Gear Review & Tech Talk

-By Tom Mooers KSL's proposed development raises a lot of questions about the future of Squaw Valley. For example, what if we end up in the nightmare scenario of too much development and not enough water? Everywhere we turn this summer, we're reminded of the value — and the scarcity — of water in the region. Throughout Tahoe, we are...

Here at the Granite Chief we get a lot of through Pacific Crest Trail hikers stopping by the shop. They stop by to replace their worn out shoes, pick up a new water filter, or purchase a new cooking stove or other essentials they need for the rest of the time on the trail. Speaking with these individuals we get...

-By Jessie Cassidy When it comes to sunglasses, Smith Optics is an undisputed leader in the industry, producing quality products for nearly 50 years. Recently, Smith rolled out a new feature in its already banger sunglass line, ChromaPop technology. ChromaPop filters out confusion, and makes colors pop, creating a unique sunglass experience that makes a world of difference. According to...

-By Crystal Roberston Le Grand Adventure Tours was started by Jeff and Crystal Robertson last year. Together they have traveled the world surfing, skiing, snowboarding and biking. They even followed the 100th Tour De France in 2013 from start to finish for their honeymoon. Together, they have focused their lives around sports, adventure, passion and building their community of like...

When it comes to hiking, camping, climbing, or just being outdoors at dusk, dawn, or night, you want a headlamp that provides superior light and functionality. That’s where Black Diamond comes in with their stellar line of headlamps that make any outdoor experience a pleasant one. With a variety of headlamps to choose from, whether you’re looking for extended battery...

Placer supes to hear Squaw Valley project during Monday workshop by the Sierra Sun OLYMPIC VALLEY, Calif. – The Place County Board of Supervisors will hold public workshop on the Village at Squaw Valley redevelopment project at 3 p.m. Monday at Base Camp, located in the existing Squaw Village. The workshop will include a presentation by county staff and the...

Dates: August 15-24, 2014 Looking for summer skiing opportunities? Join the North American Ski Training Center (NASTC) this August for their 20th annual Summer Dream Skiing Camp in Portillo, Chile. The NASTC Portillo Summer Dream Skiing camp is the ultimate southern hemisphere skiing experience. Uncrowded slopes, beautiful scenery, the warmth of Chilean culture, great wine and delicious food from Chile’s...

-By Lee Crouch A number of years ago when I lived and worked in the Sierra Nevada backcountry of Kings Canyon National Park, I can remember several times getting a good chuckle at the expense of some young greenhorn who would show up at the trailhead in sandals, shorts, and a bag of trail mix, claiming he was going to...

Looking for something fun to do on Tuesday nights this summer? Come join us at 5 o’clock every Tuesday through July at West End Beach on Donner Lake for free paddle board and kayak lessons and demos. Starting June 24th, and running all the way through July, our staff along with factory representatives will be on hand to show you...

"Step away from the traditional walls of a studio and onto your floating mat – a BOGA Yoga paddleboard. Here you will connect with the elements and experience yoga like you never have before. Breathe in the fresh air and flow through yoga poses in rhythm with the gently rippling water. You'll learn the basic of paddleboarding at the beginning...