2011 has provided a ridiculous winter season - with late season storms allowing resorts to stay open later than usual. I was lucky enough to get some days in at Sierra-at-Tahoe before their lifts stop turning and holy shit, was it the best decision I've ever made. This resort is known for its true local vibe, laid back attitude, and endless options of terrain. As if the snow gods were keeping track of the trip, the recent conditions let me take advantage of these options entirely. From a few powder tree runs to hot park laps, I scored it all.
Rather than bore (make you mad with jealousy) you with the details of everything (pow, party time, and parks) I got to experience during this epic trip - I'll give you the basics on how to enjoy Sierra-at-Tahoe on your next trip there.
Powder days: Sierra has some of the sickest tree riding and out of bounds terrain you'll ever dig your board into. When conditions permit - get yourself out The Gates. There are five gates to choose from for the steep and deep and are accessed from the top of Grand View chair. Locals live by these areas so stay out of the way - it's a high possibility you'll get sprayed in the face. If you prefer to stay in-bounds - there's easy access to endless tree runs where all the freshies are hanging out. If you're lucky enough, maybe someone will tell you where Avalanche Bowl or Jack's Bowl is. (...it's on the trail map.)
Park days: It's inevitable, you're going to have some prime park days at this mountain. With small to medium to large, it's as easy as ordering a pizza. Looking to huck yourself? Cruise to West Bowl and find their Bashful Park. The features are progressive, smooth, and endless. Hiding out in the trees, this park is also always protected from the wind. If you are fiending for some hot laps through a shorter park, make your way to The Alley. The jump line on the backside is always banger and there are plenty of rails and boxes to fine tune your jibbing skills on. Don't eat shit though - the chair runs right over this park, prime audience for nasty falls. Not ready to send it? You can pick from their smaller parks that run down Snowshoe and Broadway with set-ups that are consistently getting changed up so you don't get sick of the line you're hitting.
Hot laps: Have the need for speed? There are countless corduroy groomers that are primetime turn-and-burners. West Bowl is loaded with long steep runs as well as numerous runs from the Grand View chair.
Booze and food: When those legs need a little liquid courage or you need a little pick-me-up, The Pub is where it's at, located in the base lodge. This is where you'll feel the vibe that Sierra prides itself on. From live bands, wine-tasting, & local photographers art on the walls to happy hour, delicious sandwiches, and a patio looking out onto the hill; the Pub will get you feeling real nice, real quick. If you're a serious boozehound and can get up to Sierra enough times - I recommend you investing in the Pub Club that gets you your own gigantic mug and cheaper beer prices all season long. If you want to get your BBQ on, the 360 Bar & Grill at the top of Grand View has gorgeous views of the Sierras and Lake Tahoe. If you like to lose your shirt and sunbathe instead of shred (weird, I know) you can drop down to the bottom of West Bowl where it gets nice and toasty and grab a taco.
That's the basics kids. Start planning your trip now. This resort will get you amped on riding, make you fall in love with South Lake Tahoe, and always leave you wanting more. Hence, why I will always claim Sierra my one true love. I may cheat on her sometimes but she's still my number one girl.
Thanks to Sierra-at-Tahoe and their marketing department for showing me an awesome time. I'll be back next season.
Top photo: Out Gate 4
Bottom photo: Bashful park, rider: Devin Morales
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