Squaw Valley | Alpine Meadows Concludes 2016-17 Ski & Ride Season; July 15 Marks Latest Closing Date in Resort’s History
- Squaw Valley extended operations beyond the Fourth of July for the first time ever
- Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows received 728 inches of cumulative snowfall, the second greatest on record
Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows is officially closed for skiing and riding after 200 days of operations during the 2016-17 season, nearly a month more than the average of 174 days. Winter and summer blended together in 2017 at Squaw Valley as the resort emerged from a historic winter with operations until July 15, its latest closing ever.
Seven hundred and twenty-eight inches of snow fell at Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows this winter, equaling more than 60 feet. Ten Atmospheric River weather events hit the resort, where the average season sees two to four. January 2017 at Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows broke the resort’s record for most snow in one monthwith 282 inches, snowing 23 feet in 23 consecutive days. “Januburied” was followed by the snowiest February ever with another 196 inches.
“This season was one we will not soon forget,” said Andy Wirth, president and CEO of Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows. “Mother Nature dealt out her fair share of challenges, with snow totals, wind speeds and overall volatility of weather the likes of which have never been seen in the Sierra Nevada since ski areas have been in operation. The monumental snowpack, however, brought the historic opportunity to operate well into summer. The spring skiing capital evolved into the summer skiing capital, and skiers and riders from across the country were enjoying the sun and snow right up to July 15. Our mountain operations team did a phenomenal job maintaining a fantastic snow surface, and we were able to offer beginner through advanced terrain, and even a large terrain park, right into July.”
With unseasonably warm temperatures in the region, the snowpack has seen a rapid rate of melt, primarily in the key areas of lift loading and unloading zones. While teams have been working around the clock to maintain the snow surface, there is not sufficient snowpack for a safe, consistent slope, forcing the resort to conclude operations.
The Aerial Tram at Squaw Valley continues summer operations from 10:40 a.m. to 4:20 p.m., with the last download at 5 p.m., daily through September 4, September 9-10 and September 16-17. Enjoy an aerial climb over 2,000 feet from the base of Squaw Valley to High Camp, located at 8,200 feet, with 360 degree views of Lake Tahoe’s high alpine beauty. For endless fun, enjoy daily activities at High Camp including hiking trails, the Olympic Museum, dining, shopping, disc golf, lawn games, and more. Click here for Aerial Tram rates and details.
Summer Lodging Specials in The Village at Squaw Valley®
Take advantage of great summer deals on lodging at The Village at Squaw Valley. You’ll be just steps away from hiking trails, world-class shopping, dining, activities and events in the Village. Book two or more nights directly with The Village at Squaw Valley and get two free High Camp Adventure packages, a $110 value.
About Squaw Valley | Alpine Meadows
Voted ‘Best Ski Resort’ in North America for the second year in a row by USA Today and 10Best Readers’ Choice 2017, Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows is an internationally renowned mountain resort in North Lake Tahoe that spans over 6,000 skiable acres. The resort features slopeside lodging at The Village at Squaw Valley®, which bustles year round with nonstop events and over 50 bars, restaurants and boutiques. With an annual average of 450 inches of snowfall and 300 sunny days, Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows is known as the spring skiing capital as it provides one of the longest ski and snowboard seasons in Lake Tahoe. Skiers and riders of all ability levels are welcomed by over 65 percent beginner and intermediate terrain, 14 easy-to-navigate mountain zones and a custom app to make the most of every visit. Visit squawalpine.com or call 1.800.403.0206 to learn more.