West Shore Winter & What to Expect!
December 4, 2020
Spend a day or two on the West Shore and you’ll understand immediately why it’s called the "Magical West Shore". Known for its beauty, history, and outdoor activities, there is so much to see and do on Lake Tahoe’s Magical West Shore...you may never want to leave!
What to Expect on the West Shore!
Earlier this month, winter gave us a little tease of what's to come and there’s one thing on many of our minds: ski season. This winter clearly won’t be “business as usual,” but each Lake Tahoe ski resort has outlined plans to help keep the resorts open and employees and guests safe.
So, what can we expect? While some ski resorts may differ slightly in their operations, there are 6 primary areas all resorts are focusing on to manage safety:
- Face Masks. All resorts are requiring face coverings indoors and in lift lines.
- Physical Distancing.
- Limited Tickets. Limiting the number of passes and tickets for sale to help control crowds.
- Guarantee. Most resorts offer a COVID guarantee or insurance, so if resorts close (or close early), you’ll have 2021/22 to look forward to.
- Limited Indoor Areas. Expect your car will be your base lodge, as indoors will be limited. Bring everything you need to be comfortable outdoors in the mountains - especially if the weather is harsh.
- Cashless Payments. Always have a cashless payment on hand, as most outlets will not be accepting cash.
Before you travel to Lake Tahoe, read our NORTH LAKE TAHOE WINTER SKI GUIDE for an overview of each resort's policies, and be sure to download North Lake Tahoe's Winter Know Before You Go Informational Guide.
Know Before You Go!
Before embarking on adventures to North Lake Tahoe and West Shore, check out the Know Before You Go Informational Guide including resource links, frequently asked questions, COVID-19 friendly activity suggestions, and more.
Current Mandates:
Wearing masks when visiting West Shore Lake Tahoe is required. It has been mandated by both Placer County and El Dorado County.
· Inside: wearing a face mask or a face covering when in a public location is required.
· Outside: wearing a face mask or a face covering when coming within 6 feet of other groups is required.
Click here for a copy of the VISITOR READINESS GUIDE for the Placer County (North Lake Tahoe) area.
Discover Winter on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe!
From dozens of backcountry XC Skiing and Snowshoeing trails, to several close ski resorts and everything in between (depending on the snow levels) there is something for everyone on the West Shore during our winter months.
Check out all the amazing activities North Lake Tahoe has to offer our guests and visitors!
Takeout Tahoe!
The North Lake Tahoe Resort Association recently launched Takeout Tahoe, an initiative designed to support and promote local restaurants through fall, winter and beyond. The campaign includes a downloadable guide to help visitors and locals alike navigate restaurant options in the region. A North Tahoe EATS Facebook Page and a contest element that will award winners with restaurant gift cards to further support eating local.
Explore all of West Shore's takeout dining options in the North Lake Tahoe Takeout Guide. For up-to-date information join the Facebook Group North Tahoe EATS!
Leave NO Trace!
To-go options mean extra waste.
- Use proper receptacles and make sure the garbage ends up inside. If a trash bin is full, find another.
- Pack it in, pack it out -- bring a reusable bag to store your waste
Be mindful about food storage -- don't store food in your car and adhere to trash regulations if you're in a vacation rental. Use bear boxes and make sure to lock it.