SMC Students Hit the Slopes

Students savor the opportunity to ski, snowboard, ride a tube down the mountain hill—and take a trip in the gondola at Heavenly Ski Resort.

by Campus Recreation | February 6, 2024

Saint Mary’s students hit the slopes this past weekend and it was one to remember. The Department of Campus Recreation organized the snow trip to South Lake Tahoe on February 3 and 4, with the excursion fully funded by the enhancement fee. Although weather reports called for fierce conditions, that did not stop our Gaels from enjoying the camaraderie and scenic views of the Tahoe summits. Students formed closer bonds with classmates and made lasting memories.

There was the thrill of the activity—and a chance to get to know fellow students. As one fourth-year student put it, "The trip helped me form a closer bond to people that I never really talked to before."

"The trip helped me form a closer bond to people that I never really talked to before."
— Class of ’24 Trip Participant

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Olivia Virgin ‘24 and Derek O’Conner ‘24 enjoy the Gondola Ride at Heavenly Ski Resort at South Lake Tahoe
Olivia Virgin ‘24 and Derek O’Conner ‘24 enjoy the gondola ride at Heavenly Ski Resort at South Lake Tahoe./ Photo courtesy of Derek O’Connor ‘24

The bus departed at 6 a.m. on Saturday, February 3, with 50 SMC students on board. Trip attendees were able to ski, snowboard, ride a tube down the mountain hill—and take a ride on the gondola—to view the magnificent scenery of Lake Tahoe. This adventure trip was not like any other in the past: Students stayed overnight at the Golden Nugget Hotel and gathered together in the evening to watch SMC Men’s Basketball beat Gonzaga in a thrilling game.

Having transportation, accommodation, and more organized for the trip opened the door for participation. "The ski trip provided me an opportunity to do something I otherwise never would have been able to do," said one third year student. "I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to do it!"

"The ski trip provided me an opportunity to do something I otherwise never would have been able to do, and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to do it!"
—Class of ’25 Trip Participant

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SMC Students gather in the casino at the Golden Nugget Hotel after a day in the snow to watch the Gaels beat Gonzaga in the Men’s Basketball match up on February 3, 2024./Photo courtesy of Olivia Virgin ‘24
Watch party: SMC Students gather in the casino at the Golden Nugget Hotel after a day in the snow to watch the Gaels beat Gonzaga in the Men’s Basketball matchup. / Photo courtesy Olivia Virgin ’24

This trip was funded by your Enhancement Fee.

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