On most winter afternoons on U.S. Highway 80 SUV’s are racked with ski and snowboarding gear racing the rush hour traffic to the mountains. As January marks the start of the ski and snowboarding season, those looking for fun in the snow during 2005 find this is the season to do it. Lake Tahoe is the most popular spot in Northern California for ski and snowboarding. Many resorts on the north and south shores reported record snowfall.

Several weeks ago the San Francisco Bay Area was drenched with heavy rain, howling wind and no relief in sight. The National Weather Service reported as much as 15 to 20 feet of snow fell across the Sierra.

For the hardcore winter sports enthusiast, the mountains are the place to be. However, for the budget-conscious student snow sports can be an expensive hobby.

“This is my favorite spot to ski,” said San Francisco resident Erik Strode. “I can’t find mountains like this anywhere else.”

Strode prefers visiting Lake Tahoe because the traffic is smooth and the slopes are the best. “I plan to come up to Tahoe and ski every chance I get,” said Strode.

Heading north on Interstate Highway 50 toward South Lake Tahoe, after the tiny town of Strawberry, is the ski resort Sierra at Tahoe. For the bargain hunters a half day pass is $49 starting at 12:30 p.m. and a full day pass is $57. Student Double Whammy passes are as little as $269 for the whole season, and they are good at Sierra at Tahoe any day and limited days at Northstar at Tahoe. Only Sierra and Northstar offer this deal to students.

“College students should take advantage of this deal, after four visits the rest of the season is free,” said Veebs Wilbers, a Sierra at Tahoe sales representative.

With 2,000 acres there is a run for every level of skiing and riding ability. For the novice skier Sierra at Tahoe offers a two-and-a-half-mile beginning run with spectacular views. Snowboarders will love the four terrain parks, a clean 17-foot super pipe, a boarder cross track, one half pipe and many rails. After the last run swing by Sierra Pub & Deli for happy hour between 4 and 5:30 p.m. with half off food specials and live entertainment on the weekends.

For those needing to be in the middle of the action, in the heart of South Lake Tahoe is Heavenly Valley. With one of the tallest mountains in town, elevation 10,067 feet, and the longest vertical drop, 3,500 feet, skiing goes beyond insane and suicidal. It is for the hardcore. Student passes are available for $149 to ski or ride any four days of the season and day passes are $62. With 4,800 acres there is a run for every level of skier and rider.

For the black diamond guru Mott and Killbrew Canyons are awaiting you with 1,400 vertical feet of steep chutes. For the snowboarder there are six areas of free terrain throughout the mountain with various types of rails, ramps, half pipes, etc. Those seeking an early Valentine’s treat should take their honey on a scenic gondola ride nightcap.

For those seeking posh and a more resort-like settings where grandpa won’t get run over by the snowboarders, check out Northstar at Tahoe. With 2,420 acres it offers intermediate and advance runs for skiers and riders. There are seven terrain parks with a super and half pipe and various rails. Day passes start at $64 and $51 for people between 13-22 years old. If you don’t want to ski and would rather wait for your friends, visit the Village with many shops and restaurants.

All ski resorts are open daily until mid April from 9 a.m. with the last lift ending at 3:30 p.m.
Don’t want to haul your equipment up to the snow? Visit Lakeview Sports at 3131 Lake Tahoe Blvd. Carl Barrett and his team of employees are eager to set up anyone who wants to ski or snowboard. Ski or snowboarding rentals are as low as $25 dollars a day. Take advantage of their 2-for-1 deal on ski or snowboard rental valid Sunday through Friday all season.

For reasonable and affordable lodging, even at the last minute, check out www.orbitz.com or www.hotels.com for rates as low as $33 a night in most south and north shore locations. Eating in Tahoe is inexpensive with popular places such as Baja Fresh, Chevy’s and pizza parlors. Getting by on a budget without going hungry will be no problem.

For more information about the ski resort or about Lake Tahoe in general check out these helpful website links: www.onthesnow.com, www.sierratahoe.com, www.skiheavenly.com, www.northstarattahoe.com, Rental Gear: Lakeview Sports, 3131 Lake Tahoe Blvd. (530) 544-0183 or www.tahoesports.com.