WINTER ACTIVITIES
Ski or Board at one of the 14 ski resorts surrounding Lake Tahoe, with elite options like Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows, Diamond Peak, Northstar and Homewood on the North side of the lake.
Other mountain activities include snowshoeing, cross country skiing, tubing or Ice skating at Squaw rink for those interested.
Apres Ski! Yes, this is an important activity. Check out Le Chamois at Squaw.
Tahoe is cold in the winter. Warm up at one of the casinos on the Nevada side. Options include: Jim Kelley’s Tahoe Nugget Casino or the Tahoe Biltmore Lodge & Casino.
SUMMER ACTIVITIES
Rent a boat! It’s easy and straight forward with many companies. I highly recommend SWA Watersports at Homewood. Drive the boat to Emerald Bay then drive along the west shore. Bring drinks and picnic supplies!
Kayak, the less expensive and healthier option that will get you out on the water. Most rental places have paddle boards too. You’ll have to stay near the shore, but just gives you a reason to stop at a beach or bar..
Go hiking! The Rubicon Trail is an 8-mile trail that overlooks Emerald Bay, Mt. Tallac is the recommended 10 miler (take a swim at Baldwin Beach after!), or Picnic Rock for a shorter but worthwhile 4-mile hike.
Go to the beach! Sand Harbor is famous for its giant granite boulders, Caribbean color waters and panoramic views of the mountains.
Truckee river tubing is a favorite pastime for Lake Tahoe residents and visitors. You can buy an inner tube for an unofficial 5-mile, 2-3-hour float, or you can rent large, commercial rafts from the Truckee River Raft Company in Tahoe City, who will also shuttle you back to the beginning of your journey.
FUEL UP
Rosie’s Cafe – a good vibes kind of place with quirky antiques and knick-knacks. How could you not love somewhere with this quote: “According to bartender Dennis Loo, many of the other animal heads are ‘on loan to us from people who had them in their houses and their wives wouldn’t let them have them anymore.” Service is friendly and the portions are big.
Gar Woods – the place to see and be seen. This is where you get the classic pier photo. Named after the timeless boat, Gar Woods is a comfortable and nautical inspired restaurant that captures the nostalgia of the wooden boat era.
Sunnyside – pre or post dinner, head to the lakefront Mountain Grill for apps, drinks and the scene! On the weekends, the people watching is top notch.
Caliente – located in Kings Beach, this Mexican restaurant has some five-star salsa and strong cocktails.
Char-pit – for a casual lunch or dinner that offers burgers, ribs, fries and beer. That’s about it but why mess with a good thing?
For a schedule of events, including concerts, races, tours, check out: https://www.gotahoenorth.com/events/
