Squaw Valley, CA (Wednesday, May 11, 2005) - Die-hard California snow lovers still trying to squeeze the last flakes from winter were blessed again as Squaw Valley USA and Alpine Meadows ski resorts (the last open in the Lake Tahoe area) received over 12 inches of snow from the latest in a set of ongoing spring storms. Hours and access are limited, but lift tickets are discounted and the snow bases are still deep. Both resorts are scheduled to close May 30.

Squaw Valley's lifts operate daily from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. The pool and ice pavilion open at 11 a.m. and High Camp, the Pool & Spa and the Ice Pavilion will stay open until 4 p.m. Ski and snowboard lessons and rentals are still available. Squaw's spring lift ticket rates of $44 for an adult, $24 for junior or senior, and $5 for children aged 12 years and younger are now in effect.

The Summit Six chairlift at Alpine Meadows will operate daily from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m., wind and weather permitting, through a delayed closing date of May 30. The resort reports a 200-inch mid-mountain snow depth, and adult lift ticket rates have been reduced to $29. Alpine Meadows reports 18 inches of new snow at the summit from this latest storm.

Squaw Valley USA's aerial tram ascends to High Camp. (photo: First Tracks!! Online/Marc Guido)