Nestled amidst California's High Sierra peaks, two valleys have captured the imaginations of skiers and mountain explorers year after year. In this account, local author and longtime skier Eddy Starr Ancinas shares the histories of Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows as they've never been told before, including the stories of John Reily, Wayne Poulsen and Alex Cushing, the visionaries whose dreams and determination forever transformed North Lake Tahoe. Squaw made a name for itself on the world stage thanks to its surprise nomination as host of the 1960 Winter Olympics. Meanwhile, just one mountain apart, Alpine was built with the support of local skiers and Bay Area families. Today, a new chapter unfolds as the distinct philosophies behind Squaw and Alpine unite under common ownership.

One of the most amazing survival stories ever told -- journalist Jennifer Woodlief's gripping account of the deadliest ski-area avalanche in North American history and the woman who survived in the face of incalculable odds. On the morning of March 31, 1982, the snow had already been falling at a record rate for four days at Alpine Meadows ski resort near Lake Tahoe, California. For the vacationers and employees at the resort, this day would change their lives forever. The unprecedented avalanche that day at Alpine Meadows was a once-in-a-lifetime catastrophe. Much like the nor'easter that bedeviled the fishermen in Sebastian Junger's The Perfect Storm, an unforeseeable confluence of natural events created the conditions for an unimaginable disaster -- and, in one woman's case, an astonishing ordeal of survival. Jennifer Woodlief movingly tells the story of the massive slab avalanche that killed seven and left one victim buried alive under the snow. In this freak event, millions of tons of snow roared into the ski area and beyond, engulfing unsuspecting vacationers as well as resort employees working in spite of the danger. At the center of this wrenching tale of nature's fury are ski patrolman Larry Heywood and his team, who heroically fought with the help of a search-and-rescue dog to save a twenty-two-year-old woman trapped for five days underneath the suffocating snow -- a tale of survival that is itself an exploration of the capacity of courage. Written with all the suspense of a thriller, A Wall of White is an inspiring story of a group of strangers brought together by an inconceivable calamity -- a testament to the unwavering dedication of a band of rebel rescuers, driven only by a commitment to saving lives, battling not just extreme conditions but seemingly impossible odds.

"Embark on a literary journey to the majestic landscapes of the American West with George Wharton James in 'The Lake of the Sky.' Written in the early 20th century, this travel narrative invites readers to explore the breathtaking beauty and cultural richness of the Lake Tahoe region. As James traverses the shores of the 'Lake of the Sky,' he unravels the enchanting scenery, narrates the history of the indigenous people, and celebrates the outdoor adventures that define this idyllic destination. Through vivid prose and detailed observations, the narrative becomes a tribute to the natural wonders and the allure of Lake Tahoe. More than a travelogue, 'The Lake of the Sky' is a testament to James's passion for the American West. Join him on this literary expedition where each page unfolds a new chapter of discovery, making it an essential read for those captivated by the charm of Lake Tahoe and the splendor of the High Sierra."

From the glittering lake and trail-lined mountains to Old West towns and artsy urban centers, experience the best of this adventurous region with Moon Tahoe & Reno. Inside you'll find: Flexible itineraries, including a week-long Lake Tahoe road trip, long weekends for both winter and summer, and the one-week best of Tahoe and Reno Strategic advice for hikers, skiers, beach bums, families with kids, foodies and brewery lovers, and more The best hikes in Tahoe: Find your adventure, from challenging mountain treks to serene meadow walks, with trail descriptions, difficulty ratings, and maps Outdoor adventures for any season: Hit the slopes and get the first tracks through snow-covered pines or spark your adrenaline on the Heavenly Blue Streak zipline. Mountain bike along the breathtaking cliffside Flume Trail, whitewater raft down the Truckee River, and kayak the crystalline waters of Emerald Bay. Hike the rugged Rubicon Trail along the shores of Lake Tahoe to the remarkable Vikingsholm Castle or trek a section of the famed Pacific Crest Trail. Take a relaxing dip in a natural hot spring, soak in the serenity of a secret beach, and watch the sun set over the lake Must-see highlights and unique experiences: Drive around Lake Tahoe's 72-mile shoreline, stop at scenic viewpoints, and meander through Old West mountain towns. Stroll past the sculptures and boutiques of Reno's Truckee Riverwalk or explore the interactive installations of Reno Playa Art Park. Take a ride on a 150-year-old railroad route or descend deep into an underground mine. See what's on tap at Reno's award-winning craft breweries, sip craft cocktails in a trendy lounge or try your luck at a casino Expert advice from Tahoe local Nicole Szanto on where to eat, where to stay, and how to minimize your environmental impact Full-color photos and maps throughout, including a fold-out map Thorough background on the weather, wildlife, and history, plus tips on getting there and getting around by car and public transportation With Moon Tahoe & Reno's practical tips and local insight, you can plan your trip your way. Want to keep on driving? Pick up a copy of Moon Northern California Road Trips.

The only book devoted solely to chronicling the historic VIII Olympic Winter Games at Squaw Valley and Lake Tahoe.

Sunshine and nature: California as a beacon of better health Since the mid-19th century, the idea of California has lured many waves of migrants. Here, writer and editor Lyra Kilston explores a less examined attraction: the region's promise of better health. From ailing families seeking a miracle climate cure to iconoclasts and dropouts pursuing a remedy to societal corruption, the abundance of sunshine and untamed nature around the small but growing Los Angeles area offered them refuge and inspiration. In the wild west of medical practice, eclectic nature-cure treatments gained popularity. The source for this trend can be traced to the mountains and cold-water springs of Europe, where early sanatoriums were built to offer the natural cures of sun, air, water and diet; this sanatorium architecture was exported to the West Coast from Central Europe, and began to impact other types of building. Sun Seekers: The Cure of Californiaconstitutes the second volume of The Illustrated America(following 2016's Old Glory), Atelier Éditions' ongoing series excavating America's cultural past. Lyra Kilstonis a writer and editor focused on architecture, history, design and urbanism. Her work has appeared in Artforum, Los Angeles Review of Books, Time, Wiredand Hyperallergic, among other publications. She was on the curatorial team of Overdrive: LA Constructs the Future, 1940-1990, exhibited at the J. Paul Getty Museum and the National Building Museum.