My husband and I are planning a skiing vacation, with our 3 kids (8,11,&14), to Lake Tahoe at the end of March. We've never been to the area and would appreciate some information. What are the best ski areas that have slopes for beginners to advanced, plus a children's program? We would like to rent a condo in the $200 a night range. I've done some research and have found some that look nice, but I'm not sure whether we should stay on the north or south shore. Can anyone recommend a rental agency or condo complex? We don't want to drive a long distance to get to the slopes. FYI, we have no desire to go the the casinos. Also, what outdoor winter activities, other than skiing, are available in the area? Last thing, what kind of driving conditions can we expect? Thanks for your help.

We like Squaw Valley. Haven't been there in a few years, but it was a nice place for the family to ski and we had all levels of ability. I'm sure someone out there can give you up to date information.

Hi Sal:

Northstar is the nicest resort, IMO. the north shore is definitely quieter, closer to nature, that sort of thing than south shore, if that's what you're looking for. Heavenly Valley is also nice, but close to the casinos and traffic and probably less suited for beginners.

Have never stayed anywhere except the casinos in south shore, so sorry, can't help with any condo recommendations.

Sal-I have stayed at both Lakeland Condos and Incline Village, both are very nice. They are located on the South Shore. Squaw Valley has a great ski program and they have the ice skating rink at the top of the mountain for the kids if they get bored with skiing. Do a text search for Lake Tahoe and you will find more information on accomodations and skiing.

I heartily recommend NorthStar, especially with your kids' ages. Our kids practically learned to ski there with many of their friends. The condo's at the bottom of the hill give you instant acces to the first lift. You do not need a car. The first lift takes you up to a lodge and large bowl area. We parents liked it because from the lodge you can see all the bunny hills where the kids might be. Also, except for some trails on the back side, all other trails feed into the bowl, so rondevoux with family is easy.
The lodge is great for sun decking, lounging, picnic, etc. When you go down, you can take the lift back down (for those non-skiers in the crowd) or ski right to your condo.
An excellent place for family skiing.
Northstar is over the hill from the north shore of Lake Tahoe, toward the little historical town of Truckee, which can be kinda fun for all ages.
Driving in the Sierras in March can be mostly not too bad, since major storms mostly occur earlier in the year. This time of year can also bring what we call Sierra Cement type of snow, since it can be kind of warm and slushy. Later in the spring, you can get a day thaw and night freeze, which makes am skiing a little hairball.
Another great place to ski with a family is Kirkwood. South of Lake Tahoe, a great higher altitude bowl, with arguably the best skiing in the Tahoe area, since base camp is about 7,000 feet, high for Sierra Nevada ski areas. Many ski-to condos at Kirkwood, probably our favorite Sierra ski area, above all. Because it is away from the busy Tahoe scene, and on lesser used hiway 88, fewer people, less crowds, etc.
These are two areas that have brought our family tons for fun and skiing memories. Hope you find yours.
BillJ

Our personal preference is Squaw Valley. they also have ice skating, tubing etc. Squaw Valley Lodge is very nice but may be out of the price range you've indicated. You might want to contact a local leasing agent and arrange to rent a condo.

Here's another vote for Northstar. The condos are in your price range and our kids love it. As BillJ said, you can watch the kids from the lodge which is great. OUr kids never got tired, so we liked bi=eing able to rest and keep an eye on them.