Squaw Valley USA ski resort has a number of big selling points: not only does it have the perfect location near Lake Tahoe and in close proximity to San Francisco, but it also has a massive amount of fantastic terrain. Spread over six peaks and host of the Winter Olympic Games in 1960, Squaw Valley is a legendary ski destination with excellent snow and unbeatable facilities.
The stylish, car-free village of Squaw, with its winding alleys, array of shops and general laid-back atmosphere, has all the ambience of a European-style mountain village. You’ll find all usual ski services and facilities together with designer boutiques, beauty salon, grocery stores, pharmacy, and even a post office and art galleries.
Accommodation-wise, Squaw Valley offers the convenience of ski-in/ski-out lodgings in luxury condos and hotels, and a range of other, more affordable lodgings in the village and nearby. Snowmobiling and swimming are part of the extensive, non-ski activities at Squaw, and there are also some quality eateries and several bars; while nearby Tahoe City and Truckee offer additional entertainment.
Squaw Valley USA has a massive 1,600 hectares of fantastic skiable terrain, with pistes for all abilities, including great stuff such as steeps, chutes, moguls and powder for experts. The longest slope is a respectable five kilometres, and 34 lift systems run over the 850-metre vertical to provide slope access for a whopping 49,000 people per hour. Snowboarders are also well taken care of, with three terrain parks, a half-pipe and a super-pipe.
For alternative sliding, Lake Tahoe is the focus of many resorts including the awesome Heavenly, Kirkwood and Sierra-at-Tahoe. Additionally, Donner Summit ski resort lies to the north. The lake itself offers many sightseeing options and boating; while Reno is known for its lavish casinos.
The ski season at Squaw Valley USA runs from November to April and discounts are available throughout. The resort is easily reached by car; while the most convenient option for overseas travellers is to fly to Reno and transfer by car or shuttle bus.
