Max and I have both the EPIC pass and IKON pass this year, so needless to say, we ski a lot. The problem with the Lake Tahoe region is that there are not a lot of high end resorts. In Squaw in particular, there is only really the one. The Resort at Squaw Creek was built for the 1960s Olympics and proudly displays that heritage throughout the property. We’ve had the pleasure of staying at the Resort at Squaw Creek for a few campaigns as well as for personal ski trips in the last couple of years and we’re excited to tell you all about our experience.
Location: 5/5
Squaw Valley is a beautiful little slice of Lake Tahoe heaven. The Resort is located near the entrance to the valley and has an expansive property with ski-in ski-out lift access, an 18-hole golf course and an ice-skating rink in the winter. Given its direct lift access, it’s the only property with a 5 star location in Squaw. The lift accesses the entire mountain of Squaw and makes it incredibly easy for families and friends alike.
Most guests drive to Lake Tahoe from the surrounding areas- if you do fly into Reno, it may be worth renting a car if you plan to explore Lake Tahoe.
Lobby & Check in experience: 4/5
The lobby really is spectacular. With floor to ceiling windows that have incredible views of Squaw mountain and ample seating by a large fireplace, the lobby really is a truly cozy place to hang out. The lobby is the central hub of the resort and was built to impress.
As I mentioned, Max and I have stayed at the Resort several times now, and I will say that the front desk staff has improved remarkably since Destination Resorts was acquired by Hyatt Hotels. The staff are eager to please, helpful and provide information about the resort during check in. The bellman are still on the slow and irritated side, but at least you’re welcomed with open arms by the front desk.
Rooms: 4/5
Across the multiple stays we’ve had here, we’ve stayed in a king room, a double room and a fireplace suite. The standard rooms are comfortable, but certainly lack any personal touches like art or decor. The Fireplace Suite has significantly more appeal, with beautiful light fixtures, a warm gas fireplace and decorative pillows. The Fireplace Suites also have kitchenettes with microwaves, sinks and a size-able mini-fridge. All the rooms have ample space for ski attire in the entry-way, which is really nice when you carry all your gear up to the room.
We were upgraded to the Fireplace Suite on this stay and were so excited. It really is a huge upgrade from the standard rooms and we highly recommend it if you’re considering whether or not its worth it.
The bathrooms in all the rooms are well equipped and the products are Nest branded. We love their toiletries and appreciate the extra touch of these luxury products.
One note about the rooms is that they are not soundproofed well at all. If you’re a light sleeper with a loud neighbor, be sure to bring some earplugs.
Facilities: 5/5
The Resort has everything you need for a winter, and summer, holiday in the Tahoe area. There is a large pool, two hot tubs, a full spa, on-site dining options and the ski valet. There is enough happening on the property to never have to leave. Not a skier? No problem – check out the ice-skating rink in the winter.
All guests also have access to the spa facilities that include the sauna, steam room and showers for free. This is a great option if you check out early but still want to hang out on property before heading home or catching a late flight.
The hotel also offers a shuttle into Squaw Village during the day and the evening, so it is easy to get to the restaurants and downtown area.
They do offer valet parking for a charge, but self-parking is also available for free and its a bit quicker than dealing with the bellman.
Dining: 4.5/5
There are 6 onsite dining options at the Resort at Squaw Creek so there really is something for everyone. Our favorite is Sandy’s Pub, the casual outlet that serves great sandwiches and burgers. We’ve also enjoyed breakfast at Cascades and the buffet is excellent. The buffet is $30 a person and includes non-alcoholic beverages, made to order eggs and a full buffet offering pastries, eggs, waffles, pancakes and more.
We have not tried the other dining outlets, but have heard they are good.
Service: 4/5
Since the Hyatt acquisition last year, we have seen a noticeable improvement in the staff, particularly the front desk staff. We were pleasantly surprised when we checked in and they were genuinely excited to see us. Housekeeping has also improved. They do a good job and come once a day. While there is no turndown service, they do a thorough clean daily.
We also loved the welcome amenity we received when we checked in. We’d had a long day and had expressed excitement about arriving at the hotel and they had a bottle of my favorite wine and a cheese platter waiting for us upon arrival.
Style: 3.5/5
The hotel was built for the 1960s Olympics and still displays all the flags, Olympic rings and history throughout the property- which we love. There are beautiful cascading waterfalls that flow through the hotel and the lobby is a truly stunning centerpiece for the property.
The rooms, while clean and updated, are fairly bland and decor-free unless you book the suites. We do hope in the future that they incorporate more of the “mountain feel” into the rooms, as they have done in the lobby.
Overall: 4.29
Overall, this property is a great option in Squaw and the Lake Tahoe area. It’s the perfect family resort and you never have to leave the hotel to have a great vacation. The direct lift access is a major advantage and the only other resort with this offering is the Ritz-Carlton in Northstar. We love staying at the Resort at Squaw Creek and can’t wait to return.
