Hit the slopes and the links all in one day

March, April (and, yes, even May) bring weather that can keep everyone in Carson City guessing. Many days during these months feel like springtime with warmer weather and sunshine, but a cold snap can come out of nowhere bringing frosty temperatures, sometimes happening all in one day.

While the weather may offer surprises, the days of spring provide a truly Nevada-centric experience with an unexpected combination of activities. The wacky weather means it’s time to grab the skis or snowboard and bring out the golf clubs for a day outdoors in Carson City!

Start your day on the slopes

Lake Tahoe has some of the best skiing and snowboarding on the West Coast. Heavenly Mountain Resort, Diamond Peak Ski Resort, and Mt. Rose – Ski Tahoe are all about 30 minutes away from Carson City. Each resort offers stellar views of Lake Tahoe that are perfect for drinking in while you make your way down the mountain.

After you’ve had your fill of the spring skiing conditions, or perhaps you cozied up with a book or game of cribbage at the lodge, or even worked on your goggle tan outside on the deck – it’s time ’fore’ your next activity.

Pro Tip: Most resorts allow you to rent gear and take lessons, making it perfect for adventurers of all skill levels. All the major resorts offer ski and snowboard rentals and lessons, but if you want to skip the lines, stop by Blue Zone Sports in south Carson City the night before or on your way up to the mountain.

Refuel with a quick lunch

Skip the lines and spendy resort food prices and grab a quick bite for lunch in Carson City.

Bella Vita Bistro & Catering offers a selection of great salads and sandwiches, some of which are the classics you’d expect and some are classics with a twist like the turkey, pear and brie melt. (Yum!)

The lunch menu at L.A. Bakery offers mouthwatering options as well, and you can satisfy your sweet tooth with one of their Mediterranean or European pastries and desserts. Try the baklava, it’s a Greek layered pastry dessert made of filo dough, filled with chopped nuts, and sweetened with syrup or honey.

Looking for something healthy? Try a cold-pressed juice and an avocado toast, soup or salad from So Juicy. Prefer something a little heartier? Head over to Mom & Pop’s Diner for a burger or hot, melty sandwich.

Time to tee off!

After lunch, play a round of golf at one of four Carson City golf courses.

The Silver Oak Golf Course features a Cadillac Driving Range featuring buried vintage cars that were hand-painted by students of the National Art Education Society. The driving range is a hit with golfers of all skill levels.

You can also head over to Eagle Valley Golf Course to play one of two 18-hole courses. Or, challenge yourself with the 27-hole championship layout at the Empire Ranch Golf Course located along the Carson River sheltered between the bluffs on 250 acres of historic ranch land.

Last but not least: dinner is calling

All this activity is bound to make you famished! No worries, Carson City’s eateries have your back – and your belly – with plenty of restaurants and brew pubs to choose from.

You won’t leave Juan’s Mexican Grill & Cantina hungry. The downtown Carson City location serves up fajitas, tacos, burritos, enchiladas and more to satisfy your craving for Mexican dishes. The chips and salsa pair extremely well with a specialty margarita, which round-out a well-earned meal after a day of outdoor adventures.

Try Cucina Lupo for Italian dishes made with homemade pastas and bread, as well as classics like chicken parmigiana and veal marsala. Plus, find a new favorite salami and cheese pairing, along with a new wine from the robust wine list.

In the mood for pizza? Piazza serves fantastic flatbread pizzas that make them perfectly shareable – but no one is judging if you want one all for yourself! From charcuterie boards to bruschetta and crostinis, there are also plenty of shareable bites on the list of small plates and appetizers.

Finally, end your day with a nightcap beverage at the Bank Saloon or Westside Pour House.

The truth is, springtime is loaded with plenty of outdoor activities and makes an ideal time for those looking to adventure outside, explore and be active. Layer up and get ready to enjoy all that Carson City has to offer!