Best place in Northern California

As far as Tahoe goes (and not including backcountry spots)....Squaw is the best (in my opinion) mountain in Tahoe by far, but if cost is a concern then Alpine has for the most part the same quality terrain, just a smaller mountain. If you like park, then I would say Northstar has the best park, but for any other skiing it's rather boring and flat (and it's also pretty expensive). South lake has the better party scene, but with the exception of Kirkwood (which is pretty far away from South lake anyway) the skiing down there doesn't even compare to what North lake has.

I always tell people to go to Squaw if they haven't been there before, it's my favorite Tahoe resort to hit up. Nice little base village to walk around, cool ice skating rink + swimming pool/hot tub up top, and really really good skiing.

ya i definitely agree its squaw. i always ski at sugarbowl which is a lot smaller but its cheaper and still fun

Squaw does have the sickest mountain terrain, but once you throw in all other factors, (park, people, scene, cost and convenience) Alpine is your best bet. Squaw is the big show though and is a must see for someone who has never been to Tahoe.