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Archive for the ‘Winter’ Category
Friday, March 2nd, 2012
With plenty of fresh snow giving the region a sunny disposition, check out the 31st Annual North Lake Tahoe SnowFest on the west shores of Lake Tahoe, March 2 – 11.
To celebrate SnowFest, we’ve picked a few “Must Attend” events through the week. For more information about SnowFest and a complete list of events, visit the organization’s redesigned website here.
Friday, March 2: Opening Night Ceremonies, Laser Show, Torchlight Parade and Fireworks at Squaw Valley USA, which has partnered with World Champion medalist and former alpine ski racer Daron Rahlves. Rahlves and his Olympic buddies will officially kick off SnowFest with the Rahlves’ Banzai Tour at the Opening Night Ceremonies. Channel your inner ski bum around 9 p.m. for the 3rd annual Hot Dog 80s Retro Party at the Cornice Cantina — Olympic Valley. If you haven’t seen Hot Dog the Movie take a night and rent the cult classic. Hot Dog was made at Squaw Valley, and has numerous “local celebrities” in the film. Everyone is encouraged to dress the part of your favorite character from the movie, and come ready to dance the night away in that good old ’80s style we all knew and loved so well. Some “celebrities’ from the film will be on site as guest bartenders so look sharp, and maybe you can catch a picture with your favorites.
Saturday, March 3: Either watch or take the plunge into Lake Tahoe if you dare for the 22nd annual Gar Woods Polar Swim at Garwoods Grill & Pier, 2:30 to 5 p.m.
 Annual Gar Woods Polar Swim Sunday, March 4: The Great Ski Race® begins in Tahoe City, at the Tahoe XC Center and goes over the hill, ending at the Cottonwood in Truckee, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tuesday-Wednesday, March 7-8: A SnowFest favorite, a Tahoe City tradition, the Fastest Bartender Competition, continues in Truckee at the Tourist Club, 7 to 11 p.m. Participants compete in a timed competition making various drinks from the menu. Winners will be awarded prizes for best time.
Contenders can register on the night of the event. Meanwhile, every bartender thinks they make the “Ultimate Bloody Mary”
but Thursday you’ll find out who wins title of “Bloody Mary Master.”
This competition will be coveted by all to try and come up with their special ingredients to claim the title for the North Tahoe Region. Cornice Cantina, Olympic Valley, 4 to 7 p.m.
Thursday,March 9: Enjoy great ribs at the Bridgetender during its 4th annual Rib Fest. This extravaganza of barbecue ribs takes place on the outside patio & bar of the Bridgetender in Tahoe City from 4 to 7 p.m.
 SnowFest Kings Beach Parade Friday, March 10: Bring out your “best pooch” sweaters on Saturday from 10-11:30 a.m. to the North Tahoe Events Center in Kings Beach for a howlin’ good time. Go to watch or bring your own pooch and dress them up in their “Saturday best”, “cutest”, “scariest” or other fun costumes. All dogs welcome and will be entered in the must-attend SnowFest Kings Beach Parade, 11:30 to 12:30 at Kings Beach. Afterwards head over to Kings Beach Chevron for the New York Hot Dog Stand Hot Dog Eating Contest. This is not about eating a bunch of steaming dogs but a competition to devour one giant custom-made 5 pound hot dog. Eat it in a record time and you’ll have a chance of winning the cash purse prize. Entry fee is $20 but if you’re not in the mood to eat, you’ll want to watch.
Meanwhile, check-in at Granlibakken for a number of overnight lodging options in time for SnowFest revelry. Enjoy the resort’s comfortable amenities such as its famous hot buffet breakfast, the Lighthouse Spa, heated outdoor pool, sauna and hot tub, and plenty of hills to ski, sled and snowshoe. Accommodations range from cozy lodge rooms to studios with fireplaces and kitchens to one to eight bedroom townhomes.
Tags: 31st Annual North Lake Tahoe SnowFest
Posted in Tahoe City, Winter | No Comments »
Monday, February 27th, 2012
Ski at Squaw or Alpine and leap into a night or more stay at Granlibakken. Wednesday’s Leap Day only happens every four years, so the timing is ideal for an all-out midweek ski getaway at either Squaw Valley or Alpine Meadows with a few nights lodging at Granlibakken Conference Center and Lodge on the west shore of Lake Tahoe.
To celebrate the arrival of fresh powder and the odd calendar day, Squaw and Alpine are offering $29 lift tickets on Wednesday, Feb. 29.
Adults, young adults and kids can all take to the hill and enjoy 5,000 acres and over 30 lifts between Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows – all on a $29 lift ticket. But you will have to act fast. In order to take advantage of the incredible $29 lift tickets, guests must purchase by midnight of Tuesday, Feb. 28. Leap day tickets are available for purchase online at www.squaw.com and www.skialpine.com, or by calling 1-800-403-0206.
Meanwhile, you can check-in at Granlibakken, which offers affordable and luxurious stay and ski lodging packages and the resort’s comfortable amenities such as its famous hot buffet breakfast (optional), the Lighthouse Spa, heated outdoor pool, sauna and hot tub and plenty of on-site hills to ski, sled and snowshoe.
Accommodations range from cozy lodge rooms to studios with fireplaces and kitchens to one to eight bedroom townhouses. (800) 543-3221
Lighthouse Spa offers a menu of wellness packages including therapeutic massage, skin care, spa manicure-pedicures, holistic body treatments, body waxing and health consultations from a staff of professional therapists.
Granlibakken, home to the 1932 Olympic ski jumping trials, maintains its rustic charm delivering a high-tech vacation headquarters for families, groups and travelers: free Wi-Fi throughout the resort and transportation from the Reno-Tahoe airport. Situated on 74 forested acres, the property feels quiet and secluded, yet is located one mile from downtown Tahoe City.
Where are you spending your leap day?
Tags: $29 lift tickets, Alpine Meadows, Cozy Lodge, Leap Year Discounts, Lighthouse Day Spa, Lighthouse Spa, Squaw Valley
Posted in Lake Tahoe Events, Lake Tahoe Specials, Tahoe City, Winter | No Comments »
Thursday, January 26th, 2012
Welcome back winter! There is new snow and great skiing all around Lake Tahoe. Granlibakken is Tahoe’s original ski resort near Tahoe City, with central lodging and ski and stay packages for 8 area resorts.
For $139 a person you get one adult all-day lift ticket to your choice of one of Tahoe’s 8 ski resorts, one night’s lodging, a hot breakfast buffet and use of sauna, heated outdoor pool and hot tub.
Located on 74 secluded acres on the northwest corner of the lake, Granlibakken offers accommodations ranging from cozy lodge rooms to studios with fireplaces and kitchens to one to eight bedroom townhomes. Not really interested in skiing or snowboarding? No problem! The lift ticket is exchangeable for a $50 credit for on-site amenities at the Lighthouse Spa or the Tahoe Cross Country Center to explore miles of historic cross country ski trails. But if the mountains are calling you, choose one of the close resorts that best fits your interest.
 There's plenty of snow to make a few turns. For a smaller mountain with spectacular views of the lake you’ll definitely want to make the short trip to Homewood Mountain Resort. Only 6.1 miles away from Granlibakken, Homewood offers 1,260 skiable acres, 8 lifts and 60 trails. Make the most of your day at the smaller resort of Homewood then head back to Granlibakken to snuggle up next to the fire.
Alpine Meadows is a known local favorite. Ski or snowboard across 2,400 acres with 14 lifts, 100 trails and 7 bowls. You don’t have to go far for dining and shopping as Alpine Meadows has both on location. A short drive of 8.3 miles will put you at Alpine in no time for a day filled with skiing or snowboarding.
Squaw Valley USA, home of the 1960 winter Olympics, offers visitors skiing/snowboarding, shopping, and dining. With 4,000 skiable acres across 6 peaks, 30 lifts and 170+ trails Squaw is consistently one of the top destinations for skiers and snowboarders around the world to visit in Lake Tahoe. The Village at Squaw offers shopping, first class restaurants, live music as well as other events throughout the year. Don’t miss Squaw’s High Camp which offers ice skating, an Olympic museum and a pool and hot tub. Just 8.5 miles from Granlibakken, Squaw is guaranteed to keep you busy and entertained all day.
Vail Resorts newest addition, Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort, also has a lot to offer and was recently named two-time Olympic gold medalist Shawn White’s home mountain. Northstar has 3,170 skiable acres, 20 lifts, 97 trails and 7 terrain parks for your skiing pleasure. If you tire quickly from skiing the Village at Northstar offers ice skating, premium dining and shopping. Located 10.4 miles from Granlibakken, Northstar is another excellent resort with an abundance of activities.
Another local favorite is Sugar Bowl. With 1,500 skiable acres across 4 peaks, 13 lifts and 95 trails Sugar Bowl, like Homewood, is a smaller option, but one that is not void of great runs and a fun day of skiing or snowboarding. A little further of a drive at 24.8 miles, Sugar Bowl will show Granlibakken guests a different side of the north shore of Lake Tahoe.
For panoramic views of both Lake Tahoe and Nevada Mt. Rose is the place for you. Mt. Rose has 1,200+ skiable acres, 8 lifts and 60+ trails available. Located 25.5 miles away from Granlibakken, it is a bit further of a drive but definitely worth it for the unbeatable views.
 Wool socks and a cozy fire are perfect on cold winter nights. The largest resort Heavenly, offers 4,800 skiable acres, 30 lifts and 97 trails. 31.8 miles away from Granlibakken, Heavenly has more than enough to keep a family entertained for a day. Other than skiing and snowboarding with incomparable views of the lake, the Heavenly Village offers ice skating, a variety of dining options, shopping, a movie theater and Après happy hour deals both on and off the mountain.
A South shore favorite is Sierra-at-Tahoe, with 2,000 skiable acres, 14 lifts, 46 trails and 5 terrain parks to keep skiers and snowboarders wanting more. One of the best places to have lunch in Tahoe is the 360º Smokehouse BBQ at the Grandview lodge at Sierra. The delicious menu and panoramic views of the Lake Tahoe basin make the 40.1 mile drive from Granlibakken worth it.
Any of these 8 resorts are an easy drive for a day filled with skiing and/or snowboarding, shopping and dining. And the best part is at the end of the day you get to return to your cozy and personal lodging at Granlibakken.
Don’t miss this opportunity! Have you booked your winter retreat to Granlibakken yet?
Tags: Alpine Meadows, Heavenly, Homewood Mountain Resort, Lighthouse Spa, Mt. Rose, Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort, Sierra-at-Tahoe, Squaw Valley USA, Sugar Bowl
Posted in Lake Tahoe Specials, Squaw Valley, Winter | No Comments »
Friday, December 30th, 2011
3…2…1… Happy New Year! New Years Eve always brings parties, family, friends and resolutions. Still no plans for New Years Eve? Start the year off right and make a reservation at.
 Granlibakken Conference Center & Lodge Granlibakken Resort is the perfect place to be for the New Year’s Holiday. Don’t worry about having to drive on New Year’s Eve because Granlibakken offers a party and a place to stay. For $195 you have lodging, festivities and an abundance of fun.
Enjoy a New Years Eve buffet party with all the guests ($195 rate includes two seats) at the Cedar House Pub. Dance the night away with music all night. Take a break from dancing for dessert and champagne at 11:30 p.m. As the countdown to the New Year stats make sure you have your date to kiss at midnight! Sip on champagne in traditional New Years Eve fashion and enjoy an evening with your friends and/or family.
 Cheers to 2012! While you’re visiting make sure to check out Tahoe City for the Shop Local Contest! All day every day Shop Local and win Prizes. For every $20 spent at a participating business earn a sticker, 3 stickers and you can enter to win prizes. 13 or more stickers and you are eligible for a Grand Prize worth $500.
So if you are undecided about New Years come to a place that has it all. Granlibakken is always happy to have you and is sure to offer an unforgettable celebration. Happy New Year!
 Dance the night away.
Tags: Cedar House Pub, New Year's Eve, NYE, Shop Local Contest
Posted in Cedar House Pub, Holidays, Tahoe City, Winter | No Comments »
Thursday, October 13th, 2011
Even though the weather is still in the 60s and 70s (in fact record highs today) ski season is around the corner with area resorts anticipating opening in a little over a month. Whether you ski 5-10 days a season of 40 + you’ll likely be sore the first few times you hit the slopes.
Keep in mind we’re not health experts, but here’s a few tips to help you before strapping on those skis and snowboards this season.
http://www.coreperformance.com/knowledge/workouts/prepare-for-winter-ski-season.html
Here’s a few of my favorite exercises/stretches:
Core Performance recommends training session that combines lower body strength-boosting moves, power exercises and drills to solidify your hips, torso and shoulders. This helps to build strength and speed for the mountain while carving up a more flexible body, and one that’s more resilient to injury.
Did you know that we’re located near several of the top resorts in the country, including Squaw Valley USA, Northstar-at-Tahoe and local favorites like Alpine and Homewood. We have array of ski/stay packages (of course includes our delicious hot daily breakfast and transportation to several of the resorts) – rates will be available soon.
What’s your favorite pre-ski season exercise? Do you prefer to ski or snowboard?
Tags: core workouts, granlibakken, ski season, Squaw Valley, training, Winter
Posted in Tahoe outdoors, Uncategorized, Winter | 1 Comment »
Wednesday, March 30th, 2011
 This Saturday, April 2nd, at Homewood Mountain Resort, Bjorn t’ Party, our Nordic spokesman, will be leading the charge as armor-clad skiers and snowboarders take over the slopes to “velcome” spring with Viking costume contests, tug-of-war, a snowman building competition and more.
Skiers and boarders who arrive in Viking regalia will receive a $5 discount on lift tickets for the day and will find additional savings throughout the resort food and beverage venues.
Additionally, if you upload a photo of yourself pillaging secret stashes of powder, horns or armor and all, to Granlibakken’s Facebook page, you will be entered to win a stay at Granlibakken, complete with lift tickets to Homewood.
As we like to say at Granlibakken, everything’s better with horns on. We’ll see you on Saturday!
Posted in Lake Tahoe Events, Vikings, Winter | No Comments »
Friday, December 24th, 2010
As you all know, Granlibakken is a family-owned and operated resort. Today, we bring you holiday memories and cheer from Ron Parson, Owner and General Manager of Granlibakken.
Ron spent his childhood throughout Europe including Holland, Belgium and Switzerland where Christmas, or rather Sinterklaas, was celebrated on December 5th and 6th. Like Toni from Germany, Ron and his family would put shoes out on the front porch for St. Nicholas, who would fill them with candies, fruits and nuts the next morning. Over the years, Ron, Lauren and their four kids have carried these traditions on in their celebrations stateside placing wooden clogs on the porch, to be filled with Dutch candies, shipped from friends in Holland.
Ron’s mother directed the Christmas Pageant in Antwerp. Year after year, he would play the Little Drummer Boy. When he finally told his mother that he had outgrown the role, he was re-cast as the peddler. Ron’s brought the pageantry of his childhood to Granlibakken with the Torchlight Parade, visit from Santa Claus and most recently, Bjorn t’Party, our Viking in-residence. Just as his mother did, Ron’s cast his family in Granlibakken’s festival. His father plays Santa.
For Ron, the holidays have always been about family. With the holidays, the Parson family grows to include the extended Granlibakken family of Luis, Toni, Isti and the entire staff as well as Granlibakken’s friends in the Lake Tahoe and Tahoe City community.
On behalf of the Parson family, we at Granlibakken wish you a safe and merry holiday.
Posted in Holidays, international staff, Winter | No Comments »
Wednesday, December 15th, 2010
With snow fall increasing rapidly throughout yesterday and into the evening, North Lake Tahoe awoke to as much as two feet of fresh powder at higher elevations. A pillowy blanket of snow covered Granlibakken’s sled and ski hill at sunrise this morning to add to the base layer now firmly in place from the Thanksgiving storms. The snow expected Friday and Saturday and into next week will make our Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade and holiday festivities all the merrier.
 Sunrise at Granlibakken
Posted in Holidays, Sled Hill, Winter | No Comments »
Friday, December 10th, 2010
We at Tahoe Mountain Sports have to share what our friend Makenna’s been up to! Though she’s only 16 months, she’s hit the slopes 4 times this season already! It sure is a hard life growing up in Tahoe.
If you’re visiting Granlibakken with kids and want to get them up on the hill, know that skiing can be super fun at a young age. Though Makenna isn’t quite making her own turns yet, she’s getting the feel for the snow under her feet, and is charged up to hit the slopes, even wearing her ski boots around the house!
Read Makenna’s blog post on the Tahoe Mountain Sports blog for her tips and tricks to skiing when you’re little. Kids must be at least 7 years old to take a ski lesson at Granlibakken, but you can always access the hill on your own, or goof around in the snow play area.
This post is brought to you by Tahoe Mountain Sports in Kings Beach, on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe. Stop by while you’re in town, or visit us anytime online!
Tags: Tahoe Mountain Sports
Posted in Winter | No Comments »
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