Squaw Valley vs. Kirkwood?

Question

Which ski resort is better? I'm heading up to Lake Tahoe in awhile with my brother and dad- all beginners. So for those who have went to one or both resorts, which did you like better? And which sport do you recommend learning- skiing or snowboarding?

all feedback appreciated.

Answer 1

Snowboarding is easier to learn, but painful at first. Squaw is to expensive to go with unexperienced skiers. ($77 i think)

Answer 2

Personally, I like squaw, but I go for the out of bounds terrain more.  I hear a lot that Kirkwood is the more fmaily place, like the last poster said.  

As for Skiing vs snow boarding...  there are a few factors.  Skiing is probably easier at first, but snowboarding has a much faster learning curve.  One of the biggest differences to the beginner is also the comfort level.  Snowboarding boots are just more comfortable.  BUT, if you do not have experience on snow, or on some sort of equipment with a similar balance point (surfing, skateboarding) you WILL be on your butt a LOT.  I think people have a better time that very first day out if they are on skis.  The independence of the feet is a big aspect.  2 skis vs 1 snow board....

Answer 3

skiing because it is easyer to learn and then youll have more fun besides i just love skiing so much more i have done both and skiing by far is more fun idk which ski resort though

Answer 4

I personally enjoy squaw valley as a mountain because it has a lot more terrain and an awesome village. However it is not as family friendly as kirkwood, the employees are not as helpful or friendly as those in kirkwood. There are typically not a whole lot of lift lines at kirkwood and the lines aren't terrible at squaw this time of year either.

Also it depends where your staying in Tahoe, if you in Tahoe city or Truckee (not actually part of Tahoe), kirkwood is about an hour twenty drive while squaw is 10-15 minutes tops. If your staying near Meyers or south lake kirkwood is way closer.

Since you are beginners I would recommend kirkwood because the lessons are better and the environment is more beginner & family friendly. I would also recommend skiing unless you like a bruised bottom and ego. The first three days on a snowboard are brutal, but it gets easier after that. Skiing is easier at first but you do not improve quite as quickly.