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Lake Tahoe 2004-05 Feature Stories

SKI LAKE TAHOE - FEATURE ARTICLES

HEAVENLY INVESTS ANOTHER $10 MILLION FOR SKIER SERVICES

LAKE TAHOE, NV/CA - Heavenly Mountain Resort is continuing its commitment to a superior guest experience with another $10 million in on-mountain enhancements for the 2004-05 ski and snowboard season. The latest cash infusion into the resort brings the on-mountain improvement spending to nearly $30 million since Vail Resorts, Inc. purchased the resort in Spring 2002.

The following is an overview of the on-mountain improvements for the 2004-05 ski and snowboard season.

East Peak Lodge's 'Extreme Makeover

Forget "Reality TV," is real life and this is East Peak's year for a makeover. The resort's most popular lodge was under the hammer and saw this summer as it was transformed from a typical sundeck to an elegant, weather-protected outdoor area complete with a new roof, glass wind-screens, more convenient seating arrangements, a new outdoor grilling area, and state-of-the-art bathrooms. While the lodge will be nearly unrecognizable, the popular laidback, California vibe will remain the same. The chefs have developed a carb conscious attitude and now offer new low-carb menu options, including a Carb-watcher's sandwich, lettuce wraps and bunless burgers.

Powder Bowl Lift Goes High-speed

On Monday, July 12, 2004, Heavenly's mountain operations crews began construction on the resort's newest high-speed, six-passenger lift, Powder Bowl Express. The new Doppelmayer, six-pack replaces two older, much slower triple chairs on the mid-mountain of the California side. The super-size lift will cut the ride time in half to approximately six minutes. Powder Bowl Express is the resort's second new lift in as many years, the second six-passenger lift and ninth high-speed lift.

The new Powder Bowl Express was scheduled to be in full operation for the resort's opening day this fall. So, be prepared to enjoy this ride this ski season.

Lake Tahoe's Finest Corduroy Gets Even Better

Heavenly has long been known for some of the best and most consistent snow quality at Lake Tahoe. The resort takes that reputation very seriously and once again, injected serious cash into its grooming operations. This year, the resort invested more than a million dollars in five new Bombardier grooming machines.

The new cats will allow the grooming crews a deeper "till" to create a more consistent texture making the snow easier to carve.

The West Coast's Largest Snowmaking System Gets Bigger

Although the resort receives an average annual snowfall of 30 feet each year, Heavenly is committed to providing superior snow quality for guests. The resort installed new fan guns on its world-famous "Face" and Adventure Peak beginner's area at the top of the gondola. The innovative new guns are 400-percent more efficient than the previous generation and produce six times more snow per hour.

Utilizing less power, the new guns also create less noise. With the addition of five new acres of snowmaking at Adventure Peak, the resort anticipated the earliest opening ever for the premier beginner's area.

Skiheavenly.com Gets a Facelift

Skiheavenly.com is getting a drastic facelift and several new upgrades. The enhancements include quicker navigation for the site's 2.2 million unique visitors.

The new e-commerce section will offer quick trip planning complete with one-stop shopping for lift tickets, airline and lodging reservations, rental cars, lessons and rental gear. The interactive section of the site is also getting an overhaul, with two new web cams. The new cams feature the picturesque views of Desolation Wilderness, Lake Tahoe and the Carson Valley for which Heavenly is famous. In addition, a new grooming report will be added to the "Conditions" section of the site to offer site users up-to-the-minute trail information.

For more information about Heavenly, visit Heavenly's web site www.skiheavenly.com.

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EMBASSY SUITES LAKE TAHOE RESORT OFFERS WINTER ENTHUSIASTS THE "ULTIMATE" SKI OR SNOWBOARD PACKAGE

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, CA -- For the 2004-2005 winter season the Embassy Suites Lake Tahoe Resort, just steps away from the Heavenly Gondola, is offering skiers and riders the "Ultimate" Ski & Snowboard Package. This package is offered with both low and peak season rates.

The Ultimate Package includes a two-room suite with complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast and an evening managers reception. Also included in the package is a lift ticket for each person at a choice of Heavenly, Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows, Sierra-at-Tahoe, Kirkwood or Northstar-at-Tahoe. Options for non-skiers include a $40 dining credit, $40 credit towards a massage, or snowmobiling for two on one machine (approximately a two - three hour ride).

Low season rates apply between November 28 - December 17, 2003; January 3 - January 30, 2004; and March 28 - May 1, 2004. Rates start at $119 per person plus tax for Sunday through Thursday stays, and $139 per person plus tax for Friday and Saturday stays.

Peak season rates are in effect from January 31 - March 27, 2004. Peak season rates start at $129 per person plus tax for Sunday through Thursday stays and $159 per person plus tax for Friday and Saturday stays. The Ultimate Package prices are based on double occupancy and exclude all holidays and special events.

Embassy Suites Lake Tahoe Resort is set on the California/Nevada border in South Lake Tahoe. It is located near the base of the Gondola at Heavenly Ski Resort, and is a short drive from several other world-class ski resorts. The famous Nevada lifestyle - casinos, nightlife and big name entertainment are only 50 feet away, across the street in Stateline, Nevada.

For more information or reservations (*all prices subject to change*) contact Embassy Suites' friendly and informative staff at 1-877.497.8483 or visit their website www.embassytahoe.com.

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HYATT'S REGENCY LAKE TAHOE IS YOUR ULTIMATE TAHOE EXPERIENCE

INCLINE VILLAGE, NV -- Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino is a four-diamond accommodation on Tahoe's North Shore. Everything you would expect and more in one of the most luxurious of Lake Tahoe resorts.

The much-anticipated completion of the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino's four-year $60 million renovation and expansion became a reality in November 2003. This comprehensive project transformed the four-diamond, lakefront mountain hotel into a complete destination experience for guests.

The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe hotel was re-created in the classic style of a 1920's alpine grand lodge. Exterior renovations of river rock and shingles complement the natural environment with colors echoing the tradition and sense of history of the original homes built in the Tahoe area. Extensive river rock landscaping and two outdoor fireplaces add to the guests' sense of arrival at the "Old Tahoe-Lodge" style entrance.

The resort's Grand Lobby boasts crafted stonework, creating a cozy setting amid the warmth of an oversized double-sided fireplace, rich leather chairs, and high-beam ceilings. The 424 guestrooms, including 24 lakeside cottages, are decorated with natural pine, distressed wood, and leather furnishings, reflecting the setting with autumn colors of moss, brick red, and wheat.

Included in the Lake Tahoe resort's $60 million transformation was the addition of the Spa Terrace, a new three-story wing adjacent to the main 12-story hotel. Offering 138 luxury guestrooms with views of the Sierra Nevada skyline, the addition provides visitors with private balconies and breathtaking lake views. The Spa Terrace replaces the resort's former Aspen Terrace and overlooks the resort's new swimming pools.

Guests will enjoy their new "backyard" area featuring Hyatt's signature lagoon-shaped heated swimming pool and two oversized jet spas, complete with heated outdoor decking. Swimming year-round is made easy by accessing the outdoors through the resort's indoor swim-out pool access.

Two outdoor fireplaces add to the seasonal ambiance. The lobby, featuring overstuffed leather chairs, a massive fireplace, and crafted stonework, provides a relaxing ambience for conversation and reading. Use of the business center is complimentary. Children enjoy supervised activities and a video-game room.

In the evenings, guests can relax on Adirondack chairs around fire pits on a terrace fronting the resort's celebrated beachside restaurant. Amenity highlights for the winter includes a shuttle service that is available to Diamond Peak, Northstar, Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley ski resorts.

Other winter activities nearby include snowmobiling, dogsledding, sleigh riding, sledding, and snowshoeing. In summer, a private, 500-foot beach of golden sand lapped by Lake Tahoe's renowned crystalline, sapphire water offers sunning opportunities on padded lounges. Hiking, biking, and jogging trails take guests deep into the alpine environment.

With an 18,900 square-foot casino adjacent to the lobby and dining, everything you would expect in a great Lake Tahoe getaway is at your convenience.

The Hyatt's "Lake Tahoe Winter Vacation Values" begin at $75 *per person, inclusive of room tax and resort amenities program. Rates based on double occupancy and subject to availability. Valid: 12/1/04-4/17/05, excluding holidays. Some restrictions apply.

For more details and special pricing packages and reservations, please visit laketahoehyatt.com or call 1-888-510-0529.

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LAKELAND VILLAGE IS TAHOE'S FOUR SEASON RESORT

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, CA -- There it is, beautiful and unspoiled Lake Tahoe. Its crystal blue water is framed by the majestic peaks of the Sierra Nevada, home to many world-class ski resorts, including Heavenly. And on the shore of Lake Tahoe, adjacent to Heavenly and its famed slopes, sits Lakeland Village Beach and Mountain Resort, a year-round retreat for groups of all sizes taking in the splendor and excitement this teeming four-season resort has to offer. Just a quick and complimentary shuttle ride from the slopes of spectacular Heavenly Ski Resort, Lakeland Village, is Tahoe's premier condominium resort property, offering spacious accommodations along with the amenities expected of a hotel. Nestled on 20 acres of pristine wooded grounds, Lakeland Village provides the serenity and security not found anywhere else on the lake, yet close enough to all the action and excitement of South Lake Tahoe.

Perfect for families, Lakeland Village offers approximately 200 condominiums featuring fully equipped kitchens, spacious living rooms, cozy fireplaces and nicely appointed bedrooms. Sizes range from studios to sizable five-bedroom townhomes, and everything in between. With some condominiums accommodating up to 10 guests, Lakeland Village suits families and groups of all sizes, including small corporate gatherings and incentive trips.

In addition to Lakeland Village's fine lodging accommodations are the property's numerous amenities and services, from the heated lakefront pool, two hot tubs and sauna to its on-site ski shop, concierge service to complimentary private shuttle to the area's top attractions and activities. Everything necessary to create a wonderful and unforgettable winter (or summer) vacation, including Tahoe's famous skiing and snowboarding is available. With six world-class ski and snowboard resorts just a quick shuttle ride from Lakeland Village, skiers and snowboarders have tens of thousands of acres to choose from including Heavenly, California's largest resort. With 4,800 skiable acres, 29 lifts, 85 trails, 360-inch average annual snowfall and 3,500 feet of vertical, 'Heavenly' sums up the resort to a tee for skiers and riders of all abilities. The resort features excellent children's programs and its expert terrain is widely accepted as some of the best, and steepest, in the West. Add to the mix the resort's long runs, wide open cruisers and powder-filled bowls and skiers and boarders find themselves at the quintessential western resort, that will meet and exceed the needs and expectations of every person in your group.

The simplicity of getting to Lakeland Village and South Lake Tahoe is yet another feature making the destination a "must" for avid skiers and snowboarders. Slightly more than an hour's drive from the Reno/Tahoe International Airport, which has 200-plus daily flights, guests of Lakeland Village can catch a morning flight and be on the slopes that afternoon. Families can spend the first afternoon at Lakeland getting unpacked and arranging for a smooth and hassle-free stay, enjoyable for parents and children alike. Once on the property, Lakeland Village's staff is available 24/7 to insure all of the details are taken care of, allowing guests to worry about the important aspects of their vacation, which is to choose the fun-filled activity to do next.

For more information and to discover all that Lakeland Village Beach & Mountain Resort has to offer, or to book your vacation online, visitwww.lakeland-village.com. Or, simply call 1-800-822-5969.

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THE RIDGE TAHOE IS THE LAKE TAHOE AREA'S MOST SCENIC CONDO/HOTEL

LAKE TAHOE, NV - If you looking for the perfect Lake Tahoe accommodations then discover The Ridge Tahoe. This is an 11-acre, deluxe condominium/hotel resort on Heavenly Ski Resort's Nevada slope, adjacent to the Stagecoach Lodge and ski chair lift. This 302-unit resort features Deluxe Lake Tahoe Hotel Rooms, Junior Suites, One and Two Bedroom Condominium Suites.

Here is a sample of the accommodations available to you.

One and Two Bedroom Condominium Suites:

These have a fully equipped kitchen with microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator, full sized oven, small appliances, dishes and utensils, cooking necessities. You will also find a spacious living room with queen size sofa sleeper. There is also a dining area, gas fireplace, and a King or Queen Bed in each bedroom. The two-bedroom condominium suite sleeps 2-6 people; One Bedroom Condominium Suite sleeps 1-4 people.

The Junior Suite:

The Junior Suite contains a King or Queen sized bed, small sitting area, a wet bar, mini-refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker. Additionally, there is a Queen Sleeper Sofa, TV and VCR/DVD, daily maid service. These units sleep 1-4 people.

Deluxe Hotel Room Features:

The deluxe Ridge Tahoe hotel room provides the guest with a King or Queen sized bed, mini-refrigerator, coffee maker, microwave, small sitting area, TV and VCR/DVD. They sleep 1-2 people.

Each condominium/hotel building features convenient elevators, underground parking, ski (and golf) lockers, indoor/outdoor whirlpool Jacuzzis, complimentary laundry facilities and barbecue areas. Some handicapped units are available.

The Ridge Resorts proudly manages other off-property resorts for luxurious Lake Tahoe lodging as well. The Ridge Crest, The Ridge View and The Ridge Pointe. These fine properties also feature well appointed Lake Tahoe accommodations such has Deluxe Lake Tahoe Hotel Rooms, Junior Suites, One and Two Bedroom Condominium Suites. Guests of the off-property units are also welcome to enjoy all the amenities that the Ridge Tahoe has to offer.

About The Ridge

The Ridge Tahoe is a full-amenity hotel and condominium resort and spa, offering all the amenities of a first-class destination resort. It is literally perched on top of a mountain ridge adjacent to Heavenly Ski Resort. Heavenly is accessed via a Ridge Tahoe guest only gondola. The resort is just 5 miles from Tahoe Beaches, Edgewood Golf Course and the casinos at Tahoe's south shore. The Ridge Tahoe is the perfect location for your next family ski vacation.

They have more than 300 condominium/hotel suites offer breathtaking views of Tahoe's mountains and the Carson Valley from 7,400 feet elevation.

The Ridge Tahoe also offers a health club, indoor sports complex, indoor/outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzis, racquetball courts, and shuttle to casinos. Full service spa with massage therapy and facial treatments are also on-site, as well as a restaurant, deli, Starbucks Coffee, and market.

Check out the famous Lake Tahoe ski packages that give you all the elements you need to get the most enjoyment out of your Lake Tahoe accommodations without breaking your budget. For those looking for a site for a Lake Tahoe conferences or Lake Tahoe meetings, the Ridge Tahoe offers a complete Conference Center perfect for gatherings that will inspire your group of 10-125 people. They specialize in meetings for corporations and associations, executive retreats, incentive groups, or leisure clubs for ski and golf.

For more info, please call 775-588-3553 or log on to the Ridge Tahoe website - www.ridgetahoeresort.com.

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NORTH TAHOE IMPROVEMENTS AND DEALS HIGHLIGHT SKI SEASON

TAHOE CITY, CA - North Lake Tahoe resorts are stepping up, brushing off and adding on to the tune of an estimated $1 billion in capital improvements in recent and upcoming years and with a little planning, travelers can take advantage of the new offerings while saving a few bucks.

Notable expansions include the Village at Northstar revitalization. More than $200 million will go into the project, which will include a fitness center, year-round outdoor ice rink, casual and fine dining establishments, bookstore, coffee shop, bakery, and 213 new luxury condominium residences. Completion of Phase I is scheduled for December 2005.

The Village at Squaw Valley will tally to an estimated $250 million at full build-out. First Ascent and 22 Station (the first two phases) brought 286 condominiums to Olympic Valley, along with eight restaurants and 16 boutique shops. Squaw Valley Ski Corporation has invested $60 million in the past decade in on-mountain improvements and enhancements such as new lifts, facilities and upgrades.

"Lake Tahoe has roots and history when it comes to winter recreation," Andy Chapman, tourism director of the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association, said. "The resorts are stepping up to continue to meet the needs of today's traveler - giving them a rustic mountain feel with top-of-the line amenities."

Giving skiers and snowboarders simply more snow counts too. Mt. Rose-Ski Tahoe spent the summer in preparation to open the Chutes this winter at a cost of more than $4 million. The Chutes, formerly a popular out-of-bounds area, consists of 200 ski-able acres which plunge nearly 1,500 vertical feet. Sixteen new trails will be created within the Chutes, nine-double black diamonds and seven single-black diamonds.

Kirkwood Mountain Resort has put $50 million into their mountain and village amenities over the past three years, while South Lake Tahoe and Heavenly Ski Resort invested a combined $250 million in the past four years in upgrades. Diamond Peak Ski Resort replaced their Crystal Quad chairlift last year with the new Crystal Express, a high-speed detachable lift, cutting the ride to the top of the mountain in half. The new lift reaches the peak 8,540-foot elevation in minutes.

Ski resorts are not the only properties upgrading. Tahoe City underwent $15 million in community and business renovations last year. Commons Beach, in the heart of Tahoe City, alone received nearly $6 million in upgrades. The Resort at Squaw Creek, now under the management of Destination Hotels, is planning $21 million in capital improvements to renovate the property over the next five years and the Championship Golf Course and Clubhouse in Incline Village re-opened early September with $11 million in renovations. The Hyatt Regency at Lake Tahoe wrapped a $60 million-renovation last fall with a fourth restaurant and expanded Stillwater Spa to 20,000 feet.

Travelers with flexible dates and advance planning can take advantage of the new and classic offerings at discounted prices. Skiers and snowboarders can have their pick of downhill resorts with the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association's Interchangeable Ticket. With a two-day minimum purchase, the ticket allows guests to ski or ride at Alpine Meadows, Northstar, Squaw, Sugar Bowl, Homewood Mountain Resort, Diamond Peak, or Mt. Rose at discounted prices.

A number of specials can be found at Mt. Rose. The Weekend Extender offers three days of consecutive weekend skiing for $99; it's two-for-one lift tickets on Tuesdays; students ski for $26 on Wednesdays; ladies receive a full-day on the slopes for $26 on Thursdays and everyday is Runs 'n Roses when $104 family packages include lift tickets for two adults and two children.

Alpine Meadows continues the savings from last season with adult full-day lift tickets for $39, every day of the week. Holiday adult lift ticket rates of $49 apply to certain dates.

For Squaw Valley diehards, there is the Frequent Skier and Snowboarder Program that allows those who ski or board for four days, to ski the fifth free. Guests need to pre-register either online or at the special ticket office. Membership is only $5 online or $10 at the ticket window. Kids under 12 also ski or ride free for only $5 all season long - no strings attached.

Diamond Peak visitors can save with a Mini Pass. The Pass holds credit for lift tickets electronically on a swipe card. Credit for tickets can be purchased in two, three, five or seven increments. Discounted four packs of lift tickets can also be purchased at regional Costco locations.

Northstar will be offering a Stay and Ski Free Package, beginning at $92 per person, per night. Guests can stay in a slope-side studio condominium and receive two free lift tickets per night. Family and friends looking to spend quality time together can take advantage of the $79 package - $79 per person, per day, based on quad occupancy for condominium lodging and a two-day lift ticket.

Homewood Mountain Resort on the West Shore offers $25 adult lift tickets Monday through Thursday. Kids under ten ski free everyday when accompanied by an adult.

Sugar Bowl offers $44 mid-week tickets and $49 lift tickets when pre-purchased at Northern California Safeway stores. The $49 tickets are available as gift cards located at Safeway checkout counters and no black out dates apply.

The North Lake Tahoe Resort Association is constantly offering lodging packages throughout the winter season. To find out about current specials, log on to www.mytahoevacation.com. Certain restrictions and black-out days apply to packages, deals and discounts so skiers should check with individual properties and mountains prior to travel.

North Lake Tahoe is located approximately 45 minutes from Reno Tahoe International Airport, two hours from Sacramento International Airport and just over three hours from San Francisco International Airport.

For lodging reservations, contact the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association's Lake Tahoe Central Reservations department, the area's largest reservation center, at 1-800-824-6348 or visit www.mytahoevacation.com.

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CAMP RICHARDSON RESORT HAS WINTER RECREATION FUN

CAMP RICHARDSON, CA -- Once the snow flies the fun continues at Camp Rich with snowshoeing and cross-country skiing at the Mountain Sports Center. Recently voted "Best Place to Cross Country Ski" by Tahoe locals, the Sports Center offers groomed and marked trails for the beginner to the expert and is a great place to ski along the shores of the water. With a wide selection of skis and snowshoes (including youth and children's sizes), lessons are available, call for dates and times.

The miles of bike trails from summer are magically changed to a beautiful white winter wonderland for skiing and snowshoeing. Winter fun doesn't stop at the Mountain Sports Center, you can look forward to Full Moon Cross Country and Snowshoeing parties, and the famous "Snowshoe Cocktail Race" (more info below) held on the shore of the lake at The Beacon. Imagine the fun of wearing snowshoes, holding a drink on a cocktail tray, and "racing" around a course! Prizes are awarding and everyone has fun.

For more information on any of the activities offered at Camp Richardson's Mountain Sports Center, please call (530) 542-6584.

The Beacon Bar & Grill

Lakeside dining at it's best! It is the home of the famous Rum Runner, voted "Best Drink" by Tahoe locals. The Beacon offers a great menu selection for the entire family.

Whether you are looking for appetizers, lunch or dinner on the deck, or a relaxed meal in the dining room, the Beacon has it all. Be sure to try the "Camp Richardson Resort Clam Chowder".

Winter Promotions

Full Moon Cross Country & Snowshoe Parties - Stop in at the Beacon for a hot drink, then take a walk through the woods under the light of a Full Moon. Enjoy the beauty and quiet of our winter wonderland, then return to the Beacon and finish off the evening with a wonderful dinner.

Snowshoe Cocktail Races - Race the course in snowshoes with a drink on your tray - see if you can go the fastest… without spilling! Great prizes awarded for the fastest time, and the person who falls the most.

Happy Hour

Everyday from 4 to 7 p.m., stop in at the Beacon for great drink specials, including our famous Rum Runner for $3, and appetizer specials.

Winter Wild Wednesdays

When the snow flies, the fun begins, at the Beacon Bar & Grill. Happening every Wednesday night, all winter long. Enjoy $3 Run Runners, and more.

You can reach Camp Richardson Resort by calling 1-800-766-4705 or log on to their web site www.camprichardson.com.

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NORTH LAKE TAHOE, JUST THE FACTS

TAHOE CITY, CA - Here's some information provided by the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association that will help to provide you with a background of information regarding Lake Tahoe and the north shore.

With a number of ski resorts such as Sugar Bowl, Alpine, Squaw, Northstar, and Diamond Peak and casinos from the Cal-Neva to the exquisite Hyatt resort Spa and Casino, there is always plenty to do.

Location

Lake Tahoe straddles California's eastern and Nevada's western state line. It is located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range and is 200 miles northeast of San Francisco, 98 miles northeast of Sacramento, California, and 45 miles southwest of Reno, Nevada.

Size

Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. It is 12 miles wide, 22 miles long and has 72 miles of shoreline.

Depth

Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in the U.S. The average depth is 989 feet, with a deepest point of 1,645 feet. The lake contains 39 trillion gallons of water. If Lake Tahoe were tipped over, the water would cover California to a depth of 14.5 inches.

Altitude

Lake Tahoe's surface elevation is 6,223 feet above sea level.

Climate

Lake Tahoe has a dry and comfortable climate with an 80 percent chance of sunshine throughout the year. The area averages 409 inches of snowfall per year.

Highway Access

North Lake Tahoe is accessible from major highways. From Sacramento, Calif., take Interstate 80 East to Truckee. From Reno, take Interstate 80 West to Truckee or Highway 431 over Mt. Rose.

Air Access

The area is also accessible by air. The Reno Tahoe International Airport is located 45 miles away. This airport is serviced by non-stop flights from a dozen major cities and is serviced by the following carriers Alaskan Airlines, America West, American Airlines, Canadian, Delta, Northwest, Reno Air, SkyWest, Southwest Airlines, TWA, and United Airlines.

Winter Activities

Winter activities in North Lake Tahoe include downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, and telemarking. There are seven downhill ski resorts and seven cross-country ski resorts. There's also dining, dancing, ice skating, fishing, bowling, bungee jumping, indoor rock climbing, gaming, aerial cable car, sleigh rides, museums, lake cruises, balloon rides, exercise and health facilities, movie theaters, and arcades.

Lodging

North Lake Tahoe has a variety of lodging accommodations including resorts, hotels, motels, lodges, inns, bed & breakfasts, and rental condominiums and cabins.

For more info, please call, toll free, 1-800-434-1261, or log on to their web site www.mytahoevacation.com.

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GOLDFISH PROPERTIES LETS YOU CHOOSE YOUR VACATION RENTAL ON LINE

INCLINE VILLAGE, NV - If you are looking for North Lake Tahoe or Incline Village vacations then Goldfish Properties of Lake Tahoe is your source.

To help you find the perfect Lake Tahoe vacation or long-term rental from their large variety of properties you can log on to their web site and complete any number of simple and fast search options. By following their basic instructions, you will find links to view the properties. You then can go directly to a property or use a custom search to narrow your choice.

With a name "hatched from the two owners' last names, Goldfish Properties provide exclusive lodging for your ideal Tahoe getaway. From vacation rentals to ski and long-term leases, cozy two-bedroom condominiums to elite six-bedroom homes on the lake, there are all of the features you desire.

Most of the properties are ideally located on the lake's stunning North Shore in Incline Village. These rentals include access to the community's recreation center, private beaches and more.

Goldfish Properties are surrounded by impressive year-round recreation. In winter, it is a short drive to 18 ski resorts, like Incline Village's Diamond Peak. In summer, sandy beaches, challenging bike trails and championship golf courses are at your doorstep. Any time of year, try your luck at the Nevada casinos and enjoy some of the finest dining at Lake Tahoe.

The Incline Village/North Shore rentals offered by Goldfish properties are a scenic 3 1/2 hour drive from the San Francisco Bay area and only 35 miles from the Reno/Tahoe International Airport.

Book online, it is a click away at www.goldfishproperties.com. Or you can call them at 775-832-4646 or toll-free at 1-800-948-7311.

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LAKE TAHOE CONTINUES IT'S WORLD-CLASS SKI DESTINATION REPUTATION

LAKE TAHOE, CA/NV -- On September 20, two days before the official start of Fall, Lake Tahoe was hit with the first snowfall of the year. A quick but intense storm dumped up to four inches of fluffy, white gold at some of the higher elevations.

Ski Lake Tahoe has always had the magic formula to entice winter enthusiasts: great mountains, great terrain, great views and tons of snow. Over the past five years, to further enhance the experience of skiing and riding in Lake Tahoe, the resorts on both the North and South Shore have made significant improvements including new base villages, terrain expansion, lodging and dining options as well as many other on-mountain enhancements.

Following is a look at just some of the improvements to the Ski Lake Tahoe resorts for the 2004-2005 ski season.

This year, the Alpine Meadows base lodge received a complete interior remodel, making use of rock and pine support beams, new furniture and carpeting, and rustic copper and wrought iron chandeliers. Several new dining options debut this year as well, including the Shooting Star Sushi Bar, Mountain View Mexican Café, Butcher Block Rock Burger Bar, Ward Peak Pastas, and Alpine Bakery.

At Heavenly, East Peak Lodge is getting an extensive exterior remodel complete with a weather-protected outdoor area boasting a new roofline, glass wind-screens, more convenient seating arrangements and a new outdoor bar and barbecue. Additionally, a new high-speed, six-passenger chairlift, Powderbowl Express, replaces two older slower triple chairs on the California side of the mountain. With the purchase of five new state-of-the-art grooming machines and several energy-efficient snowmaking fan guns, the resort is reinforcing its commitment to excellent snow quality. Heavenly will also be adding two new features to its line-up of terrain parks and trails features. The new "rail" trail on the California side is the resort's first run dedicated exclusively to rail features and offers jibbers a run to call their own. Meanwhile, the new "wave" run on the Nevada side of the mountain provides a series of gentle "rollers" for those who aren't quite ready for the parks and pipes, but are looking to add a little spice to their day on the mountain.

Kirkwood offers a host of new activities for visitors this season, both adventurous and beginner. Expanded high-angle grooming guarantees more steep groomed runs. The new Expedition Kirkwood HQ & Salomon Test Center offers guests an opportunity to try out the latest demos, including new telemark and randonnee gear. Expedition programs such as Quests, Powder Cat Skiing and backcountry-focused clinics are available. Other upgrades include expansions to the terrain park, new learn to ski programs and lessons for "new school" skiers and riders.

At Northstar-at-Tahoe, the new village is in the first phase of construction, with 100 condominiums, boutiques, shops and restaurants slated for completion in December 2005. Until then, the resort is creating two different facilities located west of the current Gondola building. The Village Pavilion and a second facility will house skier services such as tickets, lockers, Wi-Fi Internet service, a sports bar, café refreshments and complimentary overnight ski storage. As another major improvement, the Echo chairlift will be replaced by a high-speed quad chairlift that will transport guests to mid-mountain in only five minutes. Other upgrades include three new Bombardier snowcats, a Zaugg halfpipe cutter and a family-oriented terrain park.

In keeping with Sierra-at-Tahoe's reputation for excellent grooming, the resort invested $400,000 into new grooming equipment for the upcoming season. Two, state-of-the-art, Bombardier snowcats will lead the charge to achieve perfect corduroy and a new mid-day grooming program will ensure that the runs remain in pristine condition. Getting to the resort has never been easier with new shuttle service from Harrah's and Harvey's Casinos as well as the Marriott Grand Residence Club. For serious jibbers, the new super-sized Bashful terrain park has the most vertical of any of Sierra's parks and contains the most advanced terrain features, including a 16 by 20 foot wall ride.

At Squaw Valley USA, to add convenience and options for beginners, a new beginner double chairlift has been installed. A second magic carpet transport lift was added for the Squaw Kids Children's Center, and a new fleet of K2 skis for Squaw Valley's rental shops. Throughout the resort, restroom and facility renovations have taken place. The recently completed Phase II of the Village at Squaw Valley features the new Tantara Bakery, Bistro & Beyond restaurant and additional shopping options.

Surrounding North America's largest alpine lake, each Ski Lake Tahoe resort offers unparalleled scenic vistas of nearby forestry, panoramic mountain and lake views. For the latest mountain news and conditions, visit the Ski Lake Tahoe Web site at www.skilaketahoe.com. For a Lake Tahoe Winter Vacation Guide, call 1-800-588-SNOW, ext. 1.

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