Lake Tahoe tourism slows as unusual winter brings low snowpack and fewer visitors

LAKE TAHOE, Calif. (KGO) -- Lake Tahoe communities that rely heavily on tourism are feeling the strain of an unusual winter marked by big bursts of snow followed by long, dry stretches.

Ski resorts remain open, but conditions are far from ideal, and the region's snowpack is sitting below normal levels. As a result, visitors appear to be changing their plans, and the shift is having a ripple effect on other local businesses.

Lodging occupancy is down, and restaurants are seeing fewer customers.

MORE: Skiers and resorts rejoice after massive storm brings nearly 5 feet of fresh snow to Tahoe

Nick Koenig, a worker at Mountain Slice Pizza, described the slowdown of business as "desperately slow," and "very quiet."

Koenig says during other seasons, there are typically least like 60 or even 100 customers. "But today it's been like five," he said.

MORE: California's snowpack remains below average despite recent storms, survey shows

Despite the slow winter season, the North Lake Tahoe Community Alliance remains optimistic. The group believes spring could still bring a tourism rebound, offering visitors a mix of activities ranging from skiing to hiking.