Weddings in the Sky - Lake Tahoe Helicopter and Balloon Weddings

Your wedding day is a momentous occasion that will produce an everlasting memory, and to consummate your wedding vows airborne over the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains and historic lake Tahoe can only add to the thrill of the memories of your special day. Getting married while soaring through the sky in a helicopter or floating peacefully in a balloon10,000 feet in the air will provide an unparalleled wedding experience, an adventure you will reminisce forever. If you're an audacious couple looking to walk down the aisle in a slightly unusual way, a wedding in the sky may be just what you're looking for.

Although a helicopter wedding is a bit of an untraditional way to marry, the novelty of the experience will provide a perpetual remembrance. Saying "I do!" while flying in the air over the gorgeous vivid blue waters of Tahoe in the midst of the Sierra's is an astounding way to enhance the excitement of your once in a lifetime event. The infinite scenic beauty of the lakeand surrounding mountains as viewed from altitudes high above the horizon is an incredible sight.

The wedding ceremony is performed in-flight, and the helicopter party typically includes the bride, groom, minister and pilot. Heli-weddings, as they call it, are available year-round, and the price is comparable to outdoor beach weddings that regularly occur along the south shore of lake Tahoe. Once you're pronounced husband and wife you can relax and enjoy the magnificent aerial views of world-famous Emerald Bay, the pristine shoreline of Sand Harbor, the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range and all of the neighboring lakes of Tahoe.

An alternate way to partake in a high-flying wedding is to have a balloon ceremony. Imagine yourself floating peacefully in the sky aloft 10,000 feet in the air drifting across an immaculate body of water, and then culminating this dreamy sensation with the one you love as you unite in marriage. The setting is unimaginable, and the experience will be one that is long remembered.

The balloon ride begins soon after sunrise and typically lasts about one hour. Once the pilot reaches the "cruising altitude" your ceremony will commence. The remainder of the trip is devoted to observing the awe-inspiring landscape as you glide over the countryside and drift only where the wind permits. On clear days the view extends well beyond the Sierras, and sights as far as Yosemite National Park can be seen.

Although not as traditional as your typical wedding, conducting a ceremony at elevations of the clouds is quite a fascination for many couples. The idea of soaring through the air in ahelicopter or wandering serenely within a balloon aloft in the winds has an appeal that will provide a most impressive experience on a very special day in your life. Perhaps only for the audacious who seek an adventure, a wedding in the sky will present a thrilling and unique endeavor that can very well be construed as a wedding made in Heaven.

Lake Tahoe Weddings - Lakeside Wedding Locations

If you're thinking about "tying the knot" and desire a beautiful and unique outdoor wedding location, you may want to consider having a Lake Tahoe wedding. The south shore of Lake Tahoe offers fantastic lakeside venues where you can have your ceremony, and there are many romantic beach locations to choose from. Every potential wedding site has its own distinctive appeal, each quite diverse from the other. A pleasant surprise, too, is that you will find that having your wedding take place at the edge of the water's of Tahoe may be far less expensive than you might have imagined.

Regan Beach and Emerald Bay are only but two of the many popular spots in Tahoe for the bride and groom to marry. Regan Beach has several places for the couple to choose from to have their ceremony and post ceremony photographs. You can be right at the waters edge in the sand or slightly elevated above Lake level in a grassy, park-like setting.

Lakeside weddings in Tahoe are relatively inexpensive. A simple wedding without a lot of frills can be as low as $195, which includes the minister at the location, a marriage license, and the notary fees. Also, after the ceremony, the minister will transport the original marriage license he issued to you at completion of the ceremony to the county recorder's office where you will receive a recorded copy of your marriage license.

Additionally, if you are a little flexible with the time of your wedding, you may be able to pick a location of your choice and not have to reserve that particular location you've chosen, which helps keep the cost and any budget concerns to a minimal by avoiding reservation fees. So, if cost is a factor, a little flexibility can save you a bundle.

What other place in the world can you have a wedding that matches the beauty of Lake Tahoe for under $200? Though cost and beauty are only a couple of reasons why many brides and grooms make the journey to the "Lake in the Sky", there are many more. Did I mention it is a great place for a honeymoon too?

Lake Tahoe weddings have provided a lifetime memory for countless couples who have fallen in love, a memory made all within a truly romantic setting. Tahoe's Lakeside venues have been a primary destination for wedding couples for decades and continue to increase in popularity as a favorite spot to wed. If it's a Lakeside wedding with a view you're after, consider the option of an outdoor beach wedding alongside the crystal clear, blue waters of Tahoe as the ceremonial site for your once in a lifetime event.

Emerald Bay - Winter Wedding Wonderland of Lake Tahoe

If a destination wedding is in your plans, you may want to consider one of the hottest spots in America. Emerald Bay has long been a popular place for couples to exchange their wedding vows, and the winter season is no exception. Lake Tahoe weddings take place year-round over the bay regardless of the time of year.

Located along the western shore of Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay towers 300 feet above the Lake, offering a panoramic view of the alpine "Lake in the Sky" surrounded by the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range. Couples who arrive at Emerald Bay on their wedding day are in awe of the breath-taking views they experience as they climb the path to the wedding location on the bluff.

Though what seems like an area of seclusion, particularly in the winter months, Emerald Bay is not a difficult drive and only about 20 miles from the heart of the City of South Lake Tahoe. It is there on the south shore that many couples prefer to hold their post-ceremony reception and to enjoy their honeymoon since Tahoe has a great deal more to offer once the wedding vows are consummated.

Beautiful resort areas that cater to couples line the main strip, and there are plenty of restaurants and event centers that host receptions. Close to the heart of town is Heavenly Village, comprised of a variety of shops and fine art galleries. In close proximity to the village is the Heavenly Ski gondola that skiers as well as non-skiers ride, available to the newlyweds who desire a scenic voyage up the slope of Heavenly's mountain.

There is an abundance of night life in the general vicinity as well if the couple wants to carry on the celebration into the late night hours. The downtown casinos offer gaming, outlandish nightclubs and showroom performances. In addition to the nightly entertainment, the local casinos offer luxurious honeymoon suites for the newly married.

Keep in mind that when planning a winter wedding in Tahoe on the bluff of Emerald Bay, there is the possibility of road closures due to winter storms. Highway 89 north, the two lane highway that brings you to Emerald Bay, does occasionally close for avalanche control after heavy snow has fallen. However, weddings on the bluff remain to be popular in the winter season, and over the years of performing weddings atop the bay, few brides and grooms have had to change their ceremony plans.

It is well worth mentioning, however, and a great comfort for brides and grooms to know that most wedding coordinators (if you're using one) always have a plan "B" in an alternately beautiful but protected location if winter conditions look threatening. Nevertheless, if the infrequent situation arises, please note that I've never known a married couple to be disappointed with a substitute location, largely due to the excitement and beauty Mother Nature adds to their wedding day.

There are some whopping advantages, though, for braving a winter wedding at Emerald Bay. The wintery atmosphere atop the bluff over the bay with the surrounding white-capped mountains provides a whole different wedding theme. The backdrop alone for the wedding photos is a big plus in favor of a winter wedding. You'll find the winter experience is quite unique compared to other wedding venues, and should a few snowfLakes fall during the vow exchange, it can only add to the nuance of your special day.

If a winter wedding is in your forecast, always remember that Lake Tahoe weddings high on the bluffs of Emerald Bay take place year-round. Through snow or shine, couples in love make the trek to Tahoe to make those promises to each other and exchange the symbolic rings of commitment. Being one of the most popularly photographed places in the world, Emerald Bay may very well be rising in the ranks of popularity for a winter wedding destination, even though the snowy season may seem quite daunting. That very well may be for the reason that a snowy, white wedding has an ambiance of uniqueness and charm all of its own.

Why Is Skiing at South Lake Tahoe So Popular?

Some well known ski resorts in South Lake Tahoe are Alpine Meadows (2,400 acres), Heavenly Mountain (4,800 acres) and Squaw Valley (4,000 acres). Each received, at least, four stars for family friendliness, downhill terrain and nightlife from reviewers on OnTheSnow.com. One snowboarder gave Heavenly Mountain high marks for the quality of the downhill terrain, but lamented that the area for snowboarders lacked rails to protect people from falling off the side.

Alpine Meadows received high marks for its terrain, too, though the person who wrote the review thought it was too small for anyone planning to ski there on more than one day. Another liked the fact that it was less crowded than other resorts. Squaw Valley received high marks for the quality of the snow and the food. The only drawback the reviewer mentioned was the fact that "not much is open after the resort closes at night."

Most of the resorts in South Lake Tahoe were recommended, by reviewers, for beginning, intermediate and advanced skiers. Some, such as Heavenly Mountain, Kirkwood, Sierra at Tahoe, Squaw Valley, and Mt. Rose, are also recommended for experts.

It would appear that one of the reasons skiing in South Tahoe is so popular is because of the overall experience people receive at the South Shore's various resorts. skiing, in general, is an expensive pastime. So, if you plan to go to South Lake Tahoe for your first - or next - ski trip, you will most likely get your money's worth, even if you can only afford to stay for a weekend.

If you're going to South Lake Tahoe for the first time, you will be happy to know that people who reviewed the South Shore's many resorts found their experiences to be above average. Skiing here is so popular because of the great skiing and, apparently, the equally great overall resort experience.

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.

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.

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.

Vacation Rentals on Lake Tahoe's South Shore

South Lake Tahoe vacation rentals are particularly in demand with those folks who crave the excitement of being near the variety of entertainment choices and the abundance of recreational facilities for which the area is well known. Here at South Lake Tahoe you have your choice of world class hotels with all the amenities, beautiful houses for rent, condos, cabins, apartments and the smaller, less crowded facilities popularly known as boutique resorts.

Usually situated on or near the beach, these mini resorts cater fully to their customers' needs. From almost anywhere in South Lake Tahoe you are within walking distance of world class night life, shopping and dining, recreational choices to satisfy anyone's desires and they usually have their own private beaches to enjoy the crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe undisturbed by other visitors to the area. Relax, enjoy, sip marguerites, soak up the sun, have an elegant lunch at a Lakeside café. Then, later on, shower and dress for the evening and in a mere few minutes you're in an elegant casino, or a four star restaurant or being seated in front of one of your favorite performers. South Lake Tahoe has everything to offer close at hand for those who want to experience everything.

South Lake Tahoe boasts over 3,000 hotel rooms ranging from moderate to superior with prices a lot less than you'd expect to pay for such luxury. And that doesn't take into account the abundance of activities in the immediate area. In the summer time, the area comes alive with water sports of all kinds, hiking tours through the woods, bicycling either alone or in groups, hot air ballooning over the Lake or over the mountains, and beautiful championship golf courses designed by some of the most prestigious golf pros. In the winter time, the snow capped mountains provide multi-level skiing both day and night, snowboarding, ice skating and sleigh rides all mixed with that small-town atmosphere that gives the area its charm.

Lake Tahoe Boat Rentals Are The Best Way To Experience The High Sierra Mountains

Lake Tahoeis best known for the winter season where the skiing is magnificent and some of the best in the world. However, it is, at heart, a Lake and a place where the summer time offers some great water activities.

This is a boating paradise. Lake boat rentals allow visitors to take full advantage of the Lake front activities that are present in the summer season at Tahoe.

The region offers some great fishing, swimming and other water fun. There are plenty of the resorts that cater to year round guests.

The summer time at the lake is not as amped up or busy as the winter skiing season. This makes it have more of a homey feel to it. The region in the summer offers all the magnificence of the high mountain country with all the beautiful views that are present in the winter season.

Lake Tahoe rentals provide a way for summer visitors to explore the lake and all the wonderful things it has to offer. A boat rental can be secured through many of the resorts in the area. boat rentals are also available through independent rental shops.

Lake Tahoe is a wonderful vacation any time of the year because it is breath taking all year long. In the summer months the focus is on the Lake. There are no pushy skiers off to hit the slopes and the atmosphere is a bit more calm.

Overall the region in the summer is made for those lazy days of relaxing and soaking up the suns rays while floating in a boat on the waters. Lake Tahoe boat rentals can bring you closer to the Lake then ever before and allow you to see why it is not just a skiing paradise, but rather a paradise any time of the year.

So lets' say you want to spend a day on the Lake. Where should you start? Well if you are at the north end of Tahoe you should visit the North Tahoe Marina where you can rent boats from 18' to 24' and reservations are recommended.

If you are on the south shore you should start at The Zephyr Cove Resort marina where they feature a full service facility. The resort is home to a wonderful sandy beach complete with volleyball, swimming, with rental beach chairs and umbrellas! A host of other activities await you including:

Zephyr Cove Marina- Rent a 22' 300-hp SeaRay Powerboat with Water Sports Tower, which allows attachment of tow rope for water skiing, etc and go out for an unforgettable day. Grab some water toys like ski tubes, wake boards, water skis, wet suits and tow ropes, the Zephyr Cove Marina has everything you need.

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.

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.

Tag : Lake Tahoe,North Lake Tahoe,Vacation Rentals

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.

Tag : Lake Tahoe,California,Inns,Innkeepers

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.

Tag : Lake Tahoe,Lake Tahoe Road,Lake Tahoe Vacation

Are Lake Tahoe Hotels and Accommodations a Deal?

Lake Tahoe hotels are popular in North and South Lake Tahoe. The South shore of Tahoe is home to Harrah's and Harvey's, two of the most popular casino hotels on Lake Tahoe. The North shore of Tahoe is home to many smaller hotels along with a few bigger ones at Stateline, and of course the Hyatt located in Incline Village, Nevada.

After a recent South shore downtown redevelopment, which now includes many upgrades to the area's attractions, there is new accessibility to Heavenly Valley, a wider array of shopping, and also more dining options. The South shore hotels are located very close to the Lake and many rooms have great views..

On the North shore, you can enjoy two outdoor ice arenas, one on each end of North Shore (North Star and Squaw Valley). You will also find many specialty shops, boutiques and restaurants. There are plenty of opportunities for renting Ski-Doos, kayaks, and ski boats. Some hotels directly offer these rentals in addition to great nightlife in their casinos. No matter what, recreation opportunities are never far away in Lake Tahoe. Both North and South Lake Tahoe hotels are popular for couples looking for a top travel destination.

Why aren't Lake Tahoe Hotels the best choice for your family getaway?

If you are planning a vacation with family or friends, you may want to steer clear of the hotels and rent one of the thousands of rental homes or condos for your accommodations in order to benefit from the lower cost, much more space, views, kitchens and other amenities to feel all the comforts of home while enjoying your vacation.

There are many different types of vacation rentals, so you'll want to choose the right one for your needs and budget. Sharing the cost of a vacation house is usually more affordable than everyone staying separately in any of the Lake Tahoe hotels. Most people find vacation rental homes much more convenient and cost-effective for a family or two.

It's best to make reservations well in advance for both Lake Tahoe hotels and vacation rentals. Also, keep in mind that summer and winter are peak seasons, and quality hotels, lodging, vacation rentals and other resort accommodations can book up fast. Many websites offer a variety of Lake Tahoe hotels but Lake Tahoe Vacation rentals just may be the better deal for you and your family 's accommodations instead of a hotel room.

There is no doubt your vacation will certainly be centered around all of the outdoor activities you plan to participate in, stay close to everything you love about the area with a conveniently located vacation rental.

Vacation rentals can be found just steps away from the ski lifts or ideally situated on the blue waters in the basin for an exciting, entertaining vacation in some of the most beautiful surroundings possible. Start your vacation planning today for the perfect accommodations that offer an all-season retreat beyond the ordinary.

The difference between choosing one of the hotels in the area vs. a vacation home rental is simply a matter of choice when it comes to vacationing, no matter what time of year. This travel hot spot has all kinds of accommodations for even the most selective traveler, but remember, book your getaway early!

Tag : Lake Tahoe,Lake Tahoe Hotels,Lake Tahoe Accommodations,hotels

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

Tag : Lake Tahoe,Lake Tahoe Vacation,Hollywood,Taste

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.

Tag : Lake Tahoe,Lake Tahoe Vacation,Vacation

Lake Tahoe - A Destination For Any Season

If you are a winter sports enthusiast you will no doubt be enjoying some skiing or snowboarding at one of the area's many fantastic resorts. Heavenly Ski Resort is on the South Shore and is a well rounded resort and one of North America's largest mountains. The 3500 foot vertical drop is unmatched anywhere on the west coast. Heavenly is famous for its gondola, located half a block west of Stateline, and putting the serenity of the mountain just steps away from the major casinos and nearly 5,000 hotel rooms. The eight passenger enclosed compartments take you 2.4 miles up the mountain in 12 minutes while you marvel at the staggering views of the lake. Once you arrive at the 14,000 square foot observation platform, you will be treated to views of Carson Valley, Desolation Wilderness, and shore to shore views of Lake Tahoe. Regardless of whether or not you are continuing to Adventure Peak at the top of the mountain to enjoy winter activities such as skiing and snowmobiling, a trip on the Heavenly Gondola is something that everybody should do while in Lake Tahoe, the views will be unmatched.

Another popular ski Resort is the Squaw Valley Resort on the North Shore. The Resort, home to the 1960 Olympic Games, is set over six magnificent mountain peaks and offers over 4000 acres of skiable terrain. This is a large resort with an abundance of activities for all the family to enjoy. As well as many recreational opportunities, Squaw also is home to the Village at Squaw Valley, an interesting collection of stores, boutiques and some great eateries, and is a great way to spend a leisurely day.

After an exhilarating day on the slopes, Lake Tahoe allows you the chance to either relax over a good meal in one of the area's exceptional restaurants, or for those with energy left to spare, there are a huge variety of thrilling nightlife options, mostly centered around the casinos. Lake Tahoe is famous for its casinos, most of which you will find on the South Shore, and each with a multitude of dining, entertainment, gaming and dancing options. Most casino resorts have up to ten different restaurants, and several bars, lounges and nightclubs. Day or night, there is always something going on, but with the gaming laws, all the casinos are on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, with the Stateline area being where most of these resorts are clustered together. Harrah's Lake Tahoe, Harvey's, the new MontBleu Resort and the Horizon Resort and Casino are all great choices for 24 hour action under one roof. No trip to Lake Tahoe would be complete without a visit to at least one!

Of course winter is not the only time that Lake Tahoe is buzzing, the summertime brings with it blue skies and warm weather, and opportunities for enjoying the outdoors like no other place on earth. Hiking, boating, fishing, golfing, swimming, kayaking, rafting, the list is endless and the backdrop for any of these activities will take your breath away. Tahoe is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, full of hidden coves to discover, hiking trails that afford views unlike any other, magical treasures just waiting to be found. One of the most scenic games of golf anywhere can be found at the Edgewood Tahoe, an elegant resort situated on the South Shore, and designed by George Fazio. Edgewood is the home of the annual celebrity golf championship and if you enjoy golf, this beautiful course will test your skills with its challenging but fair game. If you prefer to hike than play golf, then try the Emerald Bay to Vikingsholm trail. Starting in the spectacular Emerald Bay in South Lake Tahoe, the trail is wide and well maintained, but can be a little steep in places. It runs for two and a half miles round trip, and you will get to see the amazing Vikingsholm, a replica of a Scandinavian castle that was once a summer home for a wealthy family, but now serves as a museum, and is a unique blend of architecture and nature.

For those who prefer to take things at a more relaxed pace, there is no better way to enjoy the splendor of the lake than to sail on its waters. Zephyr Cove in South Lake Tahoe offers not only horseback riding, camping, beaches and jet-ski and boat rentals, but also is where you can cruise on one of its historic paddle wheelers and take in the scenery. The award winning vessels serve champagne brunches, breakfast and dinner, and there is even a romantic sunset cruise to music. Scenic cruises run daily from June through mid September and there are many different themed cruises to choose from, such as the 'Mark Twain's Tales of a Tahoe' cruise, or the 'Family Fun Cruise with Tahoe Tessie.' The cruises are a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend some time and provide some incredible photo opportunities to ensure that you will never forget your trip.

With or without photographs, a trip to Lake Tahoe will always be memorable and very special. This destination has it all, and anyone lucky enough to visit will be spoilt for choice with the extent of recreational and sightseeing activities available here. This is a place where the variety of things to do for all the family, coupled with the glorious scenery make an excellent choice for your next vacation.

Tag : Lake Tahoe,Lake Tahoe Vacation,Lake Tahoe Resort,Lake Tahoe Hotels

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