Though we are always sad to see ski season wind down, we are lucky enough to live in a place where every season has great activities to offer. As the ski areas shut down the number of tourist visits slows substantially and it is a wonderful time of year to enjoy the Truckee/North Tahoe area
"without the crowds."
Already people are hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing. And, if you still want to get some spring skiing in, Squaw Valley is scheduled to stay open until May 10.
It is also a good time to take advantage of discounted accommodations, restaurants, entertainment, and retail items.
An example of a good deal is at the Biltmore Hotel at Crystal Bay. For a midweek stay, the cost is $39 the first night and the second night is free. This package deal also includes gaming coupons and discounted meals. The rooms are not luxurious, but very clean. Tahoe Biltmore.com
Also in this "shoulder season" environment, places like the Village at Squaw Valley and the Northstar Village have events scheduled every weekend to attract guests and to keep their retail stores afloat. One of our favorite examples is the "Cushing Crossing" at Squaw Valley which will be held on May 3rd. The cushing crossing is a pond skimming competition where skiers and snowboarders ski as fast as they can toward Lake Cushing (at the base of KT 22) and skim acrross the surface from one side to the other. The contestants are usually decked out in costumes and many will even attempt tricks while skimming accross the pond. It is a great event for some laughs with your family and friends. Check out the website for details.
A couple other pre-summer upcoming events include the 35th Annual Soroptimist Wine & Restaurant Faire Fundraiser on Saturday, June 6, 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Coyote Moon Golf Course. This event features live music, wine and beer tasting, live & silent auctions, souvenir wine glass and culinary delights prepared by area restaurants and caterers. The tickets are $35 in advance and $40 at the door. They do not have a website, but you can call or email us if you would like more information.
The Truckee Optimist Club will be holding their 4th Annual Truckee Brew Fest a week later on Saturday, June 13, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Truckee Regional Park. Over 20 Northern California and Nevada breweries will be represented pouring their finest brews, and live music will be provided by "Sol Jibe", a very popular world beat band. Brats and other BBQ items will be available. Entry fee includes commemorative tasting glass. $20 in advance or $25 at the event. Check out the website.