Lake Tahoe attracts tourists and skiers of all stripes

Squaw Valley offers big-lake views, and options to explore long groomed runs, open bowls, classic mogul lines, and the cliffs of the Palisades. Photo: Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows

Lake Tahoe isn’t just a ski destination. It’s a way of life – one that attracts both powder-hungry tourists and professional ­athletes to this scenic area, anchored by an alpine lake straddling the California-Nevada state line.

“Your backyard is basically a giant playground,” said Olympic gold medallist Julia Mancuso, who was born in Reno, Nevada, but grew up in California’s Squaw Valley (aka Olympic Valley), host of the 1960 Winter Games and home to what’s arguably the best-known ski resort in Tahoe.