Palisades Tahoe (formerly known as Squaw Valley) is defined by snow. In most people’s minds, when they think of this area, they think of it in a winter scene. That’s understandable since the 1960s Winter Olympics is what put this area on the map as a skiing destination. It’s also understandable because it’s still one of the premier ski resort areas in not just Lake Tahoe but also the country. When you take the tram to the top of the mountain (do this, even if you’re not a ski nut or if it’s summer!) and you look at the run that was used for downhill competition for those games, it makes your stomach tighten right on up. It’s practically vertical! How on earth do you get down that even on your two feet, much less with skis attached to them?! But, every day there’s snow on that mountain, plenty of people who’ve come to Palisades Tahoe just for this reason do get down it, and with grace and style. And, that slope aside, Palisades Tahoe has an abundance of ski runs that are perfect for beginners or for athletes who are honing their skills. This cross-accessibility isn’t always the case in the steep terrain around Lake Tahoe, and it makes Palisades Tahoe skiing, as well as other snow sports, even more attractive.