Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort in California is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. As part of a series on ski resorts, Huffington Post Travel offers our guide to Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, featuring all the key information snow lovers need to know before they hit the slopes.
The Basics
, one of seven ski resorts surrounding Lake Tahoe on the California and Nevada border, is where the locals go for top-notch
in fresh powder. The resort, often overshadowed by the larger, more luxurious resorts surrounding the lake, provides a laid-back atmosphere and value for the money for winter sports enthusiasts looking to hit the slopes without emptying their wallets. With a ranking by Transworld Snowboarding as one of the
overall snowboarding resorts and resorts for pipes and parks, value doesn't mean a sacrifice in quality at Sierra. Located in Twin Bridges,
is accessible via the Reno-Tahoe International Airport, or the Sacramento, Oakland and San Francisco airports.
The Mountain
Skiers at
enjoy 2,000 acres of terrain on the slopes of the 8,852-foot tall mountain that features a 2,212-foot vertical drop. The annual snowfall of 480 inches and an average of 274 sunny days per year mean the perfect combination of fresh powder and beautiful blue skies. Right after a fresh snowfall, skiers flock to Jack's Bowl and Avalanche Bowl for the
, while the morning sunshine at West Bowl keeps the snow fresh there on days when there hasn't been much new snow. The regular season runs from mid-November through mid-April with a comfortable average winter daytime high of 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
Trails And Lifts
Sierra-at-Tahoe has
, 25 percent of which are designated beginner, 50 percent as more difficult and 25 percent as most difficult. Sugar n' Spice, the longest run in the resort, starts at the top of the mountain and extends a total of 2.5 miles. For skiers and boarders looking to catch some air or show off new moves, the resort houses five terrain parks, a Burton progression park and the only superpipe in the South Shore area. Three express quad lifts, five doubles, one triple and five surface lifts carry guests to the trailheads and terrain parks, including the 320 acres of steep, challenging terrain of
.
In The News
The
has received numerous honors over the years. Team members have medaled in the Winter X Games, U.S. World Cup Moguls, Winter Olympic Games and the Ticket to Ride World Tour. Two-time X Games gold medalist and Ticket to Ride champion
grew up riding the slopes at Sierra as part of the Elite Team. The resort hosts several United States of America Snowboard Association (USASA)
throughout the season for amateur skiers and boarders in events like slope-style, boardercross and half-pipe.
Cost
Single-day
at Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort range from $24 for children ages 5 to 12 to $77 for adults ages 23 to 64. Discounted rates are available for off-peak days and for groups. Skiers planning to hit the slopes for at least three days can purchase 3-Pak lift tickets starting at $19 per day for children ages 5 to 12. Skiers and boarders planning to visit more regularly should purchase
ranging from $99 for children ages 5 to 12 and seniors over 70 to $379 for adults ages 23 to 69. The resort rents Rossignol and Burton brand
starting at $42 for adults and $32 for children. The rental shop also offers jackets, pants, helmets and rental damage waivers. The resort's
teaches private and group lessons for all ages, starting at $51 per day for a 10-day kids' program.
Apres-Ski
Ranked as one of the top 10 resorts by Transworld Snowboarding for its vibe, Sierra-At-Tahoe has some
to relax and warm up after that last run. Java Junction keeps the caffeine flowing, while the Aspen Cafe and Mama's Kitchen serve up gourmet burgers and hearty comfort food. Night owls should head to the Sierra Pub & Deli for happy hour specials, micro-brewed beers, wine and cocktails, or to the Tiki Bar & Grill for a famous FishBowl drink.
WATCH: Sierra-At-Tahoe
Jamie Anderson catches some air with her girls at Sierra-At-Tahoe Resort.