Ski Leases for families and groups. The Ins and Outs of Getting Into One.
I’d like to talk to you about ski leases. Not the kind to lease ski equipment, but condo and cabin rentals for an entire ski season for ski addicts like us. I had never heard of one until the end of last season. After I learned about them, they seemed so intriguing and beneficial to my situation that I had to learn more. I finally got into one and would like to tell you about my experience with my first ski lease. By doing so, I hope that you will gain some insight into them and learn about what they are and how you too can get into one. I’ll start with my story and then provide a general description of a ski lease and then some tips from people that have lots of experience with them. Hopefully this will help you into your very own ski lease either for your family or for your group of ski and snowboarding buddies.
When I discovered ski leases I saw them as a great ski housing opportunity for me and my family. You see, I’ve come back to skiing full tilt after almost 20 years of hiatus. Back in the day, I skied every opportunity I could get and being young and without responsibilities, never had an issue finding a place to crash when up in Tahoe. Back then, the freedom of being able to drive up to Tahoe, bum around, ski lots and have really no worries about a place to stay was taken for granted.
Flash forward twenty some-odd years and is it still that way? We all know that answer to that. Marriage and kids have become the major parts of the equation. Since the kids are now old enough to ski all day without a meltdown, we can go up quite a lot. However now when we go its not just me and my buds anymore. Can you imagine going up to Tahoe with my wife and three kids to just show up at someone’s place ready to crash there? It just doesn’t work that way anymore.
What is a family to do? Buying a ski house is out of the question right now. We could book a hotel stay, but that gets very expensive especially for those of us with a ski season pass with the goal of getting in as many ski days as possible. How about day trips? We had to go that route towards the end of last season because we were spending an ungodly amount of money on hotel stays. I’m sure I’m in a similar boat with many of you out there. The solution for someone like us was the seasonal ski lease.
What is it? Basically it is a rental of a condo or cabin in Tahoe for the ski season. If you know you’re going to Tahoe often for skiing then renting a condo/cabin for the ski season is a great alternative to paying for hotels/other lodging each time you go up. It can be more cost effective but also more convenient because you can leave your ski gear and clothing at your ski lease cabin and not worry about having a place to stay and the chore of having to pack for every ski trip. Combined with a season pass to your favorite ski resort, the major expenses are covered and you’ll only have the cost of meals and gas to worry about. If you’re a ski nut like me and aren’t yet in a similar situation, I can’t express how priceless it is to have peace of mind, comfort, and the convenience of having a ski season pass and a place to stay anytime during the season taken care of.
If you’re ready to take the plunge into a ski lease, how do you get into one of these great deals? Through my research, I’ve discovered three ways.
(1) – you can deal directly with the owner of a property and lease the place for you and your family or group for friends for the season. If that is too costly, then you could ask families/friends that you know if they’d want to go in with you and share the cost of the lease. You can find a winter lease to rent for the ski season by searching on Craigslist, VRBO, Airbnb, etc – just ask the owner if he/she is opened to a seasonal lease.
(2) – you could contact a local professional that brokers these kinds of deals. I haven’t had much luck finding these professionals though. From what I’ve heard and if you can find one, they can put you in touch with owners that are looking to rent out their property. Once in touch with the owner, you could do the lease yourself or put together a group of members to split the cost.
(3) – you could go to online resources and search for individuals that already have a deal in place with the owner of the property and are looking for additional “members” to join their lease group or a family willing to share a family lease share. For those of you that are new to this, this route is probably the easiest way to enter the ski lease world. SnowPals is a great resource for Tahoe ski leases organized by various groups and has an entire section dedicated to available Tahoe area ski lease share opportunities. For those of you looking for ski lease share offerings in areas outside of Tahoe, check out postings in TGR, EpicSki forums or Craigslist for postings.
The cost per membership varies and there are so many options out there. I’ve seen listings on SnowPals for full season (typically December to April) ski lease membership for one person from $700 all the way to $2500. If you’re single and can spend just $700 for lodging for an entire season–that’s an amazing deal; let’s say you stay at the ski lease for a total of 30 nights, your cost per night would be $23.34 per night. Naturally, the more nights you stay, the more value you get from the ski lease. Signing up for ski lease membership is a great way to maximize your ski season pass since it encourages you to go up to Tahoe the night before and be close to the ski resort and can take advantage of a good night’s rest and get the chance to ski/ride fresh tracks/powder when resorts start up their lifts. Also, the value of beating the crowds and traffic to the resort is priceless; how many times have you been stuck in traffic or frustrated with locating free parking spaces? In addition, getting into a ski lease gives you the chance to expand your social circle and make new friends.
So, how did I find my ski lease? I got into mine by letting everyone I knew know that I wanted to learn about ski leases and my desire of joining one. Within a short period of time, a friend contacted me to ask if my wife and I would be willing to go in with them on a ski lease. He knew the owners of a great place in Truckee and they mentioned to him that they wanted to rent the place for the ski season. I told him absolutely and that we should jump on that. We brought our families together along with one other family and now we have a great house to stay in any time we want from Dec 14 to May 15. Each “member” in our group is a family. We each paid an equal lump sum on November 1, have no guest fees and our lump sum cost includes all utilities and snow removal. It is such a great deal. Of course, if another family is up there when we go up, we must share the space with them, but since we all know each other and our kids are all friends, other members being up there makes our stay more fun. Also a great benefit is that we take turns watching the kids so each set of parents get some down time. We also rotate turns cooking so that gives us more quality family time to enjoy our time together.
So what are some of the pitfalls? There have to be some, right? From my research, most pitfalls come from a misunderstanding of the rules of use when in a group ski lease. If you leased the place on your own, then the rules are yours and yours alone. However, if you are going into a ski lease as part of a group, then it is important to understand the rules otherwise there could be trouble. Of course it is important to click with the other members and if you do then it is important to nail down whatever rules all the members of the ski lease decide on in a clear and concise written agreement. Here are some things to consider from my wise and experienced ski lease mates, Eric and Andy:
What does your membership cost include? Make sure you know up front what your membership cost includes and what other expenses (if any) you’ll be responsible for at the end of the lease (e.g. utilities, firewood, hot tub maintenance, snow removal, house cleaning services, etc.)
Guest fees. Some ski leases charge “guest fees” for non-members to stay overnight to cover any additional expenses for lease. Make sure you are clear about guest fees in your ski lease and the rules for them
Parking. What are rules for parking? Last thing you want is to go up late Friday night and not have a parking space or at least be prepared for no parking space. Consider the option to carpool or ride share to your ski cabin if you don’t have alot of people in your family and empty seats in the van/SUV.
Storage of your stuff. Can you store stuff at the ski cabin/ski lease and if so what are the rules and where do you store your stuff?
Priority for bedrooms. If it is important for you to be in a bedroom, then what are the chances that you might not get one if everyone in the membership happens to be up at the same time. Some ski leases have agreements to allocate a dedicated bedroom where it is solely yours for the entire season which is very beneficial to bringing your own bedding and store your winter clothing and gear in the closet for convenience and easy access.
So, if you go up to Tahoe a lot and need the convenience of your own home without the financial commitment, but want a more cost effective solution than hotels/motels, a ski lease is the way to go. There are so many different options available out there. A great place to start is to browse available ski lease memberships organized by families or group of skiers/snowboarders to share a ski cabin. If you’re in a different area than Tahoe, you can also try craigslist, TGR, EpicSki, SnowHeads forum and other places online in your search to join a ski lease.
Many thanks to Eric and Andy, my ski lease mates who share their many years of experience and useful advice on how best to get into a ski lease and to reap the benefits of maximizing our ski season pass, lodging cost savings and most of all, deepening our friendship with shared experiences. Also many thanks to those of you who provided me with some great stories and advice.
For rental property and ski lease tips/guide/how to, read ..
New to SnowPals? Join us to expand your circle of ski and ride buddies and Tahoe ride-share contacts for powder trips to Tahoe and to powder resorts in Utah, Colorado, British Columbia, etc.
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? Thursday, November 13, 2025
Oakland Happy Hour, connect w/ Skiers, Boarders for Tahoe Trips and POWder Hound Trips on your pass – RSVP on Eventbrite
? Friday, November 7, 2025
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? Friday, November 7, 2025
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Sparking Wine Tasting South Bay Ikon Pass Epic Pass Holders Social – RSVP on Eventbrite
Come hang with SnowPals and plan this winter’s ski, snowboard trips to Lake Tahoe to make the most of your pass, to powder hound to Utah, Colorado, Jackson Hole Wy, the Cascades Mountains, Japan powder hound aka JaPOW trips to Niseko United and Hakuba), French and Italian Alps, Austria or where ever there are deep powder snow freshies to be had!
Join us to expand your circle of ski, ride pals for resort based and backcountry ski touring. SnowPals over the years have helped to form countless friendships, and a few marriages ?
Join SnowPals to pool resources, wisdom, and tap into discount lodging and small group travel discounts on our powder hound adventures leveraging Epic & Ikon Pass. View past events photos.
? SF Backcountry Skier, Split-boarders Meetup on Tuesday January 14, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM with special guest Richard Bothwell (pro backcountry guide and Avy instructor) (scroll down to read event details)
=== 1/14/2025 San Francisco Backcountry Skiers, Split Boarders Meetup ===
Join backcountry skiers and snowboarders to connect for BC ski touring trips, share tips, wisdom and experiences and exchange contacts with similar skill level backcountry skiers/split-boarders.
When: Tuesday 1/14/2025 from 6pm to 8pm.
Where: Zeitgeist located at 199 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94103. Enjoy craft beers & a spacious patio with picnic benches create a festive setting for this popular Mission spot. “Founded in 1977, the bar and beer garden Zeitgeist is a Historic Legacy Business in San Francisco, known for their Bloody Marys, Margaritas, 64 taps of craft beer, and full bar.” View drink and eats menu.
Host for this event: Aubrey with co-host Steve.
SnowPals’ Event Fee:
$10 for members
$19 for non-members (join SnowPals to get the members’ event discount rate). Read about us on Facebook | Yelp
Light appetizers will be ordered for our group; enjoy some tasty finger foods with your drinks! Pay for your own drinks and any other food, as desired. *Event fee terms: your event ticket is transferable to another person for the same event date if you can not go. No refunds.
This event is limited to 25 participants max; we will update this page when this event is fully booked.
If this event is fully booked, to get waitlisted.
RSVP below or on EventBrite (link opens in a new window)
1) reach out to Tim at to let us know (copy and paste the following questions to your email to answer)
a) which event are you RSVPing for?
b) how many people are on your RSVP? Yours and their name(s)?
c) for Tahoe ride-sharing, which resort(s) do you frequent? Can you offer a ride or would like to be a passenger?
d) are you interested in small group travel discount trips from international ski/ride POWDER destinations, trips to SoCal’s Mammoth Mountain Resort (leveraging your Ikon Pass), to chase deep powder snow freshies to resorts in..
Utah, Colorado, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Wyoming (averages around 38.1 feet of snow annually),
the Cascades Range (extend northward for more than 700 miles (1,100 km) from Lassen Peak, in northern California, U.S., through Oregon and Washington to the Fraser River in southern British Columbia),
Alyeska Resort on the Ikon Pass in Alaska (this resort averages around 54.1 feet of snow annually, but can receive as much as 70.6 feet of snow. It’s located in Chugach State Park, just outside of Anchorage),
Mount Baker Ski Area on the Ikon Pass, Washington
This resort averages around 54.1 feet/16.5 meters of snow annually.
Once you send us your email RSVP, we’ll request event payment. Your event payment confirms your participation.
When you arrive at the event venue, please ask for the SnowPals table/gathering spot, show your digital or printed receipt at the event to Aubrey and Steve (co-host) for entry.
Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Pay for your own drinks & any other food, as desired. Please put this event on your your calendar with a reminder so you won’t forget.
SnowPals’ SF meetup after work: Richard Bothwell, will be our guest for this evening’s SF backcountry meetup:“ Richard Bothwell, Backcountry CFO (Chief Fun Officer)
Since 1996, Richard has been the backwoods & backcountry expert, climbing guide, splitboard guide, and a pretty good backcountry cook, too. Richard has climbed, skied, snowboarded and guided trips all over the world including 4 of the “7 Summits” (Kilimanjaro, Aconcagua, Denali, and Elbrus).
He’s climbed extensively in the Cordillera Blanca of Peru, including summtiing 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 at the Executive Director of AIARE (American Institute of Avalanche Research and Education) from 2016-2018.
In 2023, Richard authored Light Tours of Tahoe, a backcountry ski guide focusing on mellow tours that avoid avalanche terrain.Certifications and trainings 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 him your QA backcountry ski touring questions at 6pm tonight. See you there!
Frequently Asked Question:
Why is it a good idea to have a backcountry skiing partner?
Having a backcountry skiing partner is crucial for safety, as it allows for shared decision-making, immediate assistance in case of an accident, better avalanche safety measures with beacon checks, and the ability to help one another in challenging terrain, significantly reducing the risks associated with venturing into the backcountry alone; essentially, a partner provides a safety net and enhances overall enjoyment of the experience by sharing the responsibility and knowledge of the mountain environment.
Key reasons to partner up for backcountry skiing tours:
✔ Avalanche safety:
A partner can help with avalanche risk assessment, beacon searches, and rescue efforts if someone gets caught in an avalanche.
✔ Decision-making:
Sharing the responsibility of route selection and deciding when to turn back based on conditions.
✔ Emergency response:
In case of an injury, a partner can provide immediate first aid and call for help.
✔ Communication and accountability:
Open communication about concerns and abilities, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
✔ Shared knowledge and experience:
Learning from each other’s skills and expertise, especially if one partner has more experience in the backcountry.
✔ Enhanced enjoyment:
✔ Sharing the adventure and the thrill of the backcountry with someone else creates a more positive experience.
Join SnowPals to partner up to pool resources, wisdom, and to stay safe for backcountry skiing / split boarding touring adventures.
Limited appetizer platters will be ordered for our group; enjoy sumptuous appetizers with your drinks! Pay for your own drinks & any other food, as desired.
When: Thursday November 14th, from 6:30pm to 9:30pm. Asiento specializes in craft drinks, creative cocktails and delectable bar bites. A live band will be playing in the parklet area.
Asiento is 21+ inside but have a large parklet outside.
Host for this event: Maureen will help connect skiers and boarders, and facilitate winter Tahoe ride sharing. She is an *Advanced level rider (25+ yrs) with an EPIC pass* and she loves to snowboard and connecting people to share their love of snow sports! Her joy of life is riding through the trees & fresh powder.
She has been to a few international resorts, and got more on her snowboard travel destination list to tackle! Also her top Tahoe resort is Palisades/Alpine (had IKON pass last 2 seasons). Previous ski leases (but not this year).
Maureen works 12 hr shifts in medicine, off weekdays (likes to avoid weekend skiing chaos). Any others with similar schedule/flexibility? Be sure to connect with her! She lives to chase powder; so far for 2024, one trip to Snowbird in Jan, Whistler in Feb. Otherwise Tahoooooe!! 😉
** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **
Event Fee: $10 per person. Light appetizers will be ordered for the event. Event fee terms: ticket is transferable to another person if you can not go. No refunds.
Event Capacity 60: as of November 10, 2024, we are fully booked at capacity of 60 RSVPS. Our first batch of tickets on Eventbrite is sold out. This is the second batch. We’ll close the RSVP form below when we reach 60.
When you arrive, please ask for the SnowPals table/gathering spot, Maureen is the event host, show your digital or printed receipt at the event for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Pay for your own drinks & any other food, as desired. Please put this event on your your calendar reminder so you won’t forget.
TRANSPORTATION: Take the BART 24th Street exit (use BART Trip Planner) or use Uber ride. Area parking available.
Meetup agenda:
* enjoy drinks, appetizers, share last season’s powder day stories
Get maximum use out of your Ikon Pass, Epic Pass, Mountain Collective Pass, Powder Alliance Pass, Indy Pass, Cali Pass, or resort specific pass
+ exchange contacts for AWD 4WD rideshare to/from Lake Tahoe
+ connect with similar skill level ski, ride buddies for resort & backcountry
* share tips on which season pass is best to buy: Ikon, Epic, Indy, Cali, Power Alliance, Gold Pass, etc. (join to leverage group discount season pass) for those still deciding
* plan chase powder trips to Utah, CO, Jackson Hole WY, Austria, French, Italian, and Japanese Alps, Whistler Blackcomb, Lake Louise trip for both resort based leveraging your season pass (and backcountry skiing)
* meet/join group cabin ski lease share organizers(many of the ski lease organizers are the same from the previous year), learn more about joining a cabin for the winter
* get inside tips and advice on all things Lake Tahoe and snow sports from our avid skiers, riders
We hope to see you there to make some new ski/ride pals and to get stoked for the 2024/25 ski/board winter season!
Event Host: Ashlee will help connect skiers and boarders, and facilitate winter Tahoe ride sharing at the event. She loves to shred POW, and she’s an Ikon Pass holder for the 2024/25 winter. She also runs a ski lease share in Tahoe City with 2-3 spots available, interested? check out her listing.
Event Fee: $10 per person. Light appetizers will be ordered for the event. Event fee terms: ticket is transferable to another person if you can not go. No refunds.
When you arrive, please ask for the SnowPals table/gathering spot, Ashlee is the event host, show your digital or printed receipt at the event for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Pay for your own drinks & any other food, as desired. Please put this event on your your calendar reminder so you won’t forget.
** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **
Please 1) email Tim at (copy and paste the following questions to your email to answer)
a) which event are you RSVPing for?
b) how many people are on your RSVP? Yours and their name(s)?
c) your mobile number in case we need to reach you about the event?
d) got a season pass to? for Tahoe ride-sharing, which resort(s) do you frequent? Can you offer a ride or would like to be a passenger?
e) are you interested in small group travel discount trips from international ski/ride powder destinations, and trips locally to SoCal’s Mammoth Mountain Resort (leveraging your Ikon Pass) or to other resort(s) or ski area(s) outside of CA?
Tasting Flight Details
Another Wacky Whiskey Wednesday. Vintage Wine Merchants will be featuring a unique collection of whiskey from Luxco which will include Remus, Penelope and others.
Uber or get a designated driver is highly recommended for this event 😉
? Remus Straight Bourbon Whiskey ‘Highest Rye’ 6 Yr
? Penelope Straight Bourbon
? Whiskey Rose Cask Finish
? Penelope Straight Bourbon Whiskey Four Grain
? Penelope Straight Bourbon Whiskey Architect
? Penelope Straight Bourbon Whiskey Four Grain Barrel Strength
? Penelope Straight Bourbon Whiskey Heavy Toasted
? Plus a couple more
Once you send us your email RSVP, we’ll request event payment. Your event payment confirms your participation. Please bring your digital receipt to show at the event for entry.
When you arrive, please look for Tim in the bar seating area, show your digital or printed event receipt for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Please put this event on your calendar with a reminder so you won’t forget.
** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **
1) reach out to Tim at to let us know (copy and paste the following questions to your email to answer)
a) which event are you RSVPing for?
b) how many people are on your RSVP? Yours and their name(s)?
c) for Tahoe ride-sharing, which resort(s) do you frequent? Can you offer a ride or would like to be a passenger?
d) are you interested in small group travel discount trips from international ski/ride POWDER destinations, to trips to SoCal’s Mammoth Mountain Resort (leveraging your Ikon Pass), to chase deep powder snow freshies to resorts in..
Utah, Colorado, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Wyoming (averages around 38.1 feet of snow annually),
the Cascades Range (extend northward for more than 700 miles (1,100 km) from Lassen Peak, in northern California, U.S., through Oregon and Washington to the Fraser River in southern British Columbia),
Alyeska Resort on the Ikon Pass in Alaska (this resort averages around 54.1 feet of snow annually, but can receive as much as 70.6 feet of snow. It’s located in Chugach State Park, just outside of Anchorage),
Mount Baker Ski Area on the Ikon Pass, Washington
This resort averages around 54.1 feet/16.5 meters of snow annually.
Once you send us your email RSVP, we’ll request event payment. Your event payment confirms your participation.
When you arrive, please look for Tim in the bar seating area, show your digital or printed event receipt for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Please put this event on your calendar with a reminder so you won’t forget.
** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **
Tasting Event Details:
Nestled in the heart of Kentucky’s rolling hills, the Woodford Reserve Distillery is a beacon of tradition and craftsmanship. As you approach, the picturesque landscape greets you with an air of timeless elegance, where the art of bourbon-making has been perfected for generations.
Event Host: Jasmine is an avid snowboarder with an IKON pass and loves to share her passion for snow sports with other people! She’s aiming to learn more tricks and jumps in the parks this season! Jasmine has been to a couple resorts in the U.S. to chase pow but hopes to powder hound to some international destinations in the future. She works full time in the medical tech industry, and is off on the weekends. If anyone has a similar schedule/flexibility, be sure to reach out to her at the kickoff!
This event is limited to 50 participants.
If this event is fully booked, to get waitlisted.
Event Fee:
$10 for members
$19 for non-members (join SnowPals to get the members’ event discount rate). Read about us on Facebook | Yelp
*Limited light appetizers will be ordered for the event. **Event fee terms: ticket is transferable to another person for the same event date if you can not go. No refunds.
Event Exclusive Discount Perks: Basementeers get 20% off purchases while non members get 11% off purchases.
How to RSVP?
1) reach out to Tim at to let us know (copy and paste the following questions to your email to answer)
a) which event are you RSVPing for?
b) how many people are on your RSVP? Yours and their name(s)?
c) for Tahoe ride-sharing, which resort(s) do you frequent? Can you offer a ride or would like to be a passenger?
d) are you interested in small group travel discount trips to international ski/ride POWDER destinations, and trips to SoCal’s Mammoth Mountain Resort (leveraging your Ikon Pass), to chase deep powder snow freshies to resorts in..
Utah, Colorado, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Wyoming (averages around 38.1 feet of snow annually),
the Cascades Range (extend northward for more than 700 miles (1,100 km) from Lassen Peak, in northern California, U.S., through Oregon and Washington to the Fraser River in southern British Columbia),
Alyeska Resort on the Ikon Pass in Alaska (this resort averages around 54.1 feet of snow annually, but can receive as much as 70.6 feet of snow. It’s located in Chugach State Park, just outside of Anchorage),
Mount Baker Ski Area on the Ikon Pass, Washington
This resort averages around 54.1 feet/16.5 meters of snow annually.
Once you send us your email RSVP, we’ll request event payment. Your event payment confirms your participation.
When you arrive, please join the group in the Summit room, Jasmine is the event host, show your digital or printed receipt to her for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Please put this event on your calendar with a reminder so you won’t forget.
** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **
We hope to see you there to make some new ski/ride pals and to get stoked for the 2024/25 ski/board winter season!
Event Host: Meghana. “I’m beginner level skier based in the Bay Area. I love spending weekends at Lake Tahoe (historically, Northstar, Palisades, or Squaw Valley resorts) to practice and enjoy the slopes. In the off season, I also enjoy kite-surfing or biking locally. I’m looking to connect with other winter sports enthusiasts to share tips, explore new runs, improve skills, and make the most of the Tahoe winter recreation. Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, or just enjoy the apres-ski vibe, I’d love to meet some like-minded people!”
This event is limited to 30 participants.
If this event is fully booked, to get waitlisted.
Event Fee:
$10 for members
$19 for non-members (join SnowPals to get the members’ event discount rate). Read about us on Facebook | Yelp
*Limited light appetizers will be ordered for the event. *Event fee terms: ticket is transferable to another person for the same event date if you can not go. No refunds.
1) reach out to Tim at to let us know (copy and paste the following questions to your email to answer)
a) which event are you RSVPing for?
b) how many people are on your RSVP? Yours and their name(s)?
c) for Tahoe ride-sharing, which resort(s) do you frequent? Can you offer a ride or would like to be a passenger?
d) are you interested in small group travel discount trips to international ski/ride POWDER destinations, trips to SoCal’s Mammoth Mountain Resort (leveraging your Ikon Pass), to chase deep powder snow freshies to resorts in..
Utah, Colorado, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Wyoming (averages around 38.1 feet of snow annually),
the Cascades Range (extend northward for more than 700 miles (1,100 km) from Lassen Peak, in northern California, U.S., through Oregon and Washington to the Fraser River in southern British Columbia),
Alyeska Resort on the Ikon Pass in Alaska (this resort averages around 54.1 feet of snow annually, but can receive as much as 70.6 feet of snow. It’s located in Chugach State Park, just outside of Anchorage),
Mount Baker Ski Area on the Ikon Pass, Washington
This resort averages around 54.1 feet/16.5 meters of snow annually.
Once you send us your email RSVP, we’ll request event payment. Your event payment confirms your participation.
When you arrive, show your digital or printed receipt to Meghana for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Please put this event on your calendar with a reminder so you won’t forget.
** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **
We hope to see you there to make some new ski/ride pals and to get stoked for the 2024/25 ski/board winter season!
When: Thursday November 14, 2024, from 6:15pm to 8:15pm
Where: Laughing Monk Brewery in Sunnyvale. Brewpub known for its house-brewed beer, industrial-chic ambiance, pub fare & outdoor patio. View their drinks and grub menu. 1235 Oakmead Pkwy, Sunnyvale, CA 94085
Event Host: Jasmine is an avid snowboarder with an IKON pass and loves to share her passion for snow sports with other people! She’s aiming to learn more tricks and jumps in the parks this season! Jasmine has been to a couple resorts in the U.S. to chase pow but hopes to powder hound to some international destinations in the future. She works full time in the medical tech industry, and is off on the weekends. If anyone has a similar schedule/flexibility, be sure to reach out to her at the kickoff!
Event Fee: $10 per person. Light appetizers will be ordered for the event. Event fee terms: ticket is transferable to another person if you can not go. No refunds.
When you arrive, please ask for the SnowPals table/gathering spot, Jasmine is the event host, show your digital or printed receipt to her for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Pay for your own drinks & any other food, as desired. Please put this event on your your calendar reminder so you won’t forget.
** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **
We hope to see you there to make some new ski/ride pals and to get stoked for the 2024/25 ski/board winter season!
=== 2/12/2025 North Bay Happy Hour with the Santa Rosa Ski/Board Club (SRSC) ===
Join in our fun Happy Hour with the Santa Rosa Ski/Snowboard Club
Join SnowPals for happy hour and meet with members of the Santa Rosa Ski Club to learn about their club activities and the club’s ski lodge in Truckee. After the happy hour Snowpals can choose to stay and learn about ski club events or break off into Epicenter’s Victory House sports bar to plan Tahoe trips and exchange contacts for ride sharing.
When: Wednesday, February 12, 2025 from 5:30 PM until 6:30 PM
Where: Poppy Bank Epicenter is North Bay’s largest all-in-one destination for sports, fitness and entertainment. Please check-in when you get to the venue in Room 300. View map and driving directions.
SnowPals Event fee: $10 includes appetizers
Non-members: $19 (join SnowPals to get the members’ event discount rate)
*Event fee includes limited light appetizers. Event fee terms: ticket is transferable to another person if you can not go. No refunds.
Hosts: John and Hung
How to RSVP?
Please 1) email Tim at (copy and paste the following questions to your email to answer)
a) which event are you RSVPing for?
b) how many people are on your RSVP? Yours and their name(s)?
c) your mobile number in case we need to reach you about the event?
d) got a season pass to? for Tahoe ride-sharing, which resort(s) do you frequent? Can you offer a ride or would like to be a passenger?
e) are you interested in small group travel discount trips from international ski/ride powder destinations, and trips locally to SoCal’s Mammoth Mountain Resort (leveraging your Ikon Pass) or to other resort(s) or ski area(s) outside of CA?
Once you send us your email RSVP, we’ll request event payment. Your event payment confirms your participation. Please bring your digital receipt to show at the event for entry.
When you arrive, please look for Tim in the bar seating area, show your digital or printed event receipt for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Please put this event on your calendar with a reminder so you won’t forget.
** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **
When: Wednesday December 4, 2024, from 6:30 to 8:30pm
Where: Henhouse Brewery at 1333 N. McDowell Boulevard
Petaluma, CA 94954 – is a happening taproom pouring signature local brews & special releases by the pint or the taster..view their drinks and grub menu.
Event Host: Emily Huston will help connect skiers and boarders, and facilitate winter Tahoe ride sharing at the event. She is a skier with a deep love for the mountains, and this year, she’s setting her sights on more backcountry adventures. She’s lived in Mexico, Argentina, Finland, and Switzerland—though she likes to joke that it’s five countries if you count Texas! As a former USA/professional athlete and founder of HomeTeam, Emily has dedicated herself to helping retired and injured athletes find purpose beyond their sport, blending her passion for adventure with her commitment to supporting others through life’s big transitions. She also runs a ski lease share in Tahoe City with available spots, interested? check out her listing.
Event Fee: $10 per person. Light appetizers will be ordered for the event. Event fee terms: ticket is transferable to another person if you can not go. No refunds.
When you arrive, please ask for the SnowPals table/gathering spot, Emily is the event host, show your digital or printed receipt at the event for entry. Arrive early as appetizers are limited, enjoy while they last. Pay for your own drinks & any other food, as desired. Please put this event on your your calendar reminder so you won’t forget.
** If you have your season pass ID badge, wear it to easily connect with other pass holders who have the same pass. **
CMH Heli-skiing is hosting a series of events in the Bay Area and beyond this fall 2025. You’re invited to join us at heli-ski happy hour, get stoked for the upcoming season and learn more about heli-skiing in British Columbia.
The Area Manager and Lead Guide from CMH Kootenay as well as other CMH staff will be available to answer all your questions about heli-skiing in British Columbia. We’ll have swag, raffles and Oculus goggles showcasing our VR film, Lines of Sight, at all events.
RSVP is required for all events and space is limited.
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We curate the best Lake Tahoe area deals such as:
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Specials on Tahoe area dining, entertainment, lodging
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Resorts’ and local Tahoe area nightlife and apres ski and ride
Our picks for ‘absolute must go’ ski and snowboard travel destinations
Ski & stay vacation package deals and promotions
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Upcoming SF Bay Area events & outings
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New to Snowpals? Sign up for Tahoe rideshare, meetups and interact with members near you by joining us or sign up to get event invites.
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List of SF Bay Area Fall 2023 Ski, Ride/Snowboarding Movies, Film Screenings
Mark your calendar for these exciting ski and snowboard film screenings
Gather friends and family to watch, get stoked for the coming winter snow season; plus score swags, raffle prizes and if you’re lucky, win a dream ski trip vacation getaway.
–>> “LEGEND HAS IT (2023)”
Film Production Company: Teton Gravity Research
About the film:
“Ski lore is riddled with stories, sometimes of unknown origin, describing plausible but extraordinary past events. Often shared on chairlifts, the skintrack, or over a beer, these legendary tales, whether it be mythical storm cycles, heroic feats, or whispers of fantastical terrain, all contribute and shape our present experience. For 28 years Teton Gravity Research has been traveling the globe with the best athletes to the most incredible locations often based on this fabled history to uncover the experience…and sometimes creating legends of our own along the way.”
When: Saturday, September 30th. Gates at 6:00pm. Film at sunset.
Where: KT Base Bar at Palisades Tahoe (outdoors)
Tickets
“Pay what you can, it’s that simple! We want our events to be accessible for the entire outdoor community, so whether you’re joining us for $10, or can support with a $25 ticket, our hope is the give-and-take will allow us to continue to bring our films to you while making events more accessible for everyone.” https://www.palisadestahoe.com/events-and-activities/events-calendar/
with family & friends 😉
Connect with SF Bay Area professionals for rideshare to/from Lake Tahoe to enjoy snow sports, share a ski lease, and expand your circle of ski/ride pals at SnowPals (since 1999)
–>> “FLYING HIGH AGAIN (2023)”
Film Production Company: Teton Gravity Research
About the film:
“In a world, where the snowboard corporatocracy cares more about the next Instagram swipe, one company has decided to team up with legendary snowboard film director, Mike Hatchett, and do the impossible. This film defies all odds – to bring together a crew of passionate riders for a full-length feature film – and celebrate what matters most: a bomber squad, rowdy soundtrack, and pure unadulterated riding action. Are you ready?
TGR’s new snowboard film, Flying High Again, premieres this October.”
–>> “Warren Miller’s ALL TIME: Seventy-four years of filmmaking/strong>
Film Production Company: Warren Miller Entertainment
WARREN MILLER FILM TOUR
Narrated by Jonny Moseley, ALL TIME will feature deep dives into elements that Warren himself first identified as the stuff of which snowy dreams are made.
From the birth of ski towns like Sun Valley and Aspen; to the icons and innovators—like the original hotdoggers—the film will spin through the years like snow ghosts, bringing humor and inspiration from today including Maine’s finest athlete, Donny Pelletier, to the park scene at Woodward Park City and the next gen of skiers and riders.
Less a documentary than a love letter, it’s a way to honor how, where, and with whom we’ve made ski and snowboard movies since Warren first picked up a camera in 1949.
This is not a trip down memory lane; it’s an exploration of how snow sports have burrowed into our collective consciousness as an obsession and a way of life.
Warren Miller ski and snowboard films have served as the annual start to winter for skiers and snowboarders across the globe for nearly 75 years and is a party that can’t be contained by a single film or even a single year.”
Quality Ski Time Film Tour presented by Salomon | San Francisco, CA
Films being shown:
“The Polar Star” by The FIFTY
“Fortune Hunters” by Blank Collective Films
“Hankin Evolution” by Switchback Entertainment
“Head Games” by Powder Chicken Productions
“Mountain State 2.0” by Josh Daiek and Hazen Woolson
“Yep, the Quality Ski Time Film Tour is back for year three, and we’re bringing you an all-new lineup of the greatest ski films of the year. We’ve got a little something for every skier: from a not-yet-released episode of The FIFTY from Cody Townsend to the action-packed, powder-fueled Blank Collective movie, with a few more healthy doses of storytelling, inspiration, and shredding mixed in between.
You’ll have the chance to get posters signed by your favorite pro skiers and win copious gear giveaways from tour sponsors Salomon, onX Backcountry, YETI, Mountain Collective, Mountain Gazette, Moterra Travel, and more. That’s right—you might be walking away with a brand new pair of skis at the end of the night.
In addition, you’ll have the chance to enter for the grand prize of a fully kitted out ski trip for two this winter, featuring roundtrip airfare from Alaska Airlines, two head-to-toe ski gear setups from Salomon, a weeklong adventure van rental from Moterra Travel, two ski passes from Mountain Collective, two lifetime subscriptions to onX Backcountry, two subscriptions to Mountain Gazette, plus the goodies to keep warm and fueled from YETI, Hestra Gloves, and more.”
Connect with SF Bay Area professionals for rideshare to/from Lake Tahoe to enjoy snow sports, share a ski lease, and expand your circle of ski/ride pals at SnowPals (since 1999)
–>> Thursday, October 26, 2023
Special VIP tickets include premium seating and awesome gift packages from Matchstick Production ski industry partners.
WHAT: Palisade Tahoe, CA premiere of “The Land of Giants”
WHEN: 2 shows.
Show 1 Doors open 6pm. Showtime 7pm.
Show 2 Doors open 8:30pm Showtime 9:30pm.
WHERE: Olympic Village Events Center.
The Land of Giants (2023)
“If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” -Isaac Newton
The story of man vs. mountain is one that has captured our imaginations for centuries. But what if MSP flipped the script? What if, instead of focusing on the human element, we took a closer look at the mountains themselves?
That’s the premise of The Land of Giants, a new ski film that explores the most iconic mountains on Earth. From the Fjords of Norway to the spines of Alaska, we will get to know and understand the canvas that creates the most mind-melting moments in skiing. But most importantly, we’ll come to appreciate their sheer beauty and power. Captured with revolutionary cinematography combined with genre bending music, The Land of Giants is not to be missed.
The Land of Giants features the best skiers in the world, skiing unbelievable conditions and riding to the very edge and beyond. It’s a celebration of the natural world, and a reminder of the power of the human spirit. It’s a film that will leave you awestruck, inspired, and humbled.
Join us on this journey into The Land of Giants.
The crew at Matchstick filmed in the most iconic and beautiful ranges skiers dream of. Our “Cast” of mountains are:
Smoky Mountains, ID
Chilkat Range, AK
Niseko Range, JP
The Sierra Nevada, CA
Lyngen Alps, NO
Wasatch Range, UT
Fitzsimmons Range, BC
Kitimat Range, BC
The Land of Giants Cast of athletes features the best skiers the sport has to offer, from all over the globe: Mark Abma, Sammy Carlson, Logan Pehota, Tonje Kvivik, Nikolai Schirmer, Caite Zeliff, McKenna Peterson, John Collinson, Colby Stevenson, Janelle Yip, Sam Kuch, Ari Tricomi, Karl Fostvedt, Coline Ballet-Baz, Craig Murray, Emily Childs, Dennis Ranalter, Xander Guldman, Hedvig Wessel, Lucy Sackbauer, Stinius Skjøtskift, Gen Sasaki, Sam Cohen, and Marcus Goguen.”
Connect with SF Bay Area professionals for rideshare to/from Lake Tahoe to enjoy snow sports, share a ski lease, and expand your circle of ski/ride pals at SnowPals (since 1999)
–> if we missed a ski/ride film tour that’s coming to the SF Bay Area or Lake Tahoe.
As new ski, snowboarding movies get announced, we’ll add it here on this page.
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Where we like to chase POWder?
.. Kashmir’s POW galore
‘where culture, travel exploration and skiing meet’
“Twenty-two year old Swede, Lovisa Rosengren, chooses Gulmarg, Kashmir as her dream trip spot with Cody Townsend and Kalen Thorien. What was supposed to be a cultural trip, turns into so much more when a 3 meter snow storm rolls through the resort.” – Salomon TV
What's it like to ski/ride
.. the Japanese Alps famous fluffy champagne powder?
JaPOW is a word coined for a very good reason: heavenly bucket list worthy powder; see what’s it like to ski/ride Japan’s famous dry champagne powder which is consistently rated as top three in the world and where the Freeride World Tour regularly chooses as one of the tour competition location?
“The Freeride World Tour is an annually toured series of events in which the best freeskiers and snowboard freeriders compete for individual event wins, as well as the overall title of World Champion in their respective genders and disciplines.” – Wiki
Playtime: Dream Ski Trip
from Salomon Freeski TV
“After 8 seasons of Salomon Freeski TV, and thousands of comments from our fans begging for a chance to star in an episode, we’ve listened! For 3 weeks in December, Salomon Freeski TV viewers were given the chance to win their ultimate Free Ski Dream Trip. The contest was simple – tell us where would you go and who would you would want to go with?
10 winners were selected from a list of thousands, then one lucky fan received a phone call giving him/her the opportunity to live out his ultimate skiing fantasy in Japan with Mike Douglas, Cody Townsend, & Kaj Zackrisson.”- Salomon TV
Charge – Salomon TV
“Four top freeskiers and a World Champion drone pilot are dropped at Chatter Creek Cat Skiing in BC for one week. Their instructions: charge as hard as you can every day.
Key Credits:
– Featuring: Stan Rey, Cody Townsend, Chris Rubens, Alexi Godbout and Jordan Temkin.
– Production: Switchback Productions
– Music: Holler by Band Of Rascals – Courtesy of Blue Heron Music” – Salomon TV
Charge 2 – Salomon TV
We took five top freeskiers and a World Champion drone pilot to Mustang Powder Cat Skiing in BC for one week. Their instructions: charge as hard as you can.
Featuring:
Stan Rey
Leah Evans
Alexi Godbout
Josh Daiek
Drew Petersen
Music: Fatback by Mr. Wiggles Courtesy of Secret Stash Records
Shot, produced and edited by Switchback Entertainment
Join SnowPals for Tahoe snow sports, connect with San Francisco Bay Area professionals for rideshare, lodging share, and peeps to ski/ride with, resort and backcountry.
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If you are good with the pen and like to share your experience and wisdom about the A to Z of snow-sports and/or have deep insights about Lake Tahoe in all its seasons, how we can add you as a guest blog contributor.
If you have a snow sports business or a business that compliments well with skiing, snowboarding, and/or our year-round pursuit of an active opt outside lifestyle, about cross-marketing opportunities.
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* Looking for a good value rental property listing alternative to Airbnb and VRBO for Lake Tahoe area niche rental market that will get you QUALITY RESULTS? Here’s the scoop:
* Got a season pass and want to max out your ski/ride days, join a ski cabin, browse Lake Tahoe area ski lease memberships:
? http://www.snowpals.org/leases/
Planning a getaway to Lake Tahoe to enjoy snow-sports?
Page last updated: Feb 28, 2022 at 10:00 AM PST
Scroll down the page to read our ‘Best of Tahoe List’and tips from veteran skiers and boarders who frequents Lake Tahoe resorts for snow sports recreation 😉
– pitstops en route to/from Lake Tahoe; best pricing gas stations to fill-up gas
– North Tahoe & South Tahoe apres-ski spots/venues + happy hour deals
– pet-friendly hotels
– pet-sitting
– winter driving tips: best snow tires, AWD, 4WD, Dual Motor EV
– wind protected Tahoe resorts on high wind gusts days(which causes ski lift closures especially ones to the mountain’s summit), etc.
Please by email [ contactus @ snowpals.org ] within 7 days to claim your prize:
(1) Grand prize Tahoe ski bus day trip winner David’s GoPro POWDER DAY video (imdave___ @ gmail.com) Grand Prize giveaway sponsored by Tahoe Ski Trips (expires 12/31/2023; view the bus trip schedule). David made it to Tahoe after December 2021 back to back snow storms that dropped over 200+ inches of fresh snow; he skis untracked virgin powder freshies on Dec 30, 2021 with a smile that says it all: joie de vie!
“Kirkwood parking attendances will direct you to a lower parking lot near Timber Creek when the upper lot gets full. These lower lots have no EV charging available. If you let them know you need to go to the Mountain Club, they will let you go to the upper lots, where there are EV charging stations for free. 🙂 ”
(3) Congrats to Diana E (D_EDWARDS @ GMAIL.COM) won an unrestricted lift ticket to Bear Valley Resort (expires end of winter 2021-22 season). Her Tahoe pitstop tip:
“When headed to north Lake Tahoe from the Bay we like to stop and use the restrooms at Ikeda’s in Auburn. The restrooms open up at about 7am and are cleaned first thing even though the store and restaurant are not opened yet. Fresh clean restrooms for the win!
Also a fantastic, albeit crowded stop on the way home for delish pies, fresh local produce, and delicious burgers. https://www.ikedas.com
(4) Congrats to Achal (achalas___ @ gmail.com) won a $20 credit that can be applied to any upcoming SnowPals social events(in the works: wine tastings on the patio). Tahoe tip:
When a storm system comes in and you are considering driving up, always check/bookmark for easy access on road conditions using Caltrans’ QuickMap app iOS or andriod or their website – http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/ – includes reliable information and camera along the highway leading into Tahoe!
(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”).
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?
(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?
(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
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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.
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?
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)
(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.
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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
* 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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How to enter our giveaway
Share a Tahoe tip that’s not already listed below to get entered into SnowPals’ giveaway of one night’s lodging stay in South Lake Tahoe by Heavenly Mountain Resort or win our grand prize of a Ski Bus Trip..
Second prize: Mellow Mountain Hostel (weekday night’s stay). ‘Surrounded by pine trees, this laid-back hostel is 11 minutes by foot from Lakeside Beach along Lake Tahoe. It’s a 3-minute walk from the Heavenly Ski Resort and a 5-minute walk from the
Stateline Transit Center.’ View Map/driving directions.
Third Prize: Free entry to any SnowPals Events (a $20 value to cover event fee; expires 12/31/2025)
Giveaway entry submission deadline: 11 PM PST on Sunday February 20, 2022. Winners will be announced on Monday Feb 28.
2022 Tahoe powder skiing, snowboarding video contest
After 44 days of no rain/snow, finally Lake Tahoe resorts got some very cold (low of 1F) dry powder freshies so we’d like to invite you to join in the fun by participating in our 2022 Tahoe powder skiing, snowboarding video contest to win cool prizes.
Second prize: Mellow Mountain Hostel (weekday night’s stay). ‘Surrounded by pine trees, this laid-back hostel is 11 minutes by foot from Lakeside Beach along Lake Tahoe. It’s a 3-minute walk from the Heavenly Ski Resort and a 5-minute walk from the
Stateline Transit Center.’ View Map/driving directions.
Fourth Prize: Free entry to any SnowPals Events (a $20 value to cover event fee; expires 12/31/2025); next event in the works is our small group wine tasting on the patio TBA.
Giveaway entry video submission deadline: is 11:59 PM PST on Sunday February 27, 2022.
Odds of winning: 1/10; this contest is held in conjunction with our Tahoe Getaway Tips Contest (three entries received). We will select seven entries for this contest; from the ten entries, we will run a random number picker to pick the top three prizes.
Read up on 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
* 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).
* 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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You’re in Tahoe, the stoke is high, the conditions are perfect…
…and you’re stuck waiting in a lift line to ski groomers and bumps because you couldn’t find a local with the beta/inside scoop you need to get into the backcountry.
No longer! Backcountry Ski Maps wants to make this scenario a thing of the past.
Backcountry Ski Maps was specifically designed as a topographic map and guidebook rolled into one to make it easier to find all the information you need to get out touring in the Tahoe area.
All maps include detailed ascent and descent routes, photos, and a text guide to the best lines, which means that just one source of beta can easily get you to secret stashes you had only heard ‘whispers of’. We highlight the most classic lines, help you find the easiest approaches, and reveal the biggest potential dangers and challenges so you can spend less time searching for information and more time skiing!
Let’s take an inside look at the Tahoe Southwest Map which features more than 70 descents, ranging from mellow glades to ultra-steep couloirs.
Included are ski routes on:
Rubicon Peak
Jake’s Peak
Mt. Tallac
Pyramid Peak
Dick’s Peak
Echo Peak
Angora Peak
and many, many more!
Backcountry Ski Maps partnered with SnowPals to offer a 10% off all backcountry ski maps; join SnowPals to get 10% off Backcountry Ski Maps (for both hard copy and digital maps for your smartphone).
+ Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado (Coming Soon)
+ Vail Pass, Colorado (Coming Soon)
More About Backcountry Ski Maps
“Make the Most of the Backcountry
Maybe you’re new to an area or even new to touring in general. Maybe you’re a weekend warrior with only a limited amount of time to play in the mountains. Or maybe you’re a jaded local who thinks they’ve skied every worthy line in the area.
At Backcountry Ski Maps we feel you. If you’re anything like us, all you want is to spend more time outdoors, taking in beautiful views and riding the steepest, deepest lines.
We were frustrated to have to spend hours on the internet researching potential lines on sites of varying reliability. We were even more frustrated when summer came along and we saw all the in-depth hiking, climbing, and backpacking topographical maps on the market.
Something needed to change.
And so Backcountry Ski Maps, LLC was born.
Now we’re striving to make the easiest to use, all-in-one backcountry ski touring maps on the market. A place where you can find all the route information you need on one piece of paper: just take a look at the map, find a zone that fits your needs (and the current avalanche conditions), read a little about the zone on the back of the map, and get out into the white room.
Now you’ve got a one-stop-shop to find everything from low-angle pow-day trees to rarely skied and ultra-steep couloirs.
Our hope is that by helping people find the right lines, our maps can inspire more people to get out into the backcountry hooting and hollering and collecting face-shots.
➦ Got a small business you’d like to partner with SnowPals for new sales referrals? Contact for partnership inquires. We’ll dispatch our digital media kit upon receiving your inquiry so you can see our visitor stats and demographics.
️☃️⛷ ⛸
Interested in backcountry skiing and snowboarding (using a splitboard)?
Benefits of backcountry skiing/boarding:
* Enjoy solitude serenity
* Earn your untracked powder runs = burn tons of calories/great workout 🙂
* Enjoy the beauty of our natural environment – views of glades, valleys, glorious lake views, pine trees, snow covered winter wonderland sear into memories that will stay with you a lifetime or more (reincarnation)
* Nature photography
* Many more intangibles you can’t get at ski resorts, so join in..
Connect with a wingman/woman for backcountry safety, share rides to the mountain, perhaps share lodging expenses too, and it’s just more fun when you have some POWder friends to ?⛷❄️? with 😉
* * Learn how to stay safe in the backcountry, register for an Intro to AIARE AVALANCHE RESCUE TRAINING; Sierra Avalanche Center (SAC) got hands on backcountry safety courses/classes, details at
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.
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:
✔ 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.
✔ 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.
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.
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.
