Squaw Valley is home to some of the world’s top skiers and snowboarders, lovingly nicknamed Squallywood, the resort has Olympic terrain and amenities. Its torch has been burning ever since 1960 when the resort hosted the Olympics, Squaw is known worldwide for its incredible terrain. It is higher in elevation than many resorts in the area and largely north facing which are ideal elements for great conditions and an extended season. The colossal village at the base is well equipped to handle the more that half million skiers and boarders the resort receives annually. While Squaw Valley is decidedly a little pricier than other resorts in the area, they offer a lot of great specials throughout the season, including discounts on lift tickets, lodging and dining.

The ski area spans six mountains, covers 4000 acres, a half mile of vertical, there are more than 170 named trails and over 30 lifts to take riders around the gargantuan resort. There is terrain suitable for everyone 25% beginner, 45% intermediate and 30% advanced. Squaw Valley is most famous for its terrifyingly steep and narrow chutes and challenging tree skiing, some of the best is found off of the Granite Chief and KT-22 lifts, there are also 3 challenging terrain parks located on the mountain. Since Squaw’s season usually runs from mid-November until late-May visitors will have ample time and opportunity to experience world class skiing.

There is so much to see and do just at Squaw Valley, that visitors wont have to step foot off the resort once during their entire vacation. The village offers nearly 50 different stores, indoor rock climbing, the Olympic Museum, sky jump bungee center and great cafes and restaurants scattered throughout the delightful Europeanesque village at the base of the ski area. There is also a host of wintry activities such as ice skating, tubing, a swimming lagoon located at 8,200 feet, or take a ride in the cable car which is one of Squaw’s top attractions, and of course there is extensive Nordic trails and snowshoe terrain.

For budget lodging guests may want to look to the nearby town of Truckee, however, Squaw routinely offers fantastic ski and stay vacation packages throughout the season which include discounted lift tickets and lodging. The slope side, suite-style hotels have accommodations that range from cozy single rooms to spacious three-bedroom condos. There are a plethora of options at Squaw Valley that will suit nearly all tastes and budgets. Stop into the Trilogy spa after a day on the slopes, or hit the Lava Lounge for a glass of wine and before heading back to your room.

There are many ways to get to Squaw Valley USA. The closest major airport is Reno-Tahoe International, Squaw has fly and ski deals that are definitely worth checking out. By car, Squaw is just 42 miles from Reno, NV, 96 miles from Sacramento, and 196 miles from San Francisco via I-80. The entrance is just 8 miles south from Truckee and 6 miles north of Tahoe City and the North Shore of Lake Tahoe on Hwy 89. Or sign up for the rideshare program on their website and save gas money, make new friends. Every aspect of Squaw Valley is epic, from its premiere skiing and snowboarding, to its massive village and top-notch amenities, Squaw is the place to go in order to feel pampered this season.