What’s the appeal of a summer & fall shared lease?

south-tahoe-summer-lease

Hey everyone, Mike here, and let me tell you, we’ve got something fun to share!

For 20 years, we’ve been the go-to folks for leasing and renting our South Lake Tahoe place. We’re talking killer Winter & Spring ski leases and those sweet Summer short-term rentals. But guess what? We’re shaking things up!

Now, we’re opening up shared leases for Summer and Fall too. So, if you’re like us and can’t get enough of that Tahoe magic, you can come soak it all in – the lake, the mountains, all of it!

Seriously, South Lake Tahoe is like stepping into a dream. It’s this crazy beautiful escape where you can go from sun-soaked days kayaking on the clearest water you’ve ever seen to those crisp evenings with the smell of pine in the air – ah, heaven!

And then comes Fall… oh man, when those Sierra Nevada mountains explode with all the fiery colors of autumn? Hiking, biking, or just chilling and taking in the views, it’s unreal.

Whether you’re chasing that adrenaline rush or just need a serious dose of peace and quiet in a gorgeous setting, Tahoe’s got you covered in the warmer months. Trust me.

And hey, you HAVE to check out all the things you can do here. I’m talking: land adventures (hiking, biking, you name it), water fun (beaches, swimming, boating – the works), tons of stuff to do all year round, plus arts, culture, entertainment, and even the ability to *Work from Tahoe!* Seriously, the list goes on and on: hiking, swimming, fishing, biking, hanging out, festivals, dining, boating, etc.

Now, about these shared leases… here’s the deal: you’ll be sharing the house with other people. But think of them as… wait for it… future friends!

The awesome part is that sharing keeps the cost way down for everyone. And most of the time, the house won’t even be full, so you’ll have your own room and probably your own floor of the house (unless you actually want to share!).

With “work from home in Tahoe” options as part of the deal, this is pretty sweet. Prices start at $899 to $1599 + Utilities for up to 12 weeks out of the 21 weeks available. Seriously, the lease can pay for itself with one longer or two shorter trips. And yeah, you can bring your buddies!

This whole shared lease thing is perfect for couples, solo adventurers, and groups of friends. It’s a super affordable way to have a “home base” for all your Tahoe explorations, and you get to meet some cool people in a relaxed, friendly setting.

So, come join the fun! Check out our listing here.

Cheers, and have an amazing Summer!

— Mike

Pay it Forward: Opportunities to Give to Outstanding 501(c)3 Nonprofits or Give of your Time and Expertise

At SnowPals, we facilitate snow sports life-long friendships, and we encourage members to volunteer their expertise with nonprofits whose core mission and charitable work align with their core values. If you’d like to nominate a nonprofit to be featured, please contact .

Twice a month, we spotlight two notable 501(c)3 nonprofits locally and globally:

For February 2025, in our spotlight feature is Achieve Tahoe located at Alpine Meadows Mountain Resort, 2680 Alpine Meadows Rd B3686, Alpine Meadows, CA 96146

achieve-tahoe-logo

Achieve Tahoe’s Organization’s Mission Statement:

“Provide affordable, inclusive physical and recreational activities that build health, confidence, and independence.”

Achieve Tahoe was started in 1967 by Jim Winthers, a World War II Veteran of the 10th Mountain Division and Director of the Soda Springs Ski School. He brought together a group of Vietnam Veterans with disabilities and they taught themselves how to ski and found ways to adapt equipment to do so. At the time, adaptive sports equipment did not exist. The experience was so positive, Jim felt that the community could benefit from a formalized program that helped more people. We are proud to be the founding chapter of MoveUnited (formerly Disabled Sports USA) and have employees and volunteers who were the pioneers in the adaptive sports world.

Today, Achieve Tahoe provides year-round outdoor recreation activities for people with cognitive, sensory, and physical disabilities. We can serve just about anyone with any disability. We focus on health, confidence, and independence so that the experience people have with us is long-lasting and carries over into other areas of their life. Read more about Achieve Tahoe.

Watch a YouTube video about Achieve Tahoe

Learn more about how to volunteer at https://www.achievetahoe.org/participate/

Make a tax deductible donation at https://achievetahoe.networkforgood.com/projects/245639-2025-ability-challenge

For February 2025, our global 501(c)3 not for profit spotlight feature goes to the Mercy Centre of Bangkok, Thailand

mercy-center-nonprofit-bangkok-thailand

Here’s the backstory of how the Mercy Centre got on SnowPals’ notable nonprofit organization radar, Tim, SnowPals’ founder is passionate about snow sports but in the off-season, he likes to travel to learn about other cultures, places and how history shapes a city’s present day so when he travels to other parts of the world, he noticed firsthand the huge disparity between the poor and the well-to-do in society.

In December 2024, Tim was traveling in Thailand and recalled hearing sadly poignant stories of the forgotten slums of Bangkok which prompted him to ask himself: what can he do to help? He didn’t know where to start so he did a quick Google search for a non-profit charity that was founded to help the poor children, women and families living in the slums of Bangkok. His Google search led him to the Human Development Foundation aka the Mercy Centre and Orphanage located at 100/11 Kae-ha Klong Toey 4, Klong Toey in Bangkok, Thailand 10110. He emailed them to inquire about visiting the Mercy Centre to learn more about what they do to help empower the children of poor families and single moms, and he recorded a video of his visit so he can share what this nonprofit does to improve the lives of the poor people in this part of the world.

The following day, Tim received a reply from John Vogel who volunteers full-time at the Mercy Centre as their program Director, and here’s his reply:

“Thank you for reaching out to the Mercy Centre orphanage. I can relate to your snow sports website, SnowPals.org, because I’m a retired skier from Colorado. I’ve been here since September 2022. I was a 30-year US Army officer and retired in 2016 in Colorado. After doing the mandatory retirement things (golfing, travel, mountain biking, skiing, etc), I got bored. I found out about the Mercy Centre, donated everything I owned in America, packed the rest into two suitcases, and moved to Thailand.

I have no plans to leave, I’m here on a retirement visa and can stay forever if I want. What inspires me? Not too complicated. I thought about what I could do with the rest of my life that would be the most meaningful. At the Mercy Centre, we have 17 kindergartens with nearly 1,000 children (age 3-6) in the slums of Bangkok, as well as an orphanage with about 80 kids (age 6-20) living with us. I’m here 5-6 days a week as a full-time volunteer. I see, every day, the difference the Mercy Centre makes in the lives of these children and I want to be a part of that. The reality is, I get as much out of it as they do.

Below is a summary that succinctly describes the Mercy Centre in a nutshell. Learn more about them by watching these Vimeo documentary videos: https://vimeo.com/932707068/165cedc56d and https://vimeo.com/1008974474

mercy-centre-bangkok-thailand

Volunteer at the Mercy Centre in Bangkok Thailand, contact info at https://www.mercycentre.org/new/index.php?page=want-to-volunteer

Make a tax deductible donation at https://mercycentreusa.networkforgood.com/projects/183082-donate-now

HEALTH AND WELFARE

Our team provides mental and physical health assistance to the Mercy children. Also conducts HIV/AIDS outreach to more than 300 patients in the slums of Bangkok 443-837-7303 www.mercycentreusa.org

HDFL MERCY CENTRE

What is the Human Development Foundation (HDF) Mercy Centre?

• Founded in 1972 by Fr. Joe and Sr. Maria in the slaughterhouse area of Klong Toey, Bangkok, with the opening of the first kindergarten in an abandoned pigsty

• In 1976 the first Mercy Home for street children opened

• The Human Development Foundation (HDF), Mercy Centre, is officially registered with the Thailand Office of the National Culture Commission as a non-profit foundation

• The Mercy Centre is a “stand-alone” non-profit foundation and is fully funded by donations

• Our Founders are Catholic, but this is not a “Religious Charity”.

No specific faith is taught, we care for all

Core Missions

1) EDUCATION 17 Kindergartens – Children ages 3-6 with 956 enrolled throughout the poorest slums in Bangkok. Working in conjunction with our Sponsorship Team to coordinate with donors around the world to ensure every family who wants an education for their child can have one 2 CHILD CARE Three Mercy Homes (orphanage), caring for 78 children between ages 6 and 21.

2) We strive for the day when every child will grow up in a caring and loving home environment of their own, where every child will be able to receive a quality education

SUPPORT MISSIONS CHILDREN’S SUPPORT TEAM

Provides daily support to individual personal development and “life skills” education to our Mercy children

For Thailand based Donations 662-671-5313 www.mercycentre.org

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Ties in Mercy’s care for its children with the local slum community needs

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SnowPals Partners with SlabLab for backcountry snow sports enthusiasts

slablab

SnowPals.org partners with SlabLab.co (your source for backcountry skiing partners) to help connect backcountry skiers, split-boarders, and snow sports enthusiasts to the best resource to help make your backcountry outings safer:

 

SlabLab.co – We make finding backcountry partners easier and more effective!” 

When it comes to backcountry skiing and snowboarding, your partners are everything. Sure, the latest bindings, high-tech avalanche transceivers, or advanced snowpack tests grab attention, but they aren’t what make or break your day in the backcountry. Your team is the foundation of every safe, successful, and enjoyable outing.

But let’s face it—finding the right partners is tough. Finding great partners? That’s even tougher.

SlabLab Founders

Photo of Richard

Richard

Richard is a long-time avalanche educator and ski guide, author of Light Tours of Tahoe and served as executive director of AIARE from 2016-2018. He is passionate about student outcomes, and actions people take after training.

Page down the page to join Richard backcountry Q&A Zoom meeting today, 1/29 at 8:15 PM.

Photo of Daniel

Daniel

‍Daniel is a mediocre backcountry skier but a great Human-Centered designer and product manager with experience at Apple and IDEO.org. He loves helping people through making useful things.

Photo of Daniel

Jenny

Jenny is a design research specialist and wild places enthusiast. She’s passionate about supporting people to choose safe behaviours, navigate risks and mitigate trauma.

Why did we founded SlabLab?

Since 2021, we’ve been listening to skiers and boarders of all experience levels, and one challenge comes up every time: finding good, reliable, and like-minded partners is a struggle. Whether it’s people who truly understand your goals, who can communicate effectively, or who even show up when they say they will—this issue is universal.

Enter the SlabLab Partner Network.

SlabLab is the only backcountry-specific social network designed to help you find partners and build stronger, safer, and more aligned teams. We make it easy to connect with people who share your skills, goals, and values so you can spend more time doing what you love and less time searching for teammates.

Here’s How It Works

  1. Build a Profile That Stands Out
    Your SlabLab profile lets you share what truly matters to backcountry skiers and snowboarders. Highlight your:

    • Experience level

    • Availability

    • Avalanche and first aid certifications

    • Fitness level and ski skills

    • Personal values and what you’re looking for in a partner

  2. The more complete your profile, the easier it is for the right people to find you.

  3. Search Smarter, Not Harder
    Use our intuitive filters to find partners who match your criteria. Want a midweek ski buddy in moderate shape who’s taken an Avalanche Level 1 course and knows Tahoe? SlabLab will connect you to people who check all those boxes.

  4. Connect and Build Trust
    Explore profiles, read posts, and see comments to get a sense of each person’s vibe. When you find someone promising, reach out through SlabLab’s direct messaging system to start the conversation.

  5. Test the Waters
    Once you’ve connected, start small. Plan a low-consequence outing, like resort laps or a climbing gym session, to get to know each other before committing to a big backcountry day.

Why SlabLab?

We’re here to help move away from the randomness of traditional social media posts like, “Who wants to ski The Cross on Saturday?” SlabLab is about building partnerships that are better aligned, safer, and more rewarding. The backcountry isn’t just about the powder; it’s about the people you share it with. Join SlabLab.co today to find your great backcountry partners.

Join SnowPals to get 1/2 off SlabLab.co membership. Promo expires Feb 14, 2025.

Join us for a Q&A with Richard on Wednesday 1/29 at 8:15 PM PST

Mark your calendar 🗓️ to join our backcountry skiing & snow sports Q&A with Richard Bothwell, Backcountry Ski Touring Guide and Alpinist, and co-founder of SlabLab for a virtual backcountry Q&A tomorrow Wednesday 1/29 at 8:15 PM PST on a group Zoom call

If you’re interested in backcountry snow sports or are a BC veteran, join our virtual Zoom meeting to ask any questions you might have. 

Richard Bothwell, will be our guest for Wednesday 1/29 Q&A one-hour session 

More about Richard and his backcountry experiences:

“ Richard Bothwell, Backcountry CFO (Chief Fun Officer)

Since 1996, Richard has been the backwoods expert, climbing guide, splitboard guide, and a pretty good backcountry cook. Richard has climbed, skied, snowboarded, and guided numerous trips worldwide including 4 of the “7 Summits” (Kilimanjaro, Aconcagua, Denali, and Elbrus). 

He’s climbed extensively in the Cordillera Blanca of Peru, including summiting Alpamayo, Artesonraju, and Tocllaraju. 

He’s also snowboarded down 7500 meter/24,000′ peaks in China. He’s surfed (poorly) on four continents as well.

Richard served as the Executive Director of AIARE (American Institute of Avalanche Research and Education) from 2016 to 2018. 

In 2023, Richard authored Light Tours of Tahoe, a backcountry ski guide focusing on mellow tours that avoid avalanche terrain.

Certifications and training that Richard holds or has held: AMGA Single Pitch Instructor and Top Rope Site Manager, AMGA Apprentice Backcountry Ski Guide, AIARE Level 3 avalanche training, AIARE Avalanche Course Leader, Wilderness First Responder, PSIA 1 Ski Instructor, and ACA Sea kayak instructor.

Richard is passionate about avalanche education and backcountry snowboarding. He teaches avalanche classes for The Nickolay Dodov Foundation, Feather River College and Lake Tahoe Community College. 

Most of all, Richard loves connecting with people and sharing his knowledge with others.”

Join us to ask Richard your QA questions:

Join the Zoom Meeting at 8:15 PM Wednesday 1/29:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88082909611?pwd=LkaoAbbD0tY4Xvj2hNkuYTbz70OraU.1

Meeting ID: 880 8290 9611
Passcode: 625608

Richard will be giving away two free SlabLab membership subscriptions during the Q&A

When is the next snowstorm to the high Sierra?

Here’s what the National Weather Service NWS has to say.

Tap into SnowPals other partners promotions.

with friends and family ♥

❄️☃️⛷⛸

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Ski Lease Share Spotlight: South Lake Tahoe Village Ski In Out Heavenly Condo

ski-in-out-condo

Available Spots in our South Lake Tahoe Village Ski Out Condo Ski Lease for 2024/25 Winter

Picture this: you’re between 2 chairlifts: walking distance from one (Stagecoach) and directly above the other (Boulder) at the top of the hill on Tramway Drive in Tahoe Village (Stateline/Kingsbury, NV). If you are at least an intermediate level skier/boarder, you can ski out right to the lift (Boulder chair). Or walk to either one. Or if you don’t feel like walking either, Heavenly and all other shuttles stop right in our parking lot and drop you off in front of either of the 2 chairlifts, so you don’t have to deal with parking. At the end of the day those same free Heavenly shuttles will bring you right back to our doorsteps!

Upper level:

Bedroom 1: 2 Full beds. Closet, views of Carson Valley
Bedroom 2: Twin-over-twin Bunk bed + Full Bed. Closet, views of Carson Valley
Full Bath
Living room: HDTV, Blu-Ray/DVD, etc, Hide-A-Bed Queen Size sofa, fireplace, dining area w/ table for 6
Kitchen with fridge, stove/oven, dishwasher, microwave, coffee maker, toaster, etc.
BBQ deck
1 extra tri-fold futon on upper level

Lower Level:

California King Size Bed, Memory Foam Queen Size Bed, extra queen size mattress (non-memory foam). HDTV, Blu-Ray/DVD, etc. one more fireplace, one more deck, full bath,

Extra Air beds & mattresses on lower level for

Key Features:

– Tahoe Village Pool and Spa complimentary access (gated)

– Condo has beds for 14, and space for a few extra beds

– Secure Wi-Fi
– Short walk to ‘Fox & Hound’ for a late night drink or an early breakfast (a casino-style restaurant & bar), mini market & ski rentals
– Separate laundry with washer & dryer

Scenic views of trees, mountains, Carson valley and the lake. Snow, giant boulders and trees all around.

Equally close to downtown South Lake Tahoe with shopping, dining, ice-skating, sightseeing, etc. and to Carson Valley (Minden, Gardnerville, etc.) – that’s where locals stock up on food, supplies and gas.

You can also take a shuttle down the mountain and back! Off-street parking in a large parking lot is available.

What’s included in the lease:

Wireless Internet, Garbage, Water, Snow Removal, Cable TV, complimentary access to Tahoe Village Pool and Spa

Please, note: our lease is non-smoking with no exceptions.

Price:

$1599 (+$160 deposit) per person for the entire 4+ -month ski season (Jan-Apr/May); all holidays are included

Lowered occupancy since Covid: limit is 10 members

NO BLACKOUT DATES

View photos of our ski lease.

Contact

to inquire. Please share your LinkedIn profile if you have one, what makes you think this ski lease share is a good fit for you and how many days per week do you plan on staying at the ski lease.

Please feel free to with friends and family ♥ 

😎❄️☃️⛷🏂⛸

Area Map

 

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Winter Snow Sports Biz Spotlight: Lake Tahoe & beyond

sierra-at-tahoe-photo-credit

Photo Credit: Sierra-at-Tahoe

Last updated: February 17, 2022.

Winter Snow-Sports Businesses Spotlight

At SnowPals, we invite snow-sports businesses (world-wide) to become a cross-promotional biz partner. Spotlight your business to San Francisco Bay Area and Lake Tahoe Area snow-sports consumers about what your biz does best:

  • Services you offer, and/or
  • Products you sell
  • At SnowPals, we work diligently to earn a Five Star Rating. We strive to build stellar long term business relationships with our fans and with consumers. We work tirelessly to deliver great value and service in order to build a genuinely loyal customer base. If this resonates with what your business strives to do, please reach out to become a cross-promotional biz partner by submitting the form at the bottom of this page.

    Don’t have a partners’ or an affiliates page on your business website? Consider adding one.

    Here are some reasons why an affiliates page is the most effective way to help you grow your business:

    1) serves to increase cross promotional marketing referrals which is the ideal way to attract new visitors to your website instead of paid advertising via Google, etc.

    2) cross marketing provides organic advertising that attracts snow sports niche audience to your website

    3) cross promotion is about expanding the marketing reach of your product and/or services so by helping to promote others, you also in turn receives prime organic visitors traffic to your business website whenever people search for businesses that are winter sports related

    4) Lastly, success comes from collaborating, rarely from isolation – that’s our takeaway from 20+ years at SnowPals and we have the success track record to show; in 1999 we started SnowPals.org with a few friends, fast forward until 2020, we have gained over 8,000+ members and we continue to grow with the help and support of our fans.

    Our 2021/22 Affiliates & Partners List

    == SF Bay Area ==

    tahoe-ski-trips-logo

    Tahoe Ski Trips, since 1996, over 23 years of stellar service: “operating with integrity and a commitment to quality, Tahoe Ski Trips (also know as the Bay Area Ski Bus) contracts with the finest transportation companies and recreation outfitters/ski resorts with fantastic reputations and safety records; we focus on the details, while you focus on having Fun! Our quality and service is unmatched.” – Kevin, TST CEO. Get a private ski bus group quote or a corporate price quote for your company as a team building ski, snowboarding outing in Tahoe. Partner’s Promotional Offer Page: new Tahoe ski trips users receive up to $50 off day and overnight ski bus trips/gift cards available.

    sportsbasement-redwood-city

    Sports Basement with 10 Bay Area Store Locations: ’21 Years of Sports Basement’. a sporting goods store that “catered to everyone that wanted to enjoy the outdoors, with no high-cost barrier to entry. The whole idea was to work with the smallest margins possible so Sports Basement could have the best brands at, well, Basement prices. It worked, and now Sports Basement is able to deliver great gear at great prices at 10 different stores in the greatest place on Earth! Partner’s Promotional Offer Page: Basementeer membership gives you a discount for all purchases which also adds to even sale and clearance discount sporting goods items (online and in store).

    snowbomb ski snowboard festival sf santa clara sacramento

    SnowBomb: SnowBomb produces NorCal’s yearly Ski & Snowboard Festival in San Francisco, San Jose and Sacramento featuring wine/beer tastings, ski resorts from all over North America, snow-sports exhibitors & leading manufacturers in the ski and snowboard industry, hoteliers and destination getaways and auto industry showcase. Partner’s Promotional Offer Page: Get 1/2 off POWDER PASS AND VIP WINE/BEER tasting tickets.

    apres-ski-club-active-singles-logo

    Apres’ Ski Club Lodge at Kings Beach, CA (North Lake Tahoe): join Apres ski and snowboard club based out of the Santa Clara, CA (South Bay), a year-round singles club for active adults residing in the San Francisco Bay Area. Partner’s Promotional Offer Page: view Apres ski, ride club benefits.

    Casa-tours-logo

    Casa Tours: Chile Argentina Snow Adventures (CASA), is a grassroots organization whose mission is to increase exposure to South American landscapes, mountains, and cultures. CASA is about traveling safely in the mountains; introducing our guests to new places, people, cuisines, language and customs; achieving personal ski and snowboard goals; and developing lifelong friendships and memories. By building cultural bridges and embracing sustainable travel principles, we hope to promote global peace and prosperity while introducing people to some of the best skiing and snowboarding on the planet. Partner’s Promotional Page: ski, ride year round; sign up for our endless winter powder trip tours.

    == Lake Tahoe ==

    backcountry-ski-maps-logo

    Backcountry Ski Maps is the best all-in-one backcountry ski touring maps on the marketplace where you can find all the route information you need on one piece of paper or via digital format on your smartphone or laptop. Partner’s Promotional Offer Page: get 10% off backcountry topo ski maps.

    SkiDUCK-logo

    SkiDUCK is a nonprofit organization founded in 2010; SkiDUCK offers a free program to bring disadvantaged and financially underprivileged youth to the snow to teach them the joys of skiing and snowboarding. Partner’s Page: seeking volunteers to teach underprivileged kids how to ski and snowboard.

    Tahoe-fund-nonprofit

    Tahoe Fund TahoeFund.org is a registered nonprofit in the States of Nevada and California. The goal of the Tahoe Fund is to become a major source of private funding for environmental projects around the Lake Tahoe Basin with an emphasis on forest health, lake clarity, sustainable recreation, transportation and stewardship. Partner’s promo: Buy a Tahoe License Plate or Nevada License Plate and get a Tahoe resort lift ticket or get a day pass to access Lake Tahoe cross-country areas.

    sugar-bowl-resort-tahoe-logo

    Sugar Bowl | Royal Gorge is Hiring North Lake Tahoe’s Sugar Bowl | Royal Gorge is Hiring. Partner’s Employment Openings Page: apply for job openings at Sugar Bowl and Royal Gorge.

    == Canada ==

    skibuds-canada

    SkiBuds: Find friends to ride with based on skill level making the skiing experience in Whistler, British Columbia more enjoyable. Affiliate’s Website: http://www.skibudsapp.com

    cmh-heli-skiing

    Canadian Mountain Holidays aka CMH is touring California; see what it’s like to heli-ski, ride untracked powder with our virtual reality (VR) heli-ski experience. We’ll have the goggles and guides available at all events. Partner’s VR Tour Event RSVP Page: What is it like to heli-ski untracked POWDER? RSVP for CMH’s virtual reality heli-ski experience.

    == Our 2020/21 Partners List ==

    snowpals-partners

    Since 1999, we have been passionate about connecting San Francisco Bay Area residents and visitors to Lake Tahoe to enjoy snow-sports and to engage in outdoor recreational activities in Tahoe and in other powder destinations. Our partners have chosen to advertise on SnowPals, year after year, because we quantify referrals that contribute to their success!

    What are the benefits of partnering with SnowPals?

    New customer referrals and increase your brand’s visibility are two of the key benefits of partnering with SnowPals.

    Partner with us to reach Bay Area Professionals, their family and their circle of friends. Let us spotlight your business to reach and exceed your business goals.

    For partnership inquiries, please reach out to for a digital media kit for key metrics and benefits of partnership.

    What does becoming an affiliate entails? There is no cost to become an affiliate.

    We are looking for snow-sports related affiliates who would like to establish a cross marketing relationship.

    How to become an affiliate?

    On your partner/affiliates page, please add the following sentence and logo to add SnowPals to your affiliates’ page (your business must have an affiliate page that you can easily include us on your page).

    snowpals-logo

    For Lake Tahoe ski trips, join SnowPals.org – San Francisco Bay Area snow-sports club for busy professionals, since 1999.

    In return, we will include your business on this page. View what an affiliates’ page looks like on SkiBuds’ website.

    Use the form below to send us a one sentence description detailing what your business offers, a URL link to your biz’s website and your business logo. after you have added our logo, link and description to your affiliates page and we’ll do likewise.

    Become an Affiliate

    Submit this form to become a SnowPals affiliate,
    • Send us a one sentence description detailing what you offer as a business.

    Next Step After Submitting the Form:

    After adding our logo and the above sentence on your Affiliates page, please contact (Monday to Friday, non-holidays, 9 AM to 5 PM). We will proceed with listing your business on this page. Please allow a 24 hours turn-around since we need to review your submission and work on listing your business if it meets our snow-sports category listing. Advance thanks!

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    Backcountry Skiing, Snowboarding (spilt-boarding) Q&A Series, part 8

    Photo Credit: Eddy van der Kloot

    Part 8 – Backcountry Skiing, Snowboarding (spilt-boarding) Q&A Series

    The boom in backcountry skiing, snowboarding and other snow-sports was brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic as ski resorts started closing down like falling dominoes starting in March of 2020 as state and local counties mandated ‘stay at home’ (SIP) orders as coronavirus outbreaks spiked.

    Winter season 2020/21 will likely see similar trends especially pronounced if resorts are unable to implement effective protocols of limiting on-site visitors’ capacity, and social distancing especially indoors in common areas which will result in COVID infection outbreaks resulting in resorts’ closures.

    Of particular concern is that finally CDC acknowledges that the coronavirus infection transmission is airborne by aerosols which means it is highly contagious. This fact does not bode well so we’ll see how this flu season and winter months play out.

    Back to our topic, our backcountry Q&A feature looks at backcountry from a range of diverse perspectives, from an amateur to expert backcountry skier, from a ski shop small business retailer to backcountry touring guide, these Q&A series provide some key insights and also we’ll list resources to consider for avalanche safety training that is critical to stay safe in the backcountry. Most importantly, we list key resources to connect you with folks who share a passion and love for the backcountry.

    Part 8 Q&A interview with Eddy van der Kloot, founder and creator of BackcountrySkiMaps.com

    With the impact of resort closures due to the COVID pandemic from mid-March of this year, can you describe from your observations if there’s an increase in demand for backcountry skiing/boarding/snow-sports?

    There’s been a definite uptick in people’s interest in the backcountry ever since COVID shut down lifts back in March, and I expect that this season will be the busiest yet for ski touring in Tahoe. Although the season has barely started, I’ve already seen an increase in demand for maps this year, which I suspect is a decent proxy for the increase in backcountry usage we’re about to see!

    How did you get into creating Tahoe/Sierra topographical maps?

    I’ve always been a map nerd – you don’t even want to know how many hours I’ve spent looking at CalTopo and Google Earth. After several years of backcountry skiing in Tahoe, I went up to Whistler and was pleasantly surprised to find that John Baldwin had made some incredible maps for touring in the area. That made me realize that nothing like that existed for Tahoe. There isn’t even a Tahoe-specific guidebook (though there are a few guidebooks which include some descents by the lake), much less anything that you can take out into the field. How were new ski tourers supposed to know where to go?

    How many years have you been doing this and what do you find rewarding about it?

    I’m in my third year of making maps now, and it’s been a rewarding process from start to finish. The whole undertaking has been a huge learning experience, which I always enjoy, but the biggest reward is when customers reach out to me and tell me how my maps have helped them have their best days in the backcountry. Ski touring has brought me so much joy, and it’s great to be able to help others get that same experience.

    In terms of backcountry experience, what types of BC experience do you have? Do you go to the backcountry with a few friends or by yourself?

    I don’t know how many hundreds of backcountry days I have under my belt now, but I’ve done everything from traverses to steep couloir skiing, pow days to ski mountaineering descents, and springtime corn runs to early winter bike-to-hike-to-ski days. That’s one of the joys of backcountry skiing – there are so many different ways to do it that it always keeps you interested.

    I’ve done a handful of solo days, but I prefer to go out in a group of 2-4 people. I find that makes for the best combination of safety in numbers without causing too much groupthink when considering avalanche conditions.

    What do you like about the backcountry?

    Skiing pow without the anxiety of beating the lines at the resort certainly comes to mind first! But there’s also something enjoyable about the physical challenge of big days out. And of course getting into proper nature, away from the craziness of the resorts is a huge plus too. When I got into backcountry skiing, it was so that I could ski pow days after the resorts had been skied out, but it turns out that even the uphill is fun!

    What was the most challenging part for you in creating these topo maps? How long did it take you to complete one coverage area section?

    When I started the project I already had years of GPS data from my watch stored on my computer, so I thought it would be easy to just stick it on a map and go. That turned out not to be the case – there’s a ton of additional work that goes into getting things looking good, and even once the maps are printed and ready to go it takes a lot to maintain the website, find retailers, keep up with customer service, and try to give back to the community by doing things like running fundraisers with the Sierra Avalanche Center (and this winter also the Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center). It took me about 8 months of full-time work to get the first map done, but after working on my processes I can now do that in about half the time. That of course doesn’t include the years of backcountry skiing to know where all the lines are – but thankfully that’s the fun part!

    Name three favorite backcountry spots you like that’s not crowded?

    I’m a huge fan of Herlan Peak (on the Tahoe: Best of the Rest map), for both tree skiing during storms and steep skiing when things are stable. It doesn’t hurt that you stare straight at the lake most of the time that you’re skiing there. The area around Echo and Angora Peaks has always been a favorite of mine too – it’s stacked with little chutes and couloirs, but doesn’t see nearly as much traffic as nearby Tallac or the West Shore peaks. For my last pick I’ll go with Carson Pass – it can get busy early and late season, but there’s so much terrain down there that it’s always easy to get away from the crowds if you know where to go. There are some huge bowls back there, some fun traverses to do, and of course the Crescent Moon Couloir is one of the best around Tahoe.

    Final question: what is it about your backcountry ski topo maps that stands out from other maps available on the net?

    First off, I don’t think that anything as comprehensive for ski touring exists on paper or on the net. Between the three paper maps (Tahoe: North, Tahoe: Southwest and West Shore, and Tahoe: Carson Pass) and the one digital-only map (Tahoe: The Best of the Rest) there’s something like 300 ski descents, each of which includes an approach (or several different approaches) and distance and elevation gain statistics. Then there’s the self-contained guide photos and text on the back. With about 16-20 of the top descents detailed with descriptions and color photos, the maps make it easy to get into the backcountry without needing to look up additional info elsewhere.

    Would you like to add anything else?

    If this is your first year in the backcountry, do yourself a favor and get educated before going out. Take an avalanche course, go out with more experienced friends, and always err on the side of caution. And if you’re the kind of heathen that bootpacks or pisses in the skintrack, may Ullr smite you with breakable crusts, sastrugi, and death cookies on all of your backcountry adventures from this day until the end of time!

    Get the Inside Scoop on the best spots for skiing, splitboarding Tahoe Sierra backcountry:

    Five backcountry topographical maps to choose from:

    (1) Lake Tahoe: Southwest and West Shore

    (2) Lake Tahoe: North Shore

    (3) Lake Tahoe: Carson Pass

    (4) Lake Tahoe: the Best of The Rest of Tahoe

    (5) And ..Mammoth, California

    Purchase a Lake Tahoe Backcountry Ski Topographic Map and Guidebook – use snowpals21 promo discount coupon code to get 10% off your purchase for hard copy maps and digital maps for your smartphone.

    backcountry-topo-maps-2020

    Part 1 

    Part 1 Backcountry skiing Q&A interview with Alyssa Olenberg-Meltzer who got into backcountry skiing and loves it from the start; she has four winters of experience.

    Part 2 

    Read our Q&A with Greg of California Ski Company, a retail store specializing in ski, backcountry, and touring gear and service based in Berkeley, CA.

    Part 3 

    Interview with Robert Shattuck, founder of San Francisco Backcountry Skiers (SFBS) Community on Facebook Groups.

     Part 4

    Interview with Richard Bothwell, Backcountry Touring Guide and Director of the Outdoor Adventure Club

    Part 5 

    Interview with Carl Hlavenka, ski patroller with Tahoe Backcountry Ski Patrol and California Winter Search and Rescue Team North

    Part 6 

    Interview with Shane Robinson Owner & Lead Guide at Graybird Guiding based out of the Pacific Northwest (PNW)

    Part 7 

    Interview with Mathias Bjoern, Founder of 48 FreeRiders, a backcountry ski, board community based out of Denmark

    Backcountry Skiing, Snow-Sports Resources

    ✔ San Francisco Backcountry Skiers Facebook Group: ‘San Francisco Backcountry Skiers (and Riders) is a resource and inspiration for people in the San Francisco area (and beyond) who are interested in backcountry skiing and riding. SFBS welcomes both experienced and aspiring backcountry skiers and riders.’ Membership type: free, public group. 3.3k members. Visit their FB group page.

    ✔ SnowPals.org is a non-traditional snow-sports club for busy Bay Area professionals. Join SF Bay Area professionals to expand your circle of ski and ride buddies (resort based and backcountry), btw, that’s how we came up with our name: Snow (Snow-Sports) + Pals. Membership type: one-time paid membership fee of $20; join SnowPals. Read members’ intros to get an idea who joins. Founded in 1999 by a small group of friends; we are now 8,249 members and growing. Celebrating our 21st year of connecting folks to expand their circle of snow sports activity partners.

    Sierra Avalanche Center’s education resources where you can get the backcountry safety education and hands on training

    Lake Tahoe Backcountry Ski Topographic Maps and Guidebook

    California Ski Company in Berkeley is one of the top ski shop retailer for ski gear for sale and rentals, plus boot fitting and equipment service. Cal Ski Co is a ‘specialty ski shop focused on ski equipment sale and rental since 1989. They sell and rent equipment for both Resort and Backcountry Ski Touring. Their team of expert ski boot fitters are the best in the business. They repair and tune about anything that slides on snow. Looking for a job? Cal Ski Co is currently hiring as of October 29, 2020. Full-time and part-time employment available: job openings, ski tech and boot-fitter. Experience is desirable but not necessary. The only criteria is that you are a skier. Interested or know of someone who is? Email resumes to .’

    ✔ Backcountry and Outback Adventures for Telemark and Randonee Ski Rentals, Fremont, CA and Larkspur, CA – Outback Adventures is a comprehensive outdoor adventure guide service, rental shop, and paddlesports and nordic ski specialty retailer located in the San Francisco Bay Area.

    Sequoia National Park Lodging WUKSACHI LODGE

    Located in the Giant Forest area of Sequoia National Park, Wuksachi Lodge is a modern lodge with 102 guestrooms. It offers a cocktail lounge, a full service restaurant and both a retail and ski shop. At an elevation of 7,050 ft. (1,980 m), Wuksachi Lodge is only 4 miles away from the Giant Forest Museum.
    Delaware North Parks & Resorts offers multiple services like overnight accommodations, retail, food and beverage, etc. at Kings Canyon National Park in the area of Grant Grove and Cedar Grove. Limited Internet is available in some areas of the main lodge. Wuksachi Lodge is open throughout all the seasons.

    GRANT GROVE CABINS

    At an elevation of 6,500 ft (1,980 m), the Grant Grove Cabins is located in the Grant Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park. It offers 6 types of cabins; some are even opened all year. Main attractions like a sequoia grove, gifts shop, markets and restaurants are half a mile (800m) away from the Grant Grove Cabins. Open: All Year (limited in the winter)

    ✔ PEAR LAKE WINTER HUT

    Managed by the Sequoia Parks Conservancy, Pear Lake Winter Hut is a rustic hut of 10 bunk beds that opens during winter and requires reservations but only for wilderness skiers who travel to Pear Lake during the cold season. At an elevation of 9,200 ft. the hut sits high above Lodgepole. This hut includes a wood-pellet stove. To get to it, you need to go through six miles on skis or snowshoes. Reservations can be made online or by phone: 559-565-3759.

    Got a key backcountry resource not listed here that you’d like to share? Contact . Advance thanks for sharing.

    * Browse Tahoe area rentals and private seasonal ski leases:
    🏂
    http://www.snowpals.org/rentals/

    * Browse shared ski leases: :
    🏂
    http://www.snowpals.org/leases/

    * How to increase bookings for your rental, ski lease listing on Airbnb, VRBO, HomeAway, FlipKey, Craigslist:
    🏂
    http://www.snowpals.org/2020/property-owners-guide-tips-create-appealing-listing-vacation-rental-ski-lease/

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    Non-profit Spotlight: TahoeFund.org uses the power of philanthropy to improve Tahoe’s environment

    Tahoe-fund-nonprofit

    Our spotlight feature for the month of January goes to Tahoe Fund..

    The Tahoe Fund was founded in 2010 as a registered nonprofit in the States of Nevada and California. The goal of the Tahoe Fund is to become a major source of private funding for environmental projects around the Lake Tahoe Basin with an emphasis on forest health, lake clarity, sustainable recreation, transportation and stewardship.

    TahoeFund.org

    Do you love Lake Tahoe? So do we!

    Our mission at Tahoe Fund is to use the power of philanthropy to improve Lake Tahoe’s environment for all to enjoy.

    Tahoe Fund and the Power of Philanthropy from Tahoe Fund on Vimeo.

    Since 2010, Tahoe Fund has helped to complete over 40 environmental improvement projects around the Tahoe Basin. Our organization was started to provide an opportunity for people who love Tahoe to be able to help ensure its long-term preservation. Thanks to the generosity of our many donors, we are making a difference.  We have helped repair watersheds, remove aquatic invasive species, build new sections of bike paths and inspire greater stewardship of Tahoe.

    Tahoe Fund’s Project Map (click on the map below to view our interactive projects page)

    tahoe-fund-interactive-map

    Some of our most proud project accomplishments include: 

    Tahoe East Shore Trail
    Johnson Meadow Acquisition
    Lily Lake Trail Improvements
    UV Light Project
    Aquatic Invasive Bottom Barrier Challenge
    North and South Lake Boys & Girls Club Mountain Bike Program

    TAHOE LICENSE PLATES FOR POWDER PROGRAM

    Tahoe-license-plate-free-lift-ticket

    Put Your License Plate Fees to Work for Tahoe.

    Nevada and California Lake Tahoe license plates benefit conservation and recreation projects in the basin. On behalf of the California Tahoe Conservancy, the Tahoe Fund coordinates the very successful Plates for Powder winter license program, running from November 2019 until April 2020.

    Show off your love and support of protecting Lake Tahoe by ordering your California or Nevada Lake Tahoe License Plate. Over 96% of the funds from purchase and renewal fees for Lake Tahoe License plates are used to build, maintain and protect the trails, water quality, wildlife and forest health of the Lake Tahoe basin.

    New Tahoe License Plate fees benefiting the Tahoe Basin are $50 in California and $61 in Nevada. The annual renewal fee is $40 in California and $30 in Nevada. Personalized plates are also available for additional fees.

    Your support helps keep Tahoe beautiful.

    To support our efforts, donate today online at: https://www.tahoefund.org/ways-to-give/donate-online/

    Featured Project: Tahoe East Shore Trail

    What was once dubbed “The Impossible Trail” has become one of Tahoe’s favorite attractions. Since opening in June of 2019, the Tahoe East Shore Trail has seen an impressive number of trail-goers, and it’s no wonder why! The ADA approved 10-foot-wide path provides both unabated breathtaking views of the lake and easy entrance to many previously hard-to-access beaches. The path features an 800-foot over-the-water suspended bridge, the only of its kind in Nevada. Walk, stroll, or bike, the Tahoe East Shore Trail has something to offer for everyone to enjoy!

    Tahoe-east-shore-trail

    Help us make Tahoe the Smartest Forest on the Planet!

    We want to make Tahoe the smartest forest on the planet through technology and innovation so we can help our land managers increase the pace and scale of forest restoration. Find out how you can get involved by watching the video below and visiting our website at: Tahoe Fund Smartest Forest.

    Smartest Forest Fund from Tahoe Fund on Vimeo.

    tahoe-fund-logo

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    Best of Tahoe List: pitstops, apres-ski venues, pet-friendly hotels, etc

    tahoe-ski-trips-logo

    Thank you everyone for your vote for our ‘Best of Tahoe List” and tips. Congrats to winners (announced on Tuesday January 22, 2019 at 11 pm PST) on our Facebook page 🙂

    Planning a getaway to Lake Tahoe to enjoy snow-sports​?​

    Check out our ‘Best of Tahoe List’ and ti​​ps ​from our veteran skiers and boarders 😉

    – pitstops en route to/from Lake Tahoe; best place to refill gas for low prices
    – North Tahoe & South Tahoe apres-ski spots/venues + happy hour deals
    – pet-friendly hotels
    – pet-sitting
    – winter driving tips
    – wind protected Tahoe resorts, etc.

    Travis S. tips:

    (1) What is your favorite place for a pitstop whenever you drive to and from Tahoe & why?

    Burger Barn in Pollock Pines. Quirky staff, cheap but good food, and really good meat and veggie burgers. https://www.yelp.com/biz/burger-barn-pollock-pines

    (2) Owners of all wheel drive vehicles, this tip is for those looking to buy an AWD or 4WD vehicle for Tahoe trips/driving on snow/icy roads, what make & model do you recommend? why?

    I think it’s less about the model and more about getting snow tires. They make all the difference.

    (3) For winter snow & icy roads, which tire brand do you use and recommend for best traction control and why?

    I like and use Bridgestone Blizzak snow tires. They’ve served me well, from Tahoe to Montana, Colorado, Utah, and all over icy/snowy conditions in the west.

    (4) For Apres ski & ride, what places do you like to hang out to enjoy drinks / snacks? happy hour?

    Tahoe Aleworx in South Lake Tahoe is the best. You can’t beat RFID wristbands to pour your own beer 🙂
    They have 2 locations in South Lake Tahoe (Stateline near Heavenly Village and at the “Y”).

    https://www.yelp.com/biz/lake-tahoe-aleworx-south-lake-tahoe

    https://www.yelp.com/biz/lake-tahoe-aleworx-stateline-stateline

    (5) Winter snow and ice driving and safety tips?

    I’ve seen countless people driving to and from Tahoe in cars that have no business being in the mountains in snow and icy conditions. Have or use 4WD/AWD *and* snow tires!

    (6) Which resort do you recommend for first time beginners and advance level/expert skiers and snowboarders?

    – True beginners/first timers: Tahoe Donner
    – Beginners: Sierra at Tahoe, Northstar
    – Advanced: Heavenly, Kirkwood, Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows

    (8) What’s your favorite Tahoe area for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing?

    Sugar Bowl/Royal Gorge
    Camp Richardson
    Kirkwood
    Tahoe XC

    (9) On high wind days, which resort is your go to that is mostly protected from high wind/gusts? FYI, on high wind days, many resorts put ski lifts on wind hold; to avoid, good to know which resort is unlikely to be affected?

    – Homewood
    – Northstar
    – Sierra at Tahoe

    (10) For those who are new to skiing and snowboarding, what are your tips for gear? Buy new or used? Learn from friends/family or from ski resorts experts?

    If planning to develop and progress, buy new. If just going for a few times then buy used or rent.

    (11) What’s your favorite place for Tahoe area petsitting?

    Truckee Tahoe Pet Lodge (Truckee)
    https://tahoebestfriends.com/ (South Lake Tahoe)

    (12) Which Tahoe area resort have the best lake view run?

    Heavenly-Ridge Run

    (14) What’s your favorite Tahoe area hotel? Fave hotels that are dog & pet-friendly?

    Edgewood is the best, and priced accordingly.
    – Best pet friendly: Basecamp (South Lake Tahoe & Tahoe City) or a vacation rental (such as those found on dogtrekker.com

    ###

    Marc D tips:

    (1) What is your favorite place for a pitstop whenever you drive to and from Tahoe & why?

    If driving to South Lake Tahoe, one good pitstop for the cheapest gas and coffee is the new Fuel Express Station between Folsom and Placerville. Stay along highway US-50 and take exit 39 for Shingle Springs Dr.

    Coming back from SLT along the US-50 after a good skiing day, best is to escape SLT before traffic builds, drive all the way to Placerville where you can enjoy the best BBQ in town at the Hog Wild Bar-B-Que (good food and reasonable price). If you are not a meat fan, then not far away still in Placerville is Let’s Poke restaurant. Quick and delicious.

    (2) Owners of all wheel drive vehicles, this tip is for those looking to buy an AWD or 4WD vehicle for Tahoe trips/driving on snow/icy roads, what make & model do you recommend? why?

    Some newer cars like the RAV4 AWD, it is not AWD all the time but when required. This is good if you are driving on fresh snow on a flat road but I don’t like it when going downhill or uphill. So check your car before driving to ensure it is full time AWD or if it is a 4WD then put it to 4H and drive carefully.

    (3) For winter snow & icy roads, which tire brand do you use and recommend for best traction control and why?

    The best is to have studded snow tires but we all know most of the people live in the Bay Area and can’t have these snow tires in the city. So another safe option is to have All Season Tires. These tires can be identified with a Mountain / snowflake Symbol on the side of the tire or an M+S label.

    (4) For Apres ski & ride, what places do you like to hang out to enjoy drinks / snacks? happy hour?

    Again this is for Skiing Heavenly and staying in SLT.
    If skiing from the Gondola, then you have multiple choices for drinks and food for Après-Ski.
    Azul Kitchen and California Burger in Heavenly Village have good happy hour deals (4 to 6pm) and good food too.

    The best pizza is not far too at the Base Camp Pizza Company just next to the Gondola.

    If you are parked at the California lodge (top of Ski run Blvd) then don’t worry no need to drive after your long epic day. Himmel Haus is a great German restaurant across the street from the parking lot and have great drinks and food.

    (5) Winter snow and ice driving and safety tips?

    Driving on snow is tricky and the best is to avoid sudden braking or turning. Try to use engine braking when going downhill versus braking all the time. Don’t use your phone and get distracted, again sudden reactions when driving on snow can lead you to an accident.

    Accelerating, stopping and turning take longer and are less predictable when driving on snow.
    Slow driving is the key to maintaining control.

    (6) Which resort do you recommend for first time beginners and advance level/expert skiers and snowboarders?

    – for first timers, Heavenly has good easy runs (maybe easier on California side), but another great and easy resort (my favorite) is Northstar. Very convenient for families.

    – for advance skiers and snowboarders, then Squaw Valley and Kirkwood are the best places around Tahoe to enjoy double diamond runs and push your skiing limits.

    (7) For Lake Tahoe backcountry skiing/snowboarding, what are 2-3 of your favorite backcountry areas?

    The north side of the lake (around Mt Rose) has great backcountry areas.

    Also the road to Kirkwood along the 88 has multiple spots for backcountry (Waterhouse peak being the easiest).

    Best is to check the App Snow Project for locations and levels.

    (9) On high wind days, which resort is your go to that is mostly protected from high wind/gusts? FYI, on high wind days, many resorts put ski lifts on wind hold; to avoid, good to know which resort is unlikely to be affected?

    Both Heavenly and Kirkwood get very windy during stormy days. Heavenly is probably the one that shuts down first.

    Squaw as well is known to receive strong winds.

    Northstar on the contrary is well protected from winds, being in the back side of Lake Tahoe so that would be my best option in a bad stormy day.

    (12) Which Tahoe area resort have the best lake view run?

    For best views over Lake Tahoe I recommend Heavenly and Mt Rose.

    (13) What’s your favorite Tahoe area restaurant / eatery?

    Basecamp Pizza Co is the best but it gets very busy.

    Heidi’s pancake house has the best breakfasts.

    ###

    Adam J tips: is our 2nd prize winner; he innovates with his Subaru DIY POWder chaser makeshift sleeping pad so he can be slope-side for first tracks – see pic below (passionate pow seeker sans ski cabin)

    Screen Shot 2019-01-24 at 3.05.15 PM

    (1) What is your favorite DIY money-saving strategy for Tahoe trips?

    My greatest realization was that with a little bit of effort, I can make the back of my Subaru a very comfortable (and cheap) place to sleep for the night. So now, I drive up to the Truckee rest stop the night before, crash out in back since I’m usually tired from driving, and then pop up bright and early in the morning and I’m parked in the front row of free parking at Squaw within 20 minutes. Then I can take my time getting ready cuz I’ve already got a great parking spot! I love it.

    (2) Owners of all wheel drive vehicles, this tip is for those looking to buy an AWD or 4WD vehicle for Tahoe trips/driving on snow/icy roads, what make & model do you recommend? why?

    Subaru. Period. Also, luggage racks make your car top-heavy and reduce fuel efficiency people.

    (3) For winter snow & icy roads, which tire brand do you use and recommend for best traction control and why?

    Anything at Costco, mostly because they will do rotations for free. More importantly, have a good set of CHAINS. Also, make sure to test the chains before you need them! Amazon sometimes sends you chains for a different tire size by mistake.

    (4) For Apres ski & ride, what places do you like to hang out to enjoy drinks / snacks? happy hour?

    My backpack. The resort takes enough of my money. My wife’s sammiches are the bomb! Also, remember those lil flasks you see people use on tv? They work well for apres ski, too!

    (5) Winter snow and ice driving and safety tips?

    Checklist: Chains (that fit), good tires (lots o tread left), and good wipers (Rain-x, baby!). Don’t crowd the plow!

    (10) For those who are new to skiing and snowboarding, what are your tips for gear? Buy new or used? Learn from friends/family or from ski resorts experts?

    Thicker socks don’t help! If your feet are cold, they probably aren’t getting sufficient circulation (took me years to figure this out). Try loosening your boots.

    🏂⛷❄️❄️❄️

    Check out our Tahoe money saving tips such as where to go for lift ticket deals, free birthday lift ticket, learn to ski, snowboard package deals, apres ski happy hour venues, etc at

    http://www.snowpals.org/deals/daily-tahoe-tips/

    ###

    Give a tip for snow-sports newbies planning to visit Lake Tahoe to enjoy snowsports and get entered into SnowPals giveaway for:

    + $25 Cheesecake Factory Gift Card

    https://www.thecheesecakefactory.com

    + $20 gift card for Philz Artesian Coffee

    https://www.philzcoffee.com

    Entry deadline is Tuesday January 22 at 9:59 pm PST.


    To enter our giveaway, please submit your tips for one or more of the following questions:

    Tahoe Tips

    Give your tips for the following questions; either one or multiple questions..
    • -->> PLEASE include a www.yelp.com link
    • -->> PLEASE include a www.yelp.com link

    ###

    * Join our fun informal happy hour meetups organized by our members to connect for Tahoe ridesharing (share expenses, help reduce impact to our environment, expand your contacts for ski & ride buddies).

    * Got a 60 seconds GoPRO video of you skiing or riding POW? Enter our skiing / riding POWDER contest.

    * Plan a Tahoe getaway: browse Tahoe vacation rentals or those with a season pass, join a ski lease to set a new personal record for most ski and ride days.

    * Book a discount SF Bay Area to Tahoe ski resorts trip: one day, overnight and 7+ day trips; also makes a great gift for holidays, birthdays, etc.

    * Rideshare to your favorite Tahoe resort and for those who are holders of Epic Pass, Ikon Pass, Mountain Collective Pass, or other multi-resort season pass, connect for POWDER trips to Utah, Colorado, Whistler, Europe, Japan, South America and other worldwide snow destinations.

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    High Fives Foundation serves as the safety net of the outdoor community

    high-fives-foundation-logo

    SnowPals‘ September snow-sports nonprofit HERO AWARD goes to the High Fives Foundation..

    In the last decade, the High Fives Foundation has gained widespread acclaim among snow sports athletes for the foundation’s dedication to raise injury prevention awareness while providing resources and inspiration to those who suffered life-changing injuries. Even more impressive, they’ve managed to become a common thread of connection and hope between a variety of athletes, outdoor sports communities, and charitable initiatives.

    ABOUT THE HIGH FIVES FOUNDATION

    High Fives Foundation focuses on preventing life-changing injuries and provides resources & hope if they happen. The foundation was formed as a way to “pay-it-forward” by founder Roy Tuscany from his own experience of recovery to help injured people. The Foundation has expanded to help 219 individuals and veterans from 32 states since its inception in 2009. The High Fives Foundation is a California-based, national 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization. For more information visit www.highfivesfoundation.org

    “On April 29, 2006 I suffered a devastating spinal cord injury while training in Mammoth Mountain, CA, rendering my lower body paralyzed immediately after the accident. After having high hopes of becoming a world class professional skier, I then had to relearn everything in my life from the ground up. A truly life-altering experience, I eventually began making great progress. With the help of strong personalities, positivity, and high fives all around me, I stepped into skis and loaded the lift at Sugar Bowl for the first time in March of 2008. The encouragement and positivity I received during my recovery inspired me to start a foundation to help others with similar experiences.”

    High Fives Non-profit Foundation, based in Truckee, CA, became an official 501c.3 non-profit on January 19, 2009. Founded by Roy Tuscany, the Tahoe-based foundation supports the dreams of outdoor action sports athletes by raising injury prevention awareness while providing resources and inspiration to those who suffer life altering injuries.

    We have not only grown at a rate that exceeded all expectations, but have also successfully raised funds, secured alternative treatments and aided in recovery of 206 athletes from 31 states. It is a dream come true to help these people and many more. With that in mind it is the mission of High Fives to continue to grow and become a nation-wide organization that effectively acts as an umbrella for those that participate (and get hurt) in the sports we love so dearly.”

    Roy Tuscany
    President | Executive Director | Founder
    High Fives Non-profit Foundation

    In short, the foundation is know for serving as “THE SAFETY NET OF THE OUTDOOR COMMUNITY.”

    MISSION

    HIGH FIVES FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON PREVENTING LIFE-CHANGING INJURIES AND PROVIDES RESOURCES AND HOPE IF THEY HAPPEN.

    VISION

    TO BE THE LEADER OF EDUCATION AND RECOVERY OF LIFE-CHANGING INJURIES IN OUTDOOR SPORTS.

    Submit a tax deductible donation to High Fives Foundation –> https://support.highfivesfoundation.org/campaign/high-fives-foundation/c85509

    High Fives Foundation Video on Vimeo


    High Fives Foundation | Mission Vision from HighFivesFoundation on Vimeo.

    High Fives Foundation Funds Safety Education


    BASICS 8 Helmets Are Cool Trailer from HighFivesFoundation on Vimeo.

    *SnowPals’ November Non-profit Spotlight went to SkiDUCK – join them with their outreach to bring the joys of skiing and snowboarding to urban youths

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    Warren Miller Ski / Ride Film Showing with pre-event PIZZA

    warren-miller-ski-film

    Join us for Warren Miller’s 67th ski and snowboard film screening at 9 PM on Saturday November 19, 2016 of Here, There & Everywhere with Snowpals’ exclusive pre-show pizza social. Here’s a great opportunity to meet local skiers and boarders to expand your social circle/meet a few new friends for Tahoe ride share and ski trips for the winter season.

    Got season pass? Maximize your ski season pass by joining a ski lease and expand your circle of friends and activity partners in the process.

    Pre-show Pizza Social Tickets Remaining: 3 tickets left as of 11/17/2016. Ticket sales via Snowpals close at 11:59 PM PST on Friday Nov. 18, 2016.

    [ujicountdown id=”Deadline to purchase tickets” expire=”2016/11/18 23:59″ hide = “true”]


    Pizza Social Tickets: $10 per person ~ buy tickets.

    Join us for our exclusive pizza social prior to the movie from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Pizza is included. Buy your own drink(s). Pizza social location is in Campbell; exact address will be given to all participants by email on Saturday Nov 19, 2016 by 11 AM.

    Once you have purchased your ticket(s); PayPal will send you a receipt by email. Please print the receipt and bring it to the Pizza Social get together to redeem. If you have any questions, please  Tim or text/sms 408.341.9744.

    *Pizza social tickets are non-refundable but transferable to someone else; you are responsible to sell /transfer your ticket if you can not go. If you missed or can not make it to the pizza social, there’s no refund.

    Got film tickets? You can still buy tickets on Eventbrite to see the film screening of Here, There & Everywhere film screening 9:00 PM showing on Saturday November 19, 2016 at the Heritage Theatre in Campbell, CA.

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    Film Ticket Holders will receive coupons at the film showing for:

         2-FOR-1 LIFT TICKET TO SQUAW VALLEY | ALPINE MEADOWS: Everyone attending this screening of Here, There & Everywhere will receive a voucher good for One (1) 2-FOR-1 lift ticket to Squaw Valley | Alpine Meadows. Buy One (1) adult lift ticket at the resort rate and receive a second lift ticket for FREE. Offer valid from Opening Day 2016 through Closing Day 2017. OFFER NOT VALID Saturdays AND the following blackout dates: 12.17.16 through 12.31.17, 1.14.17 through 1.15.17, AND 2.18.17 through 2.25.17. Not valid with any other discount offers. No cash value. No refunds.

         FREE LIFT TICKET TO MT. BACHELOR: Everyone attending this screening of Here, There & Everywhere will receive a voucher to Mt. Bachelor good for One (1) FREE lift ticket valid Opening Day 2016 through Closing Day 2017, Sunday through Friday (non-holiday). One (1) coupon per person. Not valid with any other discount offer. No refunds. No cash value. Non-transferable.

         FREE EARLY- OR LATE-SEASON LIFT TICKET TO STEAMBOAT: Everyone attending this screening of Here, There & Everywhere will receive a voucher good for One (1) FREE lift ticket to Steamboat. OFFER VALID 11.24.16 through 12.16.16 OR 4.1.17 through 4.16.17. Non-transferable. Not valid with any other discount offers. No cash value. No refunds.

         20% OFF YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE AT SPORTS BASEMENT: Everyone attending this screening of Here, There & Everywhere will receive a voucher good for 20% OFF your entire purchase. One (1) coupon per customer. Cannot be combined with any other coupons or discounts. Some exclusions apply. OFFER EXPIRES 11.30.16.

    About the movie:

    It’s been 67 years since ski-film pioneer Warren Miller picked up a camera to capture the wonder, the adventure, the humor and the beauty that is skiing. Since that time, Warren Miller film crews have traveled the globe—from storied slopes to hidden, snow-covered corners—to celebrate all things snowsports. Their quest has taken powder-hungry filmgoers, well, Here, There & Everywhere—and this year continues that legacy.

    In this 67th annual Warren Miller film, take a freeski adventure with industry veterans Ingrid Backstrom and Wendy Fisher in Crested Butte, tour Eastern Greenland by dog sled with Seth Wescott and Rob Kingwill and follow Jess McMillan and Grete Eliassen on a Swiss holiday aboard the Glacier Express. Explore the backcountry of Western Montana’s Glacier Country with Tyler Ceccanti, Collin Collins and Keith Curtis and catch a powder day with Kaylin Richardson, Matt Elliott, Marcus Caston and the Kicking Horse ski patrol in British Columbia.

    Travel along as Warren Miller Entertainment commemorates Stein Eriksen in Deer Valley, captures the big air at Boston’s Fenway Park (yes, that Fenway Park!) and rides the steeps of Squaw Valley to the big lines of Cordova, Alaska, plus much more. This year, don’t miss original ski bum and filmmaker Warren Miller himself in on-screen interviews as he spins tales of the past as only Warren can do, reminding us that through the years, these films have truly taken audiences Here, There & Everywhere.

    Sponsors of the 2016 Warren Miller Film Tour include: Western Montana’s Glacier Country, Gosling’s, L.L. Bean, Moosehead, Switzerland Tourism, Helly Hansen, Korbel and SKI Magazine.

    Featured Athletes: Aaron Blunck • Chris Anthony • Collin Collins • Grete Elliassen • Ingrid Backstrom • Jeremy Jones • Jess McMillan • Jonny Moseley • JT Holmes • Kailyn Richardson • Keith Curtis • Marcus Caston • Matt Elliott • Morgan Hebert • Rob Kingwill • Ryland Bell • Seth Wescott • Tyler Ceccanti • Wendy Fisher

    Narrated by: Jonny Moseley and Featuring Warren Miller

    Featured Locations: Squaw Valley, CA • Crested Butte, CO • Deer Valley, UT • Montana • Switzerland • Kicking Horse Mountain Resort • Cordova, AK • Greenland • Boston’s Fenway Park • Steamboat Springs, CO

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