Palisades Tahoe (Squaw Valley) Celebrates 75 Years

For those of us who grew up skiing "Squaw," (a.k.a. Palisades Tahoe) there's no doubt that will be at the base of the mountain on Wednesday, November 27, for opening day of their 75th year! Keep on reading about a little history and the parties planned to celebrate this very special occasion.

Vacation Rentals in Incline Village & Crystal Bay - Sun Bear RealtyAnd if you plan on coming to Lake Tahoe for Thanksgiving, and this celebration, we still have vacation rentals available in Incline Village and Crystal Bay. See the complete list here or just give us a call at (775) 831-9000.

The History of Palisades Tahoe (Squaw Valley) c/o Wikipedia

Palisades Tahoe is a ski resort in the western United States, located in Olympic Valley, California, northwest of Tahoe City in the Sierra Nevada range. From its founding in 1949, the resort was known as Squaw Valley, but it changed its name in 2021 due to the derogatory connotations of the word "squaw". It was the host site for the 1960 Winter Olympics.^[1]

The Palisades Tahoe resort is the largest skiing complex in the Lake Tahoe region,^[2] and is known for its challenging terrain.^[3] Palisades Tahoe (not including Alpine Meadows) has a base elevation of 6,200 feet (1,890 meters) and a skiable 3,600 acres (1,500 hectares) across six peaks, employing 23 chairlifts, four carpet lifts, a tramway, a gondola connecting it to Alpine Meadows, and the only funitel in the United States. It tops out at 9,010 ft (2,750 m) at Granite Chief,^[4][5] and averages 400 inches (33.3 feet; 10.2 meters) of annual snowfall.^[6] The resort attracts approximately 600,000 skiers a year,^[7] and is also home to several annual summer events.

The spotlight of the 1960 Olympics raised the resort's profile, and it went through several ownership changes beginning in the 1970s. In 2012, it merged with nearby Alpine Meadows, and became Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, to offer joint access to 6,000 acres (2,400 ha), 43 lifts, and over 270 runs.

The 75th Anniversary of Palisades Tahoe (Squaw Valley)

(Photo courtesy of Palisades Tahoe)

From opening day throughout Thanksgiving Weekend, there are plenty of things to do and see and ride and ski. Here are the highlights.

Wednesday, November 27 / Opening Day with $75 Lift Tickets

Among the list of reasons to attend is there $75 lift ticket offer! That's right, if you don't have an ICON pass, this is the day to ski one of the world's most famous resorts

(Photo courtesy of Palisades Tahoe)

For those who don't have an ICON pass, or have yet to purchase one, Wednesday, November 27 is YOUR day to be a part of history. Secure your $75 Opening Day lift tickets and stay updated on any changes to weather or operations at palisadestahoe.com.

Thursday, November 28 / Thanksgiving Dinner at Palisades Tahoe

Earlier this month, we published a blog about the top spots to enjoy Thanksgiving Dinner in Incline Village/Lake Tahoe. If you prefer to have a weekend celebrating the 75th, he Olympic Village Events Center is hosting two lovely options. See the link below to make your reservation then gather your friends to enjoy a Thanksgiving Dinner within the scenic sights of Olympic Valley.  Make your reservation now.

Saturday, November 30 / Winter Party at the Tram Plaza

(Photo courtesy of Palisades Tahoe)

Celebrate the beginning of Winter! This is for skiers and non-skier alike with events for all ages to enjoy. See the list of events below. Then, be a part of history as the resort unveils Forged, an art installation that is a tribute the mountain and its and legacy of sports heroes. This event is totally free, and all are welcome to join.

12:30 – 3:30 pm     Live Music in the Plaza

3:30 – 3:45 pm       Raffle

3:45 – 4:00 pm       Alpenhorns Performance

4:00 – 4:30 pm       Unveiling of “Forged,” a tribute to our mountain community and legacy of excellence

4:45 pm                   Tree Lighting Ceremony in the Tram Plaza