Winter storm warnings were in effect for much of the Sierra Nevada as we sent this edition to press with several snow storms already bringing early season snow to the higher elevations. Some folks have even enjoyed some early season skiing already (read my roundup on the upcoming ski season in this edition).
With everyone preparing for winter, the timing is perfect for the return of our Tahoe Film & Foodie Guide, which has been on hiatus during the pandemic. I started the guide a few years ago to highlight what had become Tahoe’s Film & Foodie season – that time when the weather starts to transition from sunny, warm days to wet, chilly days and it’s too muddy or snowy to hike and mountain bike in the higher elevations. Too early for skiing, as well, film showings and foodie events had become the thing to do to fill this in-between season.
This year, many of those events have returned and they offer a great opportunity to come together again, to enjoy our love of mountain culture and adventure films, to enjoy foodie events together and to see friends you may not have seen for a long time.
One of the things I’m most excited about is the upcoming theatrical release of “Buried: The 1982 Alpine Meadows Avalanche” by local filmmakers Jared Drake and Steven Siig. This project has been in the works for years and we’ve been awaiting its release. We have details on the new film in the guide and we’re talking to the filmmakers for a more in-depth feature for our next edition. I’ve also been reading “A Wall of White” about the avalanche in anticipation of the film showing and have already purchased my tickets. I suggest buying tickets early to all the events featured in our guide as many will likely sell out.
Visitors needed
Many of the small communities scattered through the Sierra Nevada have been devasted by raging wildfires this year, including the small town of Markleeville located south of Lake Tahoe. Renowned for its fishing, fall color, seemingly endless miles of trails, stunning beauty and friendly residents, Markleeville and the surrounding areas of Hope Valley, Woodfords and Kirkwood depend on visitors to support their economy. Tim Hauserman recently rode through the scarred hillsides to Markleeville, visiting with some of the locals. Read his feature “Town survived fire but needs tourists” in this edition and the guest column from the local chamber director.
I’ve been to the area many times and it’s one of my favorite spots to visit in our region. Plan a day or two, enjoy the trails and the historic sights, eat out a lot, pack the fishing gear and help this small community get back on its feet.
