Heavenly Mountain Resort’s summer operations bring an array of thrilling activities and breathtaking scenery to all who visit. From the panoramic views atop the Heavenly Gondola to the excitement of snow tubing, zip lining, and hiking, this mountain paradise offers something for everyone. So don’t miss out on the chance to experience the magic of Heavenly Mountain Resort this summer. Get ready for a memorable journey, and let nature’s beauty captivate you!
Scenic Hike On Top Of Heavenly Mountain
As the summer season kicks into high gear, adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers eagerly anticipate the opening of Heavenly Mountain Resort’s Summer Season. Nestled in the picturesque Sierra Nevada range, Heavenly Mountain Resort is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of exciting activities for visitors of all ages. From breathtaking gondola rides to gemstone panning and thrilling snow tubing, Heavenly Mountain promises an unforgettable summer experience. So mark your calendars and get ready to embark on a memorable adventure in the heart of nature.
Heavenly Gondola: Soar Above the Spectacular Landscapes
Heavenly Mountain Gondolas
The Heavenly Gondola provides visitors with a birds-eye view of the stunning surroundings. As you ascend, breathtaking vistas of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains unfold before your eyes. Capturing awe-inspiring photos, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and revel in the beauty of nature from the comfort of your gondola cabin. This scenic ride is an excellent way to kick off your summer escapades at Heavenly Mountain.
This gravity-powered alpine coaster will exhilarate you and your family as it coasts through the forest and natural rock formations. As always, the views are incredible, and the memories will be too! The coaster sleds fit up to two riders, so you can enjoy this activity with others.
Café Blue and Tamarack Lodge: Satisfy Your Appetite
Eating Outside Of Tamarack Lodge
After working up an appetite, head to Café Blue or Tamarack Lodge to refuel and recharge. These establishments offer convenient grab-and-go food and drink options to keep you energized throughout your day. From delicious snacks to refreshing beverages, you’ll find a variety of choices to satisfy your cravings and keep you going on your summer escapades.
Exciting Adventures on the Horizon
Zip Lining On Heavenly Mountain
The Hot Shot Zip Line offers an adrenaline-pumping experience as you zip through the air, suspended high above the mountain slopes. The Granit Peak Climbing Wall presents a challenge for climbing enthusiasts of all skill levels, providing an opportunity to conquer new heights.
Summer Tubing
While winter may be long gone, the excitement of snow tubing is still available at Heavenly Mountain. Hop on an inflatable tube and slide down specially designed slopes for a thrilling ride. Laugh with friends and family as you race down the hill, enjoying the exhilarating sensation of gliding through the snow. It’s a fantastic way to beat the summer heat and add a touch of winter excitement to your summer adventures.
Hiking Trails: Embrace the Beauty of Nature
Scenic Views on a Heavenly Mountain Hiking Trail
Heavenly Mountain offers a myriad of picturesque paths for hikers of all levels. Lace up your boots and immerse yourself in the natural beauty surrounding you. Traverse lush forests, explore serene meadows, and marvel at breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe. Get ready to take in the tranquility that only a mountain hike can offer.
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:
Japan. Its snow is so legendary that it has coined its own term: ‘JaPow.’ It has become a part of every skier’s and snowboarder’s lexicon. Ranking up there with Steamboat’s “Champagne Powder” and Bozeman’s “Cold Smoke.” We understand if you want to experience where this term originated at Niseko’s ski resorts. But if you’re like us and want to go where no one else is going, we’ve learned that it might be time to go skiing in Hokkaido and experience its ‘Bonchi.’
A map of Japan might make you think that the northern island of Hokkaido is small compared to the rest of Japan, but you’d be surprised to find out it’s nearly one-quarter of the country’s landmass (~22% to be exact) and roughly the size of the state of New York! And there’s more to skiing in Hokkaido than the well-known resorts of Niseko or Rusutsu. There are over 100 resorts to explore in the Hokkaido region alone! On our trip this winter, we learned about a magical place called the “Hokkaido Powder Belt.”
Hokkaido Powder Belt
On Hokkaido, most of the resorts that people visit are on the western side, surrounding the city of Niseko. The Hokkaido Powder Belt, however, is in the center of Japan’s northern island. Using Asahikawa or Furano as base camps, you can access a variety of different-sized ski areas, each offering something unique.
Bonchi – Another Kind of JaPow
As we mentioned in “10 Things I Wish I Knew Ahead of Skiing in Japan,” the sea effect is what makes Japan’s snow so consistently great. While Niseko, being closer to the ocean, benefits from this effect and stays warmer, Hokkaido’s Powder Belt lies further inland. This means it receives slightly less snowfall than Niseko, but the quality of the snow more than makes up for it.
To set it apart from the rest of “JaPow,” central Hokkaido is now calling its snow “Bonchi Snow.” “Bonchi” means “bowl” in Japanese, referring to Furano’s basin-like topography. It also plays on the word “bon,” which means “good” in French, giving it a playful twist—suggesting that this is the land of the best snow, the kind of powder you crave.
Authentic Japan in Hokkaido
Photo by Jaime Pirozzi – Local Freshies®
From every person I’ve spoken to, the Niseko ski resorts feel as if you could be at a Colorado resort just as much as you’re in Japan. On the other side of the spectrum, you have the Tohoku ski areas, which are located in the northern part of the main island. There’s a high likelihood you’ll be the ONLY Westerner at these resorts, and without someone who speaks Japanese, it can be difficult to get around. The Hokkaido Powder Belt is the perfect medium between the two. It still feels authentically Japanese, yet you’ll probably run into people who speak English, especially at resorts, hotels, and restaurants.
Experience Over Pow
On our trip this winter, what started as one of the coldest and snowiest seasons in Japan turned into something unexpected. When we arrived in Hokkaido, a high-pressure system sat over almost the entire country, providing sunny, warm-ish (still below freezing) conditions for skiing throughout our entire trip. The locals told us that a week without snow is unheard of. Even without fresh snowfall, the rich Japanese culture we experienced and the stunning scenery made the trip worth it.
Tomamu
Overlooking Tomamu Resort – Photo by Jaime Pirozzi – Local Freshies®
Photos and videos can leave quite an impression before you even set foot on the slopes. But I’ll admit, the pictures of those two massive towers surrounded by nature felt so foreign to me. I imagined that with two giant skyscrapers, there’d be a sprawling village beneath them just as big. Turns out, I couldn’t have been more wrong. Rather than creating a massive village that stretched across the entire valley, the resort chose to build up, preserving as much of the natural surroundings as possible.
The Skiing
Like many Japanese ski areas, this mountain spans two peaks. From the base, it looks like you’d need to shuttle between them, but in reality, the trails connect the two effortlessly. Tower Mountain, located next to the Towers, is the more mellow of the two. It’s home to night skiing on certain days and “Hotalu Street.” But no matter what the snow’s like, you’ve got to make sure you at least bomb down “Hotalu Street” once. The snow-covered avenue feels like you’re in the video game Skate or Die, weaving through a charming Japanese village.
But the real skiing is on Tomamu Mountain. Right off the Unkai Gondola, head skier’s left, and you’ll find wide-spaced birch trees on a steep pitch just begging to be shredded.
The Ice Village
John LaConte enjoying ice ramen at Tomamu’s Ice Village – Photo by Jaime Pirozzi – Local Freshies®
I’ve seen countless photos of ice villages in places like Iceland and Norway, but I never had the chance to experience one in person—until Tomamu. It was truly magical and something you need to take in if you visit here. Inside, you’ll find an Ice Post Office where you can send a postcard. An Ice Bar serving Japanese whiskey cocktails in glasses made of ice. And if that’s not enough, there’s even an Ice Chapel where, according to the resort staff, there’s at least one wedding everyday throughout the season!
Oh, and there’s an Ice Ramen Restaurant… and let me tell you, that was an experience. The frozen egg in the ramen was like a ramen-flavored gobstopper—definitely something you’ve got to bite into to understand.
Local Freshies® tip: I can tell you right now, whatever you wear normally snowboarding or skiing, be sure to add a layer if you visit the ice village. After a day of skiing, the ice from the village felt as if cold was emanating from the structures.
Furano
Photo by Jaime Pirozzi – Local Freshies®
Even from a distance, its hulking face is impressive. Out of all the dozen or so ski areas we visited in Japan, Furano stands out with the rowdiest terrain—probably why it’s the most popular in the region. The steep slopes are made for expert shredders. The resort itself feels like a mix of different resorts rolled into one. The Ropeway’s cable car reminded me of Jackson Hole’s tram, while the fall-line skiing following the mountain’s natural topography brought to mind Taos’ classic trail system. A shining example of this is the A-3 trail: a fun, steep, twisty, tight run that bounces down the fall line as if it were trying to reenact how a waterfall would flow if it were made of snow.
Through it all, Furano still maintains its authentic Japanese vibe.
On sunny days, the views are stunning. Across the long valley, you can see the massive, treeless peaks looming over the snow-covered farmland below.
Danger Lurks
With each new angle, the mountain reveals more big lines you didn’t catch from the last perspective—and, at the same time, more danger. From the top of Kitanomine, looking toward the backside of the Furano zone, we saw huge fractures that looked like glide avalanches just outside the resort’s boundaries.
Kamui Ski Links
Our guide to Kamui Ski Links Akihiko Wakamatsu smiling after our 1st dawn patrol lap – Photo by Jaime Pirozzi – Local Freshies®
Some mountains stand tall, practically yelling at you, “You got what it takes?” while others are more comfortable in their own skin. Kamui Ski Links is definitely one of the latter. It wasn’t the first impression that blew me away—it was what we discovered once we got to know the place.
Mom & Pop Feel
Out of all the mountains we visited, Kamui Ski Links was our favorite. Why? It has that “Mom & Pop” ski area vibe we all crave. There are almost no “Gaijin” around, just a true community spirit, with race clinics on the mountain and locals enjoying cheap meals of soba and chicken curry with rice in the lodge.
And then there’s the terrain. From the base, it looks like the slopes are short, but that’s not the case. Turns out, their gondola accesses nearly 2,000 vertical feet of skiing. While the terrain might not be as steep as Tomamu or Furano, what it lacks in steep shots, it more than makes up for with a laid-back vibe (aka fewer crowds), accessible glade skiing, and a relaxed boundary policy.
Other Ski Areas
While we didn’t get to explore every ski area, the region is packed with some seriously unique spots. Asahidake is a one-hit gondola that opens up access to Mt. Asahidake’s epic backcountry terrain. Then there’s Kurodake, another one-lift wonder, featuring cliff bands to huck off, chutes to tackle, and steep fall-line skiing that’ll make experts feel right at home. And let’s not forget about Sahoro, which offers an all-inclusive resort experience along with its tree-lined slopes—perfect for some solid tree skiing. Then there’s Pipu, Canmore (not the Canadian one), and Santa Present Park to round out the list.
Where to Stay
The lobby at Asahikawa – Photo by Jaime Pirozzi – Local Freshies®
Resort Living or City Experiences
Depending on the kind of experience you’re after, that will dictate where to stay. If you’re looking for the all-inclusive resort vibe, you’ve got that option. Staying close to the slopes means you’ll be spending most of your time at the hotel, where nightlife is pretty much nonexistent. But if you’re the type who wants to expand your horizons, staying in one of the nearby cities is a great choice. It’ll give you the chance to sample local cuisine, check out shops, and soak in the local scene. In that case, staying in a city might be more your style.
Asahikawa – City Experiences
The town’s architecture feels like if Milwaukee went full-on Japanese and then got dropped next to a bunch of massive mountains. Staying in a real city means you’re in for an authentic experience—straight-up local vibes. For a general rundown of things to try and do along with some tips, check out our Japan Guide. For Asahikawa, here’s what to expect:
Local Cuisine
The city’s known for its ramen, and you’ll find spots serving it all over. But if you want to do a side-by-side ramen showdown, check out the Asahikawa Ramen Village, where eight of the city’s most famous ramen joints are all in one place. Another regional delicacy? Soba noodles. Made from buckwheat, Hokkaido produces nearly 40% of Japan’s supply. These brownish noodles are a staple in Japanese meals, with a nutty flavor and chewy texture. You’ll find them served both hot and cold—perfect for whatever vibe you’re feeling.
Sanroku gai – Nightlife
The Japanese live that New York lifestyle—work hard, play hard, and trust us, they work HARD. As the sun sets, Asahikawa’s entertainment district, Sanroku Gai, really comes to life. This area is packed with over 1,000 restaurants lining the tiny winding walkways, serving up fresh seafood caught right off the local waters. Plus, you’ll find plenty of drinking spots to keep the vibe rolling into the night.
OMO7 Hoshino Resort
For part of our trip, we stayed at the OMO7 Hoshino Resort in Asahikawa. As the name suggests, it’s a resort right in the heart of the city. The lobby features a “wax bar” stocked with high-end waxes and tools, so you can tune up your skis on the spot. Downstairs, there’s a beautiful onsen with soaking tubs, a cold plunge, sauna, and a giant whirlpool—perfect for easing those post-ski aches and pains. We didn’t get a chance to try breakfast, but friends who’ve stayed rave about it. The iconic dish? Waffles topped with salmon. It might sound odd, but apparently, it totally works.
The resort’s central location made it the perfect spot to dive into the local culture after a day on the slopes. Plus, it’s a great basecamp with Kamui Ski Links, Asahidake, and Kurodake all under 90 minutes by car, and even Tomamu just over two hours away.
Tomamu Hoshino Resort- Resort Living
As part of our trip to hit up Tomamu, we stayed at the towers. If you’re coming with a family and don’t feel like resort hopping, Tomamu Hoshino Resort would be the ideal basecamp. Besides the incredible skiing, the resort offers an insane amount of other activities, such as horseback riding in the snow (Jaime sooo wanted to experience this), snowmobile tours, ice fishing, and even curling, to name a few. Inside the towers, you’ll find rooms that are absolutely massive—even by American standards, let alone Japanese. A standard room includes a separate family area alongside a huge bedroom.
Join Local Freshies® in January 2026!
Photo by: Josh Laskin – Alex riding the JaPow from his trip a few years ago
This trip definitely sparked the itch for some more JaPow, especially after seeing what these mountains have to offer. After our last visit in 2023, where we got to experience Japan’s legendary snow (and got totally skunked on our Hokkaido visit), we’re ready to go back to Hokkaido for round two!
If you’ve ever wanted to experience Japan, come join us for the 10-day Hokkaido Indy Trip. More details will be dropping in April 2025.
Ever since Caldor ravaged Sierra a few years ago, the resort has become a powder hound’s dream. Storms would dump feet of snow, and only a few hundred locals would be out shredding it. The question on everyone’s mind was, ‘Will Sierra-at-Tahoe survive?’ If the crowd on Saturday, February 8th, is any indication, it’s returning to its former glory.
Back to the Good ‘Ole Days?
In town, the roads were eerily empty. But as we turned left at 8 a.m. onto the access road this Saturday morning, the drive up to Sierra became a slow crawl, with hundreds of cars winding their way up the mountain. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d seen so many people heading up to ski. By 10 a.m., all parking was at capacity, with cars waiting at the entrance for spots to open up. Talking to friends in town who have been skiing here for years—long before Caldor and the pandemic, during the busy 2015-2017 seasons—they said days like this used to be the norm. In fact, things would get so crowded that they’d call all the ski shops and hotels to let them know the resort was full, sending out text alerts and the whole nine yards.
The Perfect Storm
Photo by: Local Freshies
Without access to data, we can’t be absolutely sure why it was so crowded but can make some educated guesses. Here’s a list of potential factors that may have contributed to the crowds on Saturday, February 8th.
Drought Winter
For the 2024-25 season, January saw little to no snowfall, leading to a build-up of demand for some fresh, soft turns.
Hype Train For The Storms
The Sierra Nevada mountain range is notorious for the hype generated by media outlets. Social media, news stations, and various other platforms were predicting that Tahoe would receive 6 to 9 feet of snow. While this didn’t exactly happen, it certainly fueled the excitement to get up here.
Super Bowl Weekend
Despite not being an official holiday, Super Bowl weekend is one of the most popular times to visit Tahoe, especially with the opportunity to head to the casinos and bet on the big game.
Multiple Events
In addition to everything else, Sierra hosted several events, including a USASA Boardercross competition and a local snow camp aimed at getting young kids on the slopes.
Sierra-at-Tahoe Joins Ikon
The biggest news of the season is that Sierra has joined the Ikon Pass. But is this something locals wanted? Every local we’ve spoken to has shared a similar sentiment: “It sucks, but if it keeps the lifts running, it’s the lesser of two evils. I just hope it doesn’t ruin Sierra and turn it into another crowded South Shore ski area.”
Unlike Epic, which is owned by a publicly traded company, the Ikon Pass is backed by a privately held fund, so any insights about its impact are largely anecdotal. Was the Ikon Pass a factor in the crowds returning? Everyone we spoke to on the lifts had a Sierra-at-Tahoe season pass or another product, like a three-pack. While this may be true, it’s also like a surf break—people might not always tell the full story.
Is this the New Normal?
While it’s refreshing to see Sierra returning to its glory days, every local is thinking the same thing: Will powder days become as crowded as those at other Tahoe ski resorts? Only time will tell. At the end of the day, here’s hoping Sierra continues its comeback after the Caldor fire.
You’ve packed perfectly for your ski vacation by following a ski trip packing list. The alarm rings and you jump out of bed pushing the shades open. It’s blue bird, and there’s over two FEET of fresh snow. Today’s going to be epic! Quickly scarfing down breakfast, you rush out of the cabin for first chair. Music’s blaring. You and your friends are beyond stoked. Today’s the day! Pulling up to the slopes, you jump out and open the tailgate. Your stomach drops. This is when you realize you’ve forgotten something. If this is your first ski day or one of many, learn from our mistakes and use this quick day of checklist to make sure you have all your skiing essentials BEFORE you rush out the door.
Printable Checklist
Once was enough when I forgot a pair of goggles and had to drop another thirty bucks for a pair because it was storm day. Instead of letting this happen again, we created a checklist to make sure we have everything we need before we step out the door. Learn from our mistakes and download our FREE skiing essentials checklist:
The first and quite possibly most important piece of gear is what you’re going to wear. If you wear the right stuff, you’ll be warm on cold days. Cool on sunny spring adventures. Dry when Mother Nature throws a curve ball, and it’s raining/sleeting. To learn about what features to look for in each type of garment, how to identify waterproofness, and a rundown of what to wear in any weather condition, head over to our comprehensive clothing guide:
There’s nothing worse than having cold feet. NEVER ride with cotton. Instead, pick up a pair of merino wool blend or ones specifically designed to keep you warm and wick away sweat like Primaloft or Thermolite. Whatever you do, don’t double up on them either. Just get a pair of ski socks that are a bit beefier like a mid-weight variation.
Base Layers
Think of this as your second skin. Base layers are designed to be snug so that it keeps you warm, but at the same time easily wicks perspiration from your skin. If you grew up in a colder climate, you’ll know these as “Longjohns.” They’ve advanced quite a bit in their technology over the years and feel less like a piece of chainmail and more like a soft satin covering.
Mid Layer
Image appears courtesy: REI
Being based out of Tahoe, this is the layer we don’t always wear but have in the car just in case. Mid layers are things like a fleece or a puffy. It’s that extra bit of warmth on those cold days. This doesn’t have to be for your upper body only. For some reason, my lower body (i.e. feet) gets colder quicker so I typically wear a mid-layer on the bottom and not on my upper body.
Ski Pants
The barrier between you and the elements. Nearly every pair comes with gaiters on the bottom to make sure snow doesn’t go up your leg but from there things begin to vary. If you’re looking for a touch more protection from the wind and snow on the back but with the freedom of no waistband, then you may enjoy going the bib route.
Ski Jacket
Photo by: Local Freshies®
Instead of a heavy insulated jacket, we prefer to go with a shell and then layer underneath. If the sun does come out or the temps suddenly begin to rise, you can quickly shed layers and stay comfy. For a deeper dive on what features to look for in a jacket and some recommendations, be sure to check out our article: Unzip On What To Look For In The Best Women’s Snowboard Jacket.
Gloves
Like most other pieces of ski equipment, gloves or mittens can get pricey rather quickly. It’s not unheard of to spend upwards of $200. If you’re only going out for a handful of days, you don’t need to spend that much. Invest those $$$ on more critical items like the jacket or pants. A great budget friendly glove is the Gordini Gore-Tex Storm Glove or for a few more bucks the Black Diamond. Gordini’s entire mitten and glove offerings are Snow Joke If It’s Freezing Outside. Founded in 1956 and fiercely independent to this day, their focus is less on marketing spend and more about pushing the envelope on technology, offering them to you at an affordable price.
Neck Gaiter / Face Mask
Normally, we carry two neck gaiters. A warmer one that’s a bit heavier in weight for those cold storm days like the Smartwool Merino 150 Neck Gaiter. And then another that’s incredibly breathable that we could use even on a warm spring day like the Buff CoolNet UV+ line. Note: The Buff CoolNet is so breathable you could even use it in a warm climate like Costa Rica if you wanted to protect your skin.
Skull Cap / Balaclava
Although a helmet has insulation to keep you warm, you’ll be grateful to have that bit of extra wind protection when you have a skull cap. Another option is to skip the neck gaiter and go full balaclava.
Equipment
Out of all the skiing essentials, your equipment has A LOT to do with personal preference and skill level. We have MULTIPLE articles going into how to identify the best equipment for you such as Rocker Vs Camber – Which Is Best For You. We suggest starting on our ski & snowboarding equipment homepage and go from there:
Do a quick once over to make sure each bolt is tight and nothing’s broken. I’ve had a few times where my high back somehow lost a screw. I’ve seen and heard countless times where friends don’t feel comfortable on their snowboard — here’s how to Get Yo Stance Dialed – Snowboard Binding Setup so that you can rip with the best of them.
Snowboard / Ski Boots
Check the laces and latches to make sure nothing’s out of order. Frustrated with your current boots? Here’s 7 Things To Look For In The Best Womens Snowboard Boot based on our findings that will help both men AND women.
Ski Poles
If you’re renting or buying a pair of poles, the easiest way to find the right size is to flip them over and hold them underneath the basket. Your forearm should be at a 90 degree angle to the floor with the upper arms comfortably on your sides.
Helmet
Image appears courtesy: REI
The most expensive item in your entire kit is your brain so it’s a good idea to rock a helmet. I learned this the hard way by getting a few concussions in my youth. At a minimum, a helmet protects you from scratches and bruises from a random tree branch sticking out. At its best, the helmet will make sure that if a stray skier, snowboarder, or boulder hits you or you hit it, your noggin has some extra protection. Jaime LOVES her new Drift Wildhorn Helmet. It fits her googles, stylish, and a fraction of the price compared to some of the others on the market.
Goggles
Photo by: Local Freshies®
While ski goggles are one of the skiing essentials to have, this is yet another example of something you don’t need to drop big coin on if you aren’t spending thirty days on the slopes. Focus on the basics. Do they fit your face and helmet appropriately? At a minimum, you want them to reduce glare and block the wind from making your eyes water. We delve into how to find the best pair for you and review all the brands on the market in Get Your “Eye” On The Best Ski / Snowboard Goggles Out There.
Accessories
While some of these are truly skiing essentials like your season pass, others are not as much. But, you’ll be glad you have them such as sun block on those sunny spring days.
Lift Pass
Regardless if you’re a season pass vet or a day pass junkie, there’s a good chance you have to print out something to bring with you when you get to the resort.
Snacks
When the snow is good, you don’t want to waste your time having to stop for food. Just like the Snickers commercial croons “Hungry? Why wait”, stuff your pockets with jerky and granola bars.
Backpack
Image appears courtesy: REI
We don’t normally ride one with one if we’re only going to be out for a few hours. But on those epic storm days where it just keep snowing and snowing, we can’t bare to pull ourselves from the slopes. You can of course ski with a regular backpack, but there’s a good chance you’ll feel like you have a cat attached to your back attempting to toss you over the handlebars. If you’re going to ride with one, we recommend picking up one that’s light and designed to carry a water reservoir like the Osprey Kamber 20 L Snowpack for men or the Kresta for women. It isn’t bulky, and you won’t even notice that you’re riding with it.
Wax
Image appears courtesy: REI
Not as critical mid-winter, but on those warm spring days we typically carry a bit of warm weather paste wax such as Maxiglide or MountainFLOW quick wax and a tiny bit of citrus base cleaner to fend off any stickiness.
Tool
It is true ski resorts typically have a wrench at the bottom of each lift but normally they’re really a pain to use. Instead, have something like a Dakine Torque Driver Tool in your pocket. It has all the different sized bits and will work WAY better than what’s available on the slopes.
Lip Balm
Don’t let the wind and sun leave you with pain. Protect those speakers from the elements with some lip balm.
Sun Block
You’re most likely going to be up higher in elevation which means closer to the sun. Even if it’s cloudy, make sure to dab on some sun screen. Sure, goggle tans are cool but you don’t want to look like a red panda when you get home.
GoPro
If a snowboarder or skier lands a backside 360 in the park and it wasn’t caught on film, did it happen?
Headphones
Mother Nature is all we need on the slopes, but I know for some music is what makes skiing & snowboarding fun.
Ski Trip Packing List
If you’re planning to go on a ski vacation, you need a lot more gear than what we highlight above. Besides the skiing essentials, you’ll also need other items like beanies, flip flops, toiletries, and even a swimsuit. To make sure you don’t forget all those items, use this ski trip packing list to save a week of misery on the slopes.
In outdoor gear, Gore-Tex membranes are the gold standard for protection against the elements. We’ve hailed this material in many of our articles including our backcountry ski jacket guide. And to this day, there are very few proprietary brands from companies like Patagonia or North Face that can provide that kind of protection. A fabric that has started to bubble up as a competitive alternative to Gore-Tex is Dermizax by Toray. We take a deep dive into Dermizax Vs Gore Tex to see how they stack up.
Verdict
When comparing Dermizax vs Gore-Tex it comes down to what you’re looking for in your outerwear. Personally, for 95% of the time I like the Dermizax material. It offers more flexibility and a soft feel, similar to a softshell. It also provides excellent breathability when I’m sweating on the skin track and performs exceptionally well in most snowstorms. On the other hand, Gore-Tex is what I want on a wet Sierra Cement or Cascade Concrete day when the flakes are instantly turning to liquid as they touch me. Jaime, the Local Freshies® Gal, wants superior protection at all times and so she would never part with her Gore Tex Pro regardless of the conditions.
How We Compared Dermizax vs Gore Tex
Jaime wearing the Norrøna Lofoten with the Gore Tex Pro membrane – Photo by: Local Freshies
We’ve done a side-by-side full season test with Jaime using a Norrøna Lofoten Jacket which comes with Gore-Tex Pro and while I used the Ortovox Ortler 3L with Dermizax NX in the exact same elements. Although it wasn’t a perfect comparison since they both use different fabrics on the exterior, it did give us an idea of how they stack up.
Waterproofing
On paper, Gore-Tex Pro has a whopping 28,000+ mm waterproof rating versus Dermizax NX which is rated at 20,000 mm. In simplest terms that means the Dermizax NX material can withstand 20,000 mm of water pressure before it starts to leak versus the Gore-Tex Pro can withstand up to 28,000+ mm. Just to give you an idea how impressive that is — most ski resort jackets come with a 10-15,000 mm waterproof rating.
The Monsoon Test
They say a 20,000 mm jacket can protect you from rain in a hurricane, and that’s exactly what we did. We had the fortunate (or unfortunate) opportunity to test it during a three-hour monsoon at a New York Giants game. Jaime’s Norrøna Lofoten Jacket with Gore-Tex Pro kept her dry, while my Ortler 3L with Dermizax NX performed well for most of it — though I still ended up a bit damp. In “normal” winter conditions, the Dermizax NX performed just as well as Jaime’s jacket.
Winner: Gore-Tex Pro
Breathability
The next important factor is breathability. When you begin to get soaked with sweat in a cold environment, it can lead to a dangerous situation. One of the easiest ways to solve for this is to wear moisture-wicking breathable materials including your jacket. Gore-Tex Pro has a breathability rating of 25,000 g/m2. This means that 25,000 grams of water vapor (I.e. sweat) can pass through a square meter of Gore-Tex Pro in a 24-hour period. Although Toray the manufacturer of Dermizax NX doesn’t provide a breathability rating, we’ve read that it provides anywhere between 30,000 – 50,000 g/m2.
Testing on the Skintrack
Photo by Jaime Pirozzi – Local Freshies®
Within a ski resort, sweating might not be a big deal but it’s a different story on the skin track. Climbing up a mountain can you get warm pretty quickly. On a spring day with temperatures starting well below freezing and hitting highs in the upper 40s, I was blown away with the Dermizax NX membrane. I believe the breathability rating is spot on. Even though I’m the sweaty type, it kept me comfortably cozy in the full range of activities without having to keep taking it on and off. While Jaime, on the other hand with her Gore-Tex Pro, was constantly going on and off with her shell.
Winner: Dermizax
Feel
The final feature that most don’t talk about is “feel.” We’re not talking about Fernando’s Hideaway “dahling” on how you look but how the material feels when you’re moving on the mountain. Do you feel inhibited? Does the fabric make it sound as if you’re crumpling up a piece of paper? For many it isn’t a big deal, but it’s something to at least consider.
Marketing Hulabaloo or Legit?
Gore-Tex fabrics combined with bullet proof denier are notorious for how stiff they feel hence the name “hardshell.” One of the Dermizax NX fabric’s chief competitive advantages that they market is its multi-directional stretch capabilities. Is it REALLY that big of a deal? Before I tried it, I could really care less about feel. I was chasing the “protection against the elements” bug. I can tell you that Dermizax’s multi-stretch abilities aren’t malarkey but legit. Instead of buying a size up, I’m able to rock a more form fitting jacket and still get the protection I need. Jaime, while she cares about the feel, doesn’t care enough to EVER part with her jacket. In fact, she uses it all year long on EVERY adventure from mountain biking to backcountry skiing.
Winner: Depends
Just a few years ago, I would’ve said that there isn’t any waterproofing material that could compete against Gore-tex. It may still be the #1 brand but as you can see from Toray’s Dermizax offering, it might not be the best tool for all situations. It comes down to what you’re looking for.
One of the things we love about skiing and snowboarding in Idaho is that it’s home to some of the few truly independent ski areas left in the West. Resorts like Magic Mountain and Lookout Pass have a special charm that keeps us coming back year after year. However, a tragic incident at Sun Valley has brought the issue of ski area liability to the forefront. After a skier died, his widow filed a lawsuit against the resort. The Idaho Supreme Court’s ruling in this case is setting a new legal precedent, which could lead to significant changes in the future.
What Happened?
In November 2019, a 65-year-old doctor named Stewart Milus from Boise was skiing at Sun Valley. The resort has two main ski areas: Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain. Bald Mountain itself is divided into two sections: River Run and Warm Springs. According to court documents, Stewart was skiing down the lower River Run.
Lay of the Land
An example of the snowguns that Steve Milus hit.
We’ve skied this run before—it’s a wide, groomed trail that leads to the River Run Lodge. As the primary route to the base, it can get crowded. On this particular day, it was moderately busy. The court noted that Stewart was skiing “with poor control.” He crossed into the path of another skier, skied across the backs of their skis, yelled, then fell and crashed head-first into a tall, yellow-padded snowmaking tower in the middle of the run. He was taken to Wood River Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.
Lawsuit Puts Law into Question
Afterwards Stewart’s widow filed a lawsuit against Sun Valley. While the lower courts upheld a 1979 statute, as has been the case for decades, the Idaho Supreme Court took a different stance. The court ruled that a jury should decide whether the ski resort could be partially at fault, regardless of the skier’s actions.
What’s Next
Even though Idaho’s Supreme Court has already made a decision, they are set to hear arguments in February about possibly reconsidering their unanimous ruling. This could return the interpretation of Idaho’s law to how it was before the court’s December 2023 ruling.
Eerily Similar to Mt Hood Ski Bowl’s Mtn Biking Case
Alternatively, the ruling could stand. And if it does, it feels similar to what happened with mountain biking at Mt. Hood Ski Bowl a few years ago. In Oregon, businesses don’t have the same legal protections as those in Idaho. As a result of a lawsuit, Mt. Hood Ski Bowl was forced to shut down its bike park permanently. While larger resorts like Sun Valley and Schweitzer are likely safe, it’s the smaller ones we love—like Pomerelle—that are most at risk. In the worst case, this could lead to closures similar to what happened in Vermont when a lawsuit hit their industry in 1978.
There is a Silver Lining
Jaime’s happy place – Magic Mountain Photo by: Local Freshies®
We like to hold a glass half full perspective. So even if the Supreme Court stands, it may not mean the end for Mom & Pops. There are various outcomes from this ruling that could happen. For example, a new bill could be introduced, similar to the one last February that was proposed by Rep. Barbara Ehardt at the urging of the ski industry. Although the bill didn’t receive a hearing, it aimed to clarify the existing law by adding a clear statement that ‘no standard of care’ applies to the duties of ski areas. In summary, stay tuned as this story develops over the course of the month.
Calling a jacket perfect is pretty subjective and hard to defend. And yet it’s the first thing I put in the title. I have a lot of outdoor gear that I like but very few items make it on the love list. But the Mammut Taiss HS Hooded Womens Jacket is one of them covered in crayon hearts and googly eyes.
Jack(ie) of all Trades
Most would argue that being decent or even good at lots of things isn’t a desirable quality. You’d want to be great at something and leave the mediocre part behind. But what if you could be great at lots of things? I know. It sounds like a load of fairy dust. But I say dump it on my head and call me a princess because this coat exceeded any expectations I had about it.
My first thought was I might use it for spring skiing or just throw it over my puffy to stay dry in a rainstorm. And I will wear it for both of those, but it also lines up with hiking, trail running, biking, resort snowboarding, and especially backcountry splitboarding. What I’m saying is, the Mammut Taiss HS Womens Jacket will be a top go-to choice for all the outdoor activities I do. That’s my bold statement… and here’s why.
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a moderately priced jacket that can cross many seasons and sports, this is a solid choice. When a piece of gear is versatile, that can help with the cost as you’ll get more use and potentially need less gear overall. I put this Mammut Taiss HS Hooded Womens Jacket in the same functional category as my previously mentioned Norrøna Lofoten backcountry jacket. And while they aren’t a 1:1 comparison, the Mammut is half the price of the Norrøna but will get just as much, if not more use across the year.
Preferences on a hardshell span wide when it comes to jackets. This jacket might be named HS and hold the durability, waterproof, and breathability of a hardshell but it is as soft-feeling as you can get. It actually feels silky smooth. No crunchy sounds. No weird creases against your arms when you bend. Just plain enjoyable to wear.
Two is the Right Number… of Pockets
More pockets doesn’t make a jacket better. It just means more zippers. More random places to stuff things, like a junk drawer that’s out of control. For me, where the pockets are and their size are MUCH more important than how many pockets it has as a whole. This jacket’s pocket game is simple. Two pockets on the chest, deep in extending to mid waist and a small interior pocket. That’s it. And that’s all it needs.
In action sports, pockets that sit low on the waist can hamper your stride when loaded, making hinging at the hips uncomfortable and conflicting with backpack waist straps. These two chest pockets sit at a height that won’t constrict breathing if filled or impede a backpack chest strap or chestie mount. For me personally, I need deep pockets to stash cameras. If I’m forced to put my cameras or video equipment in my backpack, I have a higher likelihood of not capturing a moment because I don’t want the hassle of taking off my bag. These chest pockets are deep enough to hold GoPros with sticks, small DSLR cameras and even cell phones with gimbals or handheld grips.
Rolls Up to Travel Size
When outdoor galavanting whether it be on feet, wheels, or snow, you might not want to wear the jacket all the time. That means you need to be able to take it off and stash it somewhere small, either in a pocket or your backpack. The Mammut Taiss HS Hooded Womens Jacket squishes down to a handful that can easily be stuffed anywhere. You never have to choose whether to bring it or not because taking it off won’t be a hassle to carry.
A Hood for a Big Head
Well not a big head, per se. But when you have a helmet on but want to pull your hood over it comfortably so your neck still bends, swivels, and you aren’t choking or feel like you have blinders on, this jacket does it. I tried pulling it over both a snowboard helmet and mountain biking helmet and both were still comfortable to see and wear. That’s a nice bonus if you get caught in a rain storm and want to keep water out of your neck and eyes. One word of caution though. If you have an underneath layer that also has a hood, be aware that it may make the outer Mammut hood too tight or not fit as comfortably as it would with no additional hood fabric wadding up behind your neck. Too many hoods can be a bad combo.
No Throat Zipper Choking
A great jacket can be ruined when you zip it up all the way to the top and the material is so rigid and abundant under your chin that it feels like you’re choking. The ultra soft texture of this jacket helps alleviate that feeling completely. There is enough material under your chin that you could pull it over your lower face to block weather or it can curl under your chin out of the way as if it wasn’t even there.
Two-way Underarm Zipper for Flexibility
Underarm ventilation is mandatory on any outdoor coat, regardless of what you’re doing. Sometimes you just need to let in some air. It’s a nicety to have dual zippers, letting you choose if you want to directly let your armpit breathe or open from the bottom for more side venting. But when it comes to backpacks, you must have the dual option to easily let you vent without having to remove your pack to find a zipper. When my backcountry pack is on, it blocks the lower section of the vent so having the upper zipper as an option makes venting very easy without touching my backpack at all.
A True Year-Rounder with Credentials
Mammut markets this jacket as a hardshell for year-round use. And I fully agree with that description. The flexibility to move allows you to use it for many sports throughout the year. And with performance, it rates the highest at 6/6 by Mammut standards for water impermeability, breathability, and windproof. That’s hard to beat. The Mammut Taiss HS Hooded Womens Jacket also rates high at 4/6 for durability, packability, and lightweight. Since I don’t do rough sports like climbing, I can’t argue durability as I won’t be scraping it across sharp surfaces. But I do think they are being a little hard on themselves for packability and lightweight features when I can roll it up in my hand and it feels like I’m wearing nothing when it’s on. But I know if you count grams and mm for size, they do have jackets that are smaller and lighter.
Layerability
This jacket is stated as Mammut’s Regular Fit. They describe it as “comfortable to wear with plenty of movement… perfect for layering.” They also offer different jackets in another fit called Ski Regular. The difference in description is that the Ski Regular is better for underneath warm layers, helmets, and transceivers. So naturally, I would say I want the Ski Regular instead of just Regular. But that’s not the case. The Mammut Taiss HS Hooded Womens Jacket, with its Regular Fit rating, allows me to do everything the Ski Regular calls out and with comfort. This jacket is comfortable over a helmet, has plenty of space for an underneath transceiver, and I always wear a base layer AND a Patagonia puffy under my shells. I can fit all of this underneath this Regular Fit coat with no complaints.
Sizing
I think it’s a female thing, but I always worry about what size to get. Two-dimensional drawings of measurements never pan out in the real world for me. I always take my measurements as they recommend and then I still worry I bought the wrong size. And many times I do.
For this jacket, I sit right at the upper range of Medium but could technically sit in the Large (on paper more comfortably.) My first thought was to size up and get the Large so I could be more roomy and comfortable. But there’s always that nice feeling when you get the actual right size and it fits just how you want, without feeling like you’re wearing a garbage bag just in case you put on four more coats underneath. I have another backcountry coat, the Norrøna Lofoten, which is very similar in style and function. I went with my real-life example and picked the Medium for the Mammut because the Norrøna is a Medium as well and fits spot on with all my layers and cameras.
The final verdict on size: the Medium was the right choice. I can put all the layers I want underneath as well as my camera equipment and still move freely outdoors. And if I just want to wear it out to the store or on a winter’s day, it looks like it fits and isn’t ridiculously oversized.
Even Perfect isn’t Perfect
As you can tell, I am stoked on this jacket and plan to use it a lot across the seasons. My vote is it’s in the WIN column and a recommended buy. But this review wouldn’t be balanced if I didn’t have something I wish was improved. Nothing is ever perfect-perfect.
More Color Please
When it comes to creating visuals, there’s nothing worse than dark colors, especially black. Nothing black looks good outdoors in photos or videos. There’s no pop. No pizazz. Just blah. Sadly, this coat is Marine Black which is the darkest blue possible before actually being black. Most companies today don’t make bright, electric colorways anymore and that sucks. Nothing like the 80’s. Everything was neon! I will wear this coat a lot, but I will have to think twice when on photo/video shoots because of its dark, un-photogenic color. I can only dream of a bright green, orange, blue, or yellow even!
A Bit Extra Length
With constant movement whether it’s by biking, running, or snowboarding, a little extra length is nice just to keep things from creeping up. If I could just get an inch extra on the back of this coat, I would be beaming with joy. So far in wearing it, it has stayed put with my backpack and when running around in it, but a girl can wish for just one more inch in the caboose to keep things covered 100% of the time.
Not everything is price driven when you buy gear, as warranty, durability, special use, etc. all matter tremendously. But, many times it really does come down to cost. Will it last as long as a jacket twice the price and with a longer warranty period? That’s to be seen, but for now, I will enjoy wearing it as much as I can.
Regardless of whether you’re a skier or a snowboarder, camber and rocker are two terms that have likely been introduced into your vocabulary. We’re taking a close look to define what they are, how they differ, and to help you determine whether rocker or camber is better for you. But first things first: let’s start with what they actually mean.
What Is Camber
Image appears courtesy: REI
Merriam-Webster’s definition of camber is “a slight convexity, arching, or curvature, as of a beam, deck, or road.” In this case, it refers to the curve on a pair of skis or a snowboard. If you lay a board or skis flat on their base and look at them from the side, you’ll see what appears to be a reverse arc.
Why Do They Have Camber?
The reason for this arc is that it provides increased contact against the snow and springiness between your feet. The result is it allows you to make the perfect arc when carving. Another advantage is that it gives the rider or skier a natural “pop” when ollieing.
How Traditional Camber Came To Be
Image appears courtesy: Pixabay
Snowboard technology over the years hasn’t lived in its own bubble but rather looked around at other board sports like surfing and skateboarding. One of the ideas that was influenced by skateboarding was camber. Longboards with camber were designed so that when weight was applied, it created a reverse arc making it easier to carve a continuous “S” path by just leaning left and right.
Skis Adopted Camber
Skier Darin Haworth enjoying the fresh powder at Kirkwood – Photo by: Local Freshies®
Snowboarding may have drawn inspiration from other sports, but skiing’s use of camber dates back much further, all the way to the 1840s. Camber made it possible to create thinner, lighter skis. What skiing did borrow from snowboarding, however, was the concept of camber combined with a more aggressive sidecut, which led to the creation of what were known as “parabolic skis.” This innovation was such a significant leap forward in technology that many at the time claimed it “revived” the sport. Whether or not that’s true, it undeniably impacted skiing, introducing a whole new way of sliding down the mountain that the two-plank crowd hadn’t experienced before.
Rocker – The New Style
Image appears courtesy: REI
For decades, camber was the only shape that dominated the market, and there was no debate over rocker vs camber. That all changed when Lib Tech sparked the “rocker revolution” by introducing the Skate Banana. This was when the flip side of camber—rocker, or reverse camber—was introduced. From the side, a ski or board with rocker will appear to “smile” at you.
McConkey – The Man Who Brought Rocker To Skiing
The rocker shape was introduced by Shane McConkey on the skier side with his Volant Spatula Skis. When they came out, reviewers used terms like “fun”, “easy”, and saviors to the sports of skiing/snowboarding. This “banana” shape made it extremely easy to ride fresh powder when it was deep due to the natural arc already formed.
The Waterboy Argument
These two vastly different ski and snowboard designs had created a passionate debate between rocker vs camber. It’s like the scene from the movie Waterboy where Bobby Boucher has the argument on water versus Gatorade. I’ve heard friends on both sides make statements like:
“You can’t land on the bolts when it’s a rocker. I feel like I’m fighting a wet pig in the park. Camber all the way.”
“Deep pow on a camber? No way! All the board wants to do is dive like a submarine and make me tomahawk.”
What’s Better Rocker Or Camber?
So, which shape is better in the eternal rocker vs camber argument? Unfortunately, it isn’t an easy answer. For those with the money, a “quiver” might be your best option. A quiver is a set of decks or skis that you can pick and choose from depending on the conditions and skill level.
Rocker In Your Arsenal
Image appears courtesy: Diamond Peak – Photo by: Ryan Salm
If you’re going heli-skiing, cat-boarding, or wake up to 3 feet of deep powder, floating in the bottomless snow is VERY critical. A good choice for this is the Rocker. The natural “U” shape allows you to float easily through the snow without having to lean far back to get through it. It will provide effortless float. This includes Lib-Tech’s original banana profile and Arbor’s Rocker Profiles.
The Cons To The Rocker
Personally, a full rocker board feels a little squirrelly at high speeds. Locking into a turn, the board feels “soft” and loose more like a skid instead of a carve.
Locked n’ Loaded For A Camber
On the other hand, if your focus is on carving groomers or shredding through resort powder that’s only a few inches deep, at best a camber deck might be the funnest shape for you. As a purist, the ability to make a perfect carve and explode out of your turn allows you to exit faster than you went in.
World Of Camber Hurt
For friends who’ve started snowboarding for the first time, a bigger camber and/or sidecut could cause you to get frustrated. Think of it like tight suspension on a sports car. The design provides a more responsive ride, which means you could easily catch an edge. In addition, a true camber’s flex will make it a bit more difficult to keep the nose afloat in deep snow.
The Rocker Revolution Brings Hybrid Designs
Luckily, the answer doesn’t have to be one or the other. After the dust had settled with rocker vs camber shapes, there has been an explosion of all kinds of different ways of thinking. Both skiing and snowboarding manufacturers have begun to push the envelope on what’s possible with the arc. Shapes from a “flat” board to all sorts of hybrid combinations coming together into one deck.
Goldilocks Would Like Hybrid
If you’re looking for one board to rule them all, a hybrid is what you want. Is it the best in all conditions? We’ll be honest… when Lib Tech released the “banana” boards, we loved the different surfy feeling to it. Over the years though, we’ve gone the hybrid route for any days with soft snow and a true camber board for groomer days or spring.
Most Popular Hybrid Styles
Image appears courtesy: REI
Despite having an infinite amount of combinations, there are certain styles that are more prevalent than others. Here’s a few of them:
Hybrid Camber
This is when the design is primarily a camber between the feet but rocker at the nose and tail. Snowboarders or skiers that love a camber design but want a little help keeping the board afloat in deep snow will love it. For beginners, this will also help keep you from catching an edge.
Hybrid Rocker
The gold standard in pow slashing – the T.Rice Orca
The opposite of the Hybrid Camber is the Hybrid Rocker profile. Instead, it has rocker in the center and camber on the tips. In addition, both the nose and tail are still off the ground unless the board is weighted (i.e. someone standing on it). Hybrid Rockers still help with float but also ride better than a traditional rocker at higher speeds.
As the name states, these are designed to primarily ride in one direction. The natural binding location is usually setback a bit. The focus is on camber from the tail of the board/skis to the front bindings. The nose is longer with a pronounced rocker uplift. This style provides stability like a classic camber, but the tip allows you to float easier in powder.
Within this category, there are a few different profiles. Overall, the base it flat from tip to tail. At the nose and tail is where the unique flavors come in. Some have minor camber. Others have a few millimeters of rocker on each end. Others are flat for most of it and only have rocker from the front bindings through the nose to help with float. This is an awesome option for those who like to hit park, rails, or tinker around on kickers.
An example of a flat profile is the Capita Ultrafear or for those who want a boost in technology, we recommend checking out the BataleonTBT profiles. Not quite flat. Not a true rocker. They’re their own design that’s been patented.
What To Look For In A Hybrid
As you can tell, picking the type of snowboard you ride is a purely personal preference. For example, Jaime LOVES a board that has WAY more camber than I do but with a bit softer flex. Me, on other hand, for years looked for a camber-rocker-camber design such as the Orca. This allows the board to carve well but at the same time helps keep the nose afloat. Is it perfect? Nope, but it’s a great go-to option on most days.
Consider ALL Snowboard Shapes
A unique snowboard shape is the Weston Revel – Photo by: Jaime Pirozzi – Local Freshies®
As I personally came to realize when picking your snowboard or skis, the rocker vs camber debate is just one factor to consider. You also need to think about all the other shape and technology features, such as “magna-traction,” sidecut, and whether the board is “volume-shifted.” Our detailed article, Shape Up or Ship Out on Snowboard Shapes: Types, Terms, & More, covers all of these factors in depth. Ultimately, there are many choices when it comes to brands. Now that you have a better understanding, get out there, demo some new boards, and let us know what you think!
For more tips about gear from finding the right jacket to a pair of goggles and more, be sure to visit our Skiing & Snowboarding Gear homepage.
In Lake Tahoe, the adventure isn’t complete without your pup by your side. Read on to discover the best activities, restaurants, and places to explore with your furry friend in tow. If you think you’ll love Tahoe (you will), just imagine how much your dog will. From dining out to treks around the lake, you’ll quickly realize that this lake town is doggy heaven. There are so many places to explore in dog friendly Lake Tahoe!
First things first, selecting a pet-friendly hotel
With a whopping 43 pet-friendly hotels, you’ll find options that welcome your fur family and suit every taste and budget. Explore pet-friendly lodging here.
Start With the Bijou Community Dog Park
If your dog needs to let off some steam, head to Bijou Community Dog Park. This expansive park features three areas for dogs: one for big dogs, one for little dogs, and an agility course. It’s the perfect spot to let them roam off-leash and burn off some energy.
Once your pup is happily tuckered out, take a stroll and explore the rest of this amazing park. You’ll find a basketball court, a bike park and track, volleyball courts, a skateboard park, and a disc golf course with 30+ holes. There’s even a gazebo area, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the day.
Dog-Friendly Beaches in Tahoe
When it comes to dog-friendly beaches, Kiva Beach is where you want to be. You will have a wide-open beach to roam. This spot also offers astounding views where the marsh meets the lake, looking right up at majestic Mount Tallac.
Kiva Beach Lake Tahoe
Another great beach is North Zephyr Cove Beach; just be sure you are not on the resort’s private beach.
Regan Beach is a lovely park. With lots of sandy beach for dogs, the water is shallow enough that it’s also ideal for small dogs. For more dog-friendly beaches and general beach info, check out Tahoe Beaches.
Conolley Beach, located midtown in South Lake Tahoe, is a shallow water beach, with limited parking. Dogs are permitted on leash, and it’s close to restaurants, water sports rentals, and a marina.
Dog-Friendly Hikes in Tahoe
Hiking Mt Tallac Lake Tahoe
For the best views of the whole lake, the Mt. Tallac hike offers the most stunning scenery. This is one of the longer, more challenging trails at over 10 miles, even taking the shortest possible trip. You do not have to summit the peak to enjoy some great views. Cathedral Lake is a perfect place to stop and enjoy a picnic before turning around or heading up the final ascent. If you decide to go for the entire hike, you and your dog will need plenty of water for the strenuous journey. There’s no feeling more incredible than being up in the clouds towering over Lake Tahoe and its surrounding forests.
If you’re looking for those great views but something less intense, check out Van Sickle Bi-State Park. The Van Sickle Trail connects with the Tahoe Rim Trail, allowing you to access many more trails, but it also offers scenic views within the first mile of the hike. This park is excellent for dogs of all sizes.
Glen Alpine Falls
A personal favorite is to venture out to any of the numerous waterfall hikes (excluding Lower Eagle Falls), especially Glen Alpine Falls (lower or upper). The nice part about starting at the trailhead is that you’ll have the option to connect to a number of different hikes that all lead to or loop around lakes, streams, and even past some cool historic spots.
Most trails around the Tahoe Basin allow dogs as long as they are leashed. Anywhere along the Tahoe Rim Trail is an exceptional option with views. Although we love our dogs here, this is not the type of place where you’ll see disposable bags at every trail or beach, so always remember to be prepared and treat our home like it’s your own. Come prepared to pack it in, pack it out.
After exploring, you’ll want to find something to eat…
AleworX @ the Y | What could be better than live music, wood-fired food and craft beer? A spot with a patio and firepits where you and your pup can kick back year-round.
Azul Latin Kitchen | With a sizeable outdoor patio, live music, and a fresh Latin-fusion menu, Azul will delight your tastebuds. Don’t miss the margaritas.
Basecamp Beer Garden | Located at Basecamp Hotel, this cozy nook is tucked away in the heart of downtown. With lawn games in the summer and warm firepits in the winter, cruise by and see what it’s all about.
Elements Eatery & Bar | Featuring a lake view patio and serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this is a great choice for dining with your fur family.
The Hangar | This place is a whole vibe! This is a must with 26 rotating beers on tap and more specialty options in the cold case, plus food trucks and a whole outdoor area where dogs can play. Bonus? In wintertime, they have giant clear igloos with heaters inside to stay toasty while you are toasted.
Sprouts | Serving an array of healthy breakfast and lunch options, including freshly squeezed juices and delicious smoothies, Sprouts is famous among locals and is just steps from Lakeview Commons Beach.
Stateline Brewery | Located in the heart of downtown, Stateline offers great food and great brews in the middle of all the action, served by kind and knowledgeable staff.
Helpful Resources for Traveling with Your Furry Best Friend
If you are ever unsure of where and what you are or aren’t allowed to do, it can’t hurt to visit the USDA Forest Service site for up-to-date information regarding tips and rules for enjoying our parks and nature. You can also view Rover’s tips for flying with your pet here.
We can’t wait to see you and your pup enjoying one of America’s most magnificent natural treasures. Please remember to pack it in and pack it out wherever you go, which means bringing plenty of dog waste bags and potentially a ziplock to put them inside for longer treks. Thank you for helping us keep this slice of heaven pristine for all.
Support SAC while finding new backcountry partners!
SlabLab is a new backcountry-specific platform for finding great partners built by two Truckee locals. Not only can you search based on the qualities you want in a partner, they have great resources to help you improve your communication and teamwork in the backcountry.
Sign up using our link and SlabLab will donate $5 to the Sierra Avalanche Center.
If you’re still in Lake Tahoe, you’re in for a treat! You’re witnessing the peaceful shift from summer’s energy to autumn’s golden glow. And if you’re just arriving, welcome, you’ve made a brilliant choice. September is Lake Tahoe’s best-kept secret: the crowds thin, the air turns crisp, and the lake sparkles with a new kind of magic. As summer gently steps aside, Lake Tahoe continues to shine, offering adventure, tranquility, and breathtaking beauty at every turn.
Although the nights are cooling off, the days are still plenty hot for all your outdoor lake activities. The kids are back in school, the bros and broettes have flocked back to their frats, and the seasonal influx of tourists has started to dwindle down with the exit of our Burning Man drifters. The town is quieter (if only for a month or two) but never too quiet, summer’s hustle ‘n bustle is shifting to fall festivities. Don’t get me wrong, we don’t mind sharing our home with the many visitors eager for some Tahoe time, but we will gladly enjoy these last weeks of summer heading into fall with a bit less traffic. Our businesses and local organizations have prepared for an eventful month. Make sure you get out and take advantage of it all while you can.
Labor Day Weekend
Heavenly Village Midway Art & Music Festival, Friday, August 29th through Sunday, August 31st, Lake Tahoe will celebrate a Labor Day last call: an amped-up holiday weekend of non-stop activities. Live music, Classic Car Show, Art Show, Carnival Rides, and to cap it all off Fireworks!
Teddy Swims at Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre at Caesars Republic
The soulful Teddy Swims will bring his powerful vocals and genre-blending sound to the Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre at Caesars Republic (formerly Harveys), on September 6, 2025! With a mix of R&B, pop, and country, Teddy’s live shows are an experience you won’t want to miss. Prepare for an unforgettable night under the stars! The show starts at 7:30 p.m.
Darius Rucker Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre at Caesars Republic
Saturday, September 13, 2025, 7:00 pm, Darius Rucker is coming to the Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre at Caesars Republic for a magical night under the stars!
Car Show at the Heavenly Village
Good Sam Safe Ride is back with their Cool September Days Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show right at the center of the Heavenly Village. Friday through Sunday, September 12th – 14th, head to the village for a stroll around some seriously cool cars, new technology, and more. For just $45, you can enter your own car, truck, or motorcycle.
Fall Ale Fest and Chicken Wing Cook-Off in the Heavenly Village
Join us for the ultimate celebration of fall flavors at the Fall Ale Fest and Chicken Wing Festival Saturday, September 13th in the heart of Heavenly Village, Lake Tahoe’s #1 destination! This lively event promises to be a feast for the senses, bringing together the best of craft beers and the most mouth-watering chicken wings for a weekend of fun and flavor.
Sample the Sierra
Saturday, September 6th, is the always awesome Sample the Sierra event at Bijou Community Park. The event is a farm-to-fork festival celebrating the best of food, wine, and art in the Sierra Nevada. The event brings together local restaurants with neighboring growers/producers to turn out scrumptious samples craftily paired with an appropriate wine or brew. Vendors will be set up for locally made goods such as jam, soap, honey and olive oil along with specialty products created right here in the county, such as fine art, jewelry, and crafts.
Be a Next Level Visitor
No matter what you decide to do around Lake Tahoe’s south shore, be sure to leave everything you brought with you and properly dispose of it. Some trash areas may be full, so plan to dispose of your waste when you return to where you’re staying.
You could even be a next-level steward and pick up a few pieces of discarded trash while you’re there. Cleaning up a few small pieces of plastic or bringing an extra dog waste bag can go a long way toward protecting Lake Tahoe’s wildlife, clear water, and breathtaking views.
Keep Tahoe Awesome
The clearest blue water. The brightest green mountains. It’s awe and then some, but all this awesome doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from locals and visitors’ mutual respect for the South Shore. That’s why we created Rules to Lake By Five Ways to Practice Responsible Tourism at Lake Tahoe, so we can keep this place awesome today and awesome tomorrow.
Check out our events page for a full list of what’s happening this month, including many different concerts, charitable races/marathons, and other shows for any night of the week.
Two Perfect Autumn Days in South Lake Tahoe. There’s no season quite like autumn around Lake Tahoe’s south shore. A time of ever-changing beauty, the fall months are a perfect time to recharge or let loose, all while taking in the incredible sights, smells, and sounds that Big Blue delivers.
Couples can easily make memories that will last a lifetime here, which has an inclusive community, miles of beaches, and endless trails to explore.
Vivid autumn colors on the hike between Spooner Lake and Marlette Lake. Photo by @dawncerf.
Day One
Welcome to South Lake Tahoe!
From the deep waters of the lake to the sea of emerald pine trees, all the way to towering granite peaks, soak up the incredible sights of Lake Tahoe. Take in a few big breaths of crisp, cool mountain air and smell the scent of pine trees that lingers throughout the area. You’ve made it!
Lakeside Cabin at Zephyr Cove. Photo by Rachid Dahnoun.
Looking to pair an incredible view with delectable food? South Lake Tahoe offers a variety of lake view dining options to let you get right into the heart of your getaway. Towering windows at The Edge Restaurant & Lounge frame Tahoe’s picture-perfect vistas while tables frame enticing cuisine. Romantic views are elevated, literally, at the Chart House Lake View Restaurant. High on the mountain between Lake Tahoe and the Carson Valley, the Chart House’s immaculate view of Lake Tahoe and the mountains can only be matched by the sumptuous dishes you will surely find.
After a well-deserved meal, it’s time to get out and explore Tahoe’s miles of trails by foot or by bike. You don’t have to spend a lot of time or walk very far to find incredible views.
A backpacking couple looking over the lake and mountains. Photo by Brian Walker.
It’s almost time to get out onto the water, but first, let’s test your luck at a table inside one of South Lake Tahoe’s casinos.
Some of the most memorable moments of your trip can be found on the deck of a Lake Tahoe boat tour. The M.S. Dixie II, Rum Runner Cruise, Tahoe Bleu Wave, and many more are waiting to set sail for adventure with you onboard. Some boat tours also offer dinner, so be sure to take advantage of that if you’re hungry from the fun of the day.
Two women eating on the M.S. Dixie II
Don’t let the sun set on your first night without busting some of your best dance moves at the hyper-modern and uber-chic, Opal Ultra Lounge inside Bally’s Lake Tahoe. Let their DJs bring you to your feet and dance into the wee hours.
Day Two
You’re halfway through your two-day stay, but there’s still plenty to do! Fill up for the day at Red Hut Cafe. Try the popular biscuits and gravy or enjoy a fluffy omelet with fresh fixings of your choosing. In the mood for a bagel? Stop by Tahoe Bagel Company for (possibly) the best bagel you’ll ever eat.
It’s time to peep the beautiful fall colors of Lake Tahoe, and the secluded Hope Valley is just the place to see the best fall foliage around. To get there, drive from South Lake Tahoe on Highway 50 toward Echo Summit for approximately 5 miles and turn left at Highway 89 south. Continue over Luther Pass to Pickett’s Junction, and you’ll be there!
Scenic views of fall foliage with an empty barn in a meadow. Photo by Rachid Dahnoun.
With leaf peepin’ out of the way, it’s time for some lunch before getting back to town, and there’s nothing like perfectly prepared, authentic Thai cuisine. My Thai Restaurant’s specialty spicy chicken is definitely worth a try!
With the trip almost at an end, it’s time to saddle up on a horse and get back onto the trails. Lake Tahoe stables provide the unique experience of sitting six feet off the ground on a sturdy steed that gently ambles along select pathways and allows you to focus your attention on the sun glistening on damp meadow grass and the fleeting beauty of Tahoe’s changing seasons.
Some fun in the saddle. Photo by @sarahrdrill.
No trip to Lake Tahoe is truly complete without at least dipping your toes into the cold, clean water. While fall isn’t exactly prime swimming season, there is still plenty of daylight for a trip to one of Tahoe’s many pristine beaches for those looking to test the waters or catch an early Tahoe sunset.
You’ve already tasted some of the best food that South Lake Tahoe has to offer, but now it is time for some comfort food before solemnly packing your bags and mentally preparing yourself to leave this beautiful place. Order a pizza or stop by one of our favorite burger joints for one last taste of Tahoe.
Firepit dining. Photo by Paje Victoria.
Ready to extend your trip? You’ve only scratched the surface of all that there is to do and see during fall around Lake Tahoe’s south shore, and there’s plenty more to discover (and re-discover)! Share your trip with us by using the hashtag #VisitLakeTahoe on your next trip!
Rules to Lake By
Keeping the South Shore Awe and then Some takes a little effort from a whole lot of people. That’s why we encourage locals and visitors alike to live the Rules to Lake By: five simple ways to keep Lake Tahoe clean, visit responsibly, and ensure everyone feels welcome.
Some of the most idyllic memories are created while visiting South Lake Tahoe. Hundreds of days of sunshine annually and bountiful entertainment both inside and out have long enticed guests to this awe-inspiring natural spectacle to unwind and make their dreams a reality.
Especially romantic reveries.
Couple having cocktails outside at Edgewood Tahoe
Couples can easily make two magical summer days amidst South Lake Tahoe’s mystique. Inclusive of all, Tahoe is incredibly welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community, and invites anyone in love, or perhaps duos seeking to find those depths, to discover inspiration on the banks of its otherworldly waters.
Perhaps you’ll even find depths of your relationship rivaling the depths of the lake you behold…
Day One
You’ve arrived!
Holding hands, breath taken away as you crest the Sierra summit to reveal one of the world’s most exquisite bodies of water, you drive into South Lake.
On Tahoe’s south side, a bevy of accommodations await. Want a rustic cabin stay? Check. Wiling away your days in beachfront luxury? Got you. Called by the casino action? Take your pick. Bringing your furry, four-legged family? No problem.
South Lake Tahoe
You’ll surely find the perfect place to stay for your Tahoe adventure in South Lake.
Once checked in, it’s time to fuel up and plan.
Try heading to The Grove Restaurant at Camp Richardson, and pick the locals’ brains on fun activities over their signature Rum Runner cocktail and some snacks while beachside. Once sated, rent jet-skis, kayaks or even an entire motorboat from the Camp Richardson Marina, mere steps away from The Grove.
Family dining outside at the Grove Restaurant at Camp Richardson Resort
If you’re not feeling up to navigating, let the captain of the Rum Runner Yacht do it for you. He takes groups on a cruise to extraordinary Emerald Bay twice a day each summer, letting guests sip on their adult or non-alcoholic beverages sans stress.
Ahh, yes, breathe. Now you’re letting the Tahoe vibes kick in.
However, all that beauty works up a hearty appetite. It’s dinnertime.
Now you’ve both got lake fever and want to soak up all the time you can on its shores.
Fear not: if there’s an abundance of anything aside from Mother Nature’s glory here, it’s lakeside dining options.
FIre pit at Jimmy’s Restaurant at the Landing Resort & Spa
First night, try Jimmy’s at The Landing for a truly romantic dining experience. Cozy up in a private dining alcove and get hypnotized by the flames of your own personal firepit. Order a bottle from their 1,500-bottle wine vault while pondering which sumptuous gourmet menu items to order.
Dine on a decadent dessert together before letting the stars lead you to your next destination.
Blu Nightclub inside Bally’s Lake Tahoe, setting a new paradigm for nightlife at the lake, this world-class venue is Lake Tahoe’s hottest nightclub and exudes an energy level that the area has never seen before.,
Day Two
Rise and shine, the outdoors await!
South Lake Tahoe has an abundance of ethereal beaches and heart-pumping hikes to choose from. If you prefer two-wheeled adventures, mountain and road biking is world-class here, as well. Bring your own, or rent from any of the local shops.
Family on the Beach at Lake Tahoe
Before embarking on your second day, grab coffee, tea and a hearty breakfast at Tahoe fave the Red Hut Café Kingsbury. It’s decked out inside with Tahoe nostalgia and makes you feel like you stepped into an old-time diner. Go big, because that’s what we do in Tahoe, with one of their heaping, appetite-busting breakfasts, like the protein-rich Don’s Special, or a plate of pancakes, French toast or waffles.
Filled up, it’s time for your first outdoor excursion of the day.
“Oh, we’ll just have to come back longer next time”, you say to your partner, who vehemently nods in agreement.
Couple looking from the top of Mt. Tallac
The Fallen Leaf Lake hike is great for beginner-to-intermediate hikers, in just a few miles offering views of the smaller alpine lake and its stunning flora and fauna.
But climbing Mt. Tallac seems like it could be exhilarating, you think. The trail challenges hikers with substantial elevation changes over the five-mile ascent to one of the Tahoe basin’s tallest peak, at 9,738-feet elevation.
You made it! Now to sort through those pics. Sigh. Everything was just so…photographable.
Off to the beach for some cooling down. But first, lunch. And a cold, local microbrew sure sounds mouthwatering. So, Cold Water Brewery and Grill it is.
Pair their crave-inducing pub or comfort foods with any of their exceptional handcrafted beers, all while taking in views from the outdoor patio.
If you brought your pooch, Kiva Beach is “fur” you (bad pun totally intended).
Two women sitting on the beach at Zephyr Cove Resort
If you’re looking for a bit more action, journey to Zephyr Cove on the east side of South Lake. From here, you can parasail, paddleboard, jet ski or play volleyball on their vast beach. And if you missed being on the water for your first day, now’s your chance.
The M.S. Dixie II takes you on a waterborne journey into eye-popping Emerald Bay by paddlewheel boat. Take an afternoon cruise or try and tear your eyes away from the sunset on its decks later.
Well, the day is winding down, but those brews you tasted at Cold Water piqued your interest in trying more local libations.
Luckily, with the crystalline waters of Tahoe inspiring them, brewers abound ‘round here. Download the South Tahoe Beer Trail Map for a concise guide to finding your newest favorite frothy beverage.
South Lake Tahoe Beer Trail Map
Looking for a more intimate setting and a superb craft cocktail? The Loft features some unusually delicious options to try while imbibing in their moody, mysterious interior seating—fitting for a place also serving up sides of live theatre and magic.
After two full, exciting and romantic days in South Lake Tahoe, you’re already planning your previously discussed return.
There’s just too much you didn’t get to savor quite yet. But oh, those two days were the perfect start to a lifelong love, between both you two, and Tahoe.
You planned the trip, packed your bags, and made it to South Lake Tahoe. Why not take your foot off the gas pedal, grab a bike, and hop onto one of the many FREE options to get around town?
From South Shore, north to Incline Village, and all the way around the lake to Tahoma, you can take in all the incredible views and experiences Tahoe has to offer without busting out the map app on your phone.
Once you get to the end of the road, you can grab your bike from the rack on the outside of the bus, give your driver a friendly nod, and go as far as your two wheels can carry you. With South Lake Tahoe’s designation as a Bike Friendly Community, you can count on finding nearby bike racks while you hit the town or take to the beach.
If you need a reason other than saving money, maybe skipping the hassle of parking is enough to convince you. While incredible views of the lake and surrounding mountains are in abundance around here, parking spots can be a bit tougher to find, especially in the more populated areas around the lake.
Taking a free ride with Tahoe Transit can also help protect this special place. Each year more than 50 million vehicles journey into and out of the Tahoe Basin. Small pieces of dust, dirt, and smoke from roadways and parking lots make up about 70 percent of the particulates that enter Lake Tahoe and are a significant factor in declining lake clarity.
Planning your trip is easy, just download the Transit app and stay in the know with real-time updates on your route. Available for Apple and Android devices.
South Shore visitors and residents have a new way to get around with the launch of Lake Link, a microtransit shuttle system. The service will offer free rides in the service area on the south shore including Round Hill, Lower Kingsbury, and the casino corridor in Douglas County, Nev., and to Lodi Avenue in South Lake Tahoe, California
The on-demand system will be accessed and scheduled through the Lake Link app and operate 365 days per year 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and until 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturdays.
Bird and Lime scooters are back in South Lake Tahoe for the summer to help you get around. In 2020, over 60,000 people took over 200,000 rides on e-scooters. This translated to a savings of 186,000 vehicle miles traveled, 7,800 gallons of gas, and 325,000 pounds of CO2 from car emissions.
Just please be sure to follow the rules of the road, be considerate of others, and park your scooter in a place that is out of the way.
Lime Scooters at Lake Tahoe
Getting to Tahoe’s South Shore
Looking for a ride between the Reno-Tahoe International Airport and Tahoe’s South Shore? The South Tahoe Airporter offers multiple departures daily. Just kick back and enjoy the scenery!
Prefer to travel by rail? An Amtrak train can get you as far as Sacramento to the west of Lake Tahoe and Reno to the northeast, both short bus rides from South Lake Tahoe.
As the summer sun starts to bid its slow farewell, and the cool whispers of autumn begin, there’s no place quite like South Lake Tahoe to mark the transition. Labor Day weekend here is an experience. Right in between the stunning Sierra Nevada Mountains and the beautiful waters of Lake Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe comes alive during this special weekend, offering a blend of relaxation, adventure, and celebration. Whether it’s the last boat rides of the season, fun local festivals, or serene nature hikes, this place has it all.
The hiking opportunities around South Lake Tahoe are legendary, and the trails are particularly stunning during this transitional season. Whether you choose the panoramic vistas of Mount Tallac Trail or the family-friendly paths in Emerald Bay State Park, the views will leave you breathless.
Red, White and Brew Festival at Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre
Red Wine, White Wine & Brew Festival on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre, from 6:00 to 10:00 pm! Enjoy all-you-can-drink tickets to sample local brews, open bars for non-beer lovers, delicious summer bites, live entertainment, and a dazzling drone show after sunset. Free admission for a fun, family-friendly evening!
Experience Live Music at Heavenly Village
Enjoy the festive atmosphere as talented bands and artists perform a variety of musical genres right at the foot of the beautiful Heavenly Mountain Resort, The Heavenly Village Concert Series.
What Are You Waiting For?
In South Lake Tahoe, Labor Day Weekend is more than just a break from work; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in nature, indulge your taste buds, and soak up the culture of this unique mountain-lake environment. Whether you’re cruising the lake, hiking scenic trails, or dancing to live music, adventure and relaxation await you here.
Explore Places to Stay
Stay in Lake Tahoe
Find the perfect accommodation that matches your unique preferences and ensures an unforgettable experience at Lake Tahoe.
Lake Tahoe is an ancient marvel filled with 37 trillion gallons of 99.9% pure, sapphire blue water that we are fortunate to recreate in and around. Please respect its pristine nature and that of the surrounding forests and mountains by packing out all you pack in. If no trash container is handy or is filled, take your trash with you and find another appropriate receptacle.
Come Back Again. And Again.
Things to Do in Tahoe for Every Season
Sure, we’re a little biased, but there’s never a bad time to visit Lake Tahoe. Pick a season, any season. Celebrate summer in the Sierra with a hike to Emerald Bay State Park or make a splash at Pope Beach. Discover why Tahoe winters are legendary for skiing and holiday fun at the Heavenly Village and Ski Resort. If you want to avoid the high season crowds, visit Lake Tahoe in the spring to hit the slopes in sunglasses and a t-shirt, or come in the fall when the mountains are painted in autumn colors and hiking is at its best. Regardless of when you visit, there’s plenty of Lake Tahoe things to do.
August is a fantastic time to visit South Lake Tahoe, where the beautiful landscape and countless outdoor activities come together to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this picturesque destination has something for everyone. In this article, you’ll find some of the best ways to make the most of your August getaway in South Lake Tahoe.
Jet Skiing on a Summer Evening | Credit: Aramark / Rachid Dahnoun
Embrace the Crystal Clear Waters
Stand-Up Paddleboarding on Lake Tahoe | Credit: Rachid Dahnoun / Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority
South Lake Tahoe’s stunning turquoise waters are a sight to behold. Spend your days doing all sorts of activities on the water like swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking. Enjoy the vast beauty of Lake Tahoe or venture to secluded coves and hidden beaches. For a unique experience, consider renting a boat and cruising along the lake’s pristine waters, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
The 2025 lineup features a powerful mix of genres to Lakeview Commons—highlighting everything from reggae and folk to funk, Latin fusion, and Americana. South Lake Tahoe locals and visitors alike can look forward to live performances by False Rhythms, Ashleigh Flynn & The Riveters, Max Minardi Band, Object Heavy, and many more throughout the summer.
Hiking and Biking
Sitting on the Summit of Mount Tallac | Credit: Rachid Dahnoun / Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority
South Lake Tahoe boasts an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. In August, the snow has melted away, revealing stunning vistas and all the plants that have been patiently waiting for the summer sun. Popular trails such as the Rubicon Trail, Eagle Falls Trail, and Mount Tallac offer varying degrees of difficulty and reward visitors with breathtaking views of the lake and beyond. For mountain biking enthusiasts, the Corral Loop and the Flume Trail are must-rides, providing an adrenaline-packed journey through lush forests and rugged terrains.
Old Dominion at Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre at Caesars Republic
Friday & Saturday, August 1 & 2, 2025, Mark your calendars for a legendary night under the stars at the Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre at Caesars Republic! Old Dominion is an award-winning American country music band known for their catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and modern country sound infused with rock and pop influences.
Indulge in Lakeside Relaxation
Picnic on the shores of Lake Tahoe | Credit: Rachid Dahnoun / Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority
After all the adventure, take time to unwind and relax on the shores of Lake Tahoe. Spread out a picnic blanket, soak up the sun, and bask in the tranquil beauty of the surroundings. With numerous public beaches to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy a good book, have a leisurely swim, or simply marvel at the crystal-clear waters. For a touch of luxury, book a lakefront resort or lodge, and enjoy the spectacular views as long as you like.
Stop By a Farmers’ Market
It’s that time of year – summer is comin’ in hot and the local markets are in full swing. Lake Tahoe is home to a diverse body of creatives, makers, and doers, and you can find that showcased at any one of the recurring flea or farmer’s markets this summer.
Take a Full Moon Kayak Tour
The Sierra State Parks Foundation is partnering with West Shore Sports to offer a unique kayak tour along the shore of Sugar Pine Point State Park on Tuesday, August 12th. The tour will take place between the highest elevation operational lighthouse in the U.S. to the park’s southern boundary overlooking Meeks Bay. State Park staff will provide insight into the region’s cultural and natural history under the light of a full moon! Tickets here.
Catch a Show at the Valhalla Art, Music, & Theatre Festival
The Valhalla Art, Music & Theatre Festival, is a total departure from the showroom and amphitheater shows offered by the casinos. The Festival offers a diverse array of entertainment from family-friendly musical and dramatic theatre to concerts with music from all genres, internationally touring artists, and the very best in local and regional acts, comedy improv, fine art shows, and workshops, as well as children’s art and drama camps.
Hozier Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre at Caesars Republic
Get ready, Tahoe! Hozier is bringing his soulful Unreal Unearth Tour to Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre at Caesars Republic on Thursday & Friday, August 7 & 8, 2025. Get ready for a show that’s “Too Sweet” to miss!
Annual Tahoe Brewfest on Ski Run Blvd
Tahoe Brewfest celebrates all that is special about our mountain culture; our beer, our crafts, our environment, and our community. Mark Saturday, August 23, 2025, in your calendars when we welcome beer lovers from all over the world again to enjoy a beautiful day of brew in South Lake Tahoe.
Valhalla Renaissance Faire Tahoe Valley Campground
Saturday & Sunday, August 16 & 17 and August 23 & 24, 2025, South Lake Tahoe’s Beloved Valhalla Renaissance Faire Returns in 2025! The Enchantment of Valhalla Renaissance Faire Returns to Tahoe, Promising an Unforgettable Experience with Abundant Entertainment, Delectable Food, and Unique Shopping. And, yes… there will be JOUSTING!
Nightlife
Playing Craps in Golden Nugget Lake Tahoe Casino | Credit: Three Sticks Productions
When the sun sets over the Sierra Nevada mountains, South Lake Tahoe’s nightlife comes alive! The city offers a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. From lively bars and clubs to intimate live music venues and cozy lounges, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. You can dance the night away at one of the bustling nightclubs, sip craft cocktails at trendy bars, or listen to talented musicians perform live at various venues. The atmosphere is electric, with locals and visitors alike coming together to celebrate and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re looking for a wild night out or a relaxed evening with friends, South Lake Tahoe’s nightlife scene is sure to satisfy.
We Can’t Wait To See You Here!
Pontoon Boat on Lake Tahoe | Credit: Rachid Dahnoun / Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority
The clearest blue water. The brightest green mountains. It’s awe and then some, but all this awesome doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from mutual respect for the South Shore, from locals and visitors alike. That’s why we created Rules to Lake By: five ways to practice responsible tourism at Lake Tahoe, so we can keep this place awesome today and awesome tomorrow.
August in South Lake Tahoe is the perfect time and place to connect with nature, embrace adventure, and create lasting memories. Whether you prefer diving into the cool waters of Lake Tahoe, exploring the breathtaking wilderness, or simply unwinding on the lakeside, this destination has it all. So, plan your August getaway and get ready to experience the best of South Lake Tahoe.
No matter what you decide to do around Lake Tahoe’s south shore, be sure to leave with everything you brought with you and make sure it is properly thrown away. Some trash areas may be full, so plan to dispose of it when you get back to where you’re staying.
You could even be a next-level steward and pick up a few pieces of discarded trash while you’re there. Cleaning up a few small pieces of plastic or bringing an extra dog waste bag can go a long way towards protecting Lake Tahoe’s wildlife, clear water, and breathtaking views.
