Exploring Lake Tahoe

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson talks to three local experts about how to make the most of a winter trip to Lake Tahoe.

First up, Johnson learns the ins and outs of skiing South Lake Tahoe with Robin Barnes, director of skier services at Heavenly Mountain Resort. Barnes shares what initially drew her to alpine skiing and why teaching the sport is so rewarding. “Some people maybe don't grow up playing sports and then you put them on a pair of skis and they realize they're actually quite talented,” she says. Barnes then offers a beginner’s guide to skiing, sharing tips on where to rent equipment, the benefits of taking lessons, and the joys of hitting the slopes for the first time. She also name-checks some of her favorite expert runs at Heavenly.

Next, Johnson explores more snow sports options with Aaron Pearlman, manager of the Northstar Cross-Country, Telemark, and Snowshoe Center in North Lake Tahoe. Pearlman gives an overview of Nordic sports and how visitors can enjoy them. “You just attach these snowshoes onto your boots, go out into the forest, and stroll around through fresh snowfall,” he says, “It's just the most amazing and quiet experience.”

Lastly, Johnson talks with seasoned travel writer and 20-year Tahoe resident Ann Marie Brown. Brown discusses her favorite off-mountain activities for anyone looking to enjoy Tahoe’s winter without strapping on skis. “People are so surprised that you can go out on a boat on Lake Tahoe in the wintertime and have a great time, be cozy, warm, and see amazing scenery,” Brown says. She also highlights some don’t-miss restaurants, breweries, and spas in the area.

GUESTS

Robin Barnes, director of skier services at Heavenly Mountain Resort

Aaron Pearlman, manager of the Northstar Cross-Country, Telemark, and Snowshoe Center

Ann Marie Brown, travel writer

RESOURCES

Robin Barnes is the director of skier services at Heavenly Mountain Resort in South Lake Tahoe.

South Lake Tahoe

Heavenly Mountain Resort

Heavenly Beginner Skiing

Ski Rentals at Heavenly

California Main Lodge

Aaron Pearlman is the manager of the Northstar Cross-Country, Telemark, and Snowshoe Center in North Lake Tahoe.

North Lake Tahoe

Northstar Cross-Country, Telemark, and Snowshoe Center

Northstar California Resort

Ann Marie Brown has written over a dozen travel guides and has been a Lake Tahoe resident for more than 20 years.

Lake Tahoe

Boating in Lake Tahoe

The Idle Hour

Tahoe City

West Shore Cafe

Kings Beach State Recreation Area

The Hangar Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe AleWorX

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Lake Tahoe

Palisades Tahoe

Everline Resort & Spa

Olympic Valley

BioSpirit Spa

Tahoe Ice Arena

Truckee Ice Rink

Northstar Village Ice Skating Rink

Scenic Gondola

Palisades Tahoe Aerial Tram

Tamarack Lodge

ABOUT THE HOST

Soterios Johnson, formerly the local host of National Public Radio’s Morning Edition on New York radio station WNYC, has been the host of the California Now Podcast since its inception in 2018.

OUR TEAM

Host, Soterios Johnson

Editorial Director, John Godfrey

Producer, Kate Eplboim

Technical Producer, Jessica Marshall

Theme music, Aaron Taos