Midterms were exhausting. I was drained from studying, running on caffeine with only 5 hours of sleep. The moment my last exam ended, I had only 15 minutes to quickly pack my belongings before heading out to pick up a Turo rental. Four hours later—after hurried preparations, a quick gas station meal, and an impromptu karaoke session — we arrived in South Lake Tahoe. The trip had officially begun.
Where to Stay?
We chose Sierra-at-Tahoe for its affordability compared to other resorts while still offering excellent skiing conditions. The slopes were well-maintained, the scenery was breathtaking, and it provided the perfect balance of challenge and accessibility. Our Airbnb was located 20 minutes away, and though not the most luxurious, it served as a comfortable place to relax after long days on the slopes. I spent all of my 3 nights at least an hour in the outdoor hot tub. Even though we were still sleep-deprived, the atmosphere was filled with energy as we cooked meals together and prepared for early mornings on the mountain.
The Day
By 9 AM the next day, after a quick breakfast, we were ready to hit the slopes. Skiing at 40 miles per hour down the mountain was exhilarating—a moment of pure relief from the stress of exams. Feeling the wind blowing the crisp mountain air broke through the mental fatigue of the midterm week as my adrenaline screamed for me to hold tight and not die.
The sense of adventure carried beyond the slopes. After hours of skiing, we returned to our Airbnb, exhausted but still eager to make the most of the trip. Cooking together became a nightly tradition, an activity filled with laughter as we attempted to make ramen meals. Late-night conversations in the hot tub stretched into the early hours of the morning, fueled by the excitement of being away from campus, surrounded by friends, and immersed in an environment so different from our daily routines.
College is the time to create unforgettable memories with friends. Years from now, we won’t even remember the midterms we spent days stressing about, but we will remember the feeling of racing down the slopes, the chaos of last-minute packing, and the late-night talks filled with laughter. These are the moments that shape our college experience—the spontaneous trips, the shared excitement, and the ability to embrace adventure despite exhaustion. Balancing academics with these experiences is what makes the journey fulfilling, allowing us to look back on our college years with no regrets.
Why choose Tahoe?
While a Tahoe trip can be expensive, it was a worthwhile investment. Ski passes, rentals, lodging, and travel costs added up, but these expenses were justified by the experience. Taking breaks and stepping away from academic stress is essential, and this trip served as an important reminder of that balance.
For those considering a weekend getaway, Tahoe is an excellent choice in any season. In winter, the skiing is unmatched; in summer, the lake and hiking trails offer incredible opportunities for outdoor activities. Now that I am back home, my body is exhausted, but my mind feels recharged. 5 out of 5. I can’t wait for the next time I go back.