blog.olympicvillageinn.com

The Summer Olympics are here! What we can gain from the athletes.

I was watching the Tour de France about a week ago and was thinking, how do these guys do it? For three weeks they drag themselves out of bed every day and ride between 95 and 130 miles a day, 2500 miles in all to get to Paris, climbing in some stages 15,000 feet or more. That's just for starters. There's also rain, heat, and crashes to overcome. Those that can continue frequently go on with various injuries such as abrasions and more. One rider crashed but was able make it to the finish of the stage only to find out he had a punctured lung. Another dislocated his shoulder, put it back in place himself, and rode on. Och! Another fell, separated his shoulder, finished that day and the next, only to quit for good when he crashed again and separated the other one. One word describes it (no, not insanity). It's Perseverance.

We can learn a lot from sports, whether it's the Tour de France, the Summer Olympics starting tomorrow (I'm excited!) or a local hometown football game. These events are microcosms of life and we can pick up some great life skills from them. Perseverance is one of those lessons and was also the theme of an article in the Sierra Sun I read recently, "Endurance Endeavors | Perseverance pays off — even on toughest days" by Kara LaPoint. Kara is a triathlete working her way up to the pro ranks. She competes for LUNA bar in distances from Olympic to Ironman and was ranked as an All-American nationally in 2011 in her age group of 25-29. She is also a top local Nordic ski racer and coach. What I liked about the article is that it put into words the emotions and thought processes many of us at a lesser level of performance go through every day, whether it be taking that morning run on a cold, snowy day, riding the bike trail in Squaw Valley when your legs feel like lead, or hiking that short trail that seems to go on forever. It would be easy not to go or give up, I have a million excuses on hand at all times. To quote Kara: "It's always tempting to give in to a bleak situation, and let ourselves back down. It's easier, and in some senses less demoralizing. But in doing so, we miss out on all the growth that comes with pushing through. Never give up. Keep going. You might be surprised at what your body can do. Above all, put yourself out there. Even on the tough days, when conditions aren't ideal, or your body's not tip-top, just get out there and see what you can make of it. Because in the end, even if we do fail to finish, it's far better than never starting at all."

It's true! Pushing through and overcoming your temptation to quit is how we grow and gain confidence, and confidence is what gives us the courage to go on. Not only that, this same mental attitude and toughness we learn on the trails, the road, or the playing field carries over into our everyday lives. We're better, stronger and more accomplished because of it. With the Summer Olympics starting tomorrow, we're sure to see many examples of top athletes pushing through their perceived limits to see what they can find in themselves on the other side. Watching them and athletes like Kara can inspire us to push through our own barriers and discover the rewards on the other side.

The Wanderlust Festival is happening at Squaw Valley USA Thursday, July 26 to Sunday, July 29 featuring Yoga, Music, and Nature, more paths to self-discovery and growth. Wanderlust is a one-of-a-kind festival bringing together the world's best yoga and wellness teachers and top musical acts and DJs, all in a setting of breathtaking natural beauty. Wanderlust takes place in various locations around the country, including Canada, but this is our own California edition. Among the musical performers will be Ziggy Marley, son of the legendary Reggae master Bob Marley. Wanderlust is more than the music, it's hiking on peaceful trails, sipping poolside cocktails with your friends, and enjoying a tasty farm-to-table dinner with views of the surrounding mountain peaks. It's also early morning meditations and all-night chakra spinning musical performances -- it's an all-out ecstatic celebration in the most awe-inspiring locations in the world.

I value finding ways to make my life better, the opportunities are all around us. To quote Nike, "Just do it!". Keep up to date with all that's happening at Olympic Village Inn and Olympic Valley by "Liking" our Facebook page. Have great week!

The Truckee Police Department and it's new ARC Team

We're enjoying some of the best weather of the Summer right now. Water temperatures have had a chance to warm from the early spring run-off. I guess "warm" is a relative term, after all, when you're talking about Lake Tahoe and Donner Lake, as well as the many other lakes in the area. I got acquainted with the chilly Sierra waters at a very young age when my family would camp at Fallen Leaf Lake every year. If you're not familiar with Fallen Leaf Lake, it's just to the south of Lake Tahoe, a beautiful place. We always chose the campsite at the very top of the hill for privacy, but it was also the farthest from the lake. On warm summer days we'd hike down to the lake and lay our towels on the old wooden pier jutting out into the water. In the high altitude sun it didn't take long to get hot. The water looked so inviting but as soon as you tried to wade in from shore you felt the instant chill and it was hard to get in past your ankles. We quickly learned the only way to get wet was to take a deep breath and jump from the pier. It was "exhilarating" to say the least. In a few minutes you got used to it, though, and it felt SO refreshing. We'd also go for long hikes up to the Angora Lakes and The Angora Lookout, or through the Desolation Wilderness. Our time here revolved around the outdoors and I loved it. That's one big reason why so many people who live in or visit the Tahoe-Truckee area love it too, the outdoor recreation in a magnificent mountain setting.

The Truckee Police Department has embraced this lifestyle, too, in an effort to better connect with the residents and visitors enjoying the outdoor activities. I found out about their new approach to law enforcement in a couple of articles I recently read, Truckee Police Department patrols include paddle boarders and Truckee Police Department | TPD is interacting on bikes, boats and paddle boards. First of all, I want to ask how you join the Truckee Police Depatment because I want a job like this! Some police officers have gotten out of their intimidating cruisers and hopped onto mountain bikes, into boats, and even stand up paddle boards. What a way to spend a day at work! This isn't a new plan to draw applicants from other areas by offering some increadible finge benifits, although that may be an unintended result. According to Truckee Police Chief Adam McGill, "It's 100 percent community based and public relations," "We're primarily a resort community and this type of policing serves our local community, as well as our visitors, who often come here for outdoor recreation." It makes sense. This way officers can get right out there with the people in the areas they're patroling and connect in a way they never have been able to before. You might see one on a bike saying hi on the Legasy Trail or pass by an on duty officer in a boat or even on a SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) at Donner Lake.

The Truckee Police Department calls it their Adventure, Recreation and Community Team and it incorporates two standup paddleboards and two new mountain bikes. The ARC Team consists of a sergeant and four officers who are trained and certified in bicycle and water-patrol procedures. According to a Press Release from the Truckee Police Department, Tahoe SUP generously provided a donation towards 2 SUP paddleboards and their associated equipment. "Tahoe SUP is a regional paddle board manufacturer who has roots in Truckee and did paddle board testing in Donner Lake when the company first started." As a matter of fact, no general fund dollars were spent on the equipment. "The Specialized mountain bikes for the ARC Team were purchased locally at Paco’s Bike Shop with state grant funds. The Department purchased the patrol boat in 2003 with grant funds provided by California Boating and Waterways." The ARC Team is a huge step forward for the Truckee Police Department in community relations while helping to promote the outdoor adventure lifestyle that locals and visitors enjoy.

OK, I apologize in advance but when I read about this event coming up at Squaw Valley featuring pony rides, I couldn't help wonder if the police would be patroling on ponies. This sounds like a great event so be sure to go!

Wild Wild West Weekend

Saturday, July 21, 2012 - 12:00 to Sunday, July 22, 2012 - 16:00
Yeehaw cowpokes! This weekend the High Camp Corral will be filled with all sorts of western-style fun including live music both days! All activities take place at High Camp and pony rides for children, petting zoo, music are all FREE with an Aerial Tram ticket.

Wild West Weekend Schedule

Saturday July 21: 601 Railroad Regulators Old West reenactments, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; petting zoo and pony rides, noon-5 p.m.; paintball target practice, noon-5 p.m.; free face painting, 1-4 p.m.; live music with Pete Charles, 1-4 p.m.

Sunday, July 22: 601 Railroad Regulators Old West reenactments, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; cowboy poetry, performing in between music, noon-5 p.m.; free face painting, 1-4 p.m.; live music, 1-4 p.m.

Lets all applaude the Truckee Police Department for it's progressive thinking in adapting and blending with the Truckee community and it's outdoor lifestyle. I'm sure other like communities will follow it's example. Keep up to date with all that's happening at Olympic Village Inn and Olympic Valley by "Liking" our Facebook page. Have great week!

 

A huge accomplishment, the Lakeside Trail in Tahoe City

The Lake Tahoe-Truckee area has always been known as a great area to enjoy the outdoors. With incredible mountain terrain and crystal clear blue water, there aren't many places on earth that have the varied outdoor opportunities this place offers. Ski areas like Squaw Valley USA have terrain that challenges the most extreme skiers in the winter and the most extreme runners, tri-athletes and bikers in the summer. Lake Tahoe offers the same type of challenging opportunities for water skiers, boaters and kayaks. While this area is known world-wide for it's extreme sports, it also offers a family friendly, more relaxed environment for the rest of us. That's why the opening of the new Lakeside Trail in Tahoe City is so exciting. It elevates the off highway trail system for walkers, casual cyclists and skaters to a new level by connecting the North Shore Trail, West Shore Trail and the Truckee River Trail. Before this stretch of trail was completed, riders would have to wind through downtown Tahoe City to get from one side to the other of the 19-mile trail system, dodging trucks, cars and delivery vehicles.

 

On June 21, 2012, TCPUD, Jake’s on the Lake, Auerbach Engineering, and Landesign, hosted a ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony at Jake’s on the Lake. Then on June 24th, a “Let’s Get Linked” celebration took place with a human chain one mile long with over 1,000 people. Why all the hoopla over a mile long stretch of bike and pedestrian trail? In addition to the value of this important link in the Lake Tahoe trail system, it's been 25 years in the making and was finished at a total cost of $12 million. Yikes! I guess you can tell this isn't just any trail. The $12 million in funding came from 12 sources, in grants and donations, including about $5.5 million from the California Tahoe Conservancy over 25 years for property acquisition, planning, design and construction. This was a major community effort! Because it's on the shore of Lake Tahoe and goes through many parcels, it required the work and cooperation of many agencies, businesses and private and public property owners. The trail follows the waters edge in Tahoe City with lighting, plazas, picnic areas, and many granite seat walls and overlooks, with views of Lake Tahoe and the Truckee River, to make it feel more like a boardwalk than just a trail. Riders or walkers coming from Homewood or Squaw Valley (Highway 89) can now connect to North Lake Boulevard towards Carnelian Bay without having to negotiate Highway 28 through downtown. This is a major accomplishment the Lake Tahoe community can be proud of and helps reinforce our commitment to a healthy, green and fun outdoor lifestyle. Here are a few articles where you can read more about it:

www.rgj.com
www.sierrasun.com
www.tahoe.com

There are some upcoming events not to miss. Maybe you can bike to them on the new trail! Just don't drink and bike on the way home, you may get a BUI.

Art, Wine & Music Festival
Saturday, July 14, 2012 - 11:00 to Sunday, July 15, 2012 - 17:00

Squaw Valley's base village will burst with color, taste, and sound as fine artists, crafts makers, performers and musicians come to participate in this fun, two-day annual event. The Art, Wine & Music Festival features two performance stages, restaurants and shops, and walkways lined with fine art booths and exhibits. Join us in The Village from 11 to 5pm and wine tasting from 2 to 5pm.

‘Conversations with History' at the historic Vikingsholm Estate
Monday, June 18, 2012

Helen Smith will remember her summers at Vikingsholm in the Tahoe estate's intimate courtyard setting. Have a “Conversation with History” June 21, July 19 or Aug. 15.
Courtesy California State Parks
TAHOE, Calif. — The Sierra State Parks Foundation and California State Parks announce three rare opportunities to drive to the Vikingsholm Castle in Emerald Bay for an enchanted evening on June 21, July 19 and Aug. 15. Tickets are $50 per person with proceeds earmarked to provide critically needed funds for the maintenance and repair of the Vikingsholm. Seating is limited to 30 guests and advanced reservations are required by calling 530-583-9911. Guests will meet at the Visitor Center at D.L. Bliss State Park at 4:45 p.m. and then be escorted to Vikingsholm, via carpool, for the two-hour event.

“Conversations with History” will feature a behind-the-scenes tour of the incomparable Vikingsholm. Guests will be treated to viewing areas of the house that are not on the public daily tours. Following the tour, guests will meet in the courtyard where wine and hors d'oeuvres will be served. Dr. Smith will host an informal conversation about her experiences spending 14 summers at Vikingsholm as the guest of Lora Knight, the original owner of Vikingsholm. Smith will present a signed copy of her book, “Vikingsholm,” to every guest.

Tours of Vikingsholm Castle are available seven days a week through September. The first tour of the day starts at 10:30 a.m. and the last tour at 4:30 p.m. All tours are guided tours and take approximately one-half hour. The tour fee is $8 for adults and $5 for youths 6 to 12. Children under 6 are free. The maximum number of people on a tour is 30. Visit www.vikingsholm.org or call 530-525-9530 to make access arrangements.

Guided hikes in July offered by Tahoe Rim Trail Association
With the start of the summer hiking season upon us, Tahoe's peaks, wildflowers and vistas are beginning to beckon. Tahoe Rim Trail offers free guided hikes in July. These hikes are great for all abilities, and shorter hikes are most appropriate for children. Participants must register in advance for these summer hikes. Online registration is now required for all TRTA programs and can be completed on the TRTA website at www.tahoerimtrail.org.

For more information, call 775-298-0012 or email Jaime at jaimes@tahoerimtrail.org.

Tuesday, July 17 — Hawley Grade History Hike (6 miles)
Take a journey into the past on hike on a portion of the original trans-Sierra emigrant route and Pony Express trail through the Sierra. Learn a little of the history of the early settlers as we hike from the Tahoe Valley floor near Meyers and climb to the junction with the Tahoe Rim Trail just past Echo Pass.

There you go, Why not try out the new Lakeside Trail in Tahoe City this week? Keep up to date with all that's happening at Olympic Village Inn and Olympic Valley by "Liking" our Facebook page. Have great week!

 

4th of July weekend and a story of a friend and the Dash

This weekend is the tail end of the 4th of July week and there's still plenty to do. First, though, I'd like to share a story of a friend. This isn't a sad story but one of awakening and revitalization. My friend passed away unexpectedly at the age of 52. It always seems to take something like this to pull our heads out of the sand of day to day life and look at our lives from a more meaningful perspective. He had a lot of Irish in him so we had a Wake, a party in celebration of his life. There was a band, a BBQ and lots of homemade food. That's what I would like when I go. There was a lot of laughter and a lot of tears, as friends and family in an endless line told funny and heartfelt stories of their experiences with him. It was obvious he had deeply touched many lives. It was also obvious that he had lived each day of his life to the fullest, with the boundless energy and enthusiasm most of us loose as we become adults. There was something to be learned here.

One friend told a story and recited a poem that helped clear my mind of the clutter of daily details so I could see the bigger picture. It's called:

The Dash by Linda Ellis:

There was a man who stood to speak
At the funeral of a friend
He referred to the dates on her tombstone
From the beginning to the end

He noted that first came her date of her birth
And spoke the following date with tears
But he said what mattered most of all
Was the dash between those years

For that dash stands for all the time
That she spent alive on earth.
And now only those who loved her
Know what that little line is worth.

For it matters not how much we own;
The cars the house the cash
What matters is how we live and love
And how we spend our dash.

So think about this long and hard.
Are there things you'd like to change?
For you never know how much time is left
That can still be rearranged.

If we could just slow down enough
To consider what's true and real
And always try to understand
The way other people feel.

We'd be less quick to anger
And show appreciation more
And love the people in our lives
Like we've never loved before.

If we treat each other with respect
And more often wear a smile
Remembering that this special dash
Might only last a little while.

So when your eulogy is being read
With your lifes actions to rehash
Would you be proud of the things they say
About how you spent your dash?

Cos that dash stands for all the time
That you spent alive on earth
And only those who loved you
Know what that little line is worth

It matters not how much you own
The cars the house the cash
What matters is how you live and love
And how you spend your dash

What matters is how you live and love
And how you spend your dash.

We're in our dash now and no one knows when our dash will end. Spend your dash doing things that will keep you alive in the memories of others. It can be an unexpected act of kindness or generosity to a stranger, a hike on a new trail with someone you love, or sharing a fun new event with your friends. The Tahoe-Truckee area is brimming with dash-filling opportunities just waiting for you. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Here's someone who's filled his dash more than most.

JT Holmes - Legendary Skier of Squaw and Pioneer in Airborne Sports
Saturday, July 7, 2012 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Plumpjack Squaw Valley Inn

JT Holmes, "Birdman" and Legend of Squaw. JT Holmes will showcase how he carved out his unique career in skiing, base jumping and speed flying, how he assesses risks, and how parents can adapt to their own little daredevils.

JT Holmes is a professional skier, base jumper, and Squaw Valley legend. In 2009, JT was featured on a 60 Minutes segment titled ‘Birdmen’, which showcased base jumpers donning wing suits and free falling at speeds up to 150 mph. As an extreme professional athlete, JT is well aware of the risks involved in extreme sports and is careful to take all necessary precautions to prepare himself.

JT recently teamed up with High Fives Foundation, a Tahoe-based non-profit organization dedicated to raising money and awareness for athletes who have suffered a life-altering injury while pursuing their dream in the winter action sports community. High Fives’ B.A.S.I.C.S. program is a service of the High Fives Non-Profit Foundation designed to promote safety and awareness through world-class fundamentals coaching.

“The action sports world involves a freedom from rules and regulations which we love because it keeps creativity and progression limitless. But, that freedom allows for oversight of teaching and mastering B.A.S.I.C.S., a risky combination. High Fives is dedicated to catching athletes before they crash and providing a platform for further, safer progression.” - JT Holmes, Director of B.A.S.I.C.S. Program

Soaring Kites & Music Festival
Saturday, July 7, 2012 - 11:00
High Camp located above Lake Tahoe at 8200' at the top of the Aerial Tram, offers one of the most spectacular and unique kite flying locations in the world. Watch high flying kites perform stunts in a stunning alpine setting. Squaw Valley is proud to be hosting the 11th year of this special event featuring kite flying demonstrations, kids kite building seminars, and general kite mania, featuring great live music at High Camp.

Truckee Running Festival - Riverview Park in Truckee
Jul 8, 2012 (Sun) 9:00 am

Try a 5K or 10K along the Legacy Trail or a 1/2 marathon featuring beautiful and scenic trails of Waddle Ranch. Bring the kids as we have short race/runs for them as well. The event is also a fundraiser for the Truckee Trails Foundation. All the proceeds from the Kids Races will go to the Truckee Trails Foundation.

Fine Arts & Crafts on the Shore
July 7-8, Sat, July 7, 12am – Mon, July 9, 12am
Kings Beach Plaza

The Fine Arts and Crafts on the Shore at Kings Beach is one of North Lake Tahoe’s must-attend events, showcasing an outstanding array of creations that capture the imagination and inspire the heart. Set among the towering pine trees along the shores of North Lake Tahoe at Kings Beach State Recreation Area, this free outdoor art festival takes place Saturday and Sunday, July 7 and 8, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

The weekend event, located on North Lake Blvd (Hwy. 28) at Coon Street, is sponsored by the North Tahoe Business Association and features original collectibles including watercolor and oil paintings, glasswork, sculptures, photography, fine crafts, jewelry and much more.

Art, Wine & Music Festival
Saturday, July 14, 2012 - 11am to Sunday, July 15, 2012 - 5pm
Squaw Valley's base village will burst with color, taste, and sound as fine artists, crafts makers, performers and musicians come to participate in this fun, two-day annual event. The Art, Wine & Music Festival features two performance stages, restaurants and shops, and walkways lined with fine art booths and exhibits. Join us in The Village from 11 to 5pm and wine tasting from 2 to 5pm.

Keep up to date with all that's happening at Olympic Village Inn and Olympic Valley by "Liking" our Facebook page. Have great week!

Top 10 ways to celebrate the 4th of July in North Lake Tahoe!

Top Ten lists are all the rage these days, thanks in part to David Letterman. Ten is the perfect number for lists because it's not too long and not too short. It's just right! Just like Goldie Locks and the Three Bears, when Goldie Locks found three bowls of porridge the bears had left on the table to cool. One was too cold, one was too hot, but the third was just right, so she ate that one all up. But let's get real. If these had been Tahoe bears they would've immediately sucked down all 3 bowls of porridge and there wouldn't have been a Goldie Locks tale to tell, but that's another story. Let's move on from the 3 bowls to the 4th and the top 10.

North Lake Tahoe is one of the best places in the country to spend the Fourth of July, but with all the choices how do you decide what to do? I'm here to help! You could go to the big casinos in South Shore with their shows and slot machines, but why? You'd be missing that unique hometown feel of Truckee or the Olympic heritage experience of Squaw Valley. There are fireworks displays at many of the North Lake Tahoe beaches and week long celebrations with their own list of events. The Top Ten list is not in any particular order and there's something for everyone so lets get started!

#1
4th of July Events at Squaw Valley

You can stay close to home and walk from Olympic Village Inn to the festivities at Squaw Valley going on all week long. There's blues guitarist Chris Cain at this summer’s first Bluesdays,or you can dance to the nationally acclaimed Billy Joel tribute band JOEL as they kick off the first show of the KT Concert Series. Stroll through the beautiful paintings and crafts of the Fine Arts and Crafts Festival or enjoy great family events like the Soaring Kites and Music Festival at High Camp and Kung Fu Panda at Family Movie Night in The Village at Squaw Valley.

The big finale of the week will be a free concert with Brett Dennen, singer of last summer’s hit single "Comeback Kid (That’s My Dog)". The show will take place at the base of KT-22 in Squaw Valley’s breath-taking natural amphitheater.

Here's the full list of events-

Saturday, June 30 & Sunday, July 1; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Squaw Valley Fine Arts & Crafts Festival
Enjoy fine art and craft exhibitors throughout The Village at Squaw Valley. From beautiful paintings to hand-made pottery and clothing – this fair has something for everyone to enjoy. Click here for more details.

Tuesday, July 3; 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Bluesdays featuring Chris Cain
Kick off July with the summer’s first Bluesdays featuring masters of the blues guitar Chris Cain. During the day, guests can enjoy all that High Camp has to offer including great tram discounts ($10 off adult tickets, $5 off kid, youth and senior tickets). Come evening, enjoy a free concert in The Village with Chris Cain along with great deals on food and drinks from local vendors. Click here for details.

Thursday, July 5; 8:30 p.m.
Free Outdoor Movie Series featuring Kung Fu Panda
Snuggle up under the stars while enjoying Jack Black in Kung Fu Panda on the big screen in the Events Plaza at The Village at Squaw Valley. Blankets and warm clothes are recommended. Click here for details.

Friday, July 6; 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Free KT Concert Series featuring JOEL (Billy Joel cover band)
Fresh off of the national tour of Billy Joel's Tony award-winning rock musical “Movin' Out”, JOEL is bringing Billy Joel’s timeless classics and original works to Squaw Valley’s Village stage. This band is blazing hot and is sure to have all music lovers on their feet. Click here for more about JOEL.

Saturday, July 7; 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Soaring Kites and Music Festival at High Camp
Squaw Valley’s 11th annual Soaring Kites and Music Festival will feature kite flying demonstrations, kids kite building seminars, and general kite mania. Watch professional kiters show off their amazing skills in the mountain breeze while enjoying great live music at High Camp. Click here for details.

Saturday, July 7; 6 p.m.
Free Brett Dennen Concert
Celebrate the weekend after the 4th of July with a free concert by Brett Dennen, singer of last year’s hit song "Comeback Kid (That’s My Dog)". Completely free and open to the public, the concert will take place at Squaw’s natural amphitheater at the KT Base Bar. Click here for more information about Brett Dennen.

#2
July 3rd Fireworks Show & Deck Party in Kings Beach, CA

Jul 3, 2012 (Tue) 6:30pm
Come to the beautiful sandy beaches of Kings Beach, CA to watch the fireworks show on the lake. This event is free and put on by the North Tahoe Business Association for thousands of smiling faces. Make it an evening by purchasing tickets to NTBA’s Deck Party to enjoy premium seating, food vendors, live music and a no host bar by calling 530-546-9000; don’t miss one of the best shows on the lake! 

 

#3
Run To The Beach 5k and 10k

Kings Beach, CA
Wednesday July 4th, 2012
8:00 AM Start
Run To The Beach 5 and 10k starts at the North Tahoe Regional Park. From the park you have an option of participating in the 5K or 10K distance both of which finish on the "Big" beach in Kings Beach, CA.
Kings Beach is a great place to spend your July 4th weekend. Fireworks are scheduled for the evening of July 3rd!

#4
Firecracker Mile

Weds July 4th 2012
1 mile gravity fed course in downtown Truckee held just before the parade.
Truckee Fun Run is a branch of The Auburn Ski Club’s Nordic Program which organizes fun events all year round. Proceeds are used to help support The Club’s youth and junior Nordic Ski Programs.

#5
Truckee 4th of July Parade

Jul 4, 2012 (Wed) 10am
Donner Pass Road. Old-fashioned hometown parade ending up in historic downtown Truckee. This parade, complete with flag draped firetruck, has a wonderful small town feel lost in many big cities these days. New this year is a party after the parade in Downtown Truckee, in the parking lot next to the train depot, so you can "party on" after the parade is done!
530-587-2757

#6
66th Annual Indepencence Day Celebration with Fireworks in Tahoe City

Jul 4, 2012 (Wed)
This is the big one, the best display on Tahoe's North Shore. Watch from shore on Commons Beach in downtown Tahoe City or, even better, from a boat on the lake! Come early, because it can be very crouded and people are there all day staking out a spot on the beach and celebrating early.

#7
Fourth of July at West End Beach

Old fashioned 4th of July celebration with games, live music, affordable food, and spectacular fireworks show!

This is only for Truckee-Donner Recreation & Park District Residents & Homeowners:

If you are not a resident in our district and unable to attend the
beach festivities, you can still enjoy a fun day at Donner Lake on
the docks, swimming, boating, fishing, and you can enjoy the
fireworks from almost any location on or around the lake!
*9:30 PM FIREWORKS SHOW*

#8
Tahoe Maritime Museum: Fourth of July Boat Parade

Wednesday 4th 2 pm– Fourth of July Boat Parade!
Watch from Common’s Beach or along the West Shore as members of the Tahoe Maritime Museum form a parade of wooden boats from Tahoe City back down to Obexer’s Marina in Homewood.
530-525-9253

#9
Tahoe Mountain Sports Leave No Trace Sunset Family Hike (3 miles)

Friday, July 6
Tahoe Mountain Sports, the Leave No Trace Center for Ethics and the Tahoe Rim Trail Association are teaming up for a fun and educational hike that will include interactive Leave No Trace activities, night hike games and prizes for the entire family. Tahoe Mountain Sports will also provide a variety of headlamps to demo. Bring your dinner for a sunset picnic on a ridge overlooking lovely Lake Tahoe!

#10
Van Sickle Family Friday Hike (2.2 miles)

Fridays, July 6, 13, 20 and 27
The Tahoe Institute for Natural Science and the Tahoe Rim Trail Association are sponsoring this family friendly interpretive hike each Friday in July. Participants will enjoy interesting facts about the history, flora and fauna of Van Sickle State Park and Tahoe. This is the perfect hike for families.

There you go, something for everyone the entire July 4th week and all in the local area of North Lake Tahoe. Stay close to home and enjoy one of the best weeks of the Summer in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. This is a long list of great things to do this week! Keep up to date with all that's happening at Olympic Village Inn and Olympic Valley by "Liking" our Facebook page. Have a great Independence Day and a great week!

 

Big weekend at Squaw Valley and wait, there's more!

Good morning Olympic Valley!!! (I'm feeling a little like Robin Williams this morning. Better cut back on the caffeine!). I guess I'm feeling the energy because this is a big weekend at Squaw Valley and the Tahoe-Truckee area with lots going on. Take a look at last weeks blog to get the details but here's a quick rundown:

Olympic Day Celebration Saturday, June 23rd

Western States 100 Saturday, June 23rd

Adventure Sports Week June 15th-24th

Summer Concert Series at Commons Beach Sunday June 24th

Run to Squaw Valley Sunday June 24th

 

But wait, there's more! (I loved those old Ron Popeil commercials, especially the Hair in a Can commercial where he sprays paint on his bald spot. Yikes!).

It's not too late to enjoy the Tahoe City Solstice Festival, June 15-24. Most of the big events are this weekend. Here's a list of Solstice Festival activities starting June 22:

Friday, June 22, 7 p.m.
The Bridgetender Fireworks Fundraiser Street Dance is hosted at the Bridgetender Restaurant, the name synonymous with fun in Tahoe City. True to tradition, the event embraces “festival alfresco”, hosted at the B.T. patio, eventually reaching the town’s boulevard and Tahoe City’s landmark Fanny Bridge. Live music, dinner and drink specials, and street party revelry offer a Tahoe City experience not to be missed. The Bridgetender Fireworks Fundraiser Street Dance is free to attend; and portions of the evening’s Bridgetender proceeds benefit the Tahoe City Independence Day fireworks fund. Proceeds benefit the Tahoe City Fireworks Fund.

Saturday, June 23, 8 p.m.
Last Laugh Lakeside Pizza will host the Aaron Wilson Comedy Show. Renowned throughout the Lake Tahoe basin, Aaron Wilson lends a laugh to sold-out crowds at all the Lake Tahoe hot spots and night clubs; and as a special presentation for the Tahoe City Solstice Festival, Mr. Wilson has invited three top comedic performers hailing from Reno, San Francisco, and Los Angeles – guaranteed to redefine the meaning of funny. Check in with Lakeside Pizza for more information. (530) 583-2000

Saturday, June 23, Noon – 4 p.m.
As the marquee event of the Tahoe City Solstice Festival, the Tahoe City Wine Walk is heralded as the most fun you can have in Tahoe City in one afternoon. 30 shops, restaurants, and businesses spanning Tahoe City’s pedestrian-friendly center host premium wine tastings paired with masterfully-prepared hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants, custom caterers, and secret gourmet chefs. Wine-walkers are treated to three live musical performances along their journey, including Dean Smith at the North Tahoe Arts Center; The Roamers at Heritage Plaza; and Dan Copeland at Boatworks Mall. Tickets may be purchased in advance at TahoeCityWineWalk.com for $35 – as well as local shops including Tahoe Dave’s, The Store, James Harold Galleries (Boatworks Mall), Uncorked (Cobblestone) and the North Tahoe Visitor Center. Day-of tickets are available for $45 (cash only) at North Tahoe Arts Center, the Boatworks Mall, and Heritage Plaza. Guests receive an ID bracelet, tasting map, commemorative wine glass, and gift back with each ticket purchased.

Saturday, June 23
DeFlowered Art Show & Outdoor Marketplace The art show and marketplace are from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Fat Cat Café with both wine and liquor tastings as part of the Tahoe City Wine Walk and lots of great artists, live music and food. The marketplace takes place outside from 11 to 5, and then moves indoors until 9.

Saturday, June 23
An Intimate Evening  An evening of performance and celebration at 7:30 p.m. with Tahoe Youth Ballet, Yannis Adoniou’s Kunst-Stoff Dance Company and Cross Connection Ballet’s Constantine Baecher at the Tahoe Youth Ballet Studio. Limited seating is available; e-mail info@tahoeyouthballet.com to reserve a space. Wine and refreshments will be served. Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for non-members.

Sunday, June 24, 2 p.m. – 7 p.m.
The Concerts at Commons Beach weekly summer music performances officially kick off Sunday, June 24, featuring four live performances by renowned bands, the Blues Monsters, Dad’s LPS, Downbeat, and Jellybread. Concerts at Commons Beach is a free series, open to all ages, and located at water’s edge of North Lake Tahoe. Local vendors offer an array of fresh dishes and beverages throughout each performance. Arrive early for a front-stage spot, get ready to dance, and pack a swimsuit for good measure. For a full calendar of summer performance through September, visit ConcertsAtCommonsBeach.com or call 530.583.3348.

Whew! If you manage to survive this weekend you might want to set aside some time to plan the next one. The big event of the weekend will be the Squaw Valley Fine Arts & Crafts Festival Saturday, June 30, 2012 - 11:00 to Sunday, July 1, 2012 - 5:00. The Squaw Valley Fine Arts & Crafts Festival is an annual event where you can stroll through the Village at Squaw Valley and peruse the incredible paintings, photographs, ceramics, jewelry and other fine arts presented by California's finest professional artists. Accompanying the art will be live music in the Village Events Plaza. You can also explore the many shops and restaurants open in The Village. If you've never visited the Village at Squaw Valley, it's has a very European feeling and hosts many, many great events.

Finally, for all you phographers out there (we live in one of the most beautiful places on earth to take pictures):

Lake Tahoe Digital Photo Institute June 29 - July 1
Lake Tahoe Education Foundation, in collaboration with the extraordinary facilities of South Tahoe High School, would like to welcome you to beautiful South Lake Tahoe and the home of the Digital Photo Institute (DPI). During this weekend Institute, you will be entranced by the state of the art facilities and excellent instruction you will receive. In addition, you will be able to take part in sunrise photography shoots as well as sunset shoots, and studio figure photography while fine-tuning your skills as a photographer! This Institute accepts beginning, intermediate and advanced students.

There you have it, so many things to do, so little time! I've tried to lay out some of the best events for you so you can pick and choose depending on your intrests. Have fun out there! (OK, I'm done. No Hill Street Blues comments). Keep up to date with all that's happening at Olympic Village Inn and Olympic Valley on our Facebook page. Have great week!

The Western States 100 Ultra Marathon and much more all happening at Squaw Valley!

There are so many things to do in the Olympic Valley and Tahoe-Truckee area this coming week I don't know where to begin so I guess I'll just begin. I'm already breathing hard just thinking about it and you will be too if you try to do everything. This will help you pick and choose. Adventure Sports Week starts in North Lake Tahoe, from June 15th-24th. This is dubbed as an outdoors lifestyle event and features 10 days of competitive adventure sports, clinics, films, live music and outdoor activities for all ages and all interests. North Lake Tahoe is one of the world's premier outdoor playgrounds and these festivities will either introduce you to or help you experience and appreciate the clean air, clear water, hiking trails and single track that make this such a great place to trail run, mountain bike, swim, stand up paddle board or participate in a triathlon. You can see a full schedule of events on the website. There are also other non-athletic activities such as Adventure Sports Week Movie Night, Thurs,June 21st (Movies start at Dusk or approx. 8:30) and Summer Concert Series at Commons Beach Sunday June 24th.

 

Hal Koerner climbing into Michigan Bluff during the Western States 100 in 2009. A race he would eventually win.

Also this week is one of the toughest Ultra Marathon events in the world, the Western States 100, which starts from the west end of Squaw Valley at 5:00am on Saturday, June 23rd and ends 100 miles and many hours later in Auburn, California. Runners must reach the finish line no later than 11:00 am the following day in order to be eligible for an award. If you aren’t familiar with the race, the trail rises from the Squaw Valley at 6,200 ft to, elevation 8,750 ft, a climb of 2,550 vertical feet in the first 4½ miles. Wow! From Emigrant Pass, it follows the original trails used by the gold and silver miners of the 1850's. Runners continue west, climbing another 15,540 ft and then descending 22,970 ft before reaching Auburn. Most of the trail passes through remote and rugged territory, accessible only to hikers, horses and helicopters.

 

Leading up to the Western States 100, the Squaw Valley Institute will be presenting Western States Ultra Runners and Movie Premiere of Unbreakable on Thursday, June 21, 2012 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM at the Olympic Village Lodge. Two of the sports' most accomplished runners, Tim Twietmeyer and Andy Jones-Wilkins, accompany JB Benna, a Western States ultra runner and director of the movie Unbreakable in a discussion about the sport and mindset it takes to run this grueling 100 mile race. This presentation will also serve as the Tahoe movie premiere of the full documentary film, Unbreakable.

 By now you're either getting psyched up for getting outdoors for some serious exercise or exhausted just reading about it. Don't worry, there's more to come for everyone. For the average person who likes to run but isn't quite ready for 100 miles, maybe 7.9 miles sounds better. The Run to Squaw Valley would be perfect for you. This takes place on Sunday, June 24, 2012 - 08:00. The course starts at Commons Beach with a beautiful view of Lake Tahoe and then heads on to the Truckee River Trail finishing at in the heart of the Village At Squaw Valley. The route is fast with little elevation gain and travels alongside the Truckee River with spectacular views along this stunning scenic corridor. It's also perfect for all abilities so you don't need to be an ultra marathoner or train for weeks to do it. Fresh air, sunshine, incredible views and endorphins to make you feel good-aah!! Register at bigblueadventure.com.

 Also happening Thurs June 21 is the Grand Opening of the Lakeside Trail at Jake's on the Lake. It's between 2pm - 5pm and hosted by Tahoe City PUD and Project Participants. There will be bike festivities for all ages beginning at 10am.

 OK, you non atheletic or just kicked back readers have been patient so here are some activities for you. This is a big event for Olympic Village Inn's neighbor Squaw Valley. It's the Olympic Day Celebration on Saturday, June 23, 2012 - 1:30 .There will be fun activities for kids and it's purpose is to celebrate the true essence of the Olympic Games, including fitness, well-being, sportsmanship, perseverance, respect and fair play. You can read about more details on the website.

Now for the party people. See, I told you there was something for everyone! Take the Live Music Cruise on the Tahoe Gal with Mumbo Gumbo on Jun 17, 2012 (Sun).

Tahoe Gal is proud to welcome Mumbo Gumbo back to our deck. Mumbo Gumbo blends many genres, from rock to soul, afropop to lush balladry, zydeco to country, into a celebratory, danceable noise. Over nearly 20 years, on the septet’s eight albums and during countless gigs around their native Northern California, Mumbo Gumbo has created something that is less a specific style than a particular feeling: The sound of sheer joy. Call for reservations 1-800-218-2464 Or, as one of the band's songs puts it, "That big life feeling."

Whew! That's a lot to do! There's no reason for anyone to be bored or say there's nothing to do when they're in the Truckee-Tahoe area. There are some great things to do this week so keep up to date with all that's happening at Olympic Village Inn and Olympic Valley on our Facebook page. Have great week!

There's a week of adventure ahead so hop on your bike and grab a duck.....

One of the most enjoyable things you can do on a warm summer day is go for a bike ride. Even a leisurely ride will get your blood flowing and pump those endorphins, known for producing the "runners high", into your system, natures natural mood elevators. The mountain fresh air, sunshine, and trees surrounded by majestic peaks, it just doesn't get any better than this! You'll feel like a kid again, happily pedaling down the road without a care in the world. That's a nice place to be. Squaw Valley, Olympic Valley and Lake Tahoe are great places to ride, with trail systems that can take you from Squaw Valley and along the Truckee River all the way to Lake Tahoe. Here's a map of the Squaw Valley/Tahoe City bike path. You can bring your own bike but Olympic Village Inn also has bikes available and you can rent Comfort cruisers, trailers and trail-a-bikes that are perfect for the Truckee River bike path at Squaw Valley's bike shop located in The Village.

There's also another great place to ride just down the road from us, especially if you're feeling more adventurous. Northstar Resort has an incredible system of mountain bike and hiking trails. Northstar California is scheduled to open for mountain biking and hiking on Friday, June 15, conditions permitting. Here are the details:

Mountain Bike + Hike Park Scheduled Opening Day

Prepare to get your adrenaline pumping or taking in the spectacular scenic views at Northern California's largest lift-served mountain biking and hiking park right here at Northstar California.Lifts will start turning on Friday, June 15 at 10:00 a.m. (weather and conditions permitting) for access to downhill and cross-country mountain biking, hiking and sightseeing. 2012

Mountain Bike & Hike Park Hours*

June 15 - 17 and June 22 - 24
Friday, Saturday & Sunday10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 

June 29 - August 19
Daily10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 

August 24 - October 7
Friday, Saturday & Sunday10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Closed September 22 & 23.

This is also the start of  Lake Tahoe Adventure Sports Week, Lake Tahoe’s premier outdoor lifestyle event. It's 10 days of competitive adventure sports, clinics, film, live music and outdoor activities for all ages. It encompasses many competitive events including trail running, mountain biking, triathlon, stand up paddle boarding, and swimming. You can attend one of the numerous clinics throughout the week hosted by world-class athletes and the Tahoe locals who know the trails. Every night there will be a variety of activities including live concerts, film premiers and dinner on the lake. It's designed for all ages so you can bring the whole family. 

There's also another fun event taking place this week. it's the Truckee Duckee Derbee (what a great name!) put on by the Humane Society of Truckee/Tahoe. It's Sunday, June 10, 2012 1:00pm - 5:00pm at The River Ranch – Corner Highway 89 and Alpine Meadows Road. You can purchase your racing duck at 1:00pm and then watch it float down the river, hopefully a winner! The amount of the prize awarded depends on how many ducks are sold, with the average 1st place duck about $200.00, 2nd place $100.00 and 3rd place $50.00. There's also the Dogz in Dudz contest, a dog costume contest, all to help homeless pets in our community. This afternoon features live music, the Duckee Derbee race, a great raffle, cold beer and some decked out dogs. Sounds like fun!

There are some great things to do this week so keep up to date with all that's happening at Olympic Village Inn and Olympic Valley on our Facebook page. Have great week!

Tune in to Twitter, but not the one you're probably thinking of......

I'm sitting by an open window on a beautiful sunny day. I'm breathing the fresh smell of pine, the breezes are making a soft whooshing sound through the needles, and the birds are singing like crazy, the original Twitter. I feel a little like Snow White with the bluebirds singing and fluttering above her head. Maybe I shouldn't be telling you I feel like Snow White. Normally, this all blends into the background as I type away on the keys or surf from one website to the next. I'm aware but unaware. It only registers on a level somewhere between subconsciousness and perception. I find myself in a good mood, humming to myself but unaware why. It's no different than petting a dog, we inherently feel calmer and happier. Or spotting a magnificent Elk with it's grand array of antlers in an Alpine meadow. We feel a rush of adrenaline as a signal from our ancient brain reminds us of our hunter ancestry and we feel primal and in tune with nature. The simple rising and setting of the sun is another daily occurrence that effects our mood, desires, needs, wants and internal clock without even realizing it. These things happen typically just below the level of perception unless something makes us aware. Reading about an upcoming event on the US Forest Service website did that for me, made me aware of the smells and the sounds of the breeze and the birds and why I was humming.

It was the type of event that happens frequently in the Sierras in the Summer, in the campgrounds and visitor centers that try to draw us out of the modern world of concrete and electronics with the IPods, IPhones and IPads back to the IEarth. These modern day distractions, while wonderful and amazing, only dull our ability to listen to the more basic natural vibrations around us. We need to be jerked back once in a while from our modern world trance. When I was a kid, growing up in the suburbs of the Bay Area, my family would go camping at Fallen Leaf Lake every year. Some evenings there would be a huge campfire, and the Forest Ranger would talk and educate us about the surrounding forests and mountains as we ate blackened marshmallows. Once in a while we were patient enough to make them golden brown but mostly not. Other evenings we would gather in the campground hall to watch movies of desert creatures and plants, or lizards, bears and wildflowers of the High Sierra. Without realizing it at the time, this was pulling by brain out of the city and teaching me to be aware of the natural world around me. I really appreciate that gift my parents gave me. It stuck with me even though I need a "jump" once in awhile.

By now you must be thinking this event is some life changing, once in a lifetime experience. It's not. It's just an example of many things you can do in the Tahoe-Truckee area to refresh and revitalize your soul. Think of it more as a jump start to get your brain back on track. The article I was reading when all of a sudden I "heard" the chorus of birds around me (kind of reminded me of my favorite place at Disneyland, the Tiki Room) is the Lake Tahoe Bird Festival. Here's the info:

The U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit and the Tahoe Institute for Natural Science (TINS) invite residents and visitors to attend the third annual Lake Tahoe Bird Festival on Saturday, June 2, 2012, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.  The event is free and takes place at the Taylor Creek Visitor Center, located three miles north of South Lake Tahoe on Highway 89.

The event includes guided bird walks every hour from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. along the Rainbow Trail, information on bird feeding and landscaping, a talk on binocular and spotting scope use, a discussion of migration by Will Richardson and an exciting presentation by Master Falconer Marie Gaspari Crawford that includes live birds of prey.

Additional sponsors include the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, California State Parks, the Lake Tahoe Unified School District and more. For more information about TINS, visit tinsweb.org.

Schedule of Events

10 a.m. - Welcome
10:30 a.m. - Bird Walk (45 minutes)
11 a.m. - Master Falconer Marie Gaspari Crawford (45 minutes)
11:30 a.m. - Bird Walk (45 minutes)  
Noon - Bird Feeding and Landscaping
12:30 p.m. - Bird Walk (45 minutes)
1 p.m. - Binocular and Spotting Scope Use presented by Cabela's
1:30 p.m. - Bird Walk (45 minutes)
2:30 p.m. - Migration Talk by Will Richardson
3 p.m. - Master Falconer Marie Gaspari Crawford (45 minutes)
4 p.m. - Wrap up

Take advantage of this event from the U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit and the Tahoe Institute for Natural Science (TINS) along with all the other programs in the area to learn about and become more aware of the natural environment that surrounds us here in Olympic Valley and the Tahoe-Truckee area. There are lots of people trying to relax, reduce stress and find happiness with everything from anti-depressants to Yoga. Maybe the answer is sitting just above our heads in that tree. Tune in to the song and you just may find yourself humming along.

Keep up to date with all that's happening at Olympic Village Inn and Olympic Valley on our Facebook page. Have a great week! 

Lake Tahoe is named one of the Top Ten Memorial Day Destinations!

In a recent blog article, Get Outta Town: Top Ten Memorial Day Destinations, Lake Tahoe was named one of the Top Ten Memorial Day Destinations, something that anyone familiar with the area already knows. Now a lot more people know! We were actually listed #4, right behind #3 Memphis, Tennessee, #2 Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, and #1 Washington, D.C. With the exception of a visit to Washington D.C. which embraces the true spirit of Memorial Day, remembering our past hero's who have fought for our country, I would vote for Lake Tahoe over either of  the other two without hesitation. Why? A spectacular natural alpine environment is just for starters. There's also a huge diversity of activities, both indoor and outdoor, summer and winter, day-life and nightlife, adult and children, there's something for everyone.

 I won't attempt to cover all the nightlife available in South Shore Lake Tahoe and Reno. I'd need a lot more space and there are plenty of other publications for that. I'll tell you instead about some of the more unique, traditional Memorial Day activities in Truckee and Lake Tahoe,

The Memorial Day weekend customarily kicks off the Summer season in the Sierras; hiking, biking and camping. Because of the mild Winter, a lot of these activities have been underway for a while now. In North Lake Tahoe, Memorial Day weekend also kicks off the beach and boating season on the Lake with the 6th Annual Opening Day at the Lake. This four-day special event, Friday, May 25 to Monday, May 28, includes celebrations and festivities along the West Shore and the North Tahoe region. These events include deck opening festivities at Sunnyside Resort (celebrating its 25th anniversary), West Shore Café & Inn, Chambers Landing Bar & Restaurant and Bridgetender (celebrating its 35th anniversary); Granlibakken Resort’s Contractors Home Improvement/Repair Fair; the opening of Meeks Bay Resort & Marina; openings and tours of historical Vikingsholm Castle, Sugar Pine Point Hellman-Ehrman Mansion, the Gatekeeper’s Museum and the Tahoe Maritime Museum with its new “Tahoe Twenties” exhibit; as well as the popular Mike Brown Seaplane Splash-In and BBQ at Obexer’s General Store. Lots to do!

Here's an idea to enjoy a unique experience on the Lake. Why not take a cruise on the Tahoe Queen (Ski Run Marina) or the M.S. Dixie II (Zephyr Cove Resort)? You can read about the details and cruise schedules on the respective pages, but a trip on one of these Lake Tahoe vessels makes for a great day. One suggestion is a trip to Emerald Bay, one of the Lakes most beautiful spots, on the M.S. Dixie II. For a taste of travel in the early 1900s, the Tahoe Queen is the Lake’s only authentic Mississippi paddle-wheeler which recently underwent major renovations. It departs from Ski Run Marina in the heart of South Lake Tahoe and features glass bottom viewing and stories of Tahoe Tessie, Tales of Tahoe by Mark Twain, a sunset buffet, and weekend dinner/dance cruise.

Thinking about building a Tahoe home or just want to explore Tahoe architecture or learn about green building? Want to see what's new in sports equipment? There's the Truckee Home Building Show and Sierra Recreation Expo Memorial Day Weekend, May 26th - 27th, 2012, 10am - 5pm. You can find everything you need to build or remodel your mountain home, explore the vast array of recreational opportunities available at Lake Tahoe, Truckee and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains, and learn all about green building and sustainable living, all in one place. It's located at Truckee High School, there's free parking and admission is $6. It benefits local schools and more.

For something really different there's the  Donner Lake O'Neill Tahoe Cup - Saturday, May 26 at 9:00 AM on Donner Lake,15888 South Shore Drive,Truckee, CA. This Donner Lake TAHOE CUP Event is a part of the High Elevation Stand-up Paddleboard Race Series sponsored by O'Neil. The race circumnavigates Donner Lake. The start and finish is the West-End Beach, Donner Lake. This is a 5 mile SUP & Paddleboard race for men and women of all ability levels. Even if you don't participate, this is a fun sport to watch!

Saturdays weather should give the Stand-up Paddleboarders extra incentive to stay up! The weather for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend is starting out very cool but should rebound to about normal temperatures by Sunday and Memorial Day. You may want to plan to be on the water but not in it yet. Don't worry, Summer weather will be returning soon.

 Keep up to date with all that's happening at Olympic Village Inn and Olympic Valley on our Facebook page. Have a great Memorial Day and a great week!