Squaw Valley Cable Car is Open for Summer Season

The Squaw Valley cable car is in operation for the 2009 summer season. Taking a ride on this conveyance from the Village at Squaw Valley to High Camp at 8200 feet is an adventure in itself. Simply put, it's a spectacular ascent of 2000 vertical feet. I especially like the part where the cable car heads straight for a granite wall, then rises abruptly to sweep you over the rocks and on to the top station. The gondolas have have huge windows, giving riders a 360 degree view - there are no bad seats.

High Camp can be a destination in itself. There is a big swimming pool, ice rink, restaurant, shopping, and mountain meadows for casual strolling. The Olympic rings from the 1960 Winter Games are still standing out on the deck overlooking Squaw Valley. For hikers and mountain bikers, High Camp can be your base for trips into the back country on a series of nearby trails. When the snow flies, the whole summer scene changes gears and the tram becomes a luxurious transport for skiers (no freezing on long lift rides).

During summer 2009, the Squaw Valley cable car will run from June 20 through September 13. Hours and rates vary, so check the Squaw Valley cable car schedule and rates before heading out. Weather is a factor that can affect operation - if in doubt, call for information at (530) 583-6985.

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