Lake Tahoe - Fun Facts and Fun Things to Do

Considered as a year-round vacation resort, lake tahoe is home to over a dozen ski and snow boarding facilities, top-rated golf courses, and is the center of a myriad of other fun activities including hiking, boating, gaming, sightseeing and more. What's more, the "lake of the Sky" is a sought after wedding and honeymoon destination for adventurous couples looking to unite in matrimony. With all its grandeur in addition to its partiality towards satisfying enthralling interests and providing congenial opportunities, lake tahoe is truly a bravura getaway attraction for those in quest of a thrill-seeking weekend or simply planning a tranquil, all-encompassing vacation.

Lake tahoe borders two states and is situated in Northern California and Nevada amidst the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range at an altitude of 6,225 feet above sea level. It is the second deepest lake in the United States having a maximum depth of 1,645 feet and is the third largest alpine lake in the world. Renowned for its natural beauty and adventurous attributes, tahoe also has an enriching history of origin.

Historically, the belief was that the lake tahoe basin was of volcanic origin. However, the valid theory is that tahoe's basin was formed by faulting fractures in the earth's crust. Faulting fractures cause blocks of earth to move up or down. The uplifting blocks are what created the Carson Range to the east of the lake, and the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the west. Downward moving blocks created the lake tahoe Basin that's presently situated in-between these mammoth mountain ranges.

World-class ski resorts have been developed due to these earthly shifts, producing plenty of winter fun in tahoe. Seven of these world-class ski resorts that are quite popular include Mt. Rose, Northstar at tahoe, Squaw Valley USA, Sierra at tahoe, Alpine Meadows, Kirkwood, and Heavenly Ski Resort. Heavenly is an enormous draw for winter tourism as it is a well-known resort with 4,800 acres of ski terrain that spans across two states, California and Nevada.

Golfing is big in tahoe in the summer months and early fall. Particularly notable as one of America's top golf courses and host to a variety of major golf events including the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship, Edgewood tahoe is a first-rate facility that is conveniently located on the south shore on the Nevada state line. Many well-known personalities have golfed on the extraordinary course of Edgewood.

Another popular tahoe activity to partake in is hiking because there are a variety of trails around the lake leading to the most scenic views imaginable. Eagle Rock, for example, is a dormant volcano located on the west shore, and a 30 minute hike to the top reveals an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the rich blue waters of lake tahoe. In close proximity are the trails of Emerald Bay Falls. These are easily travelled paths leading to spectacular views of the falls and tri-colored bay. On the east shore is Spooner lake, which consists of hiking trails that lead to striking views of the Eastern Sierras.

Boating, parasailing and water skiing are the aquatic summer sports that happen around the lake with boat launches conveniently located throughout. Zephyr Cove Resort on the Nevada side and the Ski Run Marina in California are two places on the south shore of tahoe that provide skidoo and small paddleboat rentals for those who want to take part in this sort of summer fun.

Having an approximate diameter of twenty-two miles and a width of twelve, lake tahoe has a super long shoreline perimeter totaling seventy-two miles. This equates to loads of beaches for sun tanning or lounging, many of which are equipped with picnic tables, barbeque pits, playgrounds, and volleyball and tennis courts. Additionally, there are seasonal afternoon concerts at several beach locations about the lake to add to the summertime enjoyment.

Many times these same beach locations also serve as wedding venues throughout the year. Numerous amounts of engaged couples love the thrill of a lakeside wedding in the exciting town of tahoe. Regan Beach is one such spot on the south shore where newlyweds-to-be unite in marriage and then undergo the honeymoon celebration with what tahoe has to offer.

As you travel around the lake you'll discover many of the small towns frequently hold craft fairs, which offer another form of summer and springtime fun. These fairs are typically composed of jewelry, gift items, modern artwork and an assortment of other items of interest. You'll also find gaming casinos on the northern and southern shore of tahoe if you're interested in some fast-paced action. The casinos provide 24 hour entertainment including slot machines, table games, restaurants, outlandish nightclubs and nightly showroom performances.

Of course, this is not an all-inclusive list of the year-round fun in tahoe, but it is a small glimpse of what to expect when you arrive. If your preference is a leisurely walk along the sandy beaches or a power hike up the steepest mountain peak, skiing the mogul slopes of Heavenly or playing 18 holes on the finest golf course around, you can bet it's available at the "lake of the Sky". For the weekend thrill-seeker or laid-back vacationer alike, lake tahoe is a year-round, dazzling getaway that has it all.

Discover Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, Squaw Valley And Napa Valley

The Sierra Nevada Mountain Range serves as a beautiful backdrop to a spectacular region known for its natural beauty and year round activities.

Lake tahoe is 22 miles long and 12 miles wide. Lake tahoe has 72 miles of shoreline, making it the largest alpine lake in North America. The sun shines for three quarters of the year and the water in the lake is so pure that it is 99.7 percent clear! The 72 mile drive along the shores of lake tahoe is spectacular. It is listed as one of the most beautiful drives in the USA. In the winter months, the lake tahoe region becomes the largest concentration of ski resorts in North America. There are 19 ski resorts including terrain to challenge at all levels, and other winter pursuits such as sledding and snowmobiling.

Yosemite has become one of the ‘must sees’ for visitors to California. The rarefied mountain atmosphere of California’s Western Sierra is enhanced by the stunning scenic vistas of this truly unique part of the world. Yosemite is famous for its granite monoliths such as El Capitan, spectacular waterfalls and vast wilderness. Its scenic features include alpine wilderness, giant sequoia tree groves and the Yosemite Valley itself. The discovery of one tiny gold nugget set off the great California Gold Rush of 1849. You can still pan for gold. Experience what it was like to travel in the old days on a paddle steamer cruise, a steam train, or a Wells Fargo stagecoach. Discover quaint museums, tour a mine, explore caverns, taste your way through farm trails, or try white water rafting on some of the best rivers in the west.

The Squaw Valley is one of the top ski resorts in North America, and is world renowned. Squaw Valley resort hosted the Olympic Winter Games in 1960. There is a large choice of activities to do here, including skiing and snowboarding.

The Napa Valley is less than one hour’s drive north of San Francisco. The rolling hills and sun drenched valleys of Northern California’s wine country have welcomed visitors since before the Gold Rush. The Napa Valley produces some of the finest wines enjoyed world over. Even if it did not, it would still be considered the jewel in the crown of North California. Kissed with bay fog at the valley’s southern tip which borders the San Pablo Bay and continuing 30 miles north to the base of Mt St Helena, the valley ranges from 1 to 5 miles wide, and is protected by low mountains on the east and west. It is surrounded with acre after acre of world renowned vineyards!

Boat Weddings - Lake Tahoe Weddings on the Water

Lake Tahoe weddings take place around the Lake on the beaches, bluffs and bays, and weddings on the water are no exception. Boat weddings are quite popular in Tahoe and there is a large selection in the types of vessels you can choose from in order to make that walk into matrimony. Two of the larger and trendy crafts that you can pick from to float away on your wedding day are the renowned MS Dixie II and the Tahoe Queen.

The MS Dixie is a paddle wheeling boat that made its first appearance in Lake Tahoe in 1949. It was privately owned at the time but eventually became available to the public and is now a great tourist attraction as well as premier wedding location.

The MS Dixie sailed across the Lake for decades carting touring vacationers and couples entering into matrimony until it was replaced by the up to date MS Dixie II in 1993. It presently is Tahoe's largest paddle wheeler and can carry 570 passengers. Marriages aboard this luxurious ship provide an experience that brides and grooms treasure forever.

The Tahoe Queen is another optimal paddle wheeling luxury liner that can host your wedding day on the beautiful deep blue water of South Lake Tahoe. Built on the Mississippi River and than reconstructed after being transported to Tahoe, this magnificent craft is a lure for the sightseer and is a destination wedding attraction alike. Recent major renovations were performed upon this dinghy to reproduce the appeal and draw of the early 1900's when paddle wheelers were king.

Both of these state-of-the-art ships sail from the south shore of Lake Tahoe and you have the option to have your wedding occur while on a private cruise crossing the Lake or at port prior to departure. Arranging for your ceremony to take place aboard these sumptuous paddle wheelers in the manner you choose can be accomplished through either the MS Dixie's or Tahoe Queen's sales representatives or a local wedding coordinating facilitator.

Some of the amenities available for your wedding once you board these grand cruisers are exclusive use of one of the boat decks, seating for guests, traditional music, carpeted aisle runner, and optional uniformed captain to perform the ceremony. Keep in mind, however, that if the ship's captain performs the ceremony you must obtain your marriage license yourself prior to the wedding. This can be easily done through any county clerk's office in the State of California.

If a private cruise was not chartered for the entire wedding event, an option for the bride, groom and guests after the ceremony is to celebrate the remainder of the occasion on the ships sunset dinner and dance cruise where you'll experience an amazing sunset, incredible views, elegant dining, and live music to dance the night away. The length of the cruise is approximately 2 hours, and the ship may either sail over to Emerald Bay or along the shore of Lake Tahoe. Whichever course is sailed, though, both offer a stylish evening of enchantment with a romantic touch newlyweds will forever cherish.

Each of the paddle wheelers are conveniently situated for easy embarking on the south shore of Tahoe. Your wedding party and guests can board the Tahoe Queen at the Ski Run Marina, which is located on the California side of the Lake. The MS Dixie II is ported across the state line in Nevada and launches from the pier at Zephyr Cove Resort.

Boat weddings can expound your wedding day experience and present a most exhilarating memory of your once in a lifetime event. Sailing across beautiful Lake Tahoe is an experience unto itself, and to do it on your wedding day would be priceless. The Tahoe Queen and MS Dixie are all but two of the luxury vessels that you can choose from to facilitate this wedding dream. If it's an encounter with beauty and romance with the nuance of elegance you are expecting on your wedding day, floating across the Lake on a boat of opulence is a means to achieve that aspiration.

Holidaying Distinctively At Vacation Rental In South Lake Tahoe

Are you getting bored with your repetitive routine? Do you want to rejuvenate yourself? Take a short break and enjoy a vacation with lots of fun, joys and joviality. Have you ever thought that you won’t miss your home while holidaying? You may think it is unfeasible. But if you make your vacation at vacation rental in South Lake Tahoe, you will not miss your home without being there.

South Lake Tahoe, a city in the Lake Tahoe region, California, is the paradise of adventure aficionados. Tourists generally come to South Lake Tahoe for enthralling various adventures. If you are keen to enjoy various water-adventures, summer is the best time for you. Explore the ecstasy of waterskiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, swimming, canoeing, jet skiing, paddle boating and fishing in South Lake Tahoe. And in winter, Skiing is the main attraction.

However, usually it is seen that travelers prefer to choose their accommodation in a place that would be calm and comfortable. But getting such kind of place is hardly possible in any hotel. In such cases, condos, available as vacation rental in South Lake Tahoe can be the perfect one, where you can enjoy your holidays with seclusion and solitude.

In South Lake Tahoe, vacation rental condos are more spacious. Keeping diversified demands of travelers in mind, all rental abodes are set up. Some condos are made for couple only; some are for family and friends. Based on components and team members, you can choose vacation rental in South Lake Tahoe.

Do you think that you can enjoy home-made food while holidaying? Most probably you do not think so. Most of the hotels generally do not provide kitchen facility. Hence, you need to spend bulk money for eating food outside. But every vacation rental condo offers a well-equipped kitchen facility, where you can cook foods and save money.

Enjoying vacation calmly and comfortably is the desire of every vacationer. But it is hardly possible at hotel room. The noise of other boarders spoils the desire of enjoying holidays in tranquility. Nevertheless, the specialty of vacation rental in South Lake Tahoe is to provide more privacy, comfort and serenity.

The vacation rental condos in South Lake Tahoe have created a homey ambience. All modern amenities you will get here. It includes CD player, music player, various books, television, washer and dryer, internet and so on. All together you will get a home-away-from –home feeling at vacation rental in South Lake Tahoe. And for all these you need not spend much.

So, do not waste your time, if you want to enjoy your vacation differently, opt for vacation rental in South Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe – Destination Wedding Favorite

Of the many destination wedding venues across America, Lake Tahoe stands out as one of the most beautiful places imaginable for any couple to walk down the aisle on their wedding day. The south shore of Lake Tahoe is loaded with grandeur wedding locations and offers a variety of settings suitable for most any bridal theme.

From the sandy beaches in the summer season to the wintery mountain peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, Lake Tahoe has all any bride or groom could ever ask for when it comes to an outdoor wedding location. The crystal clear, tri-colored water of Tahoe is at an altitude of 6,220 feet, and its 72 miles of shoreline is surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenic views one can ever envision.

Beginning from the west shore to the east, Emerald Bay, Tahoe Paradise Park and Logan Shoals are just a few of the various ceremony sites located along the shoreline that covers the two states of California and Nevada. The drive from the west to the east is just a little over 30 minutes, so if you're undecided about having a California or Nevada wedding, all of these locations are in close proximity to each other.

Not only is having a Lake Tahoe wedding an extremely popular wedding destination for many couples in love, but it is also a great place for a honeymoon. There are scores of hotels and vacation resorts that cater to newlyweds and are comprised with some of the most luxurious bridal suites that would rival the best. Restaurants are plentiful too, and some offer a most desiring atmosphere of romance that would exceed any newlywed's expectations.

There's no lacking either in the amount of activities that the married couple can enjoy when beginning their new life together. Practically within walking distance from the main area of town is boating, water or jet skiing, parasailing, hiking, fishing, touring across the Lake on the Tahoe Queen, and the list goes on. If it's the winter season and the snow has fallen, there's snow skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing as well.

Of course, the night life in Tahoe provides equal opportunities for fun. There are romantic night cruises on the riverboats up the Lake's coast, exotic nightclubs, dancing and gaming. For those with shopping or browsing in mind, Heavenly Village is conveniently located near Stateline and is open daily till early evening all year round and consists of a myriad of shops with quaintness and charm.

Having robust seclusion, beauty and romance, Lake Tahoe is truly a remarkable location for the marriage prospects. Destination weddings take place in each of the 4 seasons around the south shore of Tahoe. Winter or summer, spring or fall, on the sandy beaches or on the mountain peaks on skis, multitudes of brides and grooms choose these exhilarating outdoor locations as the place of choice to make that commitment to each other, praising Tahoe as a true favorite for their destination wedding day.

Ski Weddings - A Heavenly Wedding in Lake Tahoe

If you're one of those few daring couples who are literally looking for a high on their wedding day, a heavenly ski wedding atop the peaks of the Sierra Mountains may just be what you're looking for. Heavenly ski Resort is Lake Tahoe's premier skiing facility that is a 4,800 acre resort spanning across two states, California and Nevada, and is home to some very exclusive wedding locations located nearly a mile-high over the enchanting city of Tahoe.

Located high in the Sierra Nevada mountain range and featuring an 8 passenger gondola lift and over 2 dozen chair lifts, Heavenly ski Resort provides some incredible ceremony locations that the bride and groom can choose from to celebrate their special day. Mountain peaks hovering nearly one mile high up over the beautiful waters of Lake Tahoe can no doubt exhibit exhilarating views that provide an unimaginable setting for any couple. The backdrop for the wedding photos is a photographers dream as the panoramic view of the Lake lined with the surrounding mountain range is astounding.

There are several areas on the mountaintops of Heavenly ski Resort where ceremonies can be performed. One of the best wedding locations is a secluded spot right off the main trail that locals call Sharp Shooters. This is not an official name, but this is where a photographic company takes pictures of skiers as they slide on down the hill.

What's great about this ceremony location--other than the fantastic view--is how convenient it is to get there. To start, the couple, along with the minister and photographer, rides the gondola for the approximate 15 minute voyage to the top of the first peak. This is not only a pleasant journey up the mountainside that presents more opportunities of spectacular views of Lake Tahoe and beyond, but also allows the marrying minister to gain a little more intimate knowledge about the couple prior to the ceremony.

Once you exit the Heavenly gondola, a short little jaunt brings you over to Tamarack Express, a very up to date chair lift that brings you closer to the wedding site. At the top of Tamarack, the wedding group will ski over to the proposed venue, which is an easy run and only about ½ mile or so away from the lift.

A great advantage many couples find with such a convenient location is that on occasion the situation arises where the bride and groom have invited guests that are novice skiers and fear the trek to the venue may not be suitable for them. However, the Sharp Shooter area is nothing more than an elementary run and only a short distance away. So rest assured, if you're hesitating to have a wedding on skis out of concern for a guest with limited ability, you may want to reconsider.

A heavenly ski wedding at the world-famous Heavenly ski Resort will have a lasting impression that you will never forget should you decide to have your special day on the mountaintop at Lake Tahoe. Though many Lake Tahoe weddings take place during the summer season on the beaches along the waters edge of the south shore, winter ski weddings continue to be quite fashionable as well. If a winter nuptial is in the plan and you're a bit bold, you may want to consider grabbing your skis and poles and have a most Heavenly wedding on the prominent slopes of the Sierras of Tahoe.

South Lake Tahoe - A Full Day Of Activities

Centered on Yosemite as we are with the Hotel Charlotte in Groveland, California, we often feature routes and itineraries that cover areas where Travelers tend go when they leave Groveland, or are on their way to Groveland. We find that Lake Tahoe is one such destination that many of our guests are coming from or going to. We have traveled to Tahoe from all of the Sierra Nevada crossings including Highways 80, 50, 88 and 89, 4, 108, 120 and then North on 395 and offer up our favorite stops along the way.

Our last trip was a 2-night sojourn to South Lake Tahoe. For our route there we took 49 to 50 into South Lake Tahoe. This took us 4 hours. Our return trip we took highway 89 out of South Lake Tahoe to Highway 88 into Jackson, passing Kirkwood ski area and several scenic alpinesque Lakes. From Jackson, we caught 49 South. This route was only 3 hours and 15 minutes and very scenic, far fewer towns and less traffic. Each of these routes is open year-round, plowed throughout the snow season. Alternative summer routes include Highway 4 which has some wonderful stops including Murphys (a wine tasting town), Calaveras Big Trees State Park, and the Scenic Byway section from Alpine Lake to Highway 89 near Markleevile that twists itself over the mountain (A slow and often narrow route, but very photographic.) Highway 108 is another option through the Sierras and rivals Yosemite's Tioga Pass for incredible scenery.

Once in South Lake Tahoe we usually chose to stay at the smallest and friendliest casino hotel, Lakeside Lodge, (not actually on the Lake!) for convenience to the town with fair room rates, excellent menu choices and a small and comfortable casino. We also recommend a stay at the Zephyr Cove Resort, also on the Nevada side for the myriad of activities. One can ride horses, rent speed boats, canoes, kayak and sailboats from Zephyr Cove. In the winter there are oodles of snow activities that start from here.

A drive around the Lake is a must do! Depending on the number of stops you make this scenic loop will take at least 2 hours and is roughly 95 miles. We tend to drive counter clockwise, although driving clockwise keeps you on the coastal side of the highway, Stop at every view point, all the little parks and take photos, splash in the water and talk to the fishermen about their successes; each enclave is unique.

One of our favorite stops has always been the Ponderosa Ranch. For Bonanza fans, this was always a marvelous memory jogger. Sadly, the ranch sold and is now closed to the public. The ranch sported several age-old crafts men from the smithy to the glass blower. Crowd pleasers included a lassoer plying the audience with his artistry.

Tahoe City and several other places along the Western short offer bicycle rentals. The riding trail borders both the Lake and the road. Watch for traffic as the trail crosses the highway in several points. This is a beautiful route on a paved bike path and is well used by families and sport riders alike.

Just before returning to South Lake Tahoe is Emerald Bay where you will see the castle and the island-topped tea house. Both remote and lonely looking places, but stunning in that they even exist.

Once back in South Lake Tahoe jump aboard the gondola to the top of Heavenly Mountain. This might be a bit uncomfortable for those with a weakness for heights and that awful falling feeling, but is well worth the few minutes with no ground below your feet. Victor enjoyed my reaction when he tried to rock our climbing cocoon. There are dozens of hikes that originate from the pinnacle and follow the ski trails. Take care to return to the Gondola before closing, it is a long walk down if you don't!

Consider an even cruise on the paddle wheel boat, MS Dixie II that departs from Zephyr Cove. On our trip we opted for the dinner service, and while the meal was fair and we met some pleasant travelers at our table, if we were to do it again, we would just do the sight-seeing tour, skip the meal, save $20 per person and have a wonderful dinner landside after debarking! The cruise takes you across the Lake to Emerald Bay where we re-saw the sights of earlier in the day, but from a new vantage point. This cove is noted as one of the most photographed spots in the world;a well deserved title!

Additional activities for a prolonged stay include an over-Lake hotair ballon ride, white water rafting on the Truckee river, Horse back riding, a side trip to Virginia City or Reno in Nevada and more! Look for valuable coupons at strategic hotel locations throughout the area.

Lake Rental Tahoe Vacation : Affordable Vacation Rental in Lake Tahoe

Perched atop the Sierra Nevada is the world's second largest alpine Lake, Lake Tahoe. vacation rentals in Lake Tahoe are situated in the midst of all major attractions such as world-class ski resorts, magnificent golf courses and excellent casinos. Lake Tahoe vacation rentals offers you a wide range of vacation homes ranging from affordable vacation rental homes to luxurious condos in both the regions of North Lake Tahoe and South Lake Tahoe.

Straddled by California and Nevada on each end, a vacation home in Lake Tahoe is the best way to enjoy a perfect vacation. Whether you are a water sport enthusiast or a skiing buff, a North Lake Tahoe vacation rental home will bring you closer to all the fabulous wonders of North Lake Tahoe. A South Lake Tahoe vacation rental is the best way to enjoy the glittering attractions of this beautiful region.

Besides a renowned holiday spot, vacation rental in Lake Tahoe is also ideal for a wedding as it is a popular wedding destination. You can opt for a Lakefront vacation rental condo overlooking the breathtaking Lake Tahoe or an authentic 1920's mountain cabin with pine paneling and interiors that invoke an old world charm.

Before you plan your holiday to Lake Tahoe, do make up your mind what is it that interests you more? If casinos and glittering entertainment is more your style then a vacation rental in South Lake Tahoe makes sense. Book a mountain cabin or a vacation rental home in North Lake Tahoe if you are drawn by the pristine natural beauty of the mountains in North Lake Tahoe.

Aptly named the Mecca for skiers, Lake Tahoe luxury vacation rentals gives you easy access to over 17,000 acres at 7 ski resorts. Beach bums need not lose heart as the South Lake Tahoe vacation rentals will keep you occupied and entertained on the southern shores of Lake Tahoe. From lazing under the sun and surfing the waves during the day to taking a romantic stroll under the starlit sky or playing some poker at the casinos; South Lake Tahoe vacation rental home is sure to make a lasting impression on your mind and heart.

Enjoying Lake Tahoe One Shore At A Time

Lake Tahoe is one of the most beautiful places in North America to visit. Located in between California and Nevada, the Lake has been dubbed the jewel in the sky and for good reason. When visiting Lake Tahoe you will realize that it is nested up in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, sitting at an elevation of 6,225 feet and having a maximum depth of over 1,645 feet at some points, the shore lines are incredible and very diverse. After reading this, you will be a little more familiar with the characteristics of Lake Tahoe.

The north shore of Lake Tahoe is probably the most neglected. Kings Beach is a little town that brings the most character to the North shore. If you look hard enough or just ask a few locals, you will discover the best Mexican restaurants in the area tucked away in the side streets. Tahoe City is by far the most popular city in the North shore, attracting hundreds of thousands of tourists each year, especially during the fourth of July and the Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. Here you will find your common tourist shops selling anything and everything with the name Lake Tahoe on it. A popular place for tourists to gather is the Fanny Bridge, which leads to the west shore of Lake Tahoe. Here you can look over and see hundreds of trout eagerly waiting to be fed.

Once you cross over the Fanny Bridge, you will be on your way to the west shore of Lake Tahoe. The west shore is where you will find some of the biggest houses around, many owned by popular celebrities. If you have seen The Godfather Part Two you would have seen bits and pieces of west shore Lake Tahoe, a lot of the filming was done over there. As you make your way south you will eventually run into a part of the shoreline properly named The Gold Coast. This piece of shoreline is a number one contender for the most beautiful beach on earth. The coast is decorated with a flowing display of gold sand that would make any king envious. Unfortunately, most of the gold coast sands are private property and not shared by some of the richest of the area. Don't worry though because a quick drive south will take you to one of Lake Tahoe's most popular features, Emerald Bay, home of the only island in the Lake, Fannette Island. Located on Fannette Island is the "Tea House" which is of the best examples of Scandinavian architecture built in the western hemisphere. The west shore of Lake Tahoe is very beautiful in the spring, summer and fall but beware of the tremendous amounts of snow during the winter. This shore is typically hit the hardest and due to the fact that there is only one road out you may just happen to find yourself stuck and snowed in. Which may not be so bad if you have a pair of skies with you or a snowboard? So if and when you plan a visit to Lake Tahoe, don't forget to visit the north and west shores.

World Class Skiing At Lake Tahoe

People take off from all over the world to ski Lake Tahoe, to know the intimate feeling of the famous deep, dry, and fluffy Tahoe snow. The area around Tahoe receives an average snow drop of 409 inches a year. That's over 34 feet per season!

With 14 downhill ski resorts and ten cross-country ski centers, Lake Tahoe skiing appeals to all levels and ages. Enjoy the quiet cross-country trails past mountain streams and log cabins or thrash down the steep mountain terrain thousands of feet over the blue expanse of Lake Tahoe.

A number of large, world-class ski resorts call Lake Tahoe home. Heavenly ski resort boasts the highest summit at Lake Tahoe and 4,800 patrolled acres spanning both California and Nevada, one of the biggest ski resorts in the country. Close by, Squaw Valley draws beginner and experts skiers alike. Experience the open bowl skiing at this resort, a bit untraditional, but tons of fun.

On the north of the Lake, Alpine Meadows shines in the Sierra Nevada sun, attracting many, more of a secret than the rest. Alpine Meadows traditionally brags the earliest and longest season. Great bowl skiing for experts and an area just by the base lodge for first-timers. Also more quiet and a bit harder to get to, Kirkwood features the best snow at Tahoe and classic steep shoots.

The Lake Tahoe area provides hundreds of miles of groomed cross-country skiing trails with thrilling descents, challenging climbs and open meadows, and of course, splendid views of Lake Tahoe.

Tahoe Cross Country ski area boasts 65 kilometers of ski trails among a stunning landscape, with expert instruction and rentals for all ages. Cross-country skiing at Spooner Lake in Lake Tahoe, Nevada, provides Scandinavian style log cabins and trails winding over 9,000 acres. Royal Gorge Cross Country ski resort boasts the largest groomed tract system in North America with 3,300 kilometers of trail.s That should keep you fit and busy for some time.

All ski resorts offer discount packages for longer stays and expert downhill, cross-country and snowboarding instruction. Daily tickets start at $20 for the smallest ski resorts and cross-country ski centers and rise from there. Throughout the season various events like races, clinics and parties draw world class skiers, partiers, and families.

Lake Tahoe skiing is world class, that's what makes it one of the most popular ski trip destinations in the world.

Lake Tahoe - Heaven On Earth

Lake Tahoe, NV. Now THAT'S a place if you're planning on a vacation to REALLY have fun, that you absolutely MUST go. Lake Tahoe has more to do day and night than Carter has liver pills. So without further ado, let's take a little tour and see what Lake Tahoe has to offer.

Lake Tahoe, for starters, is 6225 feet above sea level, which makes it the highest Alpine Lake in the United States. People from all around the world come here to vacation. Because the lake is actually located between Nevada and California it attracts different kind of visitors. The California side draws more family oriented crowds while the Nevada side attracts those who are looking for big time casino action and lots of entertainment.

So just what is there to do in Lake Tahoe?

According to the top tourism sites reviewing Lake Tahoe there are actually 29 highly recommended things to see and do there. We won't cover all of them but will touch on the main ones.

For starters, there is the Tahoe Rim Trail. This is a 152 mile path which circles around Lake Tahoe. Talk about a hike. There are trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. It is said that the views from this trail are simply breathtaking.

Another trail is Horsetail Falls which is a very difficult hiking trail. This one is not for beginners. It does provide a magnificent view of the nearby waterfalls.

For those of you who are looking for a little education there's the Gatekeepers Cabin Museum. Its history? Between 1910 and 1968 the gatekeeper who lived on this site was responsible for monitoring the level of the lake, using a hand-turned winch system to keep the water at the correct level. That winch system is still used today. Who says we need progress?

If you're looking for a little fun and excitement without breaking your neck on the trails there's Caesar's Casino Tahoe, located on the main highway. It's open day and night 7 days a week. Here you can gamble to your heart's content or until you're out of money.

In the mood for some horseback riding? No problem. There's the Camp Richardson Resort and Marina. This resort has a real authentic old west feel to it and has a very long history. The first record of ownership of the land around the present Camp Richardson Resort and Marina are from 1875 when M.C. Gardner acquired a timber holding of several thousand acres from the U.S. Government and built a sawmill and railroad line. He paid 25 cents an acre for the land, plus $1 per acre payable over 20 years. Boy, if only we could get land that cheap today.

No trip to Lake Tahoe would be complete without going on the Dixie Queen, a Paddlewheel boat that offers daytime and dinner cruises. The food and entertainment are said to be the best you can possibly hope to find anywhere. The Dixie Queen is one of the most famous cruise ships in the United States.

The above only scratches the surface. Lake Tahoe is the perfect combination of all types of attractions for everyone; those looking for physical activities, those looking for night life and those looking for a little culture and history. If there is a heaven on Earth it must be in Lake Tahoe.

Finding Vacation Rentals in North Lake Tahoe

The main difference between North and South Lake Tahoe is that most people who live on the lake year around tend to own houses on the northern end. Here you'll find housing developments of the highest quality, serene resorts, campgrounds, beautiful beaches as well as shopping and dining as good if not superior to the choices in the busier, more crowded southern end of the lake. North Lake Tahoe vacation rentals tend to favor the more family-oriented traveler, seeking peace and serenity. Because there are more permanent living facilities on the north shores, there are more houses and condos available for rent to tourists than there are on the southern shores. Furthermore, the resorts dotted throughout the area are, for the most part, more of the smaller, boutique resorts rather than the larger, bustling hotels. Because the northern shores are in California there is no gambling there. This major difference accounts for the total difference in ambiance between the two locations around the lake.

There are concerts, art shows, dance recitals and other local gatherings on the north shore that are more typical of a small town while the south end is more typical of a Las Vegas atmosphere. In Lake Tahoe you'll find more emphasis on skiing in the winter and mountain play all year round. You can take the Heavenly Gondola Tram into the mountains and hike to your hearts content. Then cool off with a relaxing swim in the lake. In the summer the Renaissance Fair holds its annual merrymaking in the hills around the north shore.

North Lake Tahoe is well known for its community living. Resort condominiums are springing up all over the area. They feature many of the same luxuries found in the major hotels with maid service, beautiful pools, lakeside cabanas and recreation rentals, with one exception - you're an owner not a tourist. True, you can rent out your condominium to tourists as a source of extra income. Or you can just buy it and keep it to enjoy for the rest of your life. In North Lake Tahoe you get the best of both worlds - the peaceful serenity of the mountains and the lake situated minutes away from the glamorous nightlife at the south shore casinos.

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Lake Tahoe - A Holiday Location Offering Something For Everyone

To some people, an ideal vacation could mean leaving everything behind and escaping to some place new with a different view and offering complete relaxation. While some flock to cities and go on a shopping spree and enjoy spending, still some think it is a place that offers a lot of outdoor recreation. There are others who prefer an adventurous trip that would be filled with adrenaline pumping activities.

So the next time you plan a vacation with your family or friends, be sure to take into account the interest of everyone who is coming along. The next thing to do will be find a spot where everyone can have fun. Although it may sound impossible to find such a place, there are some locations that never fail to instill fond memories in all who visit them. One such place is Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in the U.S.

Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. If you have already visited Lake Tahoe, you will almost certainly agree that it is a truly exceptional vacation destination, but if you haven't visited Lake Tahoe yet, you may begin planning your trip by the time you finish reading this article. The lake is located on the California and Nevada border is a major tourist destination. It has some of the best ski resorts and summer outdoor recreation found anywhere in the world and its mountains and lake scenery that will charm anyone who visits.

For those who want to be closer to nature, Lake Tahoe has much to offer. Breathtaking forests that words will fall short to do justice in describing; snow covered in winters and reaching out for the heavens under the blue sky in the summers. There are a lot of flora and fauna that you can explore in this area.

If you love winter sports, head out to the major ski areas. Some of the best know places are the Heavenly Mountain Resort, Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows, Diamond Peak, Northstar at Tahoe, Kirkwood Mountain resort and many more. Snowmobiles, snowshoeing, rope tows, snow tubing (alternative sport) etc are some fun activities offered by the area.

For water sports there are scuba diving, sailboat racing, guided cruises, firework shows over the lake and more. There are also hiking and mountain biking trails all around the lake. You can hardly run out of recreational activities in Tahoe. Major casinos await you on on the Nevada side of Tahoe if you are interested in trying your luck.

Accessing Tahoe is easy. The Reno-Tahoe international airport is only 30-40 minutes away from most Lake Tahoe area destinations. Sacramento is another option with a good sized international airport.

For a unique lodging experience, visitors should try the Lake Tahoe rentals that are spread across the best spots around the area. Affordable and complete with all amenities, these rentals are a smart choice for any type of vacation - long or short. Each place has something special to give you, obviously, when the whole surrounding is exceptional.

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Lake Tahoe, California: Rebalance, Renew and Rejuvenate With Help From Local Inns and Innkeepers

As humans, we have the power to influence the world around us by adopting a positive attitude. We can choose to be a positive force in the world that makes a difference. In order to accomplish this, we need to get ourselves into the right frame of mind. If we are permitting our problems to bear down on us day after day; if we allow negative energy and influences to accumulate so that positive ideas have been choked off; if there is disharmony and imbalance in our lives and relationships, then perhaps it is time to take a break. It is not what we do that is important but why we do it. True happiness and contentment does exist; we sometimes have to go looking for it.

For those seeking to rebalance their lives, there is immense power in taking a getaway vacation. Taking time away from our normal environment to recharge, renew and refresh will help us make sense of the concept of rejuvenation and why it plays such a vital role in our interactions with other people. And yes, when we are away, enveloped in natural wonders, there is even a strong possibility that we may change our perceptions, actions, and the world around us.

True success is achieving a goal that is more than material; real success includes spiritual connection, emotional renewal, health cultivation, social contentment and career satisfaction.

We all possess the ability to modify ourselves. Putting ourselves in a different environment will help us change the way we think, the way we handle obstacles, and ultimately the way we feel. Once we recognize how to tap into these areas, we will discover that our attitudes change in a constructive way, and thus the path to contentment becomes that much easier to achieve.

Most of us seek balance and harmony in our lives; and when things are imbalanced, anxiety can arise. When we are calm and relaxed, we are in an optimal state for functioning. What is important is that we become aware and understand how stress operates, how it unfolds and how it can take over our lives and keep us out of balance. In order to aid our consciousness, we can provide ourselves with the tools that are needed to dissolve the stress and anxiety that is often triggered by a plethora of events in modern life.

Consider taking a few days off in Lake Tahoe, California. Tahoe is a destination that promotes health and well-being. It should be pointed out that becoming refreshed, recharged and rejuvenated is not only important to the whole of us, it also affects every cell, joint and body part.

Glistening softly in myriad shades of blue and green, Lake Tahoe, which straddles the California-Nevada border, is one of the most beautiful lakes in the country, with an average depth of one thousand feet. It is a destination that is very easy to get to. Once you digest the basic importance of getting away for a few days, you will discover that the wait was well worth it. What is quite fascinating is that Lake Tahoe is a very compelling locale. Tahoe provides a creative, stimulating environment for visitors.

Driving around the lake's 72-mile shoreline rewards travelers with heart-stopping scenery that will stimulate a sense of creativity and wonder. Three out of every four days, Tahoe receives sunshine, making it an ideal destination for outdoor pursuits of all types. The landscape incorporates large ideas for recreation and leisure that will satisfy the uniqueness of every one of us. The environment cleverly bridges nature's beauty with the whimsical imaginations of tourists to create a delectable vacation in any season. Visitors can draw on a smorgasbord of activities to explore the area. Swimming, boating, guided-cruises, fishing, kayaking, parasailing, jet skiing, scuba diving, paddleboards, windsurfing and other water-sports are available. Hiking, walking and scenic drives are also fun. In the marina, pleasure boats are lined up side by side, as the morning sun bounces off the lake, giving the light a glittering, touchable quality.

In summer, you might observe sailboat races, or firework shows over the lake. Winter brings abundant snow, perfect for downhill skiing at more than a dozen world-class ski resorts. Cross-country skiing or snowshoeing are also options. There are plenty of lake front restaurants scattered along the shoreline; most come equipped with docks and buoys. Lake Tahoe, California is the kind of place that can ignite a deep awareness and understanding of our enormous inner potential.

There are numerous hiking and mountain biking trails all around the area, which can range in length, difficulty and popularity. The 165-mile Tahoe Rim Trail circumnavigates the lake and is quite famous. The Granite Chief Wilderness is great for hiking and camping. Desolation Wilderness and Eagle Lake Trailhead are also quite popular for hiking. Several paved off-road bicycle paths are also an option. On the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, you'll find gambling casinos, restaurants and entertainment.

For pure pleasure, few experiences are as gratifying as visiting a bed and breakfast inn. It is a chance to explore new territory, new foods and new landmarks. Awake to mornings filled with golden sunshine; the smells of sizzling bacon, pine and wood smoke and the boasting cries of birds of prey.

The key to getting the most out of your vacation begins with the innkeeper, who is like your best friend in Tahoe. The innkeeper can help you find activities that blend with your own definition of contentment, which may differ than that of other visitors.

Our definition of a good time is unique to us and when we have a clear vision of what a trip to Lake Tahoe personally could do for us, we will be able to work towards accomplishing a memorable getaway. Fundamentally, the innkeeper might require a snapshot of our likes, dislikes and what is important to us. Once the innkeeper gets a handle on how we perceive a fantastic holiday, the host can formulate an itinerary to help us on our way.

Marty Cohen, innkeeper of The Shore House at Lake Tahoe, in Tahoe Vista, CA shares: "We have lived here for 37 years and have had the inn for 17 years. It gives us a good background to share the area with guests." To help you on your journey, innkeepers will provide a road map that will lead you to having a rejuvenating experience. The innkeeper has a certain amount of knowledge and expertise about the area and can recommend certain excursions without much effort.

Experienced innkeepers will know all the good information, stories and places a visitor will want to see. Typically, innkeepers are warm and conversational; with in-depth knowledge about the location; they are well organized, and accessible. And it is here where customer service really shines, as innkeepers skillfully craft a compelling experience with graciousness and class. They know just the right place for those who are seeking a quiet sanctuary.

The towns and landscapes surrounding Lake Tahoe are refreshing. Here you will experience light bright flashes of new territory. It is a region that gives visitors a different perspective; we see our smallness against the vastness of nature. "Many people get married and come back for anniversaries," remarks Marty Cohen of The Shore House at Lake Tahoe. "We get a lot of writers. They love sitting out by the lake. It is a very comfortable atmosphere for them to be creative."

"A particular couple has been coming for 15 years," continues Marty, "The husband had been diagnosed with non curable cancer, and they keep coming every summer. It is the best rejuvenation for him."

Problems seem less insurmountable while taking in the magnitude of mountain peaks, expansive lakes or soaring pine forests. When we return back to our regular lives, if we can remember to remain positive and recognize that there are no problems but rather, only solutions, this attitude will give us a different perspective on many of life's challenges.

It goes without saying that the grounds and facilities of many small B & B inns in Lake Tahoe, California are peaceful and soothing to the eyes. A welcoming atmosphere is evident throughout them. The location feels like being in the mountains on the water's edge of a pristine lake, with some of the best sunsets imaginable. This gives visitors a sense of privacy and romance. The beautiful setting along with great service makes this a destination of unsurpassed charm.

A stay at Lake Tahoe is recommended to anyone who wants a good dose of serenity, privacy and relaxation. Rest on a balcony and just gaze at the beautiful wooded landscape with Lake Tahoe shimmering in the background. It is a place where you can spend easy times in good conversation with friends.

Most B & B inns in Lake Tahoe are a lovely blend of warm service, sumptuous breakfasts, and home-style charm. The accommodating staff, comfortable rooms, abundant amenities, exceptional location, and excellent value make for a pleasant experience.

Rooms are typically comfortable, airy and inviting. Relaxing beds, bathrobes and signature toiletries are usually provided along with hairdryers. Some rooms have refrigerators and balconies; some come equipped with gas log fireplaces, and some rooms have two person whirlpool tubs. There is normally free WiFi, cable TV and a DVD player. Complimentary coffee, water and hot chocolate are normally available in the dining room 24/7. Fresh baked treats and chocolates are placed in the rooms everyday. Some rooms are decorated with pine walls, and log furniture. Unique artwork throughout the property provides a glimpse into Lake Tahoe's character. In addition to the spacious comfort, rooms are immaculately clean with tasteful design. Some properties have several gardens, and a pier over the water.

Expect to receive gracious service with a warm smile. The owners/innkeepers typically known for their genuine hospitality, efficient service and willingness to help plan activities or excursions. The innkeepers are knowledgeable about the area and provide helpful suggestions to all of their guests. Spa treatments and massage is also available to guests upon request.

Some inns are known for providing an exceptional, and hearty breakfast that is artfully presented. Most dining rooms are filled with character. Award winning Monte Cristo breakfast sandwich and a chili egg puff with fresh baked scones and muffins are some of the items on the menu. Covered balconies, or lakefront lawns and gardens by the waters edge are the ideal reading areas for visitors. The common rooms are peaceful areas with a variety of different books, magazines, and board games. The lakefront lawns and gardens have superb views overlooking majestic Lake Tahoe with its towering pines. Every afternoon at 5pm, the inn may host an afternoon social gathering that includes wine and appetizers. It is a great opportunity to interact with other guests.

Lake Tahoe is an ideal location for those who want to feel they are in a quiet serene lakeside getaway, yet still within a few miles of all other activities. Shopping is a few miles away, as are some of the well-established galleries where you can purchase jewelry, ceramics, textiles and paintings or Lake Tahoe memorabilia. Performing arts centers, spas, dining, parks, attractions, and cultural activities are just a short distance from the town. Its proximity to fishing, hiking, biking and water activities provide incomparable value. Some inns provide complimentary kayaking. There are also cruise boat excursions including lunch and swimming, (at extra charge.)

The B & B's at Lake Tahoe are known to be spotless, especially the guestrooms. The grounds and gardens are meticulously maintained. Overall everything, including the town, is quite picturesque.

Compared to a standard hotel room, a bed and breakfast inn provides an excellent alternative. The niceties, friendly conversation and attentiveness of staff make the difference. The guests appreciate being asked if they are comfortable. The innkeepers are helpful without being intrusive.

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Check Lake Tahoe Road Conditions Before You Leave On Your Trip

Before you head to Lake Tahoe, remember that no matter what route you take, you'll be going through the mountains and that the weather can change very fast. In order to make sure you're prepared, you should check the latest Tahoe road conditions before you get going. There are tourist locations in the area that can give you some information as well as maps, but this information could possibly be out of date by the time you get it.

The best resource here may be the California Highway Patrol's website, where you can search by highway to get the latest reports on driving conditions. However, the CHP website only allows researching a single highway at a time so you may be better off using a website that combines the reports for all the highways in the Tahoe area in real-time as well as providing detailed maps showing detours and road closures in the Lake Tahoe area.

What's the Best Route to Lake Tahoe?

Take I-80 to Truckee, then CA 89 South to get to Tahoe City or Squaw Valley if you're coming from Reno, Sacramento or the Bay area to get to the North Shore of Lake Tahoe.

You can take US 50 to get to the South Shore from Sacramento. From Reno, the best route is to take US 395 South and then US 50 West after you pass Carson City.

Because the weather can change from calm to stormy so quickly, the road conditions may vary and you should always know what the roads are going to be like before you head out to ensure a safe trip to Lake Tahoe.

Nine Winter Driving Tips for Lake Tahoe Roads

* If you are instructed by a police officer or a sign to put chains on your tires, do so ASAP.

* If there is fog or if the roads are wet or icy, drive carefully and reduce your speed. Wet roads and cold temperatures can mean black ice, which is very hazardous. Keep a larger distance between yourself and motorists ahead of you than you normally would; and if you have chains on your tires, keep your speed to a maximum of 30 mph.

* Fill your tank before you get to the Lake Tahoe area, since gas usually costs more and gas stations are harder to come by in the mountains.

* In winter, make sure to allow ample time for your trip, since winter weather can cause delays and necessitate lower speeds.

* Stock some essential emergency supplies in your car: a blanket or towels, ice scraper, shovel and de-icer as well as some food, water and warm clothes in case you're stranded.

* Have an extra set of car keys in your wallet or with a traveling companion in case you're locked out of your car as well as a cell phone, a list of emergency numbers and a map.

* Keep your tires properly inflated and bring snow chains and any tools needed to mount them. A flashlight is also a good thing to have in case you have to do this in the dark.

* Add antifreeze to your radiator and use a windshield wiper solution which will not freeze in subzero temperatures. * Check your heater, defroster and brakes before you leave for Lake Tahoe.

While some roads may occasionally be closed due to snowstorms, some highways are always kept open except immediately after storms. These include the Mount Rose (SR 431) highway to Reno, the US 50 and US 395 to Carson City and the I-80 as well as US 50 over Echo Summit, the CA 88 to Stockton and CA 207 over Kingsbury Grade.

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Have a Taste of Hollywood on Your Lake Tahoe Vacation

Who would ever have thought that you can have a taste of Hollywood on your Lake Tahoe vacation?

A lot of large screen films and television shows have attended various filming locations in the majestic Lake Tahoe, and who among Hollywood's biggest names in Tinseltown could resist the beauty of Lake Tahoe.

Indeed, only to name some, the famous Ponderosa Ranch of the TV series Bonanza is actually located on the Nevada side of Tahoe.

And another bit of film trivia is that the opening sequence of the famed TV series was filmed at the McFaul Creek Meadow with the beautiful Mount Tallac in the backdrop.

In the highly acclaimed motion picture The Godfather Part II, the Corleone family lived in a compound on the shores of the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. In one of the famous scenes throughout final minutes of the film, Fredo Corleone is removed onto the lake for a fishing trip, on the orders of his brother Michael (Al Pacino) to be executed for treachery, where Michael stands by the shore watching the deed being done.

The house and grounds portrayed in the film are also located on the California side of Tahoe in the summertime estate of Henry Kaiser known as Fleur du Lac. The single structures used in the movie that still remain are the complex of old native stone boathouses with wrought iron gates. And although Fleur du Lac is private property and no one is allowed ashore there, the boathouses and multi-million dollar condominiums are easily viewed from the lake.

In the film Smoking Aces, most of the scenes were filmed in South Tahoe and Stateline.

Most the hotels and casinos are visible in the film with their older names. The climactic scenes of the 1987 Charles Bronson film Assassination were filmed around Tahoe.

Top Gear a British TV program on progressive cars and gadgetry filmed one entire episode at Lake Tahoe sometime this year.

Located between the borders of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe boasts of over 300 days of warm sunshine, 396 inches of annual snowfall, 18 world-class ski and snowboarding resorts, incredible golf courses, fantastic hotels, casinos and many, more.

For a relaxing and romantic getaway, one can find many romantic destinations that boast of world-class service, elegant decors and scenery, superb cuisine and a wide array of alternatives to choose from. From five star to professional, standard and high-class, even economy accommodations, a large number of hotel and motel establishments are in addition to willing to give free information about Lake Tahoe and how it might be best enjoyed.

And this is how Lake Tahoe has indeed captivated filmmakers and movie buffs alike.

So now you can also have a taste of Hollywood in your Lake Tahoe vacation

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Learn a Little History on Your Lake Tahoe Vacation

Would it not be a fulfilling getaway when you get to find out a bit about of history during your Lake Tahoe vacation? It wouldn't hurt so much to dig in to the culture or know the history of where you are taking vacation in, since this will give you helpful key trivia items that you can boast about with friends when you return to school or work. Lake Tahoe's history is one for the storybooks.

It started out as a land mass of shifting, grinding, sliding earth with imperceptible, perpetual movement which later on became the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the massive water basin that came to be knows as Lake Tahoe.

Here are some more interesting information about Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe's elevation is 6,229 feet, arriving the highest lake of its size in the United States.

The water depth measures 1,645 feet at a portion of the lake in the Crystal Bay region, arriving the tenth deepest lake internationally and third deepest in North America.

Lake Tahoe also boasts of water clarity to a depth of 75-feet.

The lake covers a surface field of 191 square miles with 71-miles of exquisite shoreline, while the Nevada/California border traverses lengthwise with a greater portion being on the California side.

Average snowfall in a few areas is 300-600 inches and melting snow finds its way to the lake via 63 streams entering the basin.

But what would strike you as odd is the fact that there's just one outlet, the Truckee River.

Because of the enormous volume and constant movement of the water, Lake Tahoe never freezes despite the drastic winter temperature ranges.

Back in the old, old days summer vacationers began arriving to a greater extent 10,000 years ago when the US Indian Washoe tribe camped along the cool lakeshores.

One of their favorite places is known right now as Camp Richardson and the men of the tribe were skillful hunters and took advantage of the abundant wildlife.

The Washoe women were noted for their intricate and artistic basket weaving and this idyllic lifestyle spanned generations of the peaceful tribe, still, it wouldn't last.

The first European American to observe Lake Tahoe was John C. Fremont, whose exploration party was led by Kit Carson in 1844.

In 1859, the discovery of the Comstock Lode in Virginia City, changed the face of the lake would affect it forever.

With mines, cities and the railroad invading the territory, wood was of the many available the fuel source wand was also needed to supply building materials.

The east shore, from what is now Incline Village to Glenbrook, became a vast logging empire and the ravages of clear-cutting would remain evident for some time to come.

The Comstock silver lode made hundreds of people during the California and Comstock mining days and many were attracted to the pristine lake.

This was how tourism started and the resulting resorts soon to dot the lush landscape.

The Tahoe Basin managed to remain in relative obscurity with only a few people aware of its existence until the 1950s when Bill Harrah and Harvey Gross built the first casinos on the south shore.

With their gaming expertise they heard in recent times back in Reno, they knew how to attract business for their establishments and became mainstays up until right now, Referred to Harvey's and Harrah's

Back in 1960, the Winter Olympic Games were hosted at Squaw Valley on the west shore and with the resulting publicity, the location was soon accepted as a world-class winter playground, as well as the premier summer vacation venue.

The Olympic Rings still remain at Squaw Valley Resort and where and when is renowned for year-round sporting activities.

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Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals

You only go around once in life (or so they say) so make sure Lake Tahoe, California is on your list of places to see and experience, at least once. The Sierra Nevada Mountains plays host to this resort town, which actually sits in both California and Nevada, only 45 miles from Reno. Lake Tahoe vacation rentals are abundant and amenity filled, plus the choice of style and location is varied as well. The region is quite a popular ski resort area, so make your plans early if you plan on visiting during the peak snow sports months. The prime locations within this resort area for great rental homes and condos include Agate Bay, Alpine Meadows, Brockway, Carnelian Bay, Cedar Flat, Dollar Point, Donner Lake, Juniper Hill, Kings Beach, Kingswood Estates, Lake Forest, Northstar, Squaw Valley (Olympic Valley), Tahoe City, Tahoe Donner, Tahoe Vista, and Truckee.

A Lake Tahoe rental home, condo or cabin makes for a great respite while vacationing in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Consider the added privacy, space and freedom you will have over staying in a hotel room. Even the nicest of lodges and hotels will keep you uncomfortably close to all the other guests, and you may find yourself longing for some space to stretch out and relax, maybe make your self and the family some dinner. Look through the assortment of Lake Tahoe rental homes, villas and cabins on this site, and you will see that your choices are many. All rental properties come fully furnished, with functioning kitchens and linen service. The amenities are suited for a mountain getaway, and include, hot tubs, fireplaces, covered parking, mountain access, gourmet kitchens and designer decor, just to mention a few. The reputable rental management companies that show their properties on this site can guide you through all the choices, and help you makes the right decisions for you and your travel companions.

Snow is always falling in Lake Tahoe, however that doesn't mean Spring, Summer and Autumn don't offer up some non-skiing options for a great getaway. There are 46 golf courses in the area, for example, and with an average summer temperature of 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit, your game just got a little better. Tahoe is the Washoe word for "Big Water", and the lake is why most people come here, whether they ski or not. The water activities are endless, along with cultural events that will keep interesting and make your Lake Tahoe trip memorable. Spring brings an international film festival to the area, shared with neighboring Reno, Nevada. Summer offers up Shakespeare on stage, and carved wooden boats at the Concours d'Elegance. During prime skiing time, there are 15 resorts from which to choose, seven ski resorts in North Lake Tahoe alone. 26,000 ski-able acres in all, with 200 for cross country pursuits.

Ski boarding, snowmobiling, and the art of snowman and snow angel making can be perfected here also. The casino scene in North Lake Tahoe is alive and well, with dozens of locales in which to make your bets, complete with all the live entertainment you expect in upscale gambling establishments. Great nightlife, abundant shopping, good eats and endless activities all year long make Lake Tahoe an ideal vacation location. Picking Lake Tahoe rentals like homes, villas or condos will make it even better, if that's possible. They say you only go around once in life, but no one ever said you couldn't go back to Lake Tahoe, the "Jewel of the Sierra" as many times as you want.

Tag : Lake Tahoe,Lake Tahoe Rentals,Lake Tahoe Vacation