Lake Tahoe tourism slows as unusual winter brings low snowpack and fewer visitors

"Lake Tahoe communities that rely heavily on tourism are feeling the strain of an unusual winter marked by big bursts of snow followed by long, dry stretches. Ski resorts remain open, but conditions are far from ideal, and the region's snowpack is sitting below normal levels."

"Nick Koenig, a worker at Mountain Slice Pizza, described the slowdown of business as 'desperately slow,' and 'very quiet.' Koenig says during other seasons, there are typically least like 60 or even 100 customers. 'But today it's been like five,' he said."

"Despite the slow winter season, the North Lake Tahoe Community Alliance remains optimistic. The group believes spring could still bring a tourism rebound, offering visitors a mix of activities ranging from skiing to hiking."

Lake Tahoe communities dependent on tourism are experiencing significant economic challenges due to an unusual winter pattern of heavy snow followed by extended dry periods. Snowpack levels remain below normal despite recent storms, creating suboptimal ski conditions. Visitor behavior has shifted, with lodging occupancy declining and restaurants experiencing reduced customer traffic. Mountain Slice Pizza reported customer counts dropping from typical 60-100 visitors to just five on some days. Despite current difficulties, the North Lake Tahoe Community Alliance maintains optimism about potential spring tourism recovery, anticipating visitors will return for diverse activities including skiing and hiking.

Read at ABC7 San Francisco