Reno Tahoe Real Estate News

Are you getting sick of all the negative news like I am?  I want you to read something today which puts a smile on your face, so let’s dig into one of my favorite topics . . . SPRING SKIING!!!

When the weather starts to warm up (and this year it started awfully early) a lot of people feel the desire to head for the ocean, pull out their golf clubs, get their boat out on the lake, or just do something which involves wearing shorts and flip flops.  Those of us who are lucky enough to live in the  Lake Tahoe/Truckee area (yes, I’m lucky enough!!) know that this really signifies time to get out your light weight ski clothes and head for the slopes.  Sure, nothing beats the powder days we experienced in late January and early February, but I think spring skiing comes in a close second.

The key to great spring skiing is paying attention to the night time temperatures and the wind (the NOAA forecast gives you everything you need).  If night time temps are barely reaching freezing, it’s best to get out on the mountain early (Alpine Meadows will start turning Summit Six as early as 8am when we get deep into spring).  However, if the temps are getting down into the 20′s at night, or the wind is blowing over the ridges, you can sleep in a little and show up at the mountain at 10:30 or so.

If you’re timing is right, you’ll get there just as the snow starts to soften.  You’ll want to start on the southeast and south facing slopes which have been absorbing the early morning sunshine.  One of the best examples is the Mecca of spring skiing, High Traverse at Alpine Meadows (just call it “high T” if you want to sound like a local).  Other great options are Sugar Bowl’s Disney Chair and numerous places at Squaw including skiing off the southeast side of Palisades to Sun Spot (my favorite) and Granite Chief Chair.  These runs will treat you to some of the sweetest and smoothest skiing you’ve ever had.  Your edges will dig in effortlessly and your skis will bend and carve heroically.  As these runs start to turn from corn to slush, you’ll want to follow the sun to different exposures.  Keep doing this until the temperature is high enough to soften the north facing slopes which will remain glorious longer than your legs will.

The highlights of spring skiing are numerous.  Within just a couple hours you can get in more runs than you can imagine (no crowds! no lift lines!).  When you’re done skiing, normally by noon or one if you’re like me, you don’t have to head to your car and sit in traffic.  Instead, head to the lodge and peel off some layers and kick back in the sunshine on the deck.  If you pick your days well it will be warm enough to wear the ultimate after ski boots . . . flip flops!!!  Every ski area has local bands rocking, and ice cold beer pouring.  There’s no better way to relax your muscles after your day on the slopes.

The moral of the story is . . . don’t put away your ski gear yet!!!  Get out there and enjoy!

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