Ski conditions ideal, more snow in forecast

By Kathryn Reed

TWIN BRIDGES — Clouds are expected to move into the area today, with a 30 percent chance of snow tonight above 6,500 feet. This means all the Lake Tahoe resorts will get freshies because lake level is 6,200.

The best chance for snow, according to the National Weather Service, is Monday night — with an 80 percent chance. But don’t be surprised if it’s snowing most of Monday. This seems appropriate since it’s the first day of winter.

Riders waste no time -- Sierra's terrain park on Bashful opened Dec. 19. Photo/Kathryn Reed

Temps will drop as the white stuff comes — expect highs in the 30s, lows in the 20s.

Christmas Day is going to be sunny, assuming forecasters are correct.

Bare skin was seen at Sierra-at-Tahoe’s West Bowl on Saturday as the mercury crept into the 40s. The new deck area was full of skiers and boarders taking a break from the groomers.

Coverage is excellent — no obstacles. The trees are a little crunchy, with not many people venturing off the designated trails.

The terrain park on Bashful opened Saturday much to the delight of mostly boarders trying tricks on the attractions. A flat box, corrugated pipe, flat down rail, and a jump are some of the eight features.

For people venturing into the back country, the avalanche danger is moderate above 8,000 feet.