The latest storm that soaked the Bay Area also dumped a few more feet of powder in the Tahoe mountains. The upcoming President's Day weekend will be a great time to head to the lake to tackle the ski slopes…even for beginners. While the tops of the mountains will have the best snow and views, there are some great "bunny" slopes and green runs for skiers and riders who are just starting out. Before you know it, you'll have graduated up to blue or even black.
Sugar 'N' Spice at Sierra at Tahoe
The 2.5 mile run at the beginner-friendly Sierra at Tahoe is also a wide run where you can practice turns as well as stopping and speed control. There are lots of other beginners on this slight slope and skiing it about 3 to 4 times during your visit is enough to get you ready for some more advanced slopes.
Around the World at Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe
One of the best beginner runs at the lake is at Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe on the North Shore. The Around the World Run is also one of the longest runs and curves around the back of the resort. It can sometimes take about 30 minutes to get down the run and gives you a chance to practice various turns. You can get to Around the World with the Galena lift.
The Big Easy at Northstar California
Northstar California near Truckee has an entire area for beginners. The Big Easy chairlift will take you up from the ski and snowboard school and you can take several easy and light runs back down to the school or even down to the Village via the Barely run. There are color coded runs for both adults and children and a snowboard terrain playground. If you don't want to use the chair lift, there are several magic carpets that will take you up the mountain.
At Homewood near Tahoe City you don't have to be an advanced skier to get some great views. The Rainbow Ridge near the top of the mountain can be reached with the Old Homewood Express and is a popular spot for beginners. The views of the lake are pretty incredible.
Subway and Meadow at Alpine Meadows
Start getting your legs ready on the Subway chair and run and graduate up to the Meadow chair and run at Alpine Meadows. These designated beginner areas are fairly short, but allow you to catch your breath and get right back on again for another go.