This post is by Luxury Travel Mom Momtourage writer Karin Sheets -you don’t know her yet-but you’re going to love her. I mean, she found the signature cocktail on day one-need I say more?
Pristine Lake Tahoe spans the borders of Nevada and California, high up in the Sierra-Nevadas, surrounded by beaches and mountains. Stunning beauty envelops every view. Known for epic skiing during the winter, the Lake Tahoe area is equally appealing in the summer – with everything from on-lake activities to hiking, golfing and spa retreats. It’s getting back to nature at it’s finest.
The Resort at Squaw Creek is located in North Lake Tahoe near the base of the Squaw Valley ski resort. Your vacation truly begins when you arrive. Breathe the fresh air and walk into the beautiful lobby, where walls of windows frame the encompassing views of the valley and mountains beyond. Hello relaxation.
Enjoy the Resort
The Resort at Squaw Creek is celebrating its 25th anniversary and the secret to their success is simple. An inviting retreat, the staff is friendly and welcoming. The vibe is relaxing with wide-open spaces. Listen to the wind in the trees and soak in the views while lounging by the pool. It’s luxurious, and at the same time family-friendly. The resort features great mix of location, activities and amenities.
With several dining areas, a few shops, a relaxing pool, golf course and spa, you could easily spend your entire time on-property. But the area has so much more to offer. Talk to the activities desk to book adventures like fly fishing, horseback riding, kayak expeditions, and white water rafting, and to find out about the nearby hiking trails. And then there’s the spa. I had a sugar scrub that was heavenly.
The Resort at Squaw Creek’s signature drink celebrating their 25th anniversary. Here’s the recipe for the Cosmomosa.
Explore the Mountains
A popular trail is Shirley Canyon that ascends to the aerial tram at Squaw Valley High Camp. It’s a challenging but very doable hike, I saw kids as young as 11 on it. Don’t be surprised when the high altitudes make even the very athletic stop to catch their breath along the way. At the top you’ll find 360 degrees of incredible views – and a pool with snack bar. Bring your swimsuit, because after that hike, you’ll want to dive in. Or if you prefer, take the aerial tram from Squaw Valley to High Camp and hike the trails from there for some shorter options that all ages will enjoy.
Another way to explore the local trails is by horseback. Family owned and operated, Alpine Meadows Stables has been providing scenic tours through Tahoe National Forest since 1967. The hour-long trail ride is perfect for an afternoon.
Food and Drinks
The dining options on-property are wonderful. There’s a breakfast buffet complete with a build your own Bloody Mary bar – the perfect place to start. Sweet Potatoes Deli, Sandy’s Pub, Cascades restaurant and Six Peaks Grille provide plenty of delicious options. And of course, there’s in-room dining.
Lunch or dinner on the lake is a must-do, and the West Shore Café is the perfect location. Eat on the dock at sunset for the most incredible experience. The food and cocktails are to die for – the ambiance can’t be beat.
Insider Tips
The Resort at Squaw Creek has been getting a facelift for it’s 25th, and all of the rooms are being updated. Phase 1 is complete, Phase 2 will be complete by ski season. All the rooms are nice, but the renovated rooms are the best. Ask for one of the new rooms. Also, Christmas is about to go on sale! Sign up for special offers on their web site to get the offers and go shopping with the money you save, I won’t tell.
Getting to the Resort at Squaw Creek
Last month JetBlue added non-stop service from JFK to Reno, making a trip to Tahoe even more attractive. Sierra-Tahoe Car Service provides reliable all-season transportation in newer full-sized SUVs seating 7, plus cargo space.
My Favorite Things
I enjoyed my stay so much that I’m returning to Lake Tahoe later this summer – I can’t wait to share it with my family. Experiences and amenities aside, my favorite thing about travel is always the people that I meet along the way. This visit I met Tal Fletcher, owner of Sierra-Tahoe Car Service. Over the course of a lengthy conversation I found out that he was the guide for the first para-athelete to reach the South Pole. An inspiring story that especially resonated with me, a mom to child who has special needs. It’s a reminder that anything is possible, the only limits are those that we place on ourselves. Gallery Keoki in Squaw Valley features photos from that expedition, it’s on my list of things to do next visit.
by Karin Sheets, adventurer, spa-lover and mom.
Karin was hosted as part of a group press trip representing Luxury Travel Mom and her site SpecialNeedsTravelMom. Her love and reviews cannot be bought with signature cocktails and horseback rides.