Boarding in Lake Tahoe

Well we never went wine tasting in the morning, the mood just never struck us, but we did see some beautiful fields of mustard flowers which they grow here in the off season while the grapes are not there and makes for wonderful scenery.

We headed from there through Sacramento and towards Lake Tahoe which I have seen in many pictures and movies. I was thinking Smokin' Aces with Ryan Reynolds, but for those who prefer the soppy variety, it was also 'The Bodyguard' starring Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston.

Driving in form the California coastal region the landscape changes and the air starts getting cooler as you reach the mountains which are now covered with snow as far as the eye can see. It hasn't snowed here in weeks, but there is still enough to to keep the winter sport enthusiasts like myself happy.

I have to say once again the scenery is breathtaking, I couldn't wait to get out on my board in the morning. All we need to do was sort out our accommodation as we found a fantastic camping site, except it was under a foot of snow.. not a problem if you are in an RV, but a bit cold in a tent.

Luckily we got a cheep and cheerful motel for $35 right near all the happening spots of South Lake Tahoe. Think it could have been the mountain air, but we just decided to stay in and watch cable under our cosy comforter ready for a 7:30AM start so I could pick up my rental gear.

Well I can't say there was 3 foot of powder, but it was a perfect day out with the sun shining down on us making way for a great spring day on the slopes. I got the best rental gear ever and the guy threw in so much free stuff including the mandatory helmet which I don't leave home without. No repeat of Morzine 06's "cool people don't wear helmets" hairline skull fracture thank you.

Celia out of the goodness of her heart decided to skip this one out cause she wanted to rather spend her daily allowance on some UGG boots, but being up there and having such a great day she totally regretted it of course.

The runs had been well groomed and the snow was great. They had a fantastic board park with a downhill snowboarding "race" run perfectly set up too. I don't know if it is just because I have sufficiently improved, but I loved boarding this day more than any I have had so far. It is a totally different experience than in the Alps, the runs may be better, but if you are with a group of friends, nothing can beat Europe with the drinks, mulled wine, and great food you have after a tough day on the slopes.

We had to leave that afternoon to try get down to Yosemite later that day so 2:30PM was my cut off time and I really resisted, going for one final run after another. Eventually succumbing to my lack of excuses why I was late.

What a great day and a place I would recommend anyone who loves winter sports to go and visit.