centric events, community rides, and a friendly competition encouraging residents and visitors to get on two wheels throughout the Tahoe-Truckee region. Hosted by the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) and the Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition, Tahoe Bike Month celebrates biking as a fun, healthy, and sustainable way to experience Lake Tahoe.
Throughout June, participants can log rides, join local events, and enter a friendly competition as individuals or teams for weekly prizes donated by local businesses. Riders can register at TahoeBikeMonth.org and connect their account through a Strava account to track rides and participate in the challenge. Each recorded ride counts as an entry to win prizes, including the grand prize: an e-bike donated by Outdoor Gear Lab.
“Tahoe Bike Month is a cornerstone event for the Tahoe Basin that is fun and helps everyone protect Lake Tahoe,” TRPA Associate Transportation Planner Rory Lepore said. “Our longstanding collaboration with the Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition and regional partners is a celebration of the arrival of summer that helps more people every year to opt for their bicycles instead of their cars.”
Tahoe Bike Month features events across the region, including bike path cleanups, hands-on bike repair and maintenance workshops, bike-to-school days, group rides, and community celebrations designed for riders of all ages and abilities.
This year, TRPA and partners are also seeking volunteers to help distribute prizes and encourage students who walk and bike to school during Bike, Walk, & Roll to School Week, May 26–29. The agency is supporting the Lake Tahoe Unified School District’s new bicycle registration program with in-classroom education and Bike to School Week events through a new pilot program based on the National Safe Routes to School curriculum covering helmet safety, signaling, bike handling skills, visibility, and the rules of the road.
In partnership with TRPA, the California Highway Patrol will also host Bike Rodeos at schools in May where students can practice their new skills through obstacle courses, bike inspections, tire pumping stations, and supervised riding activities.
Event organizers encourage everyone from daily commuters to first-time riders to participate through the month of June.
Some events include:
Bike Path Cleanups – Community efforts to remove litter from local bike paths, followed by prizes and festivities.
· Wednesday, June 3 – Bike Path Cleanup and Bike Month Kickoff, The Hangar, South Lake Tahoe, Calif.
· Saturday, June 6 – Truckee Day Clean Up, Truckee, Calif.
Bike, Walk, & Roll to School Days – Students are encouraged to walk or bike to school, with opportunities to win bike safety prizes.
· May 26 – 29, and June 5 for participating schools
Bike to Work Day – Encouraging individuals to bike to work or any destination, with free snacks available at designated rest stops and a chance to be featured in event coverage and highlights.
· Wednesday, June 17 – Basin-wide
Tahoe Mountain Bike Festival – A weekend featuring group mountain bike rides, demo days, live music and booth fair.
· Saturday and Sunday, June 20 & 21 – Tahoe Paradise Park, Meyers, Calif.
“Tahoe Bike Month is a celebration of a more sustainable way to get around,” said Nick Speal, president of the Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition. “Each year we see more and more participation, bringing the community together to enjoy life on two wheels.”
Tahoe Bike Month supports sustainable recreation and transportation, a key focus area of the Lake Tahoe Environmental Improvement Program. Biking helps reduce vehicle miles traveled, improve air quality, reduce emissions, and ease traffic congestion—all of which support the long-term environmental health of Lake Tahoe. Since 2009, Environmental Improvement Program partners have improved or constructed more than 200 miles of pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure throughout the Tahoe Basin.
For a complete schedule of events, registration details, and biking resources, visit TahoeBikeMonth.org.
Hands4Hope Youth participate in community volunteering events, for example the annual Folsom Community Service DayProvided/Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – Now in its 18th year, Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference (Hands4Hope), a youth-led, service-learning nonprofit, is launching its first outreach program in South Lake Tahoe. The initiative to expand into Lake Tahoe is being funded by the Pay It Forward Project and local community partners, and will be collaborating with middle school and high school students in South Lake Tahoe to create and implement service projects that support the needs of nonprofits serving those struggling most in the community.
Hands4Hope was first established in 2008 when Jennifer Bassett, Founder and Executive Director of Hands4Hope, wanted to create service-learning opportunities for her two young sons.
“I was trying to find an interesting way to show them what they could accomplish, and how they could bring smiles to people’s faces, whether it was just by a small act of kindness, saying something nice, or doing a big outreach project,” said Bassett. “Then it evolved from there.”
Today, Hands4Hope is a thriving, youth-driven El Dorado County nonprofit, with impactful community projects spread across the west slope, from El Dorado Hills to Placerville.
In their most recent annual report, Hands4Hope has served 14,609 people, served or delivered 9,289 meals, and implemented 351 outreaches and projects in the 2024-25 year. 35,565 items were collected in youth-led drives, and 1,114 pounds of food were collected and distributed. Notably, 702 kindergarten through 12th grade students in need during the 2024-2025 year received $43,000 worth of backpacks and school supplies.
The annual Hands4Hope School Supply Drive collects and distributes tens of thousands of dollars worth of school supplies to K-12th grade students in needProvided/Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference
Through their Education Program, the organization’s staff mentors facilitate 11 middle school and high school clubs on 10 campuses from El Dorado Hills to Placerville. Additionally, six after-school committees come together at Hands4Hope youth centers to work on specific projects. Across the board, their key service-learning process is: investigate, plan, action, demonstrate, and peer leadership.
For their Outreach Program, Hands4Hope works with over 40 nonprofit partners on the west slope to fulfill their mission while youth are given opportunities for service.
Their expansion into South Lake Tahoe marks an exciting chapter for not only the community, but for students at South Tahoe Middle School and South Tahoe High School to develop vital skills such as project management, leadership, compassion, and philanthropy.
Kathy Haven is Director of Grants, Programs, and Impact at El Dorado Community Foundation, and while reviewing scholarship applications, she noticed a pattern with students on the west slope of El Dorado County; There were seniors who were extremely organized in their scholarship applications with their volunteer service and leadership, even accumulating more hours than other students elsewhere.
“I thought, ‘Why do these kids have so many more opportunities?’ and I realized after a year or two, that they were all Hands4Hope members,” said Haven.
Haven eventually connected Bassett with John McDougall, founder of the Pay It Forward Project, an organization focused on community volunteerism in Lake Tahoe, Carson City and Douglas County. McDougall was interested in exploring more volunteer services for youth when he was introduced to Bassett.
After visiting an event led by Hands4Hope in Placerville, McDougall was amazed, and decided that the Lake Tahoe community and its youth members could really benefit from an organization like Hands4Hope.
“We were just blown away with how well those students did, how they ran this particular event, their leadership skills and how they put everything together,” said McDougall. “We’re really excited to see this organization get out and assist with nonprofits and help people in need in the community. We think it’s going to be a great addition.”
As Hands4Hope expands to South Lake Tahoe, youth leaders have traveled to the area to give presentations to local groups, such as this one at the Boys and Girls Club. Also pictured is John McDougall of the Pay It Forward ProjectProvided/Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference
The month of May kicks off Hands4Hope’s Outreach Program in South Lake Tahoe, and some of the organizations Hands4Hope will be working with this summer include Bread and Broth, Vista Rise Collective, and Marcella Foundation.
Adult volunteers are also being actively recruited as the Outreach Program launches. These volunteers are asked to attend the outreach and work with Hands4Hope youth to help guide and support them during service events and opportunities. Adults can decide their involvement based on their interests and availability. Opportunities to take on a more active position as an Adult Lead are also available for those interested in a consistent mentorship role.
Interested adults can attend an information session, held online, to learn more about how to get involved. Upcoming information sessions will be held Tuesday, May 26 from 12 p.m. to 12:40 p.m., and Thursday, May 28 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:10 p.m. Register by going to https://www.hands4hopeyouth.org/slt.
In the coming summer months, youth leaders will begin their summer leadership training and starting in August, Hands4Hope service-learning clubs will launch at South Tahoe Middle School and High School, giving students a chance to participate in designing, funding and implementing service projects.
David Galicia-Perez, 17, is a junior at South Tahoe High School and is involved in Viking Ambassadors, a Career Technical Education initiative launched in 2025. Through the initiative, he heard about Hands4Hope. He is now on the organization’s South Tahoe Steering Committee, along with Haven and McDougall.
“I think South Lake Tahoe is going to greatly benefit from [Hands4Hope],” said Galicia-Perez. “I know this from experience – as an underclassman, finding volunteer opportunities can feel a bit out of reach, a bit hard. Hands4Hope will be able to provide those for anyone and everyone.”
Galicia-Perez, along with his fellow students now have the opportunity to experience hands-on activities that enhance human connection and help fill community needs.
“I’m most excited about creating opportunities for South Lake Tahoe youth to not only volunteer, but to discover their voice, leadership potential, and sense of purpose through serving others,” said Bassett. “Hands4Hope is about empowering young people to become active changemakers in their community, and I think the Tahoe community is an incredible place for that kind of collaboration and growth.”
To learn more about Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference, visit hands4hopeyouth.org.
PLACERVILLE, Calif. – Security is a top priority at El Dorado County jails and detention centers. The Sheriff’s Office and Probation Department take that responsibility seriously, according to the 2025-2026 El Dorado County Civil Grand Jury (Grand Jury) report of El Dorado County jails at South Lake Tahoe, Placerville, and the South Lake Tahoe Juvenile Treatment Center.
The report, “El Dorado County Detention Centers,” was published recently at www.eldodradocounty.ca.gov/Grand-Jury by the Superior Court, which annually appoints 19 county residents as grand jurors to serve as citizen watchdogs over local government.
The Grand Jury investigation included site visits, interviews, and review of previous state and local reports. Conditions at all facilities are acceptable, but the Grand Jury raised concerns over staffing levels and vacancies.
According to the report, “the Sheriff’s Office has made progress in recruitment by streamlining the application and testing process. The staffing concern requires additional action to ensure appropriate staffing levels at both the South Lake Tahoe and Placerville locations.”
The Grand Jury cited the expansion project at the Placerville Jail scheduled for completion in 2026 that will add 22,000 square feet to the facility. The expansion will add a new medical services area, female housing, and other ancillary services. The report notes that the expansion will not add to inmate capacity. The Grand Jury has concerns that this expansion amplifies the need to fill vacant positions for correctional officers and jail staff, especially at the Placerville jail.
All findings and recommendations can be found in the full report on the County website. Under California law, the El Dorado County Sheriff and Board of Supervisors must respond to the Grand Jury report within 60 to 90 days, respectively.
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. — Step aboard one of Lake Tahoe’s most iconic vessels as the historic Safari Rose welcomes the public for a special dockside Open House at Ski Run Marina on Thursday, May 21, and Friday, May 22, from 3-7 p.m. Visitors are invited to explore the yacht, meet the crew, and enjoy refreshments while experiencing a piece of Tahoe maritime history firsthand.
Docked at Ski Run Marina, the open house offers locals and visitors alike an opportunity to tour the elegant vessel that has become synonymous with luxury cruising on Lake Tahoe.
Originally crafted in 1959 for the 3M Corporation, the Safari Rose was built with rich mahogany and teak as an executive yacht and earned “Yacht of the Year” honors during its debut. The vessel—originally named Scotchie III—has traveled extensively throughout North America, cruising the Great Lakes, the Bahamas, the Panama Canal, and Alaska before ultimately finding its home on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe.
Now operating out of Ski Run Marina, the approximately 80-foot luxury yacht is known for its timeless craftsmanship, heated indoor salon, bar, multiple decks, and intimate cruising experience. The vessel is frequently used for sightseeing cruises, private charters, weddings, corporate events, and specialty excursions around Lake Tahoe.
“This is a rare opportunity to experience the beauty and history of the Safari Rose up close,” organizers said. “Whether you’ve cruised aboard before or have admired her from the shore, the Open House offers a chance to step aboard, explore the yacht, and imagine the unforgettable experiences she provides on Lake Tahoe.”
The event is free and open to the public.
For more information, call 775-588-1881 or visit Tahoe Cruises.
TAHOE CITY, Calif. – Get ready for an awesome race season with Big Blue Adventure, the premier organizer of endurance sporting events in North Lake Tahoe. Registration is now open for 20 events designed for athletes of all ages and skill levels. From trail running and mountain biking to triathlons and open-water swims, the 2026 calendar is packed with opportunities to challenge yourself and connect with the vibrant outdoor community. Visit bigblueadventure.com/events for details on all events, discounts, and registration.
The season kicks off May 30 with the dog-friendly Tail Wagger event and wraps up October 17 with the challenging Heart of Gold gravel race benefiting youth mental health in Nevada County.
New Events This Year
New this year, Big Blue Adventure is introducing several exciting additions, including the reimagined Tahoe 100—revived with a brand-new course—the high-energy Sharkfest swim, and the much-anticipated return of the Champion Points Series.
“There truly is a race for everyone—from the seasoned triathlete, mountain biker, or trail runner to someone who’s decided this is the year they try a new sport,” said Todd Jackson, Big Blue Adventure Founder and President.
Lake Tahoe Mountain and Gravel Biking
Mountain bikers should mark their calendars for the Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Race on June 20, the Tahoe 100 on July 18, the Great Trail Race on September 26, and Heart of Gold on October 17, each offering a unique way to experience the Sierra’s rugged terrain and high alpine scenery.
Off-road and Multi-Sport Events
Triathletes can choose from several iconic events in Tahoe and Truckee, including the Tahoe Off-Road Triathlon, Donner Lake Triathlon, and Lake Tahoe Triathlon. A highlight for both residents and visitors, the Donner Lake Triathlon on July 25 and 26th features a range of race formats, along with a non-competitive Kids Triathlon for ages 4 to 12.
Tahoe Truckee Running Championships Return
The following weekend, the Truckee Half Marathon and 5K showcases a scenic course through downtown Truckee, culminating in a festive finish that embodies the spirit of Truckee’s community.
Ultra endurance enthusiasts will find their match at the Big Chief 50K and Marlette 50K Trail Run. Experience the thrill of running from Lake Tahoe to Truckee with Big Chief, or tackle the stunning Tahoe Flume Trail with Marlette, offering unparalleled lake views and breathtaking alpine scenery.
Participants can also compete in the Tahoe Truckee Running Championship, featuring a competitive series of 22 races from 5K to 50K, allowing participants to earn points based on their best three finishes.
Open Water Swimming Series in Lake Tahoe and Donner Lake
For those drawn to the water, the Tahoe City Swim, Donner Lake Alpine Swim, Lake Tahoe Open Water Swim, and the Sand Harbor Shark Fest Swim provide unforgettable open water experiences in one of the clearest alpine lakes in the world.
Relay Options
Many events throughout the season offer team and relay options, making it easier to share these experiences with friends while competing together. “Racing as a team not only amplifies the fun but also tailors the competition to your strengths,” added Jackson.
The championship title marks a remarkable milestone for (pictured left to right) Acadia Holve, Kora Ostertag, Alora Holve, and new team member, Allisyn FlowerVictoria Mastrocola/Tahoe Daily Tribune
INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. – A team of four homeschooled girls are celebrating a historic, third-consecutive win after competing in this year’s Nevada State Girls Scholastic Chess Championship.
The girls competed against all Nevada schools in kindergarten through 12th grade, both public and private, before taking home the trophy– a remarkable feat for team members Kora Ostertag, 12, Acadia Holve, 14, her sister, Alora Holve, 12, and Allisyn Flower, 12.
Eric Ostertag, father of Kora Ostertag, not only coaches all four girls but also serves on the board of the Silver State Chess Association. He is responsible for leading the reorganization of the championship’s qualifier format.
Previously, all games and scholastic tournaments were held in Las Vegas, so if a child from Northern Nevada wanted to go, they’d have to pay for costs to travel down, find hotel accommodations, etc., thus diminishing participation for Northern Nevada residents. Ostertag helped reorganize the qualifiers so that the Northern part of the state and the Southern part of the state can both compete in over-the-board tournaments locally, making it more accessible for participation.
Alongside Ostertag is Annastasia Wyzywany, who has coached three of the girls over the course of several years. Through both coaches’ leadership and guidance, the girls have developed into strong competitors.
Flower, the team’s newest addition, worked closely with Wyzywany to learn more about scholastic chess and its fundamental principles.
“It helped me learn actual tactics because before, I didn’t really use any tactics – at least that I know the name of,” said Flower. “It also helped me get endgame tactics so that I could win more.”
And win they did. First competing in the Northern Nevada Girls Scholastic Chess Championship, a qualifier for the overall Nevada State Championship, Kora Ostertag won the Individual Northern Nevada Girls Championship while team members, Acadia Holve took second and her sister, Alora, took third.
Their wins sent them to the Nevada State Girls Scholastic Chess Championship, where both individually and as a team, they secured championship titles.
“Chess is often a solitary sport, so when you can win with a team, it’s something that feels entirely different,” said Acadia Holve. “I really love the competitive nature of the sport, and it feels really good when you can finally get that win, when you put in the time and you’re able to come out feeling really good at the end.”
Alora Holve said her favorite thing about chess, aside from the competitiveness, is the team aspect. “It means you’re not just playing for yourself. If you let yourself down, you’re letting your whole team down. It gives you more motivation, which I actually really appreciate.”
Kora Ostertag, winner of this year’s Individual State Championship, said her preparation for this tournament was harder than anything she’d done in the past due to the fact that she went up a division. Previously, Kora played in the K5 tournament against players between kindergarten and fifth grade. This year, she played against kids who ranged from kindergarten to 12th grade.
“There were harder players this time, because they’re just older and have more experience,” said Kora, who despite competing against those experienced players, still won.
“The girls have had tremendous success both as a team and as individuals,” said Ostertag. “Alora had an incredibly good tournament this year, winning the K12 challenger section in the open tournament against boys and girls together, which is the same section Acadia won individually last year.”
With competitions sometimes lasting for hours at a time, the girls have let out a sigh of relief after relishing in the pay off of their hard work, and while their days are made up of school work and chess practice, they find time to focus on other things they enjoy. For Kora, it’s riding her horses, Allisyn enjoys making art, Acadia is working on a new podcast she started, and her and her sister Alora enjoy playing piano.
Although they still harbor goals to enhance their skills for future tournaments, spirits are high for the four girls as they add another trophy to their shelf.
“We’re still learning, and our opponents just keep getting better,” said Alora. “That’s almost as good as winning, knowing that you’ve improved, but so have your opponents which means you can improve next time as well.”
The girls chess team won titles in both Individual and Team championships Provided/Eric Ostertag
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – After the installation of traffic crossing lights last year, commuters on U.S. Highway 50 may have noticed that the lights have not been operational and crosswalks have not been painted. The Caltrans project is set to complete sometime in late July.
The $35.9 million project from Caltrans added crosswalks with flashing lights, a new traffic light and road restriping. The project was part of the 2018 State Highway Operation and Protection Program (SHOPP), with an audit that found a need for mid-block crossings and bicycle safety.
The project’s area spans from the Y intersection to Pioneer Trail and will add a crosswalk across Highway 50 at South Tahoe Middle School, a crosswalk between Herbert Avenue and Ski Run Boulevard and a crosswalk between Winnemucca and River Drive. These areas were all identified as places where people either crossed the highway unsafely or had frequent accidents.
The intersection between Johnson Boulevard and US-50 also had a signal added and a restriped roadway. This area was identified as one that had several crashes resulting in injuries or fatalities.
Bike lanes were also repainted as part of the South Lake Tahoe Highway Safety Project, which are now green for higher visibility, especially at night. The city was also set to install lighting from the Y to Pioneer Trail.
While much of the underground infrastructure and installation of the lights was completed in 2025, the construction season ended before Caltrans painted the new crosswalks or began operation of the lights. A Caltrans spokesperson told the Tribune that they aimed for them to be operational by late July, when they will also wrap up the rest of the projects.
The city of South Lake Tahoe is currently requesting input on enhancements on US-50 and State Route 89 (SR89). An open house will be held on May 21 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the new rec center’s Lakeview Room. This project is funded by a Sustainable Transportation Grant from Caltrans.
The Tahoe City Public Utility District has never built a water system. Instead, as its inception in 1938 intended, it bought up small, privately owned water companies that dotted the North and West shores of Lake Tahoe to consolidate them into one locally controlled public water system.
Over the course of nine decades, the TCPUD has brought two dozen water systems into its fold. Designed primarily for summer use, these small water systems were not built to meet modern drinking water standards or operate year-round. By the 21st century, many of these systems — with aging infrastructure and delayed capital improvements — were at risk of failing.
The Mid-Sierra Water Utility, located in Tahoma, is one of those failing. Purchased by the PUD in 2018, it comprises two water systems – Tahoe Cedars and Madden Creek. Tahoe Cedars, built in the 1940s, is so big and in such dire straits that its renovation represents the largest, most expensive, and most complex water system reconstruction project in the district’s history. And it is not without controversy.
The point of contention centers around the proposed staging area for Phase 1 of the project. Neighbors are concerned about environmental impacts to the surrounding forest and wildlife habitat, and question why this location was selected when, in their view, other sites are better suited for a staging area. The PUD, however, contends this site is the most efficient because it’s near the construction and will reduce disturbances to the greater neighborhood.
FIRE SAFETY: A map of where the Tahoe City Public Utility District will be installing 144 new fire hydrants in the Tahoma neighborhood as part of the Tahoe Cedars Water System Reconstruction Project. Illustration courtesy TCPUD
Tahoe Cedars
Between 1939 and 1979, the TCPUD consolidated 19 small water systems. In the last eight years alone, it spent $7.8 million to purchase five more, all on the West Shore.
Tahoe Cedars is the oldest and — due to aging pipelines, limited storage, outdated or nonexistent meters, and patched-together infrastructure — is actively failing. The system has 1,200 connections, representing 20% of the PUD’s water customers. The project entails replacing 15 miles of undersized and failing water pipes, installing 144 fire hydrants (the neighborhood currently only has around 80, most of which do not meet modern fire protection flow standards), and installing 1,200 residential water meters, which means relocating the connections from residents’ backyards to the public right-of-way. (The PUD is helping to offset these service relocation costs to homeowners by offering a $5,000 reimbursement, or $12,000 for those who qualify for the district’s low-income program.)
The water pipes are in such bad condition that many have holes in them, which were patched by the previous owners with clamps. As a result, the district put a moratorium on fire hydrant testing.
“We can’t do it anymore because anytime we open a fire hydrant, it creates more leaks,” said TCPUD General Manager Sean Barclay.
DETERIORIATING: Pipes in the Tahoe Cedars water system, which date back to the 1940s, are actively failing and leaking. Many were patched with clamps by the previous owner.
The estimated cost to fix the Tahoe Cedars water system is currently $85 million, but the district expects that number to rise due to inflation. Funding for the project comes from water rate revenue from all of the district’s 6,200 customers and property taxes. However, starting in January 2024, Tahoe Cedars and Madden Creek customers began paying an additional infrastructure improvement charge of $43.58 per month for 30 years, marking the first time the PUD has implemented an additional charge to a select group of customers.
“This is directly related to the magnitude of the cost of the project,” Barclay said. “We spend an inordinate amount of time in that water system [more] than in any other system fixing leaks.”
Although the district has a One Water System policy, which includes a single rate structure across its customer service area, the PUD made an exception to its rule to offset the extreme expense of the Tahoma project.
“It’s an attempt to balance equity between customers in this system and customers in the rest of the system,” Barclay said. “The magnitude of the costs to rebuild this system is much greater than we have ever had to do with previous acquisitions.”
Environmental Concerns
The Tahoe Cedars water tank was selected by the district as the staging area for the water system reconstruction. This is a roughly 3-acre parcel owned by the TCPUD and surrounded by 42 acres of California Tahoe Conservancy land. Although the district considered 30 sites scattered throughout and surrounding the Tahoma neighborhood for the staging area, it landed on the Tahoe Cedars water tank because of its location adjacent to the project.
“The reason the parcel is being considered as one of many potential staging locations is just its proximity to the construction site and the fact that we own the parcel,” Barclay said. “The closer it is to the site of construction is ideal, right? There’s not trucks driving through the neighborhood. You can minimize the time that’s needed to access the materials that are stored there.”
However, when neighbors became aware of this, they grew concerned. The Tahoe Cedars water tank leads to heavily used trails that are accessed by hikers, dog walkers, mountain bikers, and cross-country skiers. The trails are the community’s main access to Sugar Pine Point State Park and national forest.
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HIGH-MAINTENANCE: A TCPUD utility crew searches for a water-main leak in a backyard in Tahoma. The district says it spends more time in this area fixing leaks than in any other service area.
BUSTED: Pipes from the original 1940s Tahoe Cedars water system that have failed and been removed by the TCPUD.
“Why would you even think of putting a corporation yard like that in a forest when you got what the PUD stated was 30 other alternatives?” asked neighbor Rick Landgraf. “This is a community impact. Would you take Commons Beach and let trucks drive all over it? That’s how we should be thinking about it.”
Landgraf, a former hydrologist, is alarmed by the heavy equipment that will be stationed at the site, speculating that there will be 200 pieces of heavy equipment and a 12,000-gallon fuel tank.
“My experience when I was doing this kind of work, this stuff is really damaging. It compacts soils and vibrates; it’s loud,” he said. “It will lead to very serious and permanent destruction … That can lead to runoff problems. In a corporation yard, that’s an area where you take equipment. Sometimes it breaks, it needs to be repaired, you have to drain fluids. I am flabbergasted to even think why somebody would want to put that in the middle of a forest.”
Landgraf also worries about a loose chain sparking or equipment overheating and causing a fire.
Barclay, however, said that characterization of the staging area as an industrial yard is not accurate, and that the PUD is not even going to utilize the entire 3-acre parcel; the district says that it will use less than an acre. He also estimated that there would not be more than 10 to 15 pieces of equipment at the site at one time.
“It’s not going to be an industrial yard, nor will it be the only staging area … There will be no fuel storage tanks or chemical storage tank at that site,” he said. “We would maintain recreation access throughout the duration of that use … This is nowhere near the size, scale, or impact that is being described right now.”
WHY HERE? The proposed staging area at the Tahoe Cedars water tank in Tahoma, which leads to highly used trails and is near an American goshawk nest, is at the center of the controversy surrounding the water system reconstruction. Photos courtesy TCPUD
The Nesting Site
Other concerns include an American goshawk nest on the conservancy land (the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency said it is unknown if it is currently an active nest). Although goshawks are not endangered, they are designated as a sensitive species by the U.S. Forest Service.
“They are very sensitive to disturbance and relatively intolerant of activity by humans, and they are very protective of their nests,” said Will Richardson, Tahoe Institute of Natural Science executive director. “That is one of the reasons the Forest Service and other land management agencies put a lot of effort into trying to protect the birds.”
The TRPA has a threshold of 12 active goshawk nests in the Basin. In 2010, the last time a full survey was conducted, 10 sites were recorded (there are 30 known nests, but not all are active). The agency and USFS require a quarter-mile buffer zone around nesting areas, which the latter calls Protected Activity Centers (PACs), where no disturbance is allowed. According to the TRPA, the Tahoe Cedars water-tank site sits outside the requisite buffer.
Neighbor Mike Levin became so concerned about the staging area that he started a Facebook page and website, Save Tahoma Wilderness, in March. It states, “We support community progress and utility upgrades, but we believe they must be made without destroying our forest. We are advocating for using developed, paved alternative staging sites that preserve the integrity of Tahoma’s trails and the safety of our neighbors.”
The website provided an advocacy toolkit including talking points, an email template, and facts to share. According to TRPA spokesperson Jeff Cowen, the agency received around 12 of these email form letters.
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FORMER HYDROLOGIST Rick Landgraf, who has a home in Tahoma near the proposed staging area for the Tahoe Cedars Water System Reconstruction Project, is concerned about impacts to the forest and wildlife. Courtesy photo
PUBLIC PROCESS: TCPUD General Manager Sean Barclay said of the controversial staging area for the Tahoe Cedars water system project: “We’re going to continue to evaluate it and evaluate whether we have other options that are better or more efficient. We’re going to go through all the processes that are required to make sure that we actually can use it.” Courtesy photo
Staging Area Deferred
Levin and Landgraf also accused TCPUD of sidestepping the CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) process. However, Barclay said that its CEQA consultants determined that Tahoe Cedars was categorically exempt, but that “as individual phases move through and get to the final design phase, these changes are consistently evaluated by us and reviewed to confirm whether there is any additional environmental review [warranted] … we always make sure our projects comply with CEQA.”
Barclay added, “I can just tell you that we are very transparent. We pride ourselves on that. There is nothing to hide here. We’re a public agency. We are not a for-profit agency.”
The TCPUD was required to obtain a TRPA permit for the Tahoe Cedars project, which was granted in April. By that time, however, the district had removed the portion of the project that would have required the use of the staging area in the forest — replacing the waterline on Placer Street and Antelope Way above Elm Street — from its application for Phase 1. (The project is so big there are four phases.) That decision was made partly because in mid-2025, the PUD learned of the goshawk nest.
“We are concerned. We are aware of it now and we will make sure that we are doing all the work that we need to do to meet any sort of regulations to protect the goshawk,” Barclay asserted. “So that is also part of the reason that we removed that piece of pipe from this project — to make sure we’re doing all of the work that we need to do to comply with any regulations or requirements to protect the environment or wildlife.”
While the staging area at the Tahoe Cedars water tank is off the table for now, the PUD will eventually need to revisit the idea when it’s ready to bring back the portion of Phase 1 involving the waterline.
The TRPA stated that if the PUD decides to reconsider the water tank area, it will monitor the site for bird activity.
COMMUNITY TRAILS: The Tahoe Cedars water tank marks the start of popular trails that are used year-round and are the main access route for neighbors to reach Sugar Pine Point State Park and national forest. Photo courtesy Mike Levin
“A lot of times when it comes to potential impacts to wildlife, then projects are put on hold while monitoring happens because monitoring for, especially bird habitat, can take an entire season,” Cowen said. “Sometimes noise monitoring happens during projects as well, so that we know if the project needs to change BMPs, change time of day, change time of year, that it operates.”
Despite the TRPA’s and TCPUD’s assurances that the project will follow all environmental regulations, neighbors are not convinced.
“Eight years into this project, and weeks from groundbreaking, fundamental questions on fire risk, public safety, environmental impact, site design, and project financing remain unanswered in the public record,” Landgraf wrote in an email to Moonshine Ink.
With the staging area put on the back burner for the near future, neighbors are breathing a sigh of relief, but only temporarily.
“We will continue to monitor and organize the community and continue to see that the PUD does the responsible thing here, and not what’s convenient for the contractor,” Levin said.
Concern spread across the region in March when it was announced that NV Energy will stop providing electricity generation service to Liberty Utilities — provider for the California side of the Lake Tahoe Basin — by 2027.
In reaction, Liberty is taking steps to find a new provider. Currently, the utility is seeking approval through the California Public Utility Commission (CPUC) to launch a formal search process. Assuming approval, a formal bidding process is anticipated to start this summer. Official results and a decision will likely be known in winter of 2026/27, and an agreement with a new supplier established in spring 2027.
Eric Schwarzrock, who has been Liberty Utilities president for about a year and a half now and a longtime South Lake Tahoe resident, has expressed a goal of transparency during the process across various outlets, town halls, and public forums.
That’s the plan for what has been described as an emergency. The discontinuance of power generation by NV Energy, as noted in a March letter to CPUC from Liberty, came as “a surprise.” In a 2022 Integrated Resource Plan, Liberty wrote that it assumed operating “through the end of 2025, and then under similar provisions for 2026-2030, under a follow-on NV Energy ESA (Energy Services Agreement).”
NV Energy, meanwhile, says this separation has been in the works all along.
“The decision not to extend the Liberty agreement long term is rooted in the original planning assumptions and contractual intent dating back to the 2009 asset sale,” shared Katie Nannini, community relations manager for NV Energy, in an email. “NV Energy sold the Liberty load with the clear understanding that it would not serve that load indefinitely.”
Review of public documents submitted to the CPUC over the past five years shows a nuanced situation between the two utility companies, including efforts Liberty previously took to separate from NV Energy. Liberty declined to comment beyond public statements that have already been made.
Now the situation, regardless of a shared history, is down to the wire.
Illustration by Sarah Miller/Moonshine Ink
An electrifying past
The separation of the two utilities is the final step for what was once one company. Liberty Utilities used to be owned by NV Energy — specifically Sierra Pacific Power Company, one of three subsidiaries that merged in 1999 and began doing business as NV Energy in 2008.
In 2011, at the conclusion of the 2009 asset sale, NV Energy, an investor-owned holding company incorporated under Nevada law, divested its California electric assets, comprising about 46,000 square miles in seven counties. After a multi-layered sale, the California customers ended up in the hands of CalPeco, aka Liberty Utilities, a subsidiary of Algonquin Power and Utilities Corp.
Along with the sale, NV Energy “also agreed to provide energy and generation capacity for a temporary transition period,” Nannini explained. “That period was originally set for five years and was later extended in 2015 and again in 2020 to give Liberty more time to implement its long term plans.”
And Liberty did try.
HIGH VOLTAGE: Liberty Utilities currently receives its power generation and transmission through NV Energy, which eventually makes its way to the Tahoe City Substation, pictured here. The substation takes power from the transmission lines and distributes it to households and businesses. Photo by Jared Alden/Moonshine Ink
An attempt at separation occurred in 2018, when Liberty began negotiations with potential third-party suppliers “in order to seek more favorable terms and conditions and pursue its own accelerated renewable goals,” per an advice letter from Liberty to CPUC. The small, multi-jurisdictional utility sent an early termination notice to NV Energy in January 2018, to be effective May 1, 2019.
What stalled this effort? NV Energy itself. To move to a third-party supplier, Liberty needed to reserve space in NV Energy’s transmission system for a supplier to send electricity through. In July 2018, Liberty filed for 145 megawatts (MWs) of service. Space was reserved based on numbers provided by NV Energy. Four months later, using those numbers, Liberty began officially soliciting a new energy provider.
But the amount of availability in NV Energy’s transmission system turned out to be wrong.
“In January 2019,” a 2020 letter from Liberty to the CPUC stated, “NVE informed Liberty CalPeco of [a] … calculation error, which, after it was corrected, showed that 11 MW of Import Transmission Capacity was available for Liberty CalPeco, far less than previously published.”
Based on such constraints, by August 2019, no realistic alternatives emerged for Liberty. Negotiations with NV Energy were reopened and in August 2020, an ESA was created “for the sale and delivery of capacity and energy to Liberty” from December 2020 to December 2025.
At first, this new ESA was described by Liberty “as a bridge until Liberty CalPeco can secure utility-owned non-GHG emitting renewable generation through a competitive process, which will enable it to achieve its ambitious 100% renewables goal.”
Yet two years later, Liberty was anticipating remaining an NV Energy customer indefinitely since the Nevada utility company was providing the best possible outcome for its customers … until a new project goes online.
“Given Liberty’s understanding of NV Energy’s transmission planning activities,” the 2022 Integrated Resource Plan states, “the earliest time at which Liberty could potentially leave its current energy supply arrangement with NV Energy would be after Phase I of the Greenlink Initiative goes into service.”
The data center of it all
NV Energy’s Greenlink is a two-part project installing two kilovolt lines, or “energy highways,” across Nevada — one running for 250 miles, from Las Vegas to Yerington (Greenlink West), the other spanning 235 miles from Ely to Yerington (Greenlink North). These lines will allow the utility to increase import capacity for Northern Nevada. A December 2025 update from NV Energy stated, “The completion of Greenlink West and Greenlink North — along with the existing One Nevada Line — creates a triangle of transmission in the state … Greenlink Nevada results in modernization of the grid, improves reliability for customers, and positions NV Energy to meet Nevada’s energy needs.”
GREENLINK’S LINKAGE: NV Energy’s Greenlink Initiative is adding two “energy highways” across Nevada to increase import capacity for Northern Nevada. Greenlink West, running from Las Vegas to Yerington, is anticipated to be completed May 2027. Courtesy map
Greenlink West is anticipated to be completed May 2027 and will serve as the signal for Liberty’s official transition from NV Energy. This same project will help address the increasingly competitive market for power resources, especially with the increase of data centers in Washoe and Storey counties. Data centers are physical facilities housing and running large computer systems.
The U.S. Congress reported in January 2026: “U.S. data center annual energy use in 2023 (not accounting for cryptocurrency) was approximately 176 terawatt-hours (TWh), approximately 4.4% of U.S. annual electricity consumption that year, according to a report by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory … Some projections show that data center energy consumption could double or triple by 2028, accounting for up to 12% of U.S. electricity use.”
At the time of the Congressional report, there were no “legally binding energy standards” applying specifically to private sector data center operations.
However, at the end of March, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) announced the Artificial Intelligence Data Center Moratorium Act, which would effectively put a pin in further data center development until more oversight can be established. As of press deadline, the bill lies with the Congressional Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Currently, there are 29 such centers between Reno, Sparks, and the Tahoe Reno Industrial Center (TRI Center), the latter home to all but six of them. TRI Center’s first data center — Switch’s “Citadel Campus” — began construction in 2015 and officially opened in early 2017.
Then-Storey County Commissioner Marshall McBride said of the project, “With Switch’s $1 billion investment and 3-million-square-foot SUPERNAP data center, this region is solidifying its place in the technology innovation space. The country is looking at Nevada differently and now sees northern Nevada, Storey County, and TRI as the place for development projects of any size.”
NV Energy’s Nannini said, contrary to other media reports, the decision to stop providing power for Liberty was not driven by the rise of data centers, citing original contractual intent “well before data center load growth was a consideration … Data center growth did not change that position.”
Still a live wire
While NV Energy is pulling the plug on the actual power in the lines, it will still provide Liberty Utilities transmission services. Liberty (as well as the Truckee Donner Public Utility District, which powers Truckee) is part of NV Energy’s balancing authority, meaning NV Energy is responsible for ensuring the electric grid operates reliably 24/7 for users within its region.
Where the power will come from is what Liberty leaders are working on figuring out. The utility customers are not physically connected to the rest of California, so pulling power from the state is problematic. “It would take a large transmission line from our service territory over the Sierras and then west further into California,” Liberty’s Schwarzrock said during a late-April Placer County town hall. “We looked at the nearest connection points. One of the ones that was closest that potentially would be one of the most reasonable connections was near El Dorado Hills. That would be a transmission line from El Dorado Hills toward South Lake Tahoe. [It would cost] hundreds of millions of dollars to build a transmission like line like that over the Sierras.
“We may seek to do something like that,” he continued. “But right now, that was not the best option. We actually have evaluated nine different [energy supply options] … to assemble our energy supply portfolio. Utilities often utilize a mix of strategies, including but not limited to, direct ownership, power purchase agreements, and various market options. [The transmission line option] was the least beneficial option because of the cost to build that transmission line.”
Liberty Utilities maintains two solar projects in Nevada that provide power, though not enough at present to power its customers entirely: There is the 50-MW Luning solar facility, which is forecasted to deliver 101,000 megawatt hours (MWh) in 2026, and the 10-MW Turquoise facility, anticipated to deliver 21,000 MWh. “For many days out of the year,” shared Liberty’s manager of regional communications, Kurt Althof, in an email. “When the sun is shining, our facilities provide 100% of the required supply.”
How ratepayers will be affected by the transition remains unknown, though Liberty has stated in an FAQ on the situation that it intends to keep affordability at the forefront of its discussions with potential providers.
Schwarzrock said there are numerous alternatives for how the company can approach the void, including wind farms, solar and battery farms, geothermal options, and full-service energy suppliers. As a winter-peaking region, Tahoe’s highest energy demand comes during the colder months — contrary to other utilities in the Western U.S., which use the most electricity during summer for air conditioning.
“It’s important to us that we’re going to make them compete for our business,” he said. “We’re looking forward for those entities to compete. We are a good partner and a good load for energy suppliers, so we expect a competitive process. Our priorities as we go through that [Request for Proposals] and make our transparent selections with the CPUC, are that we’re going to prioritize renewable and achieving our renewable goals within the state of California, and we are going to prioritize affordability.”
Could Something Similar Happen in Truckee?
The Truckee Donner Public Utility District’s coverage area lies as an independent island within Liberty’s service. The only overlap for TDPUD and Liberty is that they both rely on transmission from NV Energy.
“We pay our fair share to NV Energy for the transmission services they give us,” said Steven Poncelet, public information and strategic affairs director for the PUD. “That’s all done at the federal level through the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.”
Beyond that commonality, TDPUD has a different makeup entirely as an electricity provider.
Rather than the investor-owned utility model, the PUD is a municipal not-for-profit agency that provides both water and electric services for the Truckee community. As one of 18 special districts in the Truckee/North Tahoe region, it is overseen by an elected board of directors.
TDPUD’s power primarily comes from the Utah Associated Municipal Power System (UAMPS), which consists of 49 public power utilities across many western states. “That’s who builds and owns and operates all of our power plants,” Poncelet said. “So, when we say that our largest resource is Horse Butte Wind in Idaho, that’s a project that we own a percentage of, and that is run, owned, and operated by UAMPS on behalf of the members. They have the transmission, and then they send the power to us eventually through NV energy transmission for delivery to our customers.”
Could NV Energy similarly end its transmissions contracts with TDPUD as it has done with Liberty’s power generation contract? Poncelet said that’s not a concern. “The [transmissions] contracts that we have are approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission … and across the industry, every utility across the country goes to FERC for these transmission contracts. Many lawyers have asked that question, so I’m pretty confident they couldn’t just decide not to service.”
My wife and I moved from Mammoth Lakes to Tahoe City in 1980. Back then, being a “mountain person” wasn’t a brand, it was a way of life. We learned from those who came before us. Nature was our guide, and long-time locals showed us how to live in rhythm with it: shoveling the roof before it bowed, reading a subtle shift in the wind and clouds before a storm, and knowing exactly which neighbor’s truck would get stuck after the plow turned the road into ice.
When we had questions about mountain living, we sought out people who had actually lived it — true experts on where to go, what to do, and how to do it.
The mountains are as beautiful as ever, but their rhythm has changed. We’ve shifted from a true “mountain town” to a “mountain resort.” The lake is still breathtaking; the backcountry is still full of adventure, but the way we live here has become increasingly digital.
The Covid era brought a surge of new energy to our Basin, much of it driven by the tech sector. There is no denying the immense value these new residents bring — their economic contributions and fresh cultural perspectives are essential ingredients in the evolving story of the Tahoe/Truckee area. They also arrived with remarkable technological tools.
And something else: a new kind of expert I’ll call the “techspert.”
A techspert is someone who has mastered the data of the mountains without fully absorbing the experience. They find trailheads through apps instead of conversations. They troubleshoot a woodstove on a forum instead of asking a neighbor. Too often, they take frustrations to social media instead of resolving them face-to-face — the very interactions that once defined our community.
As a healthcare provider, I’ve spent my career observing the difference between a body that simply functions and one that is truly vital. I see a parallel here. Technology can guide you to a trailhead with perfect GPS accuracy. It can tell you the temperature, the elevation, and the distance. But it lacks nuance.
A techspert may know the stats of a hike, but not that a recent washout has turned it into a sandbagged bushwhack. They have information, but not the “preventative medicine” of local wisdom.
Techsperts will never replace experts.
A seasoned local can tell you why a certain shift in the clouds means you should head home early or why taking just 10 extra steps down a slope will lead you to a spot with the kind of energy that doesn’t just “use” nature but revitalizes the soul.
Apps tell you what is happening; humans tell you how to feel it.
This isn’t a rejection of technology. I value the information age and rely on it in many ways. Rather, it’s an invitation to balance technology with mentorship. It isn’t just our newer residents who’ve been pulled in by technology — we all have. But don’t let these mountains exist only on your screen; belong to them.
Instead of scrolling through an anonymous forum, walk into your local shop. Ask about the best tires for riding on decomposed granite or the ideal ski wax for a warm spring morning. These places aren’t just stores, they’re living archives.
The next time you’re curious about a route or a storm, pause before you reach for your phone. Say hello to a neighbor and start a conversation.
Ask about the “why,” not just the “where.” You’ll discover that the best way to live here isn’t by mastering an app, it’s by building relationships.
Real life. Real people. Real Tahoe.
~ Tim Schroeder, DC, has lived in Tahoe City since 1980 and has practiced chiropractic care there since 1989. An active community member who values nature, he is an avid skier, hiker, and biker. To explore his chiropractic practice and his latest writing, visit the Insights tab at balancedoctor.com.
The Tahoe-Truckee Sanitation Agency is moving forward on a new wastewater treatment facility. The decision is a big pivot from the 2022 Master Sewer Plan, intended to guide the agency in addressing its aging infrastructure over
25 years.
The variable leading to this pivot? Covid-19 and its impacts on constructions costs and materials and labor shortages. When TTSA began receiving bids for various projects under the sewer plan, there were significant inconsistencies compared to the preliminary November 2021 estimates. That difference led to staff in early 2024 shifting from the rehabilitation strategy to implementation of a more modern replacement.
Which brings us to the Clean Water Revitalization Project, set to replace TTSA’s existing nutrient removal (or wastewater treatment) facility to the tune of $310 million. The rehabilitation plan in today’s numbers would cost, according to project consultant numbers, $393.3 million.
General Manager Jason Hays walks us through some key questions about the project, what it means, and how ratepayers — amid a significant rate increase — will be affected.
~ AH
In general terms, what is the Clean Water Revitalization Project?
Jason Hays, TTSA General Manager: Tahoe-Truckee Sanitation Agency (TTSA) is embarking on a multi-year initiative to modernize the existing wastewater treatment infrastructure that has been in existence for over 50 years. The Clean Water Revitalization Project is focused on modern treatment methods that will more reliably protect public health, the Truckee River, Lake Tahoe, and the surrounding watershed, while also improving system stability and ease of operation.
Did the following factors lead the agency to move forward with building a new wastewater treatment facility?
Aging TTSA nutrient-removal facilities, which require increasing maintenance to maintain operations
Significant cost increases from rehabilitation costs stated in a 2022 Master Sewer Plan
A desire to shift to less energy- and chemical-intensive processes for cleaning wastewater
The possibility of more stringent limits, monitoring, and reporting (TTSA could be regulated under the Federal NDPES permitting program in the future based on the U.S. Supreme Court’s “County of Maui v. Hawaii Wildlife Fund” case.)
These assumptions are accurate with a few minor caveats; while TTSA is seeking to establish a reduced dependence on chemicals and move toward a more biologically focused process, the new Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) facility is not likely to reduce energy usage. Throughout the design process, we will continue to remain open to opportunities for energy efficiency, but pumping water is an inherently energy intensive process. We are also closely watching opportunities for green energy offsets like solar and using biogas generated onsite for energy production.
Regarding potential future regulatory pressures, it’s important to note that TTSA is already subject to some of the most stringent discharge requirements in the country. At this time, there is no immediate reason to believe that the regulatory monitoring program under which we are regulated will change. Leadership within TTSA recognized during initial evaluations and continues to maintain the position that it is our responsibility to be prepared for any potential regulatory scenario. MBR technology offers both the most secure assurance to continue to meet existing limits and the strongest potential to expand capabilities if the discharge requirements become more stringent at some point in the future.
TTSA currently utilizes a Biological Nitrogen Removal (BNR) system but is looking to shift to an MBR system. Could you explain what this means?
Biological Nutrient Removal or Biological Nitrogen Removal (BNR) is the process of using a variety of microorganisms cultured specifically to consume nitrogen and phosphorus. TTSA is currently using a hybridized approach that requires a chemically intensive process to remove phosphorus in combination with BNR. Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) is a variation of BNR that uses very fine filter membranes to dramatically reduce the dependence on chemical processes. MBR also allows us to intensify the BNR process and use a much smaller footprint with improved automation and operational simplicity to accomplish the same or better levels of nutrient removal.
UP-AND-COMING: The Tahoe-Truckee Sanitation Agency is moving forward with a new wastewater treatment facility, which will replace current and aged infrastructure, shown highlighted in yellow on the map. Courtesy map
Where is the water coming out of this nutrient removal facility going to go?
Currently, we are planning to maintain the same discharge and disposal system for the new MBR facility that we currently have in place. TTSA currently injects the treated water from the facility into the ground in Martis Valley. The water migrates from the injection point through the ground toward the confluence of the Truckee River and Martis Creek where it comingles and joins the waterways. TTSA rigorously monitors several wells along the groundwater flow path and also monitors the Truckee River and Martis Creek above and below TTSA influence.
Does TTSA currently have any trouble meeting discharge requirements from the Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board?
TTSA consistently meets all discharge limits under its existing Waste Discharge Requirement (WDR) permit. While some of the processes used at TTSA are chemically intensive and require substantial operational and maintenance staffing, we have proudly protected Lake Tahoe and the Truckee River for over 50 years. A major driver for initiating the Clean Water Revitalization Project is to ensure future generations of community members and visitors can continue to rely on a high standard of public health and environmental protection for the next 50 years and beyond.
What is the total project cost?
In order to make the most fiscally responsible long-term decisions for the future of TTSA, staff engaged in a 50-year life cycle cost assessment comparing the cost of the Clean Water Revitalization Project to a progressive rehabilitation of the existing facility. While it is important to note that cost estimates used in this assessment are very high level and actual costs can vary significantly as the scope of the project becomes clearer, we believe the assessment strongly supported moving forward with the project. Currently estimated costs for the entire project are approximately $310 million. As design milestones are met, a clearer picture of actual final costs will become more focused. TTSA is committed to providing the rate-paying public with revised cost information as it becomes available.
In 2023, after no rate increases for the previous 12 years, TTSA approved a significant hike in customer bills (96.72% increase) over the course of four years (2024 to 2028) in order “to ensure proper funding for upcoming major capital projects and increasing costs due to hyper-inflation.” That increase happened before any final decisions on the new nutrient removal facility were made.
How will the new facility impact customer costs? What other funding sources is the agency considering for this project?
We at TTSA recognize that large increases to rates in a short timeframe are undesirable. This abrupt increase in rates was proceeded by 12 years of 0% rate increases, primarily due to a relatively minimal capital replacement plan. After the 2022 Master Plan established a more substantial capital plan with baseline cost assumptions and timing, TTSA staff recognized that current rates could not fully support the plan. In 2023 the TTSA Board approved Prop 218-compliant annual adjustments for fiscal years ’24 through ’28 to address long-term inflation and to fund the capital plan. The rate increases were as follows:
FY24: 30.1%
FY25: 18.6%
FY26: 13.6%
FY27: 8.6%
FY28: 3.4%
TTSA is currently seeking to perform a new rate study that includes timing and costs associated with the Clean Water Revitalization Project. Many projects identified in the master plan will be made unnecessary by the decision to move forward with MBR technology. Project and capital spending timing will also change substantially. Staff has engaged in a process of identifying strategic cost saving measures to ensure a continued focus on operational efficiency. As part of our funding strategy, we are exploring opportunities to fund portions of the project with grants and subsidized lending programs. Efforts are already underway to position the agency and the project as an attractive opportunity for potential alternative funding mechanisms.
What is the most critical information TTSA wants the public to know about this project and process?
We live and work in one of the most environmentally pristine and beautiful locations in the world. We owe the clarity of Lake Tahoe and the natural beauty of the Truckee River to those men and women 50 years ago that had the foresight and drive to do what was needed to rehabilitate and ensure the protection of these amazing water bodies. We believe that we have a generational responsibility to the people enjoying this area 50 years from now to guarantee protection of our water resources. In the 1970s the U.S. Congress enacted the Clean Water Act to reverse the damage done to our environment. We are welcoming in the next 50 years of environmental responsibility and public health with the Clean Water Revitalization Project.
Not considering my education after high school, my parents insisted that college was the next step. Growing up in New York, I headed to Florida to attend the University of Florida in Gainesville earning my BS degree in photojournalism. Not ready to get a real job, I hit the road, living out of a converted school bus, until I arrived in California four years later. I was so excited to learn that there was such a place as Tahoe where I could ski, a lifelong dream. That was the winter of ’94/’95. Working nights, traveling and skiing, I was pretty happy, but I really wanted to do more with my photography. In 2000, A Day In Your Life Photography began.
1 of 6
Nepal Bodhi Tree Foundation Trek
Alaska
Lakeview
Colette’s wedding
First hours
Rainbow over Tahoe
Documenting weddings and birth helped me with my pursuit of travel and bolstered my body of work in fine art photography. For wedding and birth imagery see the archive on my website: adiyl.net.
My current focus is capturing dream vacations for families. My motto is, “I’ll do the documentation while you enjoy your vacation.”
My travel and Tahoe photography will be featured at Made in Tahoe this Memorial Day Weekend at Palisades and the Kings Beach Art Tour in August. I’ll also be participating at the Tahoe City Farmers Market and Truckee Thursdays. Hope to see you there!
~ Instagram: adayinyourlifephotography, Facebook: A Day In Your Life Photography
Growing up, Mia Andler would spend weeks at a time during summer with her family sailing the Finnish archipelago — her days spent swimming and fishing, exploring caves and forests, inventing games with her siblings and the sea birds. She didn’t know how good she had it.
“I was lucky enough to spend my entire summers outside without electricity,” she reminisced. “I got to connect with the islands and feel the spacious timelessness of that.”
VILDA students practice tracking on a summertime excursion.
Those sailing trips, she says, gave her a “grounded psychological perspective” that led her to a nature-filled life and career. Andler is an expert forager, a heralded tracker and guide, an author, a wilderness educator, and founder of Vilda, a place-based wilderness education school whose mission is to connect kids with nature. First established in Marin County in 2008, Vilda has had a presence in Tahoe/Truckee since 2020 and now serves over 1,000 kids a year. The organization offers myriad school-year programs, summer camps, backpacking trips, and specialty workshops which can be found at vildanature.org.
The name Vilda comes from the name of the boat Andler sailed on as a child, short for Vildanden, Finnish for “wild duck,” symbolizing journey and exploration.
In addition to her summer-long sailing adventures, Andler’s Finnish upbringing was full of simply “being outdoors all the time.” However, she acknowledges that’s no longer a given for children anymore, even in the outdoor haven that is Tahoe.
THE FERAL FINN: Mia Andler, born in Finland, is an experienced naturalist, wilderness guide, author, and founder of the Vilda place-based wilderness schools.
“That’s why I started Vilda,” she said. “In today’s world, it’s not always safe or allowed [for kids] to go outside. So now they have us, some guides.”
And while just bringing youths out into the natural world is a vital aspect of what Vilda does — “we need to have the grounding aspect of nature and to know that we are a part of nature” — she also figures she should teach them some things while they’re out there.
Her curriculum is centered largely around adventure and play and offers an array of wilderness knowledge and skills. Students should expect to get their hands dirty as they track animals, learn bird languages and fire-starting skills, build shelters, identify and eat wild edibles, kayak, become good at reading maps, practice archery, tend to and restore the land, dabble in poetry and song, and create nature-based crafts.
Gratitude is a central tenet, and peaceful conflict resolution and friendship are also aspects of the Vilda education. Friendship, as a key rung of a wilderness school?
“Young people and screens are a major challenge right now,” said Andler, who has been featured in national print publications, in-flight magazines, television, and the documentary film Play Again. “They often don’t know how to connect with each other. You play a video game and you are instantly that character, you are instantly ‘in the game.’ You don’t have to cultivate that skill of ‘getting into the game.’”
CARVING OUT TIME: Vilda aims to connect children with nature and to help them realize “how much fun they can have with rocks and sticks.”
In addition to cultivating (or recultivating) human-to-human connection, a core motif of Vilda is creating (or recreating) connection to the earth.
“The kids’ world is so patterned by media images and gaming images that they don’t know anything else,” Andler explained. “Our job is to show them how much fun you can have with rocks and sticks.”
Once the child is having fun and beginning to see the forest through the trees, Vilda’s tertiary lessons come into play. Rather than simply holding an outdoor classroom where students learn the name of this tree or that flower, Andler aims for something more. “We focus on enhancing their relationship to nature,” she said. “We believe if we can help [our students] form a relationship with the forest, then they will become the leader that protects it.”
Andler relayed a conversation she had many years ago with the then-executive director of the Rainforest Alliance. The person, an American, grew up with love for her natural world and then literally had it ripped away. “She told me how when she was a child she used to play in a certain part of the forest, and then one day a bulldozer showed up and it was gone. That was her home, that was her playground.”
Seeing her local, childhood forest bulldozed to the ground led that human to fight to save forests all over the world.
It’s the same on many levels, Andler said. “If a kid loves the natural world,” she observed, “you don’t need to tell them to recycle. They’ll do it on their own.”
An Adventurous, Curious Life
After moving to Venezuela and then San Francisco (with some time back in Finland) due to her father’s job, Andler attended college in Maine, studied abroad in Scotland, and “traveled a fair bit” before moving to Tahoe/Truckee in the early 2000s. She earned her teaching credential from Sierra Nevada College and taught art and music at Lake Tahoe School. Early on, though, she felt like something was missing.
“I realized that I just wanted to be outside teaching students,” she said.
She had the idea to start a wilderness school — “it became my mission” — but she realized that in order to make it happen she still had a lot to learn.
As so often happens, her quest was rewarded by the teacher appearing along the path at just the right time. Andler’s Obi Wan Kenobi was Jon Young, a renowned naturalist teaching around Bolinas and Half Moon Bay at the time.
“We were out on the land three days a week in coastal chaparral and redwood forest,” Andler recalled. “We slept … underneath the stars, rain or shine.”
Young himself was the pupil of perhaps America’s most famous tracker and survivalist, the late Tom Brown Jr., who, among other notables, founded the esteemed Tracker School in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey. Brown was trained by an Apache, and Young speaks of time spent with the San bushmen of Botswana, among other peoples and training, as fundamental to his own education.
ROPING IT UP: A Vilda student makes cordage from natural material.
Andler learned all she could from Young (and from other individuals and cultures), and in 2008 started Vilda in Fairfax — the 7,000-plus person forest-abutting town in Marin County, with its six nearby open-space preserves and proximity to Mt. Tamalpais and Pt. Reyes. The school is still thriving, with Andler going down occasionally “mostly to train guides.”
Like Young and Brown Jr., Andler is also a speaker and an author, presenting at conferences and appearing on podcasts and having co-written The Bay Area Forager and penned the The Sierra Forager.
Again, it was her nature-oriented childhood and curiosity-driven lifestyle that led her to becoming an author.
“In Finland, foraging is still done,” she said. “I grew up picking berries and mushrooms and such as part of my family life. When I got to the Bay Area, I figured there must be something edible out there, it just wasn’t as obvious as Finland. So, I started asking around.”
She sought out people with similar interests and joined the board of Sustainable Fairfax, a nonprofit that was offering classes to the community.
“I was like, I think I could teach one about wild edibles,” Andler recounted. “The first one I ever scheduled old out, and I had people emailing me for months.”
She kept leading classes and guiding wilderness walks. The more she learned, the more she became aware of the fact that the available books weren’t detailing specific edible plants for specific areas of the region. “Everything was too broad,” Andler noted of the literature, and she and a friend saw a niche. “We were like, hey, let’s write the book.”
And so they did, and The Bay Area Forager was born.
“People received that book very well,” Andler said. “I love it when people still come up to me, and they’re some cool person doing some cool thing; and they’re like, ‘Oh my gosh, I love your book.’”
When she moved back up to North Tahoe for good during the pandemic and established Vilda’s local presence, the next book almost wrote itself.
“I wanted to call it The Taste of Tahoe or something, and make it super hyper local, but my publisher was like, no, too small.”
Though The Sierra Forager came to focus on wild edibles in Yosemite and Mammoth as well as Tahoe, its content stays true to its origins by pertaining exclusively to environments and locales above 6,000 feet in elevation (the Jewel of the Sierra rests at 6,225 feet).
So yeah, it’s been quite a journey for the self-described Feral Finn, Mia Andler. From summers sailing island-to-island without electricity to a life and career that seemingly goes wherever it wants, she continues to
do what she loves — spending time
in the wilderness to learn and to do and to be.
“To be honest, I never planned to
do any of it,” she revealed. “I just do the next thing. It’s been easy because it flows.”
Now there’s a lesson from nature if there ever was one.
In addition to teaching children through her school, Vilda, Mia Andler also leads wilderness activities and lessons for adults. She’s looking to expand her adult offerings and is curious what the community would like to learn and/or do. She encourages readers to reach out to her at thisferalfinn.com.
On having wilderness survival skills, Andler says: “It’s empowering knowing that if something did ever go very wrong, I have a freedom because I do have skills. It’s empowering even if there’s no emergency. You can pack less on your next camping trip, being confident in your fire-starting skills or your water-finding skills.”
Growing up in Truckee, Sierra Bohnet never thought she fit in.
“I didn’t vibe with the mountain culture at all,” she says. “I felt like I didn’t belong here.”
Post-high school, Bohnet left town and moved to Boston to attend Berklee College of Music. Upon changing majors from songwriting to music production, she released her fantasy-inspired debut EP “Ëradøn” in 2020.
Her first LP, Astral (2021), delved into the primal psyche of Gen Z, revealing a more complex side of the artist. Rather than writing from experience, Bohnet crafted the songs from her mind’s eye.
“My imagination is out of this world,” she says. “I like to collect magical things. I’m really into reading fantasy books. I’m creating my own world. I have a map. Each part of the map is a part of me.”
By 2023, Bohnet changed her stage name to Nomé Naku (no-may nah-koo). Like David Bowie becoming Ziggy Stardust or Beyoncé’s Sasha Fierce, it was a sign of a distinctive artistic vision beginning to coalesce.
RAISED IN TRUCKEE, fantasy-pop songwriter and producer Sierra Bohnet has found her artistic vision in Los Angeles as Nomé Naku.
“It’s a little bit both me and a character,” Bohnet shares. “I feel it’s me at my purest form, and that’s also a persona I can step into.”
After Berklee, Bohnet moved to Los Angeles, where she now lives in Burbank nearby Universal Studios.
“I chose L.A. for the music industry,” she says. “I’m still figuring it out. I made a few cool connections so far, nothing crazy. If anything, it’s taught me that I can do what I want to do from anywhere.”
Bohnet has collaborated with artists like Saint Mesa, zfromthealphabet, Shrimpnose and Cloudchord, lending grace, power, and depth to their work. But 99% of the time, she works alone.
“I am self-produced,” she says. “It’s a big part of my artistic identity. The whole sound is crafted by me.”
The music’s swirling and expansive yet precise aural tapestries seem woven from the ineffable threads of her primordial being. Based on the raw range of emotions felt in the music, it’s clear that it’s not always easy stepping into the role. The fact that Bohnet is willing to connect with these feelings on such a deep level is a testament to her vision and courage — all made whole through her transformation into Nomé Naku.
When she’s not making music, Bohnet works as a pet groomer to help pay the bills. “I give dogs haircuts,” she laughs.
Bohnet also has an Instagram channel that alternates seamlessly from intense sonic-visual journeys to silly confessions about her wall of fairytale hand-drawings to the quirky intricacies of her makeup routine.
BOHNET WRITES and self-produces cinematic, evocative music inspired by her poignantly felt emotional world and vivid imagination. Photos courtesy Nomé Naku.
After the move to L.A., a two-year barrage of singles releases followed, eventually leading to the self-titled LP Nomé Naku (2025). The album cover features a red-lit image of Bohnet, shot from behind as she wears dragonfly wings with a fire burning inside her chest. The epic feel of the music rides lush-layered vocal harmonies, heavy synth melodies, and tribal percussion, evoking ethereal artists like Aurora, Banks, and Florence + the Machine.
“The new album is a little bit darker, a little more mature,” Bohnet says. “The theme is being a woman … I like my songs to work for whoever is listening. Here and there, I make it very specific, but generally I’ll write about the feeling itself.”
And where do these transcendent soundscapes come from?
“There are so many levels,” she says. “The first level is the actual inspiration for the music. I’m a highly sensitive person, so I feel very deeply. I need a way to channel that. In this lifetime, it’s been music.”
This year, she’s releasing singles in anticipation of her next LP. In the intricate music videos she produces for the songs, Bohnet undulates fluidly into her character — or maybe it’s just deeper within herself.
“It comes from nowhere,” she says. “I have no background in dance or any training whatsoever. That’s how I naturally move to my music.”
The artist recently scored a short film, Transcend the Sword. Some of the songs are sung in her own language, Laroo, for which she’s developed a personal dictionary.
“I have really vivid dreams where I am in different worlds,” she shares. “I had a dream where I witnessed the destruction of a planet in fast motion. Then I wake up and I’m like, ‘Where am I?’”
On weekends and breaks, Bohnet often travels back home to her roots at Lake Tahoe. It’s the place where the dreams began, at least in this world and lifetime.
“As soon as I’m no longer here,” she muses, “I realize — I am a mountain girl. I was raised in Tahoe, but I had to grow into my mountain-ness.”
I didn’t understand — I followed the recipe exactly as I had for the past 30 years. My shortbread always turned out picture perfect. But when I reached into the oven and removed the pan, I heard a shocked voice behind me uttering, “I thought you did this for a living?”
I looked at my sheet pan. It was one giant piece of shortbread. I backed away from the oven slowly, head bowed, mortified.
After a career as a pastry chef and restaurant owner, I moved from Los Angeles to Truckee two years ago. “Up here,” as I say, thousands of feet above my sea-level experience, I learned that high altitude baking was a whole new ballgame.
So, I started asking my new neighbors and friends if they had ever experienced such disasters when baking at high altitude.
LOOKS YUMMY: A plethora of biscotti, including this chocolate chip version by the author, were on the menu at a recent Truckee High Altitude Baking Club meeting.
It turns out they had, and they shared their stories and their secrets. I saw perfect sourdough baked in the Bay Area that just didn’t work up here. I saw brownies that collapsed in the middle. I saw cheesecake as dry as halvah.
I was sorry for their missteps but thrilled to learn I wasn’t alone — and that I no longer had to carry the shame from that glob of shortbread. A bond was created, and the Truckee High Altitude Baking Club was born.
Our mission? To learn the science behind converting “down below” recipes into their best high-altitude version. And for me, it was a push to convert my own professional recipes to be mountain worthy as well.
We meet monthly and text wildly the weekend before, providing real time help like that of the Butterball Turkey hotline at Thanksgiving.
(right) GOODIES GALORE: The only rule for the baking club is that what’s not eaten on site must leave the premises!
Meeting days are like the Pillsbury Bake-Off — men and women marching in unison to the front door, heads held high, carrying their masterpieces in plastic dessert carriers. Once inside, we sit, taste, comment, and learn from each other. The emphasis is not just to drink coffee and compliment every item, but to be truthful; and if someone’s cake is dry as a dog bone, we laugh together and address it while discussing how to create a moister version.
We’re grateful that ingredients are donated by various companies such as King Arthur Baking Company, Tahitian Gold Vanilla Company, Melissa’s Produce, and Olive Nation. We try them out and have a good time doing it.
(The only rule to follow for anyone who wants to attend one of our meetings? What isn’t eaten on site must leave the premises!)
Our “learning food hub” consists of local residents with home baking skills who are willing to share their knowledge, recipes, and experiences of baking successes and failures. Contributors have included locals like Deb Wendell of Edible Art Tahoe, who taught us cake decorating tricks. And our community is augmented by a range of talents across the country who share via Zoom — such as Mimi Council, author of the cookbook The Mountain Baker, and Nancy Goodman Iland of FoodArt LA who educated us all about food styling.
Upcoming events featuring local talent include a cell phone food photography class with Scott Thompson of Scott Shots Photo, a sourdough class with a super talented local bread baker of many years, and a field trip to Tahoe Oil & Spice for an olive oil tasting.
In the future, we plan to rent a kitchen for classes with local residents and to also write a collaborative community cookbook. Due to the high cost of baking ingredients, a baking ingredients co-op has been discussed, and we are open to ideas and whatever else may come our way too. As long as it is about learning and baking at high altitude (as well as cooking and other areas of food), our developing food collaborative is inclined to say yes.
A recent Truckee High Altitude Baking Club meeting delved into biscotti.
If you have ever made biscotti, you know there are quite a few steps. Adding in “the science” to my sea-level recipe, it took me a total of six times with six different versions to get to the point where I no longer laid awake at night wondering whether it would work at altitude or not. Should I try using shortening instead of butter? What about brown sugar instead of white granulated?
In addition to my original sea-level version (which came out as hard as a rock), I ended up making two versions using only vegetable oil, two using only butter, and one with half butter and half vegetable oil.
So, what have I learned?
In a nutshell: baking up here is a sliding scale of more flour, more moisture, less sugar, less fat, and less leavening. And adjusting and adjusting and adjusting the oven temperature. And, remaining calm.
More biscotti specifics:
• At high altitude, the moisture in butter evaporates more quickly than oil because of its water content in a low-pressure environment. Higher-quality butters have more fat and less water, so don’t get cheap with your butter. I recommend the Amish Butter sold at Safeway.
• Vegetable oil works better than butter, creating a moister product because there is no evaporation; the oil tends to spread more, but still provides an excellent result.
• The best way to prevent spreading is to freeze your log before baking. (Tip: Also consider freezing your cookies and scones before baking.)
• As sugar concentrates, it can create over-caramelizing — so double-pan to avoid burning the bottom of the loaf.
• The time to pull your biscotti from the oven is when it is baked toward the outsides but still spongy in the middle. It will continue to bake once removed from the oven.
Should your version come out a bit hard, you can always eat it the way it was originally designed — dipping in tea or coffee to soften it up.
The next recipe the Truckee High Altitude Baking Club will tackle? Focaccia.
~ Liz Thompson has spent over 30 years in the culinary world as a pastry chef and restaurant owner, focusing on recipe- and new-product development. For more information on recipes, upcoming events, or if you have a talent or tip you would like share, visit the contact page at truckeehighaltitudebakingclub.com
Historically, women have been underrepresented in sports and the outdoors. Activities like skiing, mountaineering, and rock climbing are dominated by men, and guiding companies are mostly staffed by men. It’s a barrier some groups are working to overcome. After all, it wasn’t until 2012 that women competed in every sport in the Olympics.
In Tahoe — a smorgasbord for nature lovers and backcountry enthusiasts — several women-led companies have carved a niche for women in the outdoors, empowering them to try new things and create community.
Moonshine Ink spoke with the leaders of three such companies — Alpinistas Adventures, Backcountry Babes, and The Retreat Company — all of whom agreed on the need for women-centric spaces dedicated to adventure.
Alpinistas Adventures was founded in 2021 by Joanne Bienskie when she realized that both outdoor retail and backcountry education weren’t catering to women. Both were lacking, so she started the online store Alpinistas, formerly located on Mount Rose Highway, which then grew to encompass guided excursions for women as well.
“The environment wasn’t built to support women progressing in the outdoors,” Bienskie said, “and it didn’t seem like anyone cared to change that.”
Backcountry Babes owner and CEO Emily Hargraves noted that even among guides, it’s hard to be a woman in a male-dominated field without being exceptional at one’s job. Backcountry Babes began in Colorado in 1997, and its headquarters moved to Tahoe in 2015, when Hargraves took the helm. The company offers avalanche classes within Tahoe and Colorado and runs international backcountry tours.
SKI RETREAT: The Retreat Company plans activities, food, and accommodations with a goal of friendship and connection. Photo courtesy The Retreat Company
“I think women tend to underestimate their downhill ski ability, their uphill fitness,” Hargraves said. “A question that I answer a lot is, ‘Am I going to be athletic or fast enough for this trip?’”
While some women minimize their capabilities after seeing the rigorous portrayal of the backcountry in films, others may find themselves unprepared or ignored.
“I had a lot of interactions with women in the outdoors who would relay pretty negative stories about their experiences with clubs or guide companies when they were trying to learn or recreate,” Bienskie said.
She shared a story of a woman who was left behind by her group and guides when she felt uncomfortable continuing to the summit and didn’t want to turn around alone. She stayed overnight in a snow filled chute without proper gear.
WOMEN RULE: Alpinistas Adventures ventured to Tanzania with an all-female group, led by local women up Mount Kilimanjaro. Photo courtesy Alpinistas Adventures
The story is all too familiar. Choosing the wrong partner for a hike or excursion can turn deadly. And having the right one can make an experience better than one could have hoped for.
“I wanted to create a space also for women to be able to learn these sports and do these things,” Bienskie said.
Alpine divorces — a term coined for cases of women being deserted by partners in the wilderness — have made headlines and gone viral this year, such as the conviction of Austrian hiker Thomas Plamberger whose girlfriend froze to death on a mountain after he abandoned her to continue his trek.
Alpinistas Adventures seeks to provide positive experiences for women. It is even hosting a free upcoming series called Unknown Terrain to supply women with knowledge for navigating the decision of whom to join or take along into the backcountry.
“There’s a lot of new people moving to the region and they just don’t know anybody,” Bienskie said. “One of the biggest challenges that I hear all the time is not having a partner to do X, Y, Z, whether that’s just going on a hike or rock climbing or doing some of these bigger peaks in the wilderness.”
WOMEN RULE: Alpinistas Adventures ventured to Tanzania with an all-female group, led by local women up Mount Kilimanjaro. Photo courtesy Alpinistas Adventures
The Retreat Company founder Charlotte Lilley noted that many women’s entry into the outdoors is led by men. She started her company in 2018 to offer her own camping, skiing, and work retreats, providing a way for women to get out there without depending on a partner. Lilley successfully brings women together and facilitates community. She said that according to surveys, most group members leave the retreats with lasting friendships.
Among a culture of first tracks, personal records, and the next big summit, these women-led and women-only companies are prioritizing the journey, connection, and experience.
“When you have a space like that, it actually gives women more confidence to push themselves harder and try new things,” Lilley explained. “You feel like you can speak up more, ask more questions, and push yourself in a different way when it’s all women.”
Lilley said she receives many comments from women who have only skied with their partners, or whose friends no longer hit the slopes, and want to find new friends for their excursions. Companies like The Retreat Company, Alpinistas Adventures, and Backcountry Babes break down those barriers to finding partners.
“I want to bring [women] together,” Lilley said. “I want it to be like a girlfriends’ trip, but then have people come in who maybe haven’t skied before and I want them to feel comfortable and do this thing.”
THE CAMPING RETREAT offered by The Retreat Company makes space for compassion and community. This retreat was at Frenchman Lake in Plumas County. Photo courtesy The Retreat Company
Hargraves said the experience also increases confidence and camaraderie. There’s something unique about being surrounded by women.
“It’s hard to put your finger on why an all-women’s trip is so special,” Hargraves said. “It’s just joyful, energetic, fun, lots of laughs. Everyone’s chipping in to make sure that everyone’s well taken care of and having a good time.”
Whether it’s for meeting new people, learning a sport under the guidance of a woman, or joining a nonintimidating group, these women-led companies are paving the way and fostering womanhood.
“I think just what we’re doing is creating this entire experience that’s built around women and the way that they actually want to connect with each other and the way that they want to participate,” Lilley said.
If you’ve been following OpenSnow’s Bryan Allegretto for his Lake Tahoe forecasts, you know he’s passionate about accurately predicting what the surrounding mountains will get. He’s the voice of reason when other news outlets and weather services hype up FEET of snow, only for the reality to fall far short. But even for “BA”—as he’s known—the storms in the first week of February 2025 were way off, and by a huge margin. In fact, it was his worst prediction in his nineteen-plus-year career. I had the chance to chat with him to get the inside scoop on what went wrong.
BA’s Soul Crushed
Bryan Allegretto enjoying one of Tahoe’s famous storm cycles when the forecast was spot on.
BA takes his forecasting seriously—so seriously that he’s been keeping a scorecard to track just how spot-on (or not) he’s been. Over the past nine seasons, his predictions for every storm across the Tahoe Basin have been off by just 1.5 inches on average. But during the first week of February, things went way off course. He was off by anywhere from 5.5 to 12.9 inches, with some mountains missing the mark by as much as 2 feet! Normally, when he’s that far off, it’s because the storms delivered more (think: colder, fluffier powder). This time? As far as he can remember, it was the first instance they delivered way less.
Atmospheric Rivers are Tough
One of the many warm storms during the wet n’ wild Jan 2017 season
Lake Tahoe’s weather is infamous for its feast-or-famine cycles, and a big reason is that up to 50% of California’s precipitation comes in the form of an atmospheric river. These intense bands of moisture originate from the tropics and slam into the Sierra. If Lake Tahoe is lucky enough to be on the cold side of it, we get huge snowfall. But if not, it means rain—LOTS of rain. And that’s exactly what happened during the first week of February.
Alarm Bells Ding
As the storms began to arrive in the 5-day window, BA was already mentioning how concerned he was about the forecast. First, the band of moisture was narrow at only 50 miles wide which is tiny in the scope of the globe. If the storm moved even a few miles north or south, the amount of liquid we get would be drastically cut. Then there was the problem of temperatures. It set up a battle royale of two giants – cold air to the north and the warm subtropical air flowing into the northern Sierra. Depending on who wins and when, this “could make a BIG difference in snowfall totals.”
Worst Case Scenario Happened
And that’s exactly what happened. Instead of the storm staying focused on Tahoe, it quickly moved north. While the National Weather Service predicted 30 inches of liquid and BA estimated 22 inches as a conservative forecast for the week, the greater Lake Tahoe area only received a meager 6-12+ inches. The moisture tap shut off before the cold air could move in, and the snow ratios—usually around 10:1—were closer to 7:1. The result? A rude awakening after the storm passed.
“Biggest Temperature Gradients as Far as I Can Remember”
A lot of this came down to how cold it was to the north—a real tease for weather forecasters. It was snowing all the way to the beach in Oregon and even in Susanville. With that much cold air up north, it seemed like it would force its way south, but it didn’t. Instead, the warm air took over. Not just in Tahoe, but across the entire West, where everyone got hit with rain. Jackson Hole was in the 50s, and even Utah saw rain!
Models Aren’t Gospel but a Tool
The GFS model… Snow porn at its finest. For the 1st storm in the larger cycle it predicted nearly 12 inches of liquid! The ENTIRE week only got 6!
The best tool for weather forecasters today is still the weather models. But as BA pointed out, “These are global models. Each micro-climate has its own set of errors. You need to understand these nuances and apply them to your forecast.” Take the GFS, for example. The U.S. model, affectionately known as “snow porn,” always assumes snow ratios are way too high, predicting crazy amounts of snow—and it’s nearly always wrong. Then there’s the Canadian model, which tends to underforecast how much snow places like Mt. Rose will get. The real voice of reason? The European model. Statistically, it’s proven to be the most accurate, and now with A.I. to help fix its errors, it’s getting even better.
OpenSnow Will Learn and Get Better
In the end, BA summed it up best: “It’s hard to forecast storms in the mountains.” But that’s exactly what drew Bryan to this field in the first place—the challenge of forecasting and getting it right. Sometimes, like the week of February 1st, 2025, you get it wrong. But that’s an outlier, and the team at OpenSnow is using it as a learning tool. Instead of taking a back seat, they’re constantly working to improve their product. They’ve even hired a full-time A.I. developer to create their own OpenSnow A.I., which is processing 40+ years of data to correct model errors and improve predictions.
And it’s not all about enjoying the summer for pickleball. The folks at OpenSnow use the “off season” as a chance to reflect and improve. That’s when they discovered the Canadian model’s issue with the Mt. Rose snow forecast. They’re always striving to get better.
We get how tough forecasting can be, and we hope this behind-the-scenes look helps explain the challenges involved. Big kudos to him—and to all of the OpenSnow team—for the hard work they put in!
When looking for a skiing destination, one of the factors that typically comes into everyone’s mind: “Is there more than one ski area to visit?” The answer when talking about the cozy town on the shore of Payette Lake is a wholehearted YES! In fact, McCall Idaho skiing has the perfect amount of resorts big and small to fit everyone’s budget, plans, or vision of what they think a ski town is all about.
McCall Idaho Skiing – Covers All Needs
Photo by: Local Freshies®
Within half and hour from the center of McCall, you have access to three vastly different ski areas. The closest is the Little Ski Hill which is only a few minutes away, offering affordable skiing and schussing under the lights. Less than nine miles away, you have the flagship resort: Brundage Mountain. Not just a ski area but rather a basecamp to outdoor fun such as snowmobile excursions to Burgdorf Hot Springs. The furthest away, but a MUST for all visitors, is Tamarack. This resort is now coming into a renaissance due to a new owner. Both Tamarack AND Brundage are a powder hound’s dream especially during mid-week. You’ll pretty much have each place to yourself. The best part is both of these offer lift-accessed backcountry skiing if you have the gear, knowledge, and fortitude to step outside into the wilderness.
The Little Ski Hill – For 1st Timers & Ski Addicts
Image appears courtesy: Payette Lakes Ski Club
As T.E. Lawrence in Lawrence of Arabia said, “Big things have small beginnings” and the Little Ski Hill in McCall, Idaho is the greatest example of this. Founded in 1937 for local forest workers to recreate during the winter, this quaint area doesn’t have one or two Olympians but SIX who got their start here. Although it may only have a 405-foot vertical drop, it makes sure that every inch of it is maximized. They do this by offering night skiing, a legit terrain park, AND a kid-first attitude that families love. How do you know it’s good? By hearing the laughter and whoops on the slopes. If you’re looking for a fountain of youth or just affordable skiing, this place is it. How affordable? Well, an adult day pass goes for only $30 or hand out $140 and get a SEASON PASS!!!! College students can pick up a season pass for $80 and kids 5-17 can get one for $50.
Compared to other ski resorts throughout the country, the road to Tamarack isn’t treacherous. Heading due south from McCall on Highway 55, follow the massive ridgeline until you pass through Donnelly. We HIGHLY recommend making a pit stop here for breakfast at the Flight of Fancy Bakery. Besides serving tasty pastries and other scrumptious options, their baked oatmeal is the BEST oatmeal you’ll have anywhere.
If you pull into Tamarack’s parking lot mid-week, it will feel as though it’s your own private resort. Although it might have less in-bounds acreage than its cousin Brundage, the 2,800’ of vertical skiing will make sure your legs are screaming especially that you can lap the mountain without stopping. For those that have knowledge about the backcountry, the lift-accessed terrain is MASSIVE since the resort sits on a ridgeline making for easy pickings. That’s just a few of the many reasons you should visit Tamarack Resort.
Brundage Mountain – McCall’s Classic Resort
Photo by: Local Freshies®
Last, but not in any way the least, Brundage Mountain Resort will always be near and dear to our hearts. Looking at the trail map and statistics, you’ll think that it isn’t very big or that it’s pretty mellow. Well, you’d be wrong. Just like all Idaho skiing, you have to look in-between the lines or rather in the glades to find the challenging stuff. For example, from looker’s left, the trails or rather “zones” of the Hidden Valley area holds some amazing steeps you’d find in places like Kirkwood. And if you have a few extra dineros in your pocket, we HIGHLY recommend booking a backcountry guided tour via a snowcat. At over 18,000 acres to explore, the snowcat tours will make sure you find some untracked pow to shred.
Photo by: Local Freshies®
Nordic Skiing
Although we’re focused on the gravity fed version, we have to give a nod to the McCall Idaho skiing version known as nordic skiing. Instead of an afterthought, cross-country skiing here is big. So much so that there are multiple nordic centers that maintain and manage trail networks. The jewel on the crown is Ponderosa Park. It’s located on a 1,000 acre peninsula that splits Payette Lake. Featuring heavily forested trails with rolling topography to ridge tops offering up spectacular views of the lake. The newest edition, opened in 2005, is Bear Basin which contains 30 km of trails to explore. You’ll also find trail networks at Tamarack Resort and the summer activities hot spot for mountain biking at Jug Mountain.
As the throngs of skiers and snowboarders head to busy destinations like Vail, Park City, or Whistler, you may want to consider McCall, Idaho for your next ski vacation. From consistent snowfall, thousands of acres of skiing, and fun winter activities like the McCall Winter Carnival, you’ll understand why we consider not just McCall but ALL of Northern Idaho – the last frontier of skiing. If you want to learn more about McCall like what’s there to do, what places to eat, and even insider tips on how to get there be sure to read our insider’s guide:
It’s no secret nature has a diversity issue. 
