Hi.
Although we plan to ski this is not our main interest.Since we come from Venezuela where snow is unexistent would like to do a little of everything such as snowtubing,snowmobiles,dogsled (is this word right?)and just hang out enjoying the snow.We are not a sport oriented family and basically we love to hang out and know new places. With this in mind is still Northstar a good choice?. I have never been in west coast mostly the east of US.
Thank you guys.
Ramon
Caracas.-



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Ramon, Northstar is a very good "base" for fun in the snow. In my description of the resort, I indicated how it's laid out. I left out that you can ski and snowboard, but there's also a "snow park" where you can ice-skate (you can rent skates), snow-tube, etc. Also, when you get to Lake Tahoe, you can buy a couple of dish sleds at the local supermarket (Safeway) or drug store (Long's) and there are places to sled (if not at Northstar, then along the road). A few miles from Northstar, on the other side of Truckee, there's a place to go sleigh-riding. How many days do you plan to spend? If you're not skiing, I would think 3-4 days is plenty (fewer would even be fine).

Just to forewarn you, Northstar is in North Tahoe and a bit isolated. There is not much to do in the evening for entertainment. Personally I prefer South Lake Tahoe since there is more to do. Even if you don't like to gamble in the casinos, there are many restaurants, nightclubs and shows. Also, Heavenly Valley is better for skiing since it has the best views of Lake Tahoe. It does get crowded on weekends though.

Responding to RB Cal, yes Heavenly has wonderful views, but there's very good beginner and intermediate skiing at Northstar. Also, since you'll have your young daughter with you, I doubt casinos and nightclubs are of interest to you. It is true, though -- some people are South Lake Tahoe people and some are North Lake Tahoe people -- we're definitely a North Lake Tahoe family.

Northstar is probably the best choice near the north shore of Lake Tahoe.

The intermediate runs at Heavenly are on top of the mountain. The views from the "Ridge Run" are the best in Tahoe and its an intermediate run.
As I stated even if you don't like gambling there is nightlife in South Lake Tahoe and none in North Tahoe.

http://www.skiheavenly.com

RBCal, I know, I have skiied Heavenly many times. I still don't think this particular family is looking for nightlife since their 10-year old daughter will be with them. There are plenty to restaurants to eat out at in North Lake Tahoe. Only they can say what kind of activities they're looking for, and nightlife hasn't been mentioned.

RBCal: You need to look at the OP's other thread. I agree w/ dmlove that Northstar (or another northshore resort) would be a better fit for them.

Plus they could go to Truckee one day.

For people who aren't "sport oriented" I fail to see why North Tahoe is best since thats the only thing that is there.

absolutely not true IMHO. Truckee, Sand Harbor, Incline, Tahoe City, lots of restaurants, art galleries, shops. For a non-casino-centric visit, I MUCH prefer Northshore.

As do I.

Indeed.
Since we will be along to our 10 years old daughter we are not interested in nightlife and/or gambling. We just want to have nice meals in family , hang out in the snow , to get to know the place , have a nice coffee and so. I have heard that Truckee worths a visit. So that is more or less our trip purpose besides skiing a little but not eveyday at all times ; just for fun.

Thanks
Ramón
Caracas.-

Ramon, we had a very nice dinner this summer at Pacific Crest restaurant on the main street in Truckee. There are also plenty of shops, coffee houses, etc. in Truckee. In particular, if it's of any interest to you, there is a fabulous housewares shop (all kinds of kitchen and entertaining supplies, ceramics, china, glassware, etc.). I can't remember the name, but its "Cooks" something.

It's called "Cooking Gallery".

I also like North Tahoe and Truckee but to give the impression that the two block long downtown of Truckee is a major shopping destination is a distortion.

So, to clarify:

South Lake Tahoe has large casinos and is located right on Lake Tahoe. Besides the casinos there are shopping centers, many restaurants, nightclubs both in and out of the casinos and headline acts in the casinos. Just outside of town are snowmobiling, sleigh riding, etc.

Northstar and Truckee are not right on Lake Tahoe. It is much quieter and does not have as many restaurants and shops if that is important to you. If all you want to do is play in the snow and a quiet vacation perhaps that suits you best. If you want a bit of excitement away from the snow I would not recommend it.

While at Northstar head to Truckee, just a few minutes drive away for some really fun and good restaurants. Other than casino/nightclubs, I really don't see any greater appeal for this family at the South Shore than at Northstar.

If you are unable to find your previous 2 threads on this topic you can click on your name and all your posts will come up.