The holidays are here, and ski season is upon us – although most everything looks a little different this year. Wherever and however you’re celebrating this year, we’ve rounded up some fun ways to enjoy a holiday season unlike any other. We’re all longing for connection, perhaps missing family and friends, and doing our best to support local businesses while abiding by local regulations. Keep reading for mountain updates, tips and tricks to keep the holiday spirit alive, and new ways to safely celebrate this year.
Mountain Updates
Photo: Palisades Tahoe Alpine Meadows
Photo: Palisades Tahoe Alpine Meadows
Palisades Tahoe Alpine Meadows is still open for skiing and riding this season! The Squaw Alpine Team has been working hard to implement new regulations and safeguards to keep guests and employees safe this year, and they appreciate your patience and abiding by the rules so everyone can continue to enjoy the mountain this season. As of this posting, current regulations at Squaw Alpine are in accordance with the state and county guidance.
- Food and beverage offerings will be adjusted across the resort. No indoor seating is available. All food will be wrapped and packaged to-go.
- Retail stores will operate at 20% capacity.
- Lodges will be open with access to restrooms, lockers, rentals, and guest services. Masks are required and social distancing will be enforced. We ask that guests limit time spent in lodges.
- At this time, there are no changes to existing reservations for lift tickets, ski school, rental/demo, etc.
Photo: Palisades Tahoe Alpine Meadows
As you know, physical distancing should be maintained with anyone from outside your household. All guests are required to wear a two-layer face mask in common areas, and where physical distancing cannot be maintained. While restaurants and bars are closed, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy your time before and after skiing at the mountain.
- Plan ahead – your car is your lodge this year. Bring chairs, dry layers, and extra blankets for a parking lot après.
- Order food to go from any of the open restaurants. There is additional outdoor seating set up throughout the resort.
- Expect delays! Staff are working their hardest to create a safe and fun day for everyone – smile behind your mask, say thank you, and be patient. If everyone works together, the experience will be better for all.
Socially Distanced Holiday Activities
Are you looking for ways to celebrate the season that don’t involve large gatherings? Luckily we live in an area full of amazing outdoor activities, and with fresh snow there is no better time to get out and enjoy all nature has to offer! Here are a few of our favorite outdoor activities that offer fun and cheer for the whole family!
Ice Skating
When’s the last time you hopped on a pair of ice skates? Whether you prefer twirling like an Olympian or a fast-paced game of ice hockey, ice skating is a classic winter activity for all ages. Skating rinks are still open at the Truckee Regional Park and Tahoe City Winter Sports Park, but advanced registration is required for both. You can easily register for a time slot online for either place here: Truckee Ice Rink or Tahoe City Ice Rink.
Snowshoe to Chickadee Ridge
Snowshoeing is a fun way to slow down and enjoy being in the woods. Have you ever hiked to Chickadee Ridge? Not only does it offer amazing views of the lake, but it’s famous for all the chickadees that call it home. The trail starts at Mt. Rose Meadows, and meanders through the forest and along the Tahoe Rim Trail until you pop out on a ridge overlooking Lake Tahoe. Make sure to pack some birdseed, and if you’re lucky they might come eat it out of your hand!
Christmas Lights Tour
Take a drive down to South Lake to follow a self-guided Christmas Lights tour! Local businesses and private homes have collaborated to create a Holiday Light Trail Map with almost 50 different stops. After exploring the map, community members are asked to cast their vote for their favorite display for the People’s Choice Award. Votes can be entered here.
Local Shopping and Take-Out Guide
We love our local businesses! And they need our help – this holiday season, we can all do our part by shopping local, ordering curbside, and buying gift certificates so our favorite local establishments will be here for us to enjoy for years to come.
Cocktails to Go!
- Step one: Pick up a DIY Craft Cocktail kit at Moody’s Market
- Step Two: Bring it home, mix, and serve
- Step Three: Enjoy!
Enjoy a Holiday Feast – Without Having to Cook
Some people love spending all day in the kitchen and creating a feast, but maybe you’re sick of cooking meals this year! Or maybe you’re just looking to change it up. Whatever your reason, Truckee Tavern is your answer. They are creating customizable dinners for your family, with your choice of main, two sides, and a dessert! All you have to do is pick it up. You can even create a custom cocktail batch to enjoy! Orders are limited, so make sure to call ahead to arrange for pickup.
Finish Your Holiday Shopping Locally
Chances are, if you haven’t ordered it already, it’s not going to get here before Christmas! Sorry, guys. But don’t fret, there are so many amazing local shops that offer unique, handcrafted, and bespoke gifts for anyone on your list. If you dread holiday shopping, why not make a game out of it? This year, you can win prizes just by shopping locally with the North Tahoe Shop & Win Scavenger Hunt! Not ready to leave the comfort of your home? You can still support local businesses by shopping online or buying gift cards here.
