In spite of the deep snowpack and winter weather this week, it's clear this time of year, that the end is near. However, as the ski season fades, the mourning is likely short, as our attention turns to watersports and long summer days in Lake Tahoe.

And Then There Was One
Although Alpine Meadows will open a lift on the weekends for the next few weeks, Palisades Tahoe USA is the sole resort remaining open daily, with operations scheduled through Mother's Day, May 9th. Operations will of course be slashed, but the resort has thrown and bone to the hungry passholders with the promise of KT-22 to remain on the list for the duration. That alone eases the pain of the final weeks.

For an up to date operations schedule, visit squaw.com.

Lake Level Rising
A critical component of Tahoe summer, the lake, is coming into its own. After hitting its lowest level in several years over the winter, the consistent snow this winter, the remaining robust snowpack, and the continuing spring storms provide a good outlook for this summer's lake level's rise.

Rafting companies on the Truckee River are hoping to fare better than last year, when they had to close in early August due to low water levels.

While its uncertain how far it will actually come up, it appears that for much of the summer, the lake will again provide the stage for wonderful summer experiences in Tahoe.

You can follow the lake level on Tahoetopia's front page, and find detailed graphs on the Water Watch page.