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.

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Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals - North and South Lake Tahoe Vacation Homes and Guide

The lake and its surrounding area which is commonly referred to as Tahoe, has an elevation of 6225 feet. Lake Tahoe is twenty two miles long and 12 miles wide and has a shoreline that extends over 71 miles. This gorgeous lake is shared by two US states, namely California which stakes claim to 42 miles of Lake Tahoe's shoreline and the state of Nevada which has 29 miles of it. Lake Tahoe offer many vacation homes on both the North and South shore which, by the way, is the largest alpine lake in North America is renowned for its almost translucent waters that are known to evoke feelings of wonder and awe. In fact, when the famous American author Mark Twain first set his eyes on the Lake during his visit to the area in the late 1860's he described it as "the fairest picture the whole earth affords."

A locale of unmatched beauty

The Lake which was created by volcanic activity was first discovered by an American called John C Fremont in 1844 but before that the Lake and its forested surrounding area was home to the Washo Indian tribe who called the Lake 'big sky lake' in honor of its sparkling, blue and clear waters. It has an average depth of 989 feet and at its deepest point the lake reaches a depth of 1,645 feet. However the Lake is not too conducive to swimming as the waters of the lake are often very cold even during the peak summer months. Moreover it is also known to have extremely strong and treacherous currents. Another interesting fact about the lake, is that this lake doesn't drain into an ocean even though nearly sixty-three streams flow into it, rather it drains into the Pyramid Lake located in the Nevada desert by way of the Truckee River. Apart from the beauty of the lake, the area around it is also characterized by crisp, clear air, dense forests and much tranquility.

Amenable weather

The entire area is blessed with agreeable weather as a result of which it has now become an immensely popular year round destination for Americans. The Lake on an average enjoys 250 to 300 days of sunny weather during the year. During the winter months it tends to receive nearly 300-500 inches of snow fall and this has enabled it to become one of the nation's premier ski destinations. The Lake Tahoe area has a multitude of ski resorts that offer a vast number of activities like snowboarding, ice -skating, snow shoeing, snowmobiling, sleigh riding in addition to skiing and cross country skiing. During the warmer months, people flock to Lake Tahoe to indulge in various recreational activities like boating and water sports, hiking, tennis, camping, ballooning, golf, horseback riding, parasailing, bungee jumping and much more.

Getting there

By Car

North and South Lake Tahoe are easily accessible by various modes of transport. Lake Tahoe is located on the border between California and Nevada. This popular resort destination lies 200 miles to the east of the Californian city of San Francisco while it is just 30 miles to the west of Reno in Nevada. North Lake Tahoe which is known for its ski resorts can be accessed by car via the I-80 from San Francisco. South Lake Tahoe which is populated by many hotels, restaurants and casinos lies mainly in Nevada and can be reached from Reno by taking US 395 South and then US 50 West..

By Air

The closest commercial airports are Reno Tahoe International airport in Nevada which can be accessed via a 40 minute drive from this popular year round destination. Another big commercial airport that serves the region is the Sacramento International Airport in California which is located two hours away. Smaller airports like South Lake Tahoe Airport and Truckee-Tahoe Airport afford additional air links to Lake Tahoe.

By Bus

During the winter ski months several bus services operate to various ski resorts like the Bay Area Ski Bus and the NAC ski.

By Train

Lake Tahoe can also be accessed by train on the Amtrak California Zephyr Route that makes a stop in Truckee.

Towns and Villages on the shoreline

The shoreline of Lake Town has several towns and villages each of which are known for their own distinct character and myriad attractions. Lake Tahoe is divided into two distinct parts North Lake Tahoe which is home to ski resorts and towns like Incline Village, which is a wealthy enclave that is peppered with million dollar homes, shops and restaurants. Other towns in North Lake Tahoe include the old railroad town of Truckee, Tahoe City, ski resort towns of Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley which was the site of the 1960's Winter Olympic Games amongst others.

South Lake Tahoe is a large area which is essentially geared towards tourism and lies largely in the state of Nevada. This tourist heavy area is home to several big name casinos like Harrah's, Harveys, Mont Bleu and the Horzion which are all located in the town of Stateline in Nevada. These casinos are not only known as gambling destinations but are considered to be resorts which provide much entertainment of all the family.

Apart from these towns and villages, the area surrounding North and South Lake Tahoe also has a number of state parks like the Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park which offers several recreations options to vacationers and locals alike. Sand Harbor with its sandy beaches is a preferred location in the park. It is located three miles to the west of Incline village and has boating and picnicking facilities. Sand Harbor is hosts the popular Lake Tahoe Shakespeare festival every July. Other popular locales in the Park include Memorial Point and Hidden Beach, Cave Rock, Spooner Lake, Zephyr Cover all of which have facilities for picnicking, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, camping, trekking etc.

Some state parks located on the Californian side include the Bodie State Historic Park which is a well preserved ghost town and the Donner Memorial State Park.

Attractions

Taking a ride on a historic paddle wheeler

You can get out and about on the Lake itself by riding on-board a historic three deck paddle wheeler called the MS Dixie II. This paddle wheel replaced the original MS Dixie in 1994. This paddle wheeler sets sail from the town of Zephyr cove. Similar cruises are also offered by the Tahoe Queen which sails from the town of Emerald Bay in South Lake Tahoe.

Visit Vikingsholm

This Scandinavian styled vacation home was built in 1929 at the cost of US$500,000. Vikingsholm is an exponent of Nordic architecture that was built with local materials. A part of this home is even topped with sod roofs. Tours of Vikingsholm are available from Mid-June until Labor Day. This attraction which is located on the head of Emerald Bay can be accessed via a scenic hike from Eagle Point State Park though it is also accessible by car.

Olympic Valley

This all weather destination is accessed via a cable car ride that traverses over 2000 vertical feet and transports you to a village that features an Olympic Museum, ice skating rink, swimming pool, spa and restaurants.

Bars and Restaurants.

Lake Tahoe is a prime American destination and it boasts of wide variety of bars and restaurants that aim to cater to all tastes. Bars and restaurants populate both North Lake Tahoe as well as South Lake Tahoe. Some popular restaurants located here include Rosie's and the Old Post Café both of which are located in California and are favored brunch and breakfast spots. Other well -like establishments include the Char Pit, which is a small restaurant located in the town of Kings Beach that is renowned for its hearty burgers and baby back ribs. River Ranch Lodge and Restaurant, Le Bistro, Dragonfly, Fiamma are still other dining spots which find favor with both locals and out- of-towners who come to Lake Tahoe on holiday.

Accommodations

If you are planning a holiday in Lake Tahoe sometime soon, you will be happy to know that you have wide range of accommodation options available here that range from the conventional hotels and resorts to charming lodges and cabins and convenient, reasonable and family-friendly vacation rentals. Usually, you will find a better deal when dealing with vacation rentals offered direct from owners.

Vacation rentals make economic sense

Vacation rentals or sometimes called Vacation Homes are in fact a popular accommodation choice in Lake Tahoe which is quite a family-centric destination. Hiring a vacation rental in Lake Tahoe often makes economic sense for a family or large group that wishes to vacation together as it reduces the expenses that are associated with booking individual hotel rooms.

Several websites as well as well known classified sites offer listings of a plethora of vacation rentals in Lake Tahoe.

What makes the Best booking experience when booking Tahoe Vacation Rentals?

One of the latest ways to book North or South Lake Tahoe Vacation homes is simply to book a home online similar to booking a room at a fine hotel.

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Lake Tahoe - The Destination for a Perfect Vacation

If you are long overdue for a vacation, Lake Tahoe can be the perfect getaway for you. Breathe in the beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains and enjoy the unlimited recreational activities. Tahoe Lake truly has something for everyone. Read on to find out more.

It is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains at and elevation of 6,225 ft (1,897 m). Its striking blue waters offer picturesque views from dozens of mountain tops and 72 miles of shoreline. It falls on the border of California and Nevada and is a major year-round vacation destination.

For winter travel, Lake Tahoe and is home to numerous world class ski resorts. Pacific coastal storms deliver 300-500 inches of annual snowfall to the local ski resorts. Lake Tahoe skiers often have the best of both worlds - tons of snow and relatively warm temperatures. These great conditions combined with amazing views of this Lake below make skiing at Tahoe Lake truly exceptional. The largest ski areas in the Lake Tahoe area are Squaw Valley, Heavenly, Sugar Bowl, Alpine Meadows, Kirkwood, Mt. Rose, Northstar and Sierra at Tahoe and Diamond Peak. In addition there are numerous smaller ski areas including Tahoe Donner and Dodge Ridge which offer lower lift prices and can be a great choice for those just learning to ski or snow board. Cross country skiing and snow mobile riding are also very popular in Tahoe. Royal Gorge is largest cross country ski resort in the United States featuring over 330km of groomed trails.

For summer travel, it offers nearly unlimited hiking, biking and lake activities. There are hundreds of miles of trails in the Lake Tahoe basin. The Tahoe Rim Trail is a 150-mile hiking and equestrian trail that follows the ridge tops of the Lake Tahoe Basin. The trail traverses six counties and two states and includes a portion of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. This trail is on the adventurous side with elevations ranging from 6,300 to 9,400 feet and an average grade around 10%. Shorter and less demanding trails are available throughout the region. It also offers incredible trails for both road and mountain biking. For golfers, numerous courses are available for all skill levels and budgets.

In winter or summer, the towns and villages surrounding Lake Tahoe have a lot to offer. Tahoe City and Incline Village on the north shores of this Lake and South Lake Tahoe on the southern shores of Lake Tahoe offer great shopping and dining. Major casinos are located on the Nevada side of the border on both the northern and southern ends of Tahoe Lake with even more choices located in nearby Reno, Nevada.

It offers and incredible range of accommodations that matches the huge number of recreational activities that are available. Travelers increasing select vacation rentals to meet the needs of their vacation. For those seeking the flexibility and amenities available in a vacation rental, there are literally thousands of vacation rental choices available including vacation rental homes, cabins and condos available all around the Lake. Options range from studio condos to huge home sleeping 20 or more guests. This diversity of vacation rentals makes them a great choice for couples, groups or extended families.

In North Lake Tahoe, there are numerous vacation rental homes and condos surrounding each of the major ski areas. In addition, Tahoe Donner, Truckee, Tahoe City, Kings Beach and Incline Village have a diverse selection of vacation rentals available. South Lake Tahoe offers many vacation rentals on the south end of Tahoe Lake which are perfect for travelers who want to be close to the lake, skiing and the casinos. You can look online for good Lake Tahoe vacation rentals and plan that vacation you had been dreaming about.

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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.

South Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals

South Lake Tahoe is a year-round vacation paradise that is perfect for any outdoor adventurer who loves breathtaking scenery. With the sparkling blue lake, the towering pines, and snow-covered mountain peaks, anyone with the urge to enjoy fresh mountain air and an abundance of activities can fulfill their wishes at this scenic playground. Make you way to South Lake Tahoe for your next summer or winter excursion and enjoy all this amazing city has to offer from the comforts of a vacation rental.

There are vacation rentals located throughout this gorgeous city so you can soak in the surroundings that mean the most to you while enjoying all the amenities of home. Many of the home rentals in South Lake Tahoe come complete with fully-stocked kitchens, numerous TVs and DVD players, and plenty of space so everyone in your family can spread out without feeling overcrowded. Throw in extras such as hot tubs and easy access to the lake, and you can truly begin to experience the relaxing nature of South Lake Tahoe.

If you love the towering pine trees that head outwards from the alpine lake, then a cozy and inviting cabin tucked away among pines, firs, and cedars would be a great lodging option for you. Imagine stepping out of your home away from home and relaxing on the deck, listening to the birds singing above as you sip a cold beverage. And when the urge to explore the woods become too much to ignore, head out along the trails and catch sight of the gorgeous mountains and the stunning lake, which is only one mile away.

Summer visitors who simply cannot get enough of Lake Tahoe and its numerous opportunities for recreation can stay in a home rental that rests along the shores of this expansive body of water. With a private dock you can pull your boat rental right up to your house so heading out for a day on the water is a quick and simple task, or you can take in the warm sunshine from the comforts of the private beach before waterskiing, tubing, or cruising around the lake with the family. Whatever water activity you can imagine, a waterfront home rental makes it easy to experience the fun and excitement of the clear blue water.

Staying directly on the lake is also great for visitors who need to unwind and escape from the stresses they have left behind. Waking up to the sun rising over the mountains and reflecting on the glassy surface of the lake is the perfect alarm clock, while watching the bright orange glow of the sun setting is the ideal serene sight for melting stress. All of your cares will slip away after you soak in the fresh air and the natural beauty of South Lake Tahoe that surrounds your vacation home rental.

Winter visitors head to South Lake Tahoe for the exceptional skiing at Heavenly Ski Resort so staying in a home or condo in the Heavenly area would be the ideal lodging choice. You can find homes that are located at the base of Heavenly and homes that are conveniently situated next to Heavenly's Boulder Lodge, meaning all you need to do is grab your skis and you are ready for a day of thrills and adrenaline. And when you are ready to retire into the warmth of your accommodations, you can curl up on your sofa near the fire as you thaw your fingers and toes after a long day on the slopes.

South Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals are conveniently located on and around the stunning Lake Tahoe so you can experience the most relaxing and convenient vacation possible. Whether you are visiting in the summer for the numerous lake activities or venturing here in the winter for the amazing ski and snowboarding conditions, you can find a home or condo that makes it easy to take advantage of everything South Lake Tahoe offers to its visitors.

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Lake Tahoe Ski Vacations

Ski Vacations are becoming more and more popular, since they provide a great total body workout and the thrill of adventure, all in a serene setting. One of the most popular ski vacations resorts in the United States is Lake Tahoe. Lake Tahoe is one of the most popular freshwater lakes located in the Sierra Nevada between California and Nevada. Lake Tahoe and surrounding areas cater mostly to tourists and boasts of a highly diverse tourist industry that can satisfy the whims of visitors from all age groups. Most notably, skiing remains the most popular attraction that Lake Tahoe offers. Thousands of people visit Lake Tahoe each year for what they claim to be some of the best ski slopes in world. Its renowned ski resorts have played host to winter sporting events including the winter Olympics.

Travelers who plan their Lake Tahoe ski vacations must consider the size of the resort that they prefer to go to. There are large ski resorts that boast of world-class facilities and excellent ski slopes that expert and novice skiers may ski on. Heavenly Mountain and Squaw Valley are the two largest ski resorts that a lot of tourists visit when they spend their vacation in Lake Tahoe. There are medium sized ski resorts as well that provide superb service and world-class facilities but in a smaller space. Still, those who prefer intimate Lake Tahoe ski vacations may visit smaller resorts that are more secluded and cozy, yet still provide excellent service. Travelers are sure to find the right ski resort to spend their vacation with the vast variety of ski resorts available in Lake Tahoe. Tourists must also be aware that there are particular areas in Lake Tahoe that get more snow than other areas. This point may be of great importance to serious skiers.

There are quite a few popular peaks excellent for skiing found in Lake Tahoe. Some of the more popular peaks inlude Mt. Tallac, Mt. Pluto, Rubicon Peak, Genoa Peak, and Freel Peak.

Lake Tahoe ski vacations are guaranteed to satisfy the demands and the expectations and demands of serious skiers as well as first-time skiers due to the countless slopes that are ideal for everyone to enjoy skiing and staying at resports that fit every lifestyle and budget.

Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals provides detailed information on Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals, South Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals, North Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals, Lake Tahoe Vacation Home Rentals and more. Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals is affiliated with Lake Tahoe Lodging.

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Lake Tahoe Vacations

Dotted with a number of recreational areas, Lake Tahoe is a perfect destination for a breathtaking, relaxed, and safe vacation. As one of the popular vacation destination, Lake Tahoe offers water and snow skiing, golf courses, hiking trails, and ample opportunities for relaxation.

Lake Tahoe is divided into two regions for vacation purpose such as North Shore and South Shore. It provides every type of vacation experience. People of all ages visit this place to relax and enjoy vacations. Lake Tahoe vacations provide visitors unforgettable vacation experience with a wide range of destinations, entertainments, and activities. Emerald Bay, Heavenly Ski Trail, Tahoe Rim Trail, Children's Museum of Sierra Nevada, and Spooner Summit are some of the must-see attractions in Lake Tahoe.

North Lake Tahoe vacation highlights include Truckee River rafting and a side trip to Carson City or Reno. Having a North Lake Tahoe vacation is the best way to relax, as majority of the ski resorts are located in the north shore. Large casinos with big-name shows, boat cruises, heavenly ski resort, and gondola's are the highlights of South Lake Tahoe vacation. Excellent opportunities for shopping and dining are available in South Lake Tahoe.

The great time to have a memorable Lake Tahoe vacation is during winter. Winter activities include skiing, snowboarding, skating, and sledding. Lake Tahoe vacations are perfect in summer for boating, cruising, rafting, hiking, biking, golfing, and fishing.

During spring season, Lake Tahoe vacations offer skiing, in addition to white water rafting, fishing, hiking, golfing, and biking. In fall, enjoy the pleasure of panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. Golfing is becoming more and more popular among Lake Tahoe vacationers. Of the various types of vacation activities, the best option available to you is skiing.

To have a perfect stay during Lake Tahoe vacations, a wide variety of accommodation options are available. Lodging options range from luxury hotels to condos, quaint cabins, rustic lodges, lakeside motels, and scenic mountain retreats.

Lake Tahoe provides detailed information on Lake Tahoe, Lake Tahoe Vacation Rental, Lake Tahoe Lodging, South Lake Tahoe Vacation Rental and more. Lake Tahoe is affiliated with North Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals.

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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!

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Vacation in South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is part of the South Shore community that rests along the largest alpine lake in the continent. As a popular tourist destination, it is overflowing with year-round vacation activities that will keep you occupied no matter what your interests. Whether you are venturing to South Lake Tahoe for a winter ski excursion or a summer lake adventure, you can access all this spectacular lake has to offer from this amazing city.

When most people think of South Lake Tahoe, they probably imagine the sparkling white slopes that are ripe for an afternoon of downhill skiing. Heavenly Ski Resort is the place to head for the most fulfilling snow expedition with its 4,800 acres of skiable terrain at an elevation of 10,100 feet. Home to a heart-pounding 3600 foot drop and the longest ski run at 5.5 miles, this is a mountain retreat that will test your skills in a breathtakingly beautiful natural setting. Throw in the cross country trails, the snow tubing area, the terrain park, and the diverse selection of runs that can accommodate any skill level, and you have the makings of a memorable winter vacation.

One of the downsides of the Heavenly Ski Resort is that when ski season strikes, this is where most individuals head for their skiing or snowboarding adventure. There are numerous other ski resorts to consider, however, including the Sierra at Tahoe Ski Resort, Sugar Bowl Ski Resort, and Squaw Valley. Squaw Valley is a great option with its 4,000 acres of terrain and 450 inches of annual snowfall, so don't be afraid to explore outside the Heavenly realm since you may just find something a little less crowded and just as appealing.

More than just an incredible alpine getaway, South Lake Tahoe is the perfect place for a relaxing summer vacation away from the stresses of daily life. The stunning blue lake is the most popular attraction for those who want to spread out on a sandy beach or get out on the water for a day of exciting activities. Spending the day traveling around the lake is easy with a boat or jet ski rental since you can take in all the beauty while enjoying the large, refreshing lake. Throw a rope behind the boat for those who want to hop on a tube or pop up on water skis and experience a more enjoyable and exciting day than you ever imagined.

If you find yourself craving a more active day than simply lying on the golden sands of South Lake Tahoe's beautiful beaches, then head to Eldorado National Forest for a hiking excursion through the forest. The levels of difficulty range from family-friendly to extremely difficult so there is sure to be a path that allows you to enjoy the amazing views and the diverse vegetation. And after a long day on the trails, you can settle down at one of the picnic tables and soak in the energizing quality of the fresh mountain air.

Although outdoor activities are a mainstay in South Lake Tahoe, those who are feeling a bit lucky may want to head indoors at one of the casinos on the Nevada side of the border. Since gambling is legal in Nevada, make your way to Stateline and play at any of the popular casinos such as Harrah's Lake Tahoe, MontBleu, and Horizon Lake Tahoe to test your skill and luck at the game of your choice. With over 7,000 slot machines and 400 gaming tables at the six casinos, you may just return home with a larger wallet than you arrived with.

No matter how you plan to spend your vacation, you can find a wide selection of South Lake Tahoe vacation rentals that make it easy to enjoy all this great city has to offer. Whether you want to surround yourself with the beauty of the lake or escape to the quiet and solitude of the woods, there is a home or cabin rental that has everything you need to realize an amazing trip. Begin your search for the perfect house, chalet, or lodge today and experience the majestic beauty of Lake Tahoe from the comfort of your home away from home.

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An All-In-One Lake Tahoe Vacation

If you want it be an exaggerated sporting adventure, a family retreat or a serene solitary getaway, an all-in-one Lake Tahoe vacation has it all.

Lake Tahoe, nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, is one of today's finest vacation destinations around the US and is located along the border between California and Nevada.

Tahoe's depth is 1,645 feet and becomes America's second deepest freshwater body and the largest alpine lake in America. Historically, the lake was formed around 2 million previously and forms part of the Tahoe basin, for which the lake has been shaped during the Ice Ages. One of Lake Tahoe's unusual features is the clarity of its water and the exciting view of the surrounding mountains. The lake is the most popular tourist attractions, both from domestic and international tourists.

Lake Tahoe also plays host to a broad range of year-round activities and sporting adventures, including a significant number of ski resorts, a broad variety of tourist attractions and summer outdoor recreation resorts and facilities.

For nature lovers, Tahoe boasts of its mountain and lake scenery attractions that remain unchanged throughout the year.

The Nevada side of Tahoe likewise includes large casinos where highways give year-round access from Reno, Carson City and Sacramento, California.

Approximately no less than sixty six percent of the shoreline is a member of California and the south shore is dominated by the lake's largest city called South Lake Tahoe, California.

It is then bordered along Stateline, Nevada, while Tahoe City, California is located on the lake's northwest shore.

Although the lake's highways run along much of Tahoe's shorelines, most areas still lie within the jurisdiction of the US Forest Service and are declared protected zones. For starters, basic tourism information can be obtained from Lake Tahoe's many tourism and travel guides, both internet and published travel materials.

Lake Tahoe vacationers can find good deals on Tahoe hotels and vacation rentals, reckoning on budget and preferences, with many lodging options from economy and moderate hotels, motels, full service luxury resorts, casinos, inns, cabins and luxury vacation rentals.

There are also plenty of incredible ski resorts, golf courses, beaches, hiking & biking trails, camping, fishing and boating options and restaurants that make Tahoe one of the best and most sought vacation spots globally.

Other than just being a mountain and lake attraction, Tahoe boasts of year round weather and climate scenes that give any avid extreme sport enthusiast with a good skiing environment, in addition to an appropriate water environment for a water sport adventurer.

Lake Tahoe never freezes any time of the year and is a good vacation venue for a well-deserved family vacation or even just an easy weekend getaway from all the hustles and bustles of commonplace metropolitan life.

Lake Tahoe is accessible by car under ideal conditions within 2 hours from the Sacramento, California location or take a 1 hour ride from Reno or 30 minutes from Carson City.

Throughout winter, chains or snow tires are regularly essential to reach Tahoe from any direction.

Traffic can be considered heavy during weekends because of tourists taking a weekend break.

Lake Tahoe will remain to be one of the best tourist spots internationally and surely, one will not to have the prospect to regret having a, all-in-one Tahoe vacation.

Tag : Lake Tahoe,Lake Tahoe Vacation,South Lake Tahoe,Lake Tahoe Hotels,Lake Tahoe Vacation Rental Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Malcolm_Summers

Lake Tahoe Vacation Getaway

More than just an exciting summer vacation destination, Lake Tahoe is the perfect place for an all-season retreat filled to the brim with recreational pursuits. Whether you want to hit the slopes at one of the spectacular ski resorts or spend your days cruising around a pristine, majestic lake, Lake Tahoe has everything you need for a summer or winter getaway.

Summer in Lake Tahoe means spending numerous hours along the shores of this stunning body of water, either soaking up the sun or participating in thrilling activities out on the lake. Rent a boat for a day of swimming, waterskiing, and tubing; hop aboard a jet ski for an entertaining afternoon of jumping waves and viewing the serene scenery; or grab a kayak to create your own adventure during your vacation and explore the picturesque inlets. No matter what kind of water-filled activity appeals to your senses, Lake Tahoe is sure to be an accommodating host.

While the lake is the most popular attraction around here, the area surrounding this expansive beauty is an entertaining option for adventure-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. D.L. Bliss State Park offers an extensive trail system where visitors can catch breathtaking, panoramic views of Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay, and Fannette Island and make their way past the granite mammoth, the Balancing Rock, as it rests upon a slender base. Other popular nearby parks include Emerald Bay State Park, whose abundant flora is unmatched, and Donner Memorial State Park, where fishing, hiking, and boating are always in style.

When the days become shorter and snow begins to blanket the area, ski and snowboarding enthusiasts flock to Lake Tahoe for the plentiful resorts and endless supply of excitement. With eleven ski resorts in the Lake Tahoe region, visitors of all skill levels will find an abundance of runs and trails that suit their abilities and allow for a memorable ski getaway. Whether you choose a massive resort like Squaw Valley, which boasts 177 trails of pure exhilaration, or a smaller, less intimidating destination such as Soda Springs Mountain Resort, everyone in your family is in for the ride of their life on Lake Tahoe's soft powder and groomed terrain.

In addition to the thrilling runs, freeriders can spend an afternoon learning new moves and catching some serious air at an exciting terrain park. Many of the resorts, including Sugar Bowl, Heavenly Valley, and Squaw Valley, have terrain parks that are perfect for all levels of ability in addition to superpipes that overlook stunning Lake Tahoe. Throw in the many other adventures you can find at these fully-loaded resorts, including snow tubing, sledding, and snowshoeing, and you have the makings of a truly invigorating vacation.

With so many possibilities scattered across numerous resorts, it would be easy to never venture outside the confines of your favorite ski area. However, there are several other outdoor pursuits that are worth noting if you want a well-rounded and scenically breathtaking getaway. Snowmobiling to the top of Mount Watson, complete with expansive views of all of Lake Tahoe, is a popular activity while cross-country skiing at the Tahoe Cross-Country Ski Area is perfect for those who want to combine physical exercise with a sightseeing adventure.

Since your vacation will certainly be centered around all of the activities you plan to participate in, stay close to everything you love about Lake Tahoe with a conveniently located vacation rental. You can find Lake Tahoe vacation rentals that are just steps away from the ski lifts or ideally situated on the waters of Lake Tahoe for an exciting, entertaining vacation in some of the most beautiful surroundings possible. Begin your search for the perfect Lake Tahoe home rental today and experience an all-season retreat that extends miles beyond the ordinary.

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Lake Tahoe Weddings

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, Lake Tahoe is considered the wedding and honeymoon capital of the west. It is a perfect setting to make your wedding day unique. From casual to formal wedding ceremonies, Lake Tahoe offers everything you want to make your wedding a memorable event.

Every one wants to get married in a remarkable location. If Lake Tahoe is your option, then it is no doubt that you have chosen one of the most fabulous settings for your wedding.

Ranked as the third best wedding destination, Lake Tahoe provides a wide range of locations for a marriage ceremony. Every thing from ministers, chapels, photographers, videos, music, banquet facilities, and accommodation are available to meet your wedding needs.

Lake Tahoe weddings create an enchanting experience and unforgettable memories. Most Lake Tahoe weddings are held on Saturdays or on special days such as

February 14. Lake Tahoe weddings vary depending on the couple's style and budget. A wide range of elegant and creative wedding packages such as romantic getaway wedding package and traditional wedding package are available at the location of your choice. There are wedding specialists in Lake Tahoe to help you plan your special day.

Besides offering a perfect setting, Lake Tahoe provides a wide range of wedding options and services. There are finest catering services, comfortable lodgings, wedding chapels, party supplies, and wedding cake specialists to make your wedding dreams come true. Granlibakken, Ridge Tahoe, and Mulligan's Irish Pub and Restaurant are some of the perfect settings for your wedding and reception.

In order to get married in Lake Tahoe, you will need to have a state marriage license. No waiting period or blood test is required to get the license. Also, the bride and groom must be 18 years of age or older. So as to obtain marriage license, both parties must present valid official photo identification such as driver's license, military ID, State ID, passport or other official identification.

Lake Tohoe provides detailed information on Lake Tahoe, Lake Tahoe Vacation Rental, Lake Tahoe Lodging, South Lake Tahoe Vacation Rental and more. Lake Tahoe is affiliated with North Lake Tohoe Vacation Rentals.

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South Lake Tahoe, A Piece Of Heaven

If you are looking forward to a great vacation, South lake tahoe should be your destination. From lodging to activities to entertainment, it offers a wide array of choices fit for all kinds of people—families, students, business groups, or newlyweds.

The living accommodations vary from hotels, bed and breakfast, private home rentals, vacation rentals and cabins, campgrounds, and RV parks. For quaint and intimate setting, bed and breakfasts, like Inn at Heavenly and Black Bear Inn Bed & Breakfast will be the perfect place to stay. It is less costly without sacrificing comfort. For people who like luxury and pampering, hotels and resorts are available all over lake tahoe with amenities like heated pool, full service day-spa, and Jacuzzi tubs. Condos and homes are situated in the top areas around the lake. This is an alternative for families who are staying longer than usual and for those who prefers privacy and comforts of one’s home. During summer, campgrounds are just the right backdrop for those burnt marshmallows and barbecue.

Although there are many choices, booking may be a problem especially during peak seasons. For less hassles, you can make reservations online. For the townhouses, the real estate will be more than happy to accommodate your needs.

South lake tahoe is the best place to be, whatever time of the year it is. In winter, they offer skiing and snowboarding. It is, after all, North America’s largest concentration of ski and snowboard resorts. From November until April, the place is filled with tourists seeking fun and adventure in snow.

In summer, they have activities like golf, boat-riding, and hiking to keep you occupied. Lake tahoe is the home of Edgewood tahoe Golf Course where the 18th annual American Century Championship Celebrity Golf Tournament. More than 75 stars in sports and entertainment visited and loved the golf course.

With the breathtaking mountain view of South lake tahoe, weddings and honeymoons are made unforgettable. Chapels, ministers, coordinators, and photographers are handy to make that walk-in-the-aisle truly a memory to cherish. One of the famous hotels in the area, 3 Peaks Resort & Beach Club has a Romantic lake tahoe Vacation Package including champagne, romantic dinner, and a dance cruise. Newlyweds will surely go back to lake tahoe for their second honeymoon.

If you are one of those people who lives during the night, your nightlife is not going to suffer while staying in lake tahoe. Good music, grilled food, friendly bartenders, well-stocked wine cellar, chilled beers—you can find these in the local bar and restaurants. There are specials once in a while like dinner/dance cruises and karaoke.

If you are not the bar type, entertainment still would not be a problem. Casinos are open all days of the week providing first-class entertainment like annual Summer Outdoor Concert Series. Montbleu Resort Casino & Spa has a theatre house featuring movies old and new.

You won’t worry where to eat your next meal. There are over 100 restaurants in the South lake tahoe area. Whatever you are craving, be it Italian or traditional Mexican, it’s just a short walk away from your hotel.

Of course, before going home, shopping is a must for souvenirs, mementos, and postcards. For this task, tahoe Emporium boasts stores offering local, regional, and national brand names. From clothes to sports equipments to books, you will find what you are looking for. The stores are conveniently located near resorts and hotels.

Vacation is something all people are looking forward to. It is like a much craved dessert that you would want to savor bite after bite. South lake tahoe has all the ingredients that will satisfy even the most fastidious appetite there is.

Lake Tahoe Wedding Packages

Blessed with the scenic beauty of Sierra Nevada mountain ranges, Lake Tahoe is an ideal setting to make your wedding dreams come true. It offers every thing ranging from wedding chapels, ministers, videos, photographers, catering services, and accommodation to make your special day unforgettable.

Lake Tahoe offers a wide range of elegant wedding packages such as traditional wedding package, all inclusive wedding package, deluxe package, and romantic and honeymoon package. All these wedding packages are designed for a worry free wedding in Lake Tahoe.

Most Lake Tahoe wedding packages include a romantic location of your choice, minister (non-denominational or Catholic), flowers for the bride and groom; candlelight ceremony, wedding cake, marriage certificate, transportation, lodging, carriage rides, music, photography, video coverage, breakfast, bottle of wine or champagne, banquet facilities, and more.

Lake Tahoe wedding packages can be customized to fit your needs. In Lake Tahoe, there are customized wedding packages for those couples who are planning unique wedding ceremonies. These wedding packages are designed to reflect your personal style and design. All inclusive wedding packages provide everything you need to make your special day perfect.

Lake Tahoe wedding packages vary significantly in costs depending on wedding plan, number of guests, number of photographs, and other requirements. Usually, the package ranges between $100 and $2,500. Most of the Lake Tahoe weddings are held on Saturdays or on special days such as February 14. Lake Tahoe wedding package is more expensive during weekends and holidays.

A wide range of discount wedding packages are available to choose from. Discount wedding packages are best suited for those couples who want to save money.

Prior to booking Lake Tahoe wedding package, make sure that the chosen wedding package will meet your wedding day needs. Most of the Lake Tahoe wedding packages require a 50% initial deposit at the time of booking. Half of the initial deposit is refundable, if the reservation is cancelled 30 days prior to the event. Booking can be rescheduled for one year with no loss of deposit.

Lake Tahoe provides detailed information on Lake Tahoe, Lake Tahoe Vacation Rental, Lake Tahoe Lodging, South Lake Tahoe Vacation Rental and more. Lake Tahoe is affiliated with North Lake TahoeVacation Rentals.

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Vacationing In Lake Tahoe

Bordering California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is a popular vacation destination year round. With over 72 miles of shoreline, deep crystal blue waters with clarity up to 100 feet and beautiful scenery, the lake is the perfect draw for adventure seekers. While the lake is the main attraction, vacationers will be excited with the surrounding entertainment options from art galleries, museums, golf courses and casinos. A Lake Tahoe Vacation provides the perfect setting for family, friends and couples to have plenty of fun, relaxation and entertainment.

In the spring and summer, Lake Tahoe is bustling with vacationers who are ready to have a great time. Water recreation is plentiful with swimming, kayaking, parasailing, canoeing, jet skiing, wake boarding and everything else imaginable. If you don't happen to have your own watercraft, there are several locations that offer hourly and daily rentals. Take a small afternoon excursion and paddle in your canoe or kayak to explore more secluded and private waters of the lake.

If everyone is looking to kick back and enjoy some sightseeing on the lake, embark on a boat tour. With most boat tours running from June through October, enjoy lunch, sunset or happy hour cruise. A party boat tour will allow for you to relax with friends and family while enjoying a chilled beverage, a delicious meal and seeing a great part of Lake Tahoe.

Year round fishing charters on Lake Tahoe make every fisherman and the beginner excited. Your knowledgeable guide will provide you with the finest tackle and equipment, taking you to the best fishing locations on the lake for you to bring in the catch of the day. The lake is known for a variety of fish including rainbow trout, brown and kokanee salmon, mackinaw and mack, so get ready to cast your line out into the water.

Home to several parks and recreational areas, visitors will have an abundant selection of places to go hiking, biking and rock climbing. Explore the several trails that wander through the thick tall trees or take a professionally guided tour from Tahoe Adventure Company. Offering a variety of trips that include land and water adventures, learn about the history of the area during your journey.

When winter approaches and the snow begins to fall, vacationers flock to the Lake Tahoe's several ski resorts. With snow fall between 125 to 500 inches of snow, the mountains are ideal for snowboarding, skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling or cross country skiing. Heavenly Ski Resort, located near the California and Nevada border, offers 4800 acres of skiing with 27 lifts and 82 runs. Skiing and snowboarding lessons are available for all ages, so everyone can learn to hit the slopes like the pros. After a long day on slopes, everyone can relax by a warming fire and enjoy a delicious dinner at the resort.

If skiing isn't your interest, try a guided tour of Tahoe National Park on a snowmobile. Explore over 200 miles of snow covered trails, discovering the wilderness on a guided tour that lasts two hours or two days! Enjoy the refreshing feeling of being outdoors.

No matter what time of year you find yourself in Lake Tahoe, there are activities to keep you occupied and having a great time. The casinos located in Nevada offer a variety of gambling for adults from tables to slot machines. Try your luck at a game of blackjack or poker and you could go home with a great reward. Or, if everyone is looking for the perfect gift or keepsake to bring back, Lake Tahoe has several art galleries, boutiques and shopping centers full of local crafts and merchandise. There are many golf courses open for most the year. Tahoe Donnor Golf course is open from May through October providing you a great round of golf on the 18 hole course.

The beauty and excitement of Lake Tahoe draws vacationers year after year. When traveling that way, consider staying in a vacation rental that allows you to avoid the over crowded hotels, but close to all the action you desire. Imagine staying in a beautiful vacation home located just steps from the lake with your own private dock, or a ski-in and ski-out condo nestled right on the snowy slopes. A vacation rental home provides everyone with the privacy, space and amenities of a home away from home. It's easy to find and reserve your dream Lake Tahoe Vacation Rental within your price range and that has all the amenities to make your vacation as soothing and comfortable as possible.

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Lake Tahoe - How to Make The TRPA More Accountable and Fund It's Operations

There has been a continuing controversy surrounding the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) when it comes to the accountability of the Board of Governors, how the agency is funded and the size and scope of its annual budget. In 2009 the budget is approximately $11.7 million and there is a potential revenue shortfall of $800,000.

The agency gets its funding from three different sources. The state of California contributes 1/3 of the money, the state of Nevada 1/6, and one half of the money comes from fees. The various fees include permit fees, mitigation fees, development fees and all sorts of other fees that the agency is able to assess within the Lake Tahoe basin.

It's immediately apparent that if the agency depends on fees for approximately 1/2 of its annual revenues that it has a conflict of interest with its primary mission, which is to preserve and protect the Lake Tahoe environment. How can the agency on one hand rely on development fees and other types of fees for half of its budget yet still maintain as its priority lake clarity and preservation of a relatively pristine mountain environment?

With both California and Nevada facing state budget deficits, it is only a matter of time before both states try to reduce their contributions to the TRPA. This will put even more pressure on the TRPA to raise revenues from fee sources. That is why we are hearing the TRPA during the last several years talk about sustainable development in an environmentally friendly way.

But, we all know this is a difficult notion to accept when you are trying to reduce air and water pollution, reduce sediment and run off going into the lake and improve lake clarity. We can't develop our way to a better environment, but we can take steps to improve already developed areas. For example, the TRPA does not even recognize the benefits of pervious asphalt and concrete, a long proven science that should be implemented with every paving and sidewalk project in the basin to reduce runoff of sediment into the lake.

We have seen a number of new large-scale developments in various stages of approval, yet the debacle at South Lake Tahoe should be a warning sign that the notion of sustainable development at Lake Tahoe is at best a fantasy and at worst an environmental and economic disaster. For those of you not familiar with the failed convention center project in South Lake Tahoe, it's worth your time to stop near Stateline and take a walk around the boarded-up construction site. Where you once had a thriving and eclectic mix of small business owners with everything from little restaurants to retail shops and quirky boutiques, there is now a giant scar upon the landscape and no money to complete the project.

It's tragic that the TRPA finally opened an office on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe a couple of years ago and then closed it in early 2009 due to budget cuts. Think about the additional air pollution, all the time and gasoline wasted, and increased traffic on the road because every single person from the North Shore who needs to visit the TRPA office must now drive down to South Lake Tahoe. There is no mass transit alternative, so the TRPA budget cuts are actually helping to make the environment worse, when simply having enough money to keep the North Lake Tahoe branch office open would have a positive impact on the environment.

But there are solutions to these problems if we could simply make the TRPA Board of Governors and Executive Director accountable to the property owners in the Lake Tahoe basin. And we also need to find an independent source of funding so the TRPA will return to its original mission of preserving and protecting the Lake Tahoe environment and not be reliant upon development fees for a significant percentage of its annual revenues.

At the present time the TRPA Board of Governors is made up of a collection of appointed officials. There are a couple of elected officials, but someone who is running for Washoe County Supervisor won't win or lose based on TRPA issues when 95% of the electorate lives outside the basin. Having the entire Board of Governors elected directly by property owners in the Tahoe Basin would immediately and permanently make each member of the Board of Governors fully accountable for their actions.

We could have regular elections for all of the members of the Board of Governors and every parcel in the Lake Tahoe basin would be given one vote. This way, large hotels and corporations would not have an unfair voting advantage over the small condo owner. All property owners in the Tahoe Basin would have an equal voice in electing the Board of Governors instead of the patronage process that currently exists.

When it comes to funding the annual budget of the TRPA, there are two excellent alternative revenue sources. The simplest measure to implement would be to have a visitor fee of 2 dollars per person added on to the lodging bills at all of the hotels, motels, timeshares, vacation rentals and other lodging accommodations.

No one is going to cancel their vacation if it costs them 2 bucks, especially if they know 100% of the money is going into a fund that is dedicated for the preservation and improvement of the Lake Tahoe environment. With about 2.7 million visitors to the lake each year, that would provide about 50% of the TRPA budget, eliminating the need for most of the fee based revenue. We will never get rid of development and permit fees altogether, but they should be ancillary and not primary sources of revenue.

An alternative revenue source would be to take the $11.7 million annual budget and divide it by all of the square footage of developed land in the entire Lake Tahoe basin. Then, we would be able to calculate how many pennies per square foot it would cost each property owner on an annual basis to have enough revenue to completely fund the TRPA budget and provide a small amount of money for reserves.

My estimate is that it would cost the average homeowner somewhere less than $50 per year (possibly a lot less after we add up the millions of square feet of hotel space and parking lots). Or, we could do some combination of the two revenue systems described above and then fee revenues could be used exclusively for environmental restoration projects. In addition we would gain voting rights and a huge measure of accountability that is lacking under the present system.

If we don't reform the TRPA's budgetary and oversight processes, lake clarity will continue to decline and we will kill the goose that laid the golden egg. One summer I stayed in a cabin on a dead lake in New Hampshire (an algae bloom killed all the fish). It's an environmental and economic tragedy that we don't ever want to happen here at Lake Tahoe. And with the threats from invasive mussels, non-native plants, wildfire, sediment in runoff, air and water pollution from cars, trucks and boats, and future development, it's going to take a huge effort to preserve and protect our beautiful lake.

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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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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 - 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.

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