With the fall snowfall and resorts promising early opening dates, it was easy to get excited for ski season to start sooner than ever this year, but alas it seems Mother Nature has changed her mind. Most of the early flakes we saw in October are long gone, and although the tip-tops of the mountains are still glazed in white, the slopes are still mostly bare and we are waiting anxiously for the next storm. While we are just as eager as you to carve some fresh tracks, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy fall in Tahoe before the resorts open for the season. Read on for our top five favorite activities to enjoy this time of year!
Enjoy a Sunny Hike
There are still plenty of trails to explore by foot – or even by bike – before they are covered with snow for the next few months. With sunny weather and temps in the mid-60s, it’s a perfect time to get out and enjoy a classic Tahoe vista. Some of our favorite, snow-free trails right now: Paige Meadows, a mellow loop on the West Shore; Tahoe City Rim Trail, link up with the famous Rim Trail right from Tahoe City; Painted Rock Loop, explore the stunning geology right in our backyard!
Photo: Nancy Taylor via AllTrails
Shop Local for Gifts
Ready to start your holiday shopping? Check out the North Tahoe Arts Holly Art’s Fair, featuring unique handmade gifts from local artists and artisans. Find one-of-a-kind works of art inspired by the Tahoe region, and support local makers who are essential to our small community. The Arts Fair runs through January 4th.
Photo: North Tahoe Arts
Catch a Flick
Have you ever seen a movie at the Art Haus Cinema? This fully renovated theatre is the area’s only independent movie theater, showing a variety of films from major features to independent and sports films. The lobby bar has nine craft beers on tap, locally-brewed kombucha, wine, and more. They also serve non-GMO popcorn and have a self-serve popcorn spice bar. Check their website for up-to-date showtimes and special events!
Ride the Bike Path
Perfect fall days are made for enjoying! Take a mellow ride along the bike path – there are two options depending on your ambition level: either up to the Village to grab lunch or happy hour, or into Tahoe City for a longer excursion. You can hop on the path directly across from the Palisades at Olympic Valley. We love cruising along the path and taking in the mountain and river views, and then relaxing with a warm drink around a fire pit after a fun ride.
Photo: Kate Abraham
Get Stoked with a Ski Movie
Warren Miller’s latest film, Winter Starts Now, promises to get you hyped up before the mountain opens with scenes filed right on our very own Palisades Tahoe slopes. Featuring local athletes like Jonny Moseley and Amie Engerbretson, this year’s film promises, “the snow will feel a little deeper, the jumps a little higher and the views from the top will be just a bit more inspiring. Get stoked, be inspired, because Winter Starts Now.” Tickets are still available for the 4 pm showing in Olympic Village on Nov. 20th. Purchase them here – before they sell out!
Amie Engerbretson, courtesy of “Winter Starts Now”
