February storms brought enough snow to keep the slopes full of powder until summer. With a dusting expected in the higher elevations on today, riders will be able to make fresh tracks before the skies open up Saturday and Sunday to more of those famous Tahoe bluebird days.

According to the National Weather Service in Reno, highs on the South Shore this weekend are supposed to be in the mid-50s � so bring plenty of sunscreen. Overnight lows may dip into the teens, which means one way or another those nighttime fires will need to be stoked.

The three South Shore resorts, Heavenly, Kirkwood and Sierra-at-Tahoe are boasting from 6 to 8 feet of new snow since the snow gods started dancing last week. Heavenly Mountain Resort (www.skiheavenly.com) has a base depth of 42-92 inches. On the top of Echo Summit, Sierra-at-Tahoe (www.sierratahoe.com) has a snowpack of 94 -155 inches. Kirkwood Mountain Resort (www.kirkwood.com) has a base depth of 150-220 inches of snow.

Looking for a deal to ride, check out www.bluelaketahoe.com before heading to Tahoe or visit your favorite Northern California ski shop. Schussing along the corduroy on those groomed runs and busting through the untamed powder in the trees are not the only things going on in Tahoe in March. Besides the casinos taking bets on all the hoopla surrounding March Madness and which major leaguer did or did not take steroids, there is the return of the Big Chill March 18-28.

In its second year, the 11-day celebration has something for everyone, whether you are looking for indoor or outdoor fun, family time, single time or adult time. The Stateline casinos, South Shore ski resorts, area businesses and restaurants are all participating � and just waiting for you to join in.

Below is a sampling of the Big Chill events. If you would like more information, log on to www.laketahoesbigchill.com, www.visitblueworld.com or www.harrahs.com. � March 19-20 Harrah�s will rock with George Thorogood; Caesars will roar with Dana Carvey. Check out Bobby Slayton at Horizon. � March 19 The South Shore Soldiers will put on a breast cancer benefit at Club Nero�s at Caesars. � March 20 and March 28 Caesars hosts $1,000 slot tournaments. � March 20 is Heavenly�s Rail Jam. � March 23 Mountain Film Festival shows in Harrah�s South Shore Room. � March 26-28 is the U.S. Freestyle Championships at Heavenly. � March 26-27 Kenny Loggins graces the stage at Harrah�s. � March 27 �8-minute Dating� is aboard the Tahoe Queen.

Also during Big Chill, look for family stay and ski packages; a tailgate and barbecue party at Stateline featuring Stagg Chili product tastings and live music; cruises aboard the paddlewheelers M.S. Dixie II and Tahoe Queen; snow jam parties at Harrah�s Altitude Nightclub; daily slot tournaments at Harveys; snowboard exhibitions, a torch light parade, fireworks, and events for kids all at Heavenly; ice carving competition at the new Marriott in Heavenly Village; spa deals at Harrah�s; karaoke competitions at Harrah�s Casino Center Stage; food and wine pairings at participating restaurants � and more.

Also in March there are the South Shore Soldiers Snowboard and Ski Camps March 8-13 and March 15-20 at Heavenly.

St. Patrick�s Day celebrations will be going on all over town at the Tahoe pubs. Check out The Tudor Pub, Mulligan�s Irish Pub, and Pub Tahoe for live music, drink specials, and great St. Patty�s Day parties.

Book a room today at 1-800-AT-TAHOE to ensure a reservation during Big Chill and to enjoy the best winter conditions for skiing and riding.

About the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority: The South Shore area of Lake Tahoe sits at the edge of one of the most stunningly blue lakes in the world, set high in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Visitors come year-round to experience the best in outdoor recreation including world-class snow skiing, boarding, snowmobiling, boating, golf, hiking and mountain biking and to enjoy the dynamic Nevada-style nightlife.

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Media Contact: Phil Weidinger +1 775-588-2412 results@weidingerpr.com