With the largest concentration of ski resorts in North America, Lake Tahoe is California’s best skiing destination. The ski season typically lasts from November to May and frequently extends into the summer. Lift tickets last winter ranged from $44 to $75 per day for adults, and from free to $39 for children, with special rates for seniors. Ticket prices rise every year, but bargains are available, particularly midweek. Many resorts, hotels, and motels offer ski packages. It’s a 4-hour drive from San Francisco; take I-80 east to Sacramento, and then U.S. 50 to the South Shore. Be prepared for snow in the winter. During heavy storms, you won’t be permitted to pass the CHP (California Highway Patrol) checkpoints without four-wheel-drive or chains.