The Resort at Squaw Creek : Lake Tahoe Summer and Ski Vacation for Special Needs

the resort at squaw creek ski vacation
Photo Courtesy the Resort at Squaw Creek

Last summer I had the great fortune to explore the Lake Tahoe area not once, but twice. It had been several years since a previous visit, and the first thing I thought when I arrived was, “Why has it taken me so long to come back here.”

the resort at squaw creek - where to stay in squaw valley north lake tahoe
The lobby at the Resort at Squaw Creek. The photo just doesn’t do the huge picture windows and valley views justice.

The first visit was on my own for a press trip; I enjoyed it so much I had to bring my family back. We agreed we had to find a way to come back for a ski vacation. The Resort at Squaw Creek is a great Lake Tahoe hotel for families with special needs.

golf at the resort at squaw creek - squaw valley north lake tahoe
Golf at the resort at Squaw Creek in North Lake Tahoe / Squaw Valley

Here are my top reasons for visiting the Resort at Squaw Creek:

It’s SO Relaxing

My first thought was how perfect the location was for children with sensory issues – and moms craving peace and quiet. With wide views of the valley and mountains beyond, it’s a visual escape that provides rest to your soul. Being surrounded by nature, nothing is heard but the wind in the trees. Take some “me time” and go for a hike, play a leisurely round of golf, relax by the pool or enjoy the spa.

Great Handicap Accessibility

From paved sidewalks to pool lifts, elevators to ADA rooms, the resort at Squaw Creek has all of the accessibility bases covered. There are various room configurations, including some with kitchenettes. There’s so much to do at the hotel that there’s no reason to leave, but for off-property outings, like horseback riding, the activities desk can help find out what will work for your family. Make sure to explain specifics about what kind of accessibility you need.  We found great accessible hiking options at the top of the Squaw Valley Tram.

pool at the resort at squaw creek
All of the pools and the hot tub at The resort at Squaw Creek have ADA lifts. And this slide is pretty fun!

6 Delicious Restaurants on Property

There’s a wonderful selection of restaurants at the resort, you could enjoy all your meals on site. There was a nice room service menu, and at all restaurants, options for food allergies were provided upon request. You could start every day at the Bloody Mary bar – I mean, you ARE on vacation.

dinner on the patio at the resort at squaw creek
Patio dining with breath-taking views and fantastic food at one of the resort restaurants.

Skiing, Hiking, Shopping and, oh yeah – Lake Tahoe

If you want to explore more of the area, Squaw Village is right across the valley, just a few minute drive. There are shops and restaurants, as well as a tram to the top of the ski area. From the tram you can find handicap accessible hiking trails during the summer. You are also close to the north area of Lake Tahoe for lake activities. Of course there’s skiing at Squaw Valley, as well as an adaptive ski program at nearby Alpine Meadows.

horse back riding in north lake tahoe alpine meadows
Horse back riding at nearby Alpine Meadows.
west shore cafe at lake tahoe
Dinner on Lake Tahoe at the West Shore Cafe – Look at that view! And the food was incredible.

Getting to the Resort at Squaw Creek

Experiences and amenities aside, my favorite thing about travel is always the people that I meet along the way.  My first visit I met Tal Fletcher, owner of Tahoe Sierra Transportation.  Over the course of a lengthy conversation I found out that he was the guide for the first para-athelete to reach the South Pole.  An inspiring story that especially resonated with me.  It’s a reminder that anything is possible, the only limits are those that we place on ourselves.  Gallery Keoki in Squaw Valley features photos from that expedition that will blow you away.  Tahoe Sierra Transportation has full-sized Suburbans, pick you up and the airport and take you to your hotel.  They were so great to work with, especially if you are traveling with a wheelchair or extra equipment.  Give them a call, they’ll take good care of you.

tahoe sierra transport - getting to the resort at squaw creek
Meet Tal from Tahoe Sierra Transport – Great car service from Reno airport to Lake Tahoe resorts like Squaw Creek.

Now is the time to book your ski trip, if you sign up for the newsletter on the resort at Squaw Creek’s website, you’ll be notified of the best deals.

resort at squaw creek where to stay in lake tahoe north
The Resort at Squaw Creek

The Resort at Squaw Creek
400 Squaw Creek Road
Olympic Valley, CA 96146
(800) 327.3353