Connor McGilvray ‘25 tows Ethan Lumanlan ‘25 to the starting point of the downhill tubing station at Tahoe Snowmobiles Snow Park. / Photo by Mariel Littorno
A Thrilling Adventure to South Lake Tahoe
SMC Annual Snow Trip is filled with tubing, snowmobiling, and skiing/snowboarding at Heavenly Mountain Resort
On March 8 & 9, Saint Mary’s students experienced the beauty of South Lake Tahoe through an action-packed adventure through funding provided by student enhancement fee. Participants were able to snow tube, snowmobile, or enjoy the slopes by skiing/snowboarding at Heavenly Mountain Resort. This adventure trip allowed students to embrace the thrill of winter sports and the stunning surroundings of the Sierra Nevada.
Snow Thrills
The trip kicked off with an exciting day of snow tubing, snowmobiling, and cozy igloos, the perfect activities for everyone to enjoy, no matter their experience level. Students zoomed down snowy hills, laughing and competing with friends in a fun, high-energy atmosphere. The snow park was the perfect atmosphere to take in the incredible views of Lake Tahoe and its surrounding wilderness. Some students opted to hit the slopes at Heavenly Mountain Resort to ski and snowboard across its vast, world-class terrain. From beginners to seasoned athletes, there were runs for everyone to enjoy, and the panoramic views of Lake Tahoe from the mountaintop made the experience even more breathtaking. Participants shared that this trip was exactly what they needed to escape and destress. "This Lake Tahoe trip was exactly what I needed to escape from the stresses and anxieties of my academics. Simply hanging out in the snow and at the lake watching the sunset was perfect. Would totally do it again if given the chance."
"This Lake Tahoe trip was exactly what I needed to escape from the stresses and anxieties of my academics. Simply hanging out in the snow and at the lake watching the sunset was perfect. Would totally do it again if given the chance."
- Snow Trip Attendee
Relaxation at The Coachman with Complimentary S’mores
After a day of outdoor excitement, students retreated to the boutique Coachman Hotel, a cozy and modern escape nestled in the heart of South Lake Tahoe. The hotel’s rustic yet chic décor created the perfect atmosphere for relaxation, with its inviting rooms and hot tub. To cap off the evening, guests enjoyed complimentary s’mores around the hotel’s fire pit. It was a delightful way to unwind, share stories from the day, and bond with friends. Students who attended the event shared the event as so enjoyable. "This was a very splendid event. I am so happy to attend and enjoyed every single bit of it. I haven’t even been to Tahoe in many years."
"This was a very splendid event. I am so happy to attend and enjoyed every single bit of it. I haven’t even been to Tahoe in many years."
-Snow Trip Attendee
Enhancement Fee Creating Lasting Memories
The trip to South Lake Tahoe was more than just a getaway—it was an opportunity for students to challenge themselves, connect and make lifelong memories. Whether it was the thrill of snow tubing, the adventure of snowmobiling, or the rush of skiing at Heavenly, students were left with a sense of accomplishment and a stronger sense of community. The cozy stay at The Coachman and the sweet treat of s’mores added the perfect touch to an unforgettable experience.
This trip to South Lake Tahoe offered the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and bonding, leaving students with stories and memories to treasure for years to come.
