With record-breaking seasonal snowfall totals reaching nearly 800 inches, and a robust snowpack that's expected to last well into summer, Palisades Tahoe USA has announced that the resort will open for skiing and riding over 4th of July Weekend.

“It is certainly uncommon to be able ski in July but it is truly unheard of to be operating at the capacity that we will be operating on July 4th Weekend,” said Andy Wirth, Palisades Tahoe’s Chief Executive Officer. “With five lifts including the Funitel and Gold Coast Express, pool parties, live music and the Lake Cushing Crossing, this will be the Ultimate Independence Day Weekend.”

Squaw plans to operate the Funitel, Gold Coast, Shirley Lake, Links and the Cable Car from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 2 through Monday, July 4, weather permitting.

Lift tickets for 4th of July weekend will be $49 per day for adults and $12 for kids 12 and under. July skiing and riding will be included for 2011-12 Palisades Tahoe season passholders, and all tickets for the weekend will include a free commemorative T-shirt.

The Ultimate Independence Day Weekend will include pool parties, barbecues and drink specials at Palisades Tahoe’s High Camp Swimming Pool and Hot Tub at el. 8200’. At the base of the mountain, the KT Sundeck will offer music and cold beers to après skiers. The 4th of July Fine Arts and Crafts Festival also takes place in the Village at Palisades Tahoe Friday through Sunday.

Rescheduled due to snowfall on Memorial Day Weekend, Palisades Tahoe will host the 21st Annual Lake Cushing Crossing, the resort’s acclaimed pond skimming event on Sunday, July 3rd. This wildly entertaining competition challenges participants to cross the vast and chilly waters of Lake Cushing on skis, a snowboard or any ski or snowboard-based vessel. Known for its colossal crashes, hilarious costumes, and ultra-creative pond skimming contraptions, the event kicks off at 2 p.m. at the Cushing Pond.

For more information, operations schedules, and a complete summer event calendar, visit www.squaw.com.