Families Fall in Love with Lake Tahoe in the Fall

The kids are back in school and hopefully a nice routine is settling in. But less freedom to get up and go, makes me even more determined to put family getaways on the calendar. Folks count the days until Lake Tahoe gets its first blast of winter. Stop counting and start packing for a fall family weekend in Lake Tahoe at Squaw Valley.

Less to Pack

Dreaming of winter is fine, but no snow is no problem, and makes packing a breeze. Hiking boots and swimsuits take up much less room than snow gear. We arrived under the cover of darkness and my 11-year-old reminded me for the umpteenth time how she wished she could go snowboarding. Not the most enthusiastic way to get a family weekend up and running.

Up You Go

The eight minute ride up 2-thousand feet to High Camp on the Aerial Tram is a good way to get a family weekend up and running. At an elevation of 8200’ there’s more than a few options waiting to entertain you for the day.

Boogie with Your Baby

Roller skating was all the rage when I was a kid, but it never really caught on with my girls. I guess it’s not a huge surprise. The last time I was in a roller rink it was stuffed full of sweaty skaters swaying to the beat of 80’s music and a disco ball. At High Camp, the outdoor rink has music to get you moving, but who needs a disco ball when you’ve got panoramic views of Lake Tahoe to roll with.

Did I mention we had the rink all to ourselves for about an hour? A fantastic perk that comes along with fall weekends. Don’t forget a good pair of socks. You can get skates and helmets at the rink.

Hike

If lacing up your hiking boots sounds more your style, make sure you double knot the bows. All the snow you’re used to seeing covers numerous trails for you to roam on when the sun’s shining. If you’re the organized type, it’s worth checking Squaw Valley’s website to see if any free guided hikes are scheduled during your stay.

Paintball Party

I don’t know how he did it, but somehow my husband talked both of my girls into paintball at High Camp. Which meant for the sake of teams and family togetherness – at least that was how the full family press went –  I also was playing paintball.

Somehow the thought of shooting at my children just didn’t seem right. The thought of my children shooting at me wasn’t incredibly appealing either. I got over my reservations, quickly. We had the “Speedball” course to ourselves, and at the sound of the whistle, the paint started flying along with screams and laughter. Let’s just say we could all use a little work on our aim.

Children must be 10 or older to play. And be forewarned, even though you’re wearing a full body protective jumpsuit of sorts, getting hit still has a sting to it. Expect a bruise or two.

Cool Off with a View

It’s just steps to Squaw Valley’s Pool and Hot Tub, so there was no question about out next activity. The poolside café has a nice kids menu to grab lunch or an early dinner. Towels are provided with admittance to the pool and hot tub area. There are also lockers, showers and changing rooms so no one’s soggy for the ride back down to base.

We stayed in a two bedroom, 2-bath condo at The Village at Squaw Valley. Having space to stretch is always a plus. But after an action packed day, having a full kitchen was the best perk of all. Some pasta and a movie and the entire was family was happy. Another successful family getaway to add to the books and photo albums, no snowboarding required.

Editorial Note: Dana and her family received complimentary accommodations and activities at Squaw Valley, but as always her thoughts and opinions are her own.

Relevant Links:

Best family-friendly accommodations in Lake Tahoe

What’s New at Squaw Valley for Families

Things to do in Squaw Valley with kids

Favorite Lake Tahoe summer activities with kids

Ciao Bambino’s family-friendly ski vacation recommendations