LAKE TAHOE
VISITOR GUIDE | SUMMER/FALL 2021
EXPLORING A NATURAL WONDER TAHOE’S GREATEST HITS BARKING UP THE RIGHT TREES BEAR COUNTRY ACTIVITIES, DINING & SHOPPING GUIDE
YOUR GUIDES TO KERRY DONOVAN
MIKE YOUNG ___
MEGAN PARR WARREN
Donovan Group
Donovan Group
775.750.2190
775.303.2672
___
___
775.771.2391 Incline Village
Incline Village
Incline Village
NV BS.029150 CA 0784148
NV BS.0143530
NV BS.0052696
KAITLYN MCCABE ___
STACEY HANNA ___
JEREMY JACOBSON ___
JENNIFER BULLARD ___
775.772.1191
775.690.7078
530.448.1590
530.545.2187
Incline Village
Lake Tahoe Truckee
Lake Tahoe Truckee
Incline Village CA DRE 02105125 NV S.0182107
NV BS.0145845 CA DRE 01991991
CA 01961794
CA DRE 01440019 NV S.62427
TILLY MEZGER ___
DONNA TONKING ___
TRINKIE WATSON ___
FAWNE HAYES ___
530.545.0587
775.722.6726
530.582.0722
530.416.2272
Lake Tahoe Truckee
Lake Tahoe Incline Village
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe
CA DRE 1269937 NV S.068471
JANE RUBSAMEN ___ 775.843.0312 Incline Village Lake Tahoe Northern NV NV S.0066076
NV S.0016096
CA DRE 326518 NV BS.1022
CA 01491811 NV S.0176418
PATTY WILLIAMS ___
MELISSA BAILEY ___
ADELE LUCAS ___
916.217.5626
530.545.0888
530.277.8484 Tahoe City
CA DRE 01953231 NV S.0190207
CA & NV
CA DRE 02087849 NV S.0187966
THE RIGHT CONNECTION MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE Chase International is one of the nation’s most successful independent real estate firms specializing in unique and distinctive properties in the Tahoe/Reno region. With more than 380 compassionate and determined REALTORS® in 12 locations, we are committed to our clients’ success. We have more qualified luxury professionals and top lakefront specialists with the experience and connections to serve all your needs. We empower people to achieve unlimited possibilities, make magical life decisions, and bring peace and harmony into their lives. This is our secret power. Put the Chase Power of Success to work for you.
$2.5 BILLION IN ANNUAL SALES
CA & NV
CA DRE 00838770 NV BS.0029180
SECTION
WELCOME
TAHOE/RENO REAL ESTATE MAUREEN WILLIAMS ___
LIZA BRADLEY ___
DONNA SPEAR ___
LAURA SPEAR ___
775.287.6343
775.742.0838
775.691.7947
775.815.1279
Reno
Reno
Reno
Reno
NV S.0179757
NV S.0181163
CA DRE 01226918 NV S.0042018
NV S.0192432
ERIN ALBRIGHT ___
MEGAN LOWE ___
PATRICK INTEMANN ___
LAURA LYLE ___
775.843.9111
775.690.0040
775.771.1451
530.318.0036
Reno
Reno
Sparks
South Lake
NV S.0188941
NV S.0169822
NV S.185118
CA DRE 1892072
JILL MOFFETT ___
MONICA PORTER ___
ALORA REYNOLDS ___
NADIA JONES-KIRKMAN ___
530.318.6835
530.400.4484
530.444.0710
530.545.0023
South Lake
South Lake
South Lake
South Lake
CA DRE 00191148
CA DRE 00838483 NV B.0031982
CA DRE 02087131 NV S.0189748
CA DRE 01804202 NV S.0178098
MARGE LUGO HAUGE ___
KLAUS UTECHT ___
CLIF CHASE ___
SUSAN CLEMONS ___
775.720.5153
530.318.1937
775.815.1987
775.225.0430
Zephyr Cove
Zephyr Cove
Glenbrook
NV S.0031887
CA DRE 00934273 NV S.41040
NV BS.40194
OFFICE LOCATIONS Zephyr Cove
Tahoe City
Carson Valley
Glenbrook
South Lake Tahoe
Henderson
Incline Village
Sparks
Sacramento
Truckee
Reno
London
V I S I T: CH AS E INT E RNAT IO NAL.CO M
3 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
Glenbrook
NV S.0184572
WELCOME
4 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
WELCOME
Voted #1 Tahoe Activity
Elevate your excitement level by about 40 feet.
Come try an Aerial Adventure Park... each is unique! Adventure awaits you-- from fun & easy to challenging & exhilarating-- as you navigate between +/- 40 foot high platforms using a variety of bridges, zip lines, and more! (You’re always attached to a safety line!) No experience or special equipment necessary. Hours of unforgettable, super-fun outdoor activity for the whole family! And a great way for visitors to experience what Tahoe’s all about. Courses for All Ages 5+. Reservations are REQUIRED! Visit: 5 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
TahoeTreetop.com
or call:
530-807-1004.
3 Locations: Tahoe City Tahoe Vista Squaw Valley
WELCOME
Contents 11
Welcome and Enjoy! A season for celebration and respect.
12
An Environmental Treasure Lake Tahoe is a unique, natural wonder.
15
Tahoe’s Top Attractions Highlights of summer in the Sierra.
23
Bear Country Getting along with the forest royalty.
24
Barking up the Right Tree Identifying Tahoe’s tallest inhabitants.
26
Lake Tahoe Recreation Map Trails, paths, single-track and beaches, too!
28
A Diverse Region Exploring the area’s vibrant communities.
30
Glossary of Tahoe Activities A guide to all the fun available—A to Z.
DIRECTORY LISTINGS
42 43 45 46 48
Dining Activities Shopping Lodging Services
Cover Photo: Secret Cove on East Shore. BY MIKE EADINGTON© Left: Speeding across Tahoe’s blue waters. COURTESY PHOTO
LAKE TAHOE VISITOR GUIDE SUMMER/FALL 2021 Publisher & Editor Chaco Mohler Art Director Allison Monroe Advertising Director Susan O’Brien Distribution Mitch Landaburu Published by C2M Media LLC P.O. Box 5897 Tahoe City, CA 96145 Editorial inquiries: chaco@c2m.media Advertising inquiries: susan@c2m.media Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide, ©2021 C2M Media LLC. All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, in whole or in part, without the express prior written permission of C2M Media LLC. C2M Media LLC assumes no responsibility to any party for the content of any advertising in this publication, including any errors and omissions therein. By placing an order for an advertisement, the advertiser agrees to indemnify C2M Media LLC against any claims relating to the advertisement. At the time of printing, C2M Media LLC attempted to verify all information as accurate but assumes no responsibility for changes to independent business and service operations, whether caused by COVID-19 or other factors, or any other inaccuracies contained herein. Call ahead to businesses and services for current information and restrictions.
6 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
SECTION
COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION
BUIL
G EXCEL
DESIGN-BUILD DELIVERY
L CE
1971
IN
LEED CERTIFIED PROJECTS
EN
D
GENERAL CONTRACTOR
2021
FOR 50 YEARS
WWW.HUFFCON.COM | (209) 545-7505 | CA Lic # 385014 | NV Lic # 0081211
WELCOME
8 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
WELCOME
9 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
Heading to North Lake Tahoe or Truckee? Leave the car behind with so many FREE transit options to choose from.
Linking you to work and play. Car free fun in 2021! Hop on the TART bus and head to the beach, hit the trails, shop, dine, or go out and see live music and leave the driving to us.
NEW TART Connect – Get the App! June 24–September 6, 2021 8am–Midnight–Daily On-demand, free curb-to-curb shuttles serving the North Shore of Lake Tahoe.
Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit · Daily Regional Routes · Night Service · Truckee Dial-a-Ride · Park and Ride (seasonal) Check the website for all transit details.
TahoeTruckeeTransit.com/Summer21
HEADING TO NORTH LAKE TAHOE OR TRUCKEE? Why drive when you can leave the car behind!
24-hour advanced reservations and group discounts.
One-way and roundtrips to/from Reno-Tahoe International Airport North Lake Tahoe & Truckee Three routes: Incline Village, Tahoe City, Truckee Friendly and Convenient
•Preventive Care
•Digital Dental Xray
•Prescription Diets
•Digital Xrays
•Surgery
•End of Life Services
•Ultrasound
•Lab and Pharmacy
•Laser Therapy
•Daytime Emergency Services
Dr. Brian Buckton DVM Monday-Friday 8-5 530.583.8587 2933 Lake Forest Road Tahoe City
(833) 709-8080 | NorthLakeTahoeExpress.com
10 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
burtoncreekvet.com
WELCOME
Welcome and Enjoy
It’s a season for celebration and respect Welcome to mountain paradise. What are your plans? If you know what you’re after, turn to page 30 for a Glossary of Activities and find your sweet spot(s). Or skim it to discover vacation twists you may not have considered. Are you a newcomer to Tahoe? Take a national park brochure-style glimpse into the area’s “Top Attractions,” starting on page 15. First-time visitors sometimes wonder why Tahoe isn’t a national park. The quality of the scenery and its singular ecology placed it in the same league as America’s early national parks. But despite a battle fought on its behalf by naturalist, John Muir, the history and politics of the Old West put a stake in the idea. Instead, Tahoe became a favorite playground of the well-heeled and worldfamous. The “Gilded Age” of the late 1800s saw the building of huge resort hotels around the lake. By 1960 and the Squaw Valley Winter Olympics, Tahoe had become “America’s Playground,” with new reasonable-priced hotels and vacation cabins popping up around its 72-mile lakeshore. Through all those years, many shared Muir’s reverence for the natural Tahoe. Eventually, they came together on what is now a 70-year quest to find a balance between preserving Tahoe the natural wonder, Tahoe the vacation wonderland, and Tahoe the full-time community. As detailed in “Environmental Treasure” (next page), that journey has yielded great successes and yet today remains a work in progress, as important as ever. Please during your stay, share the stewardship locals feel for Lake Tahoe by: • Take public transit. Rides are usually FREE and never more convenient; North Tahoe’s TART system now includes door-to-door shuttles and park-n-ride lots in Truckee. • Get there by bike. Fun, paved trails are everywhere; most transit buses have bike racks. • Help “Keep Tahoe Blue” by cleaning up your trash and pet waste. • Respect the timeless beauty of granite cliffs and boulders by not defacing them with graffiti. • Protect Tahoe’s wild creatures. Give them space and don’t feed them human food. • Be fire safe! Wildfires are disastrous to communities and to Lake Tahoe’s water quality. • Skip single-use plastic bottles and fill your reusable bottle with delicious Tahoe tap water. We hope you enjoy your Tahoe stay and that the pages of this guide help to enrich your time here. CHACO MOHLER Publisher
A new day dawns. PHOTO BY MIKE EADINGTON
SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 11
FEATURES
An Environmental Wonder Lake Tahoe is one of a kind.
Tahoe’s East Shore. PHOTO BY
MIKE EADINGTON
The Sierra’s “inland sea” is one of the most studied bodies of water on earth. University of California Davis (UCD) staff have been measuring water clarity and other data at Lake Tahoe since 1958. During those early years, the university launched a year-around research boat, Le Conte, and renovated the historic Tahoe City Fish Hatchery into a field station. More recently, UCD built the state-of-theart Tahoe Environmental Research Center in Incline Village, where today its staff consults on the science and preservation of lakes around the world (the Center’s interactive museum and 3-D theatre reopen to visitors this summer). Concern for Tahoe’s environment dates back over a hundred years to naturalist and writer John Muir, who witnessed the destruction caused by the clear-cutting of its forests to build the Comstock Lode silver mines. The enormity of the lake (larger in water volume than all of America’s man-made reservoirs combined) and the granite-based soil of its watershed helped Tahoe heal over the following century. But by 1957, a group of Tahoe-lovers became concerned over development growth and the continued dumping of sewage into the lake and formed the League to Save Lake Tahoe. They helped raise awareness of the threats and created the ubiquitous “Keep Tahoe Blue” slogan, still seen on bumperstickers throughout the West. The bi-state Tahoe Regional Planning Agency was created by Congress in 1969 to manage growth and planning within the Tahoe Basin. Positive changes were made, yet the lake’s average water clarity continued to decline at a
12 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
foot-a-year pace (the original clarity was measured at 105 feet). In 1997, President Clinton and Vice-President Gore visited Tahoe to sign a bill with bi-partisan support from Congress that funded major restoration projects on Tahoe’s predominately federal lands. In the decade that followed, the decline in Tahoe’s water clarity slowed and then stabilized, then improved during a 4-year stretch by over 13 feet! Over the last four years, however, water clarity has swung wildly, recording two record losses. The below-average snowfall of winter 2020-21 will result in less water run-off and erosion, however, and should make for impressive water clarity this summer. Scientists believe climate change is now the greatest threat to Lake Tahoe, pointing to recent, record warm water temperatures. Warmer water supports faster algae growth, a threat to inland waterways around the world. Fortunately, Tahoe’s great depth and cold winter nights make it less susceptible to the current effects of climate change than shallower, low elevation lakes. One new idea also has great promise say researchers: Harvesting evasive Mysid Shrimp (which have a detrimental effect on water clarity), then processing and marketing them as dog treats. You can’t yet buy your dog a Tahoe Shrimp Treat, but you can clean up your pet’s messes, and your trash, too. If launching watercraft, check it for any growth; larger boats require certification at a Lake Tahoe Boat Inspection Station prior to launch (more on page 33). Thank you for helping to preserve Lake Tahoe’s beauty during your visit.
Science exhibits, 3-D movies, and more.
Come explore... TAHOE SCIENCE CENTER Incline Village, NV
Tours available Tuesday–Saturday Reservations required for Tahoe’s only science center!
TahoeScienceCenter.com
SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 13
YO U R N E W LO C A L L A K E S I D E B R E W E RY - CO M I N G S U M M E R 2 0 2 1
TAHOENATIONAL .BEER | TAHOE CIT Y, CA | 530. 296. 8807
Help us protect our serene outdoor environment – it’s why people visit, it’s why people live here, it’s why people fly here.
Truckee Tahoe Airport works diligently to be a good neighbor and partner with our growing community.
The Airport Board of Directors and staff are engaging with our community on new programs such as: • Implementing greenhouse gas reduction programs in our skies and on the ground. • Developing new flight procedures to mitigate aircraft noise and annoyance. • Partnering with local agencies to tackle regional issues like workforce housing, transportation, wildfire prevention and tourism. • Exploring ways to enhance our Airport’s connection with the community and airport users. Learn how visitors, community members, pilots and passengers are working together to keep the Truckee/North Tahoe area an amazing place! www.TruckeeTahoeAirport.com Connected by More than a Runway
14 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
Photo: Tom Lippert; Pilot: Laurel Lippert
FEATURES
Emerald Bay and Fannette Island. COURTESY PHOTO
Tahoe’s Greatest Summer Attractions Scenery, history, hikes and beaches Emerald Bay One of the most photographed spots on earth, Emerald Bay is like a Norwegian fjord surrounded by steep mountain sides, dotted with an island topped by a stone tea house. Highway 89 hugs the cliffs above the lake, with parking in 3 lots, plus a few highway-side spots. Eagle Falls tumbles down cliffs below the road into Emerald Bay State Park. A 1.7-mile hike leads to the lakeshore and Vikingsholm “castle,” constructed in 1929 and one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the Western Hemisphere.
Sand Harbor State Park
A marvelous combination of protected cove, rocky point, giant granite boulders and a long, sandy beach, this State Park fills its parking lot quickly on many summer days. Take advantage of new shuttle services to the park, including a bus from Reno and free microshuttles hailed by a TNT-TMA app. SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 15
FEATURES
Squaw Valley Village & Tram Heavenly Village & Gondola
Heavenly Village and nearby casinos and shops are Tahoe’s nucleus of man-made fun! Ride an incredibly scenic aerial gondola up to 9,123-foot elevation viewing platform, mountain lodge, ropes-course and “mountain-coaster.” Venues in the Village often feature live music.
Cruising or Paddling Lake Tahoe
By kayak, paddleboard, sailboat, speedboat, or scenic cruise, getting out on Lake Tahoe’s blue surface is an unforgettable experience. Comfortable cruises leave from Zephyr Cove and Tahoe City daily. See “Boating,” page 31, for more details.
Sometime this summer, Squaw Valley ski resort plans to rename itself. Whatever name they choose for the site of the 1960 Winter Olympics, the valley’s beauty, base village, and spectacular aerial tram make it worth a visit. The tram travels up 2,000 vertical feet to the resort’s High Camp day lodge.
Downtown Truckee
Truckee’s charming, “Old West” downtown is bisected by the Transcontinental Railroad and the Truckee River. The historic buildings house a wide variety of quality restaurants, shops, galleries and brew pubs. Trails and bike paths head out in multiple directions, including the scenic Truckee River Legacy Trail.
Tahoe City, State Park & Museums
Lake Tahoe’s only outlet is the Truckee River in Tahoe City, where a dam controls the top six feet of the lake. Lean over the railing of Fanny Bridge to watch the giant trout below. Bike paths and sidewalks lead from Gatekeeper Museum throughout this charming town of shops and restaurants.
16 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
D.L. Bliss State Park
Enormous granite boulders dot this scenic park, whose highlight is its white sand beach, turquoise waters and rocky coves. A trail from Bliss clings the cliffs to Sand Harbor State Park to the south.
WELCOME
MAKE YOUR SUMMER AN
ADVENTURE
CHECK OUT OUR SECOND LOCATION IN TRUCKEE! Shop a wide seleccon of products from hiking, camping, fishing, grilling, paao, paint, hardware and more at our new, second Truckee locaaon.
17 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
WINTER/SPRING 2020/21 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 17
Donner Pass: 530-587-4844 | Soaring Ranch: 530-563-2950 | mountainhardwareandsports.com
FEATURES
Mt. Rose Highway Scenic Viewpoint Sugar Pine Point State Park
This park gives a glimpse back in history with its lovely Hellman-Ehrman Mansion, surrounding grounds and boat houses. But it is also features a beautiful shoreline and trails through a forest populated with its name-sake tree.
A short drive above Incline Village on Nevada Highway 431 is a scenic pull-off with unobstructed views of the Lake Tahoe Basin, spectacular day or night. The road from there north to Reno includes a winding descent with expansive views.
Tallac Historic Site & Beaches Donner Memorial State Park
A recently re-designed museum tells the stories of the infamous Donner Party and other Western pioneers. The park also includes grassy shoreline and trails along Donner Lake.
Connected by bike trail with South Lake Tahoe, the Historic Site’s white sand beaches and green lawns extend down a long stretch of lakeshore. Stroll past “Gilded Age” mansions or take in one of the concerts scheduled there this summer.
Old Highway 40 Virginia City
This 1860s silver boomtown was pivotal in helping the Union finance the Civil War. It is remarkably well-preserved, with wooden boardwalks in front of its downtown shops. The high-desert drive from either Carson City or South Reno completes the Old West journey.
18 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
This alternate route from Interstate 80 over Donner Summit parallels the historic pioneer trail and railroad tracks over the Sierra Crest, its switchbacks and scenic pull-outs often featured in national car commercials. From the pass, a short hike reaches the abandoned train tunnels and “Chinese wall” constructed in the 1860s. Construction was scheduled to close portions of Highway 40 this summer.
New Patio Bar Upgraded Lodge Rooms
Daily Summertime Lunch & Dinner
Owners Carol and Jessica Hester
Photo by Jesse Bradford
Alpine Meadows Road & Hwy 89
riverranchlodge.com | 530.583.4264 Follow us on
r
fo
Toys & games for all ages! Helping create memories and celebrating families! Two locations: Cobblestone Mall and Mind Play in Squaw Valley Tahoe City 530-581-Game
SUMMER /FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 19
B O AT W O R K S M A L L Take Lake Tahoe home with you.
Located in the heart of Tahoe City on the north shore of Lake Tahoe, the Tahoe Wine Collective is the newest community gathering spot to discover boutique wines and craft beers from the Sierra Nevadas.
www.tahoewinecollective.com Hours: Sun - Thurs 2 pm-8 pm, Fri & Sat noon-10 pm
Tahoe Gourmet Foods “Labor Of Love”
Call for pricing · Customization available Located in Boatworks Mall, Tahoe City · steveschmiers@gmail.com SteveSchmiersJewelry.com · 530.583.5709
20 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
At the Boatworks – Tahoe City, CA 530-584-2172 https://tahoegourmetbaskets.com/ Open 10:30 am–5:30 pm Daily
On The Water in Tahoe City 30 Year Anniversary Sale!
Camila’s at Tahoe
Boatworks Tahoe City | 530.583.0120
SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 21
More than 50 flavors of premium and flavored olive oils and balsamics, plus spices, honey, tea, and more.
10091 Donner Pass Rd. | 530-550-8857 | tahoeoilandspice.com
In Historic Downtown Truckee • Open Monday–Saturday 10:30am–6pm • Closed Sundays
Welcome to Cedar Crest
Luxury Vacation Cottages Offering West Shore Views Each uniquely furnished cottage features custom wood or stone flooring, thoughtful décor, luxurious linens, and modern amenities. Your home away from home awaits! 888.451.0156 | NATURALRETREATS.COM/CEDARCREST
22 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
FEATURES
Bear Country
Tahoe has the second highest population density of Black Bear in North America! Tahoe’s bears are all American Black Bear (although often cinnamon in color) and not the more dangerous Grizzly. They are omnivores, with most adults in the 200–350-pound range, but with some males weighting over 600 pounds. They normally try to avoid humans, but they are aggressive foragers who look at unprotected food as an open invitation, whether that’s an open door to a vacation cabin, garbage left out in unsecured cans or bags, or dog food left in a parked car over-night. Tahoe’s bears have learned to open unlocked doors and break car windows when necessary. They have one of the most powerful senses of smell in the animal kingdom, so don’t leave that half-eaten energy bar in your car’s glovebox overnight! If you spot a bear, keep your distance. Hopefully, you’ll be treated to the sight of a bear scratching its back on a tree—or taking a swim in the lake—enjoying the Tahoe summer just like you and me. Tahoe Black Bear, COURTESY PHOTO
W O LFD A LE ’S c u i s i n e
u n i q u e
High-end destination for sophisticated, seasonal California cuisine.
“A safe level of comfort.” Downtown Tahoe City with Lake Views | 530.583.5700 | wolfdales.com SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 23
FEATURES
Barking up the Right Tree
Identifying the towering inhabitants of Tahoe’s forests. WESTERN JUNIPER Height 15–30 feet Found at higher elevations, the giants of this species can be over 2,000 years old with trunks 16 feet in diameter.
JEFFREY PINE Height 80–130 feet The scent of its crushed twigs has been compared to vanilla, lemon, even pineapple!
LODGEPOLE PINE
Height 20-80 feet The slender trunks of this species were used by Native Americans to support their teepees, or “lodges.” INCENSE CEDAR
Height 60–150 feet Sometimes confused with Redwoods, older Cedar trees have a thick bark that helps protects them from wildfire.
WHITE FIR SUGAR PINE Height 100–160 feet Keep your eye out for its huge, long pinecones.
WESTERN WHITE PINE Height 100 feet The thick trunks of these trees have a uniform grain ideal for making match sticks.
PONDEROSA PINE Height 60–130 feet When sun-warmed, the bark gives off a sweet smell that some compare to fresh-baked cookies.
24 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
Height 70–160 feet Pervasive in parts of the Tahoe Basin, many of this species are falling victim to a deadly bark beetle infestation.
QUAKING ASPEN Height 40–70 feet The most widely distributed tree in North America, Tahoe Aspen usually display their brightest colors in October.
Everything Your Dog Needs for Land & Lake Fun!
Tahoe City
Open 7 days a week • Monday-Saturday 11 am–6 pm • Sunday 11 am–5pm In the Cobblestone Center next to Pineapple
530.584.0220
MUSIC PLANNED FOR 2021
SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 25
HIKES
West End Beach Donner Lake
89
Alpine Meadows
5
Squaw Valley 4 1
Resort at Squaw Creek
Tinker Knob
Donner Memorial State Park
80 3
e
il Tra
5
Tahoe City
1
State Recreation Area
Tahoe Vista
2
il Tra
2-8 10-20 10-20 14 14 5-20 9
2
Mayberry Park
Sand Harbor State Park
Incline Village
8
Mt. Rose
3
9
Lake Tahoe State Park
431
Reno Galena Creek Regional Park
Off National Ave., Tahoe Vista Top of Hwy. 267 or behind Tahoe City Hwy. 431, 7 miles from Incline Hwy. 28 & Hwy. 50 junction, Spooner Lake Hwy. 89, 3.5 miles south of Tahoe City Country Club Dr. nr. Tahoe City Hwy. 89, 6.9 miles south of I-507
Olympic Valley, Tahoe City, West Shore Tunnel Creek Cafe, Incline Village Truckee Regional Park, Old Brockway Road Accessed throughout city
ACCESS
5
MILES 1W TRAILHEAD
18 4.5 2 11.7
MILES
Incline Village
Easy Moderate Strenuous Strenuous Strenuous Moderate Strenuous
28 Kings Beach/
Commons Beach
6
1
Old Brockway
267 2 7
Rim
T ru c k e e
Reno
1 N. Tahoe Regional Park 2 Tahoe Rim Trail (CA) 3 Tahoe Rim Trail (NV) 4 Flume Trail 5 Standford Rock 6 Tahoe XC 7 Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride
Northstar
Tahoe City
Burton Creek State Park
ho
Northstar
80
Easy Easy Easy Easy
DIFFICULTY
2 1
MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS DIFFICULTY
1 North & West Shore 2 Lakeshore path 3 Legacy Trail 4 South Lake Tahoe
PAVED BIKE PATHS
Old Greenwood
Truckee
Gray's Crossing
Ponderosa
89
Hwy. 28, 11 miles south of Incline Lakeshore Ave. behind Tahoe Biltmore Hwy. 28, 10.5 miles south of Incline Behind Olympic Village Inn 2.1 miles up Alpine Meadows Road Top of Blackwood Canyon Road Hwy. 267, just south of Brockway Summit Hwy 431, on right from scenic lookout Top of Hwy.431 behind rest area N. Upper Truckee Rd. off I-50 Hwy. 89 at Meeks Bay Resort Hwy 89 Inspiration Pt. parking End of Fallen Leaf Road
MILES RT TRAILHEAD
2 .5 3 1-4 2-4 2-4 3-8 2-6 12 5.6 4-14 2 3-5
Tahoe Donner
DIFFICULTY
Easy Easy Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Strenuous Easy Moderate Moderate Strenuous
Ta
1 Spooner Lake Loop 2 Stateline Lookout 3 Skunk Harbor 4 Shirley Canyon 5 Five Lakes 6 Barker Pass 7 Martis Peak 8 Incline Flume 9 Mt. Rose 10 Washoe Meadows 11 Meeks Bay Creek 12 Cascade Creek Falls 13 Glen Alpine Creek
Rim
oe Ta h
iv er
R
COMMUNITIES
L
50
5
62
6
1
Crest
fic
ci Pa Desolation Wilderness
Lake Tahoe
Mt. Tallac
12
13 10
Lake Tahoe
4
Baldwin Beach Kiva & Pope Beaches
Bliss State Park
Meeks Bay Resort
Sugarpine Point State Park
89 Emerald Bay
11
Tahoma
Homewood
Trail
7
Tahoe Paradise
50
1
C
50
A
LI
N
IA
A
N
D
R
VA
FO
E
Genoa Peak
Freel Peak
Heavenly Mountain
Stateline
Edgewood Tahoe 207
Bijou Municipal
South Lake Tahoe
Regan Beach
Marla Bay Resort
Zephyr Cove Resort
Cave Rock
Glenbrook
4
3
Lake Tahoe State Park
Trail
ELDORADO NATIONAL FOREST
Ellis Peak
5
Tahoe City
Commons Beach
Rim
CALIFORNIA
Granite Chief Wilderness
Alpine Meadows
Tahoe
COMMUNITIES
Tahoe/Reno’s Diverse Towns STATELINE / CITY OF SOUTH LAKE TAHOE
South Lake Tahoe
This bi-state community stretches for city blocks to either side of 18 miles of highways 50 and 89, with the concentration of visitor attractions close to the state border: Heavenly Village and its scenic gondola, plus Hard Rock, Harrah’s, Harveys and Mont Bleu casinos. The community has several beautiful public beaches.
NORTH TAHOE Small resort towns dot Lake Tahoe’s north and west shores. Gambling is legal in Incline Village and at nearby Nevada state line casinos. In Kings Beach and Tahoe City, scenic sidewalks travel past a variety of unique shops and restaurants. Squaw Valley Ski Resort and its scenic tram ride and base village are approximately seven miles from Tahoe City.
Tahoe City
TRUCKEE Truckee is an historically significant Old West frontier town, Intercontinental Railroad depot, and pioneering winter sports resort. Many downtown Truckee buildings are over 100 years old and now house quality shops, boutiques, restaurants and art galleries. Northstar resort is 6 miles to the east.
RENO
Downtown Reno’s three well-known casinos are now interconnected as The Row, with Riverwalk District’s shops, dining and Whitewater Park nearby. Reno’s Mid-Town is an eclectic shopping and dining destination. Other Reno casino/hotels include Atlantis, Grand Sierra and the Nugget. Nevada Museum of Art and National Auto Museum are popular attractions.
CARSON CITY / CARSON VALLEY
Carson City is the state capital and home to the Nevada State Museum and Nevada Railroad Museum. The wide Carson Valley has dramatic vistas and the towns Minden/Gardnerville and Genoa, the latter Nevada’s oldest settlement.
VIRGINIA CITY
The site of the historic Comstock Lode silver strike, Virginia City thrived from 1860 to 1875. Now the well-preserved downtown of shops, restaurants, saloons and churches, connected by wooden boardwalks, give visitors a wonderful look into the Old West.
28 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
Truckee
e liev e B We
is a
welcoming everyone as a local. Yes, that’s right. Visit Virginia City where we’re thankful for our visitors – near and far. Come for a visit and dive deep into our Comstock history. Stroll our wooden boardwalks. Tour our attractions and museums. Or plan to stay the night. We invite you to join us.
EveryoneIsALocal
Hot Slices, Cold Beer, Tacos & More At Convenient Truckee Location!
RIVERFRONT PATIO DINING
11782 DONNER PASS RD TRUCKEE, CA
www.frontstreetpizza.com
Open 11 am–10 pm | Take-outs available Happy Hour Monday–Thursday 4 pm–6 pm TRUCKEE
530-536-5035
530.583.3342 | Next to Fanny Bridge in Tahoe City WWW.TAHOEBRIDGETENDER.COM SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 29
TAHOE INFO
Glossary of Tahoe Activities Find your definitions for fun! Arcades
See “Gambling.”
Art Galleries See “Shopping”
Beaches [Also–
White sand, turquoise water, picnics, wading] Nothing feels, sounds and smells more like summer than a day at the beach. Tahoe’s shoreline features beaches in all varieties, some of them delightfully hard to find. South Tahoe has a string of lovely public beaches and lakefront resorts, from Zephyr Cove in the north to Lakeview Commons and Regan Beach in town center to Baldwin Beach off Highway 89. In North Tahoe, Sand Harbor at Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park on the East Shore is the creme de la crème of Tahoe sand. Arrive early to get parking, or bike to Sand Harbor on a scenic three-mile path from Incline Village. Sand-seekers also head for Kings Beach State Recreation Area and nearby Moon Dunes. Tahoe City’s Commons Beach has a playground and lawn. D. L. Bliss State Park and Meeks Bay Resort on the
30 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
West Shore have beautiful sand beaches. Near Truckee, West End Beach at Donner Lake has a large lawn and shade trees. Go to TahoePublicBeaches.org for more information and locations.
Bike Parks Truckee has an excellent bike park with beginner to expert jump lines. Incline Village and South Lake Tahoe also have public bike parks with pump-tracks and beginner to intermediate flow lines. Northstar California resort bike park features more traditional mountain bike single track and wide trails, plus uphill transportation on ski lifts modified to carry bikes Bike Paths
[Also– Cruisers, E-bikes, inline skating, jogging strollers] Smoothly paved and separated from vehicle traffic, bike paths are found throughout Tahoe, curving along the lake shore, following a river, meandering through forests, meadows and neighborhoods. Although called bike paths, pedestrains and their dogs have right of way, so the paths are not always appropriate for cranking it up on a road bike.
TAHOE INFO
Photographing sunsets is a favorite Tahoe activity. PHOTO BY MIKE EADINGTON
South Lake Tahoe’s network of paths includes fun rides to several beaches. Incline Village’s path to Sand Harbor and Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park has stunning views and passes several small coves. Tahoe City is the center of over 19 miles of connected bike path, including the popular route along the Truckee River to Squaw Valley and the 12mile journey down the West Shore to Sugar Pine Point State Park and Meeks Bay. Truckee’s network of paths includes the Legacy Trail, a 4.4-mile ride along the Truckee River.
Bird Watching
In spring and fall, a number of migratory birds linger in this region. The larger wetlands of the Upper Truckee River, Carson Valley and Little Truckee host a wide variety of species. Year around, look to the sky for osprey, red-tail hawk and the occasional bald eagle. Or have mountain chickadee eating out of your hand on “chickadee ridge,” a short hike east of Nevada Highway 431 in Tahoe Meadows.
Boating
[Also– Rentals, charters, launching, parasailing] Boat rentals and launching, jet ski, kayak and paddle-board rentals are available at marinas surrounding Lake Tahoe, including in Tahoe City, Sunnyside, Homewood, Tahoe Keys, Ski Run and Tahoe Vista. Water sports rentals are also found near many hotels and lakefront restaurants, including the Beacon in South Lake Tahoe, Hyatt Regency in Incline Village and in Kings Beach State Recreation Area. Parasailing is available on both North and South Shores. Pay attention to weather forecasts and wind direction before taking any boating trip on Tahoe. And it is not advised to dive headfirst into the middle of Lake Tahoe from a boat, even on a hot summer day, as the water just four feet down might be 40 degrees F colder than the air. If you’d rather experience Lake Tahoe from the comfort of a cruise boat, the M.S. Dixie in Zephyr Cove and Tahoe Gal in Tahoe City depart daily. Sailing charters are available in Tahoe City, Tahoe Keys and on the Sierra Cloud catamaran at Hyatt beach, Incline Village. SUMMER /FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 31
TAHOE INFO
Casinos
See “Gambling.”
Cycling
[Also– Road-biking] Reno local Greg LeMond was the first non-European to win the Tour de France, and his legs muscles were built on punishing Tahoe climbs like the Mt. Rose Highway’s 4,400-foot ascent and 2,500-foot descent to Lake Tahoe. For those at ease on narrow mountain roads, the region is full of challenges. Chief among them is the infamous Death Ride bicycle race, winding over steep mountain passes south of Tahoe, returning in mid-July to celebrate its 40th anniversary. The belt-notch Tahoe ride for many cyclists is circling the lake, a 72-mile journey that can be turned into a “century” with a 28-mile out-and-back to Truckee. The road around the lake features a mostly adequate, single-file shoulder, but there are also stretches with little to no shoulder on East Shore and near Emerald Bay. Ride clockwise if you want to maximize lake views. Highway 89 from Squaw Valley to Truckee has wider bike lanes and can be part of an alternate around-the-lake route that includes a 1,385foot climb over Brockway Summit on Highway 267. Other popular road rides include climbing Ward and Blackwood Canyons on the West Shore, or climbing almost 1200 vertical feet in 3 miles on Old Highway 40 from Donner Lake over the Sierra Crest (scheduled to have construction closures this summer). To just dial it back and cruise, see Bike Paths.
Dining See “Dining Directory” on page 42. Disc Golf Challenging courses are found at Incline
Village, South Lake Tahoe, Truckee and North Tahoe Regional Park in Tahoe Vista.
Dog Walks and Swims
Dogs the world-over drool to come to Lake Tahoe. No ticks, no poison oak, waterwater-water, mountains to climb, squirrels to chase, and outdoor dining with scraps. Unfortunately, dogs are not welcome on all of Tahoe’s beaches, so head for Kiva Beach in South Tahoe, Zephyr Cove on East Shore, Coon Street Beach in Kings Beach, Patton Beach in Carnelian Bay, or Hurricane Bay near Blackwood Canyon on the West Shore. Dogs on lease or under voice command are welcome on most trails in the area. Water-sprinkled hikes include Meeks Bay creek trail, Glen Alpine trail, Five Lakes trail, Shirley Canyon in Squaw Valley, Truckee River Legacy trail, and Donner Memorial State Park. 32 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
Drinking
Breweries throughout Tahoe and Reno produce award-winning “suds,” served up in brew pubs or in taprooms that also pour beer from around the world. Local favorites include Fifty/ Fifty, Tahoe Mountain Brewing, Tahoe Cold Water, Alibi Ale and Tahoe’s newest craft brewery, Tahoe National.
Drives
The 72-mile drive around Lake Tahoe can be a scenic 2 to 3 hours or an all-day odyssey with entertaining side trips. Don’t forget lunch, perhaps at a lakefront restaurant, or picnic at a park or beach. Other scenic road trips include Mt. Rose Highway 431, and highways south of Lake Tahoe: 89, 88 and 4.
Equestrian
Trail rides on horseback leave from stables in Alpine Meadows, Camp Richardson, Zephyr Cove, Piping Rock and Tahoe Donner. Horses are allowed on most regional hiking trails.
Fishing
[Also– Charters, fly-fishing] Charter fishing boats leave from marinas around Lake Tahoe most every morning of the summer, many seeking large Mackinaw Trout. Fly fishing spots include the upper and lower Truckee River, Little Truckee River, and upper Carson River tributaries south of Tahoe.
Four-Wheeling
[Also– Off-road vehicle, dirt biking] The Rubicon Trail is a world-classic, off-road journey, labeled “the crown jewel of all off-highway trails.” The route crosses the Sierra Crest for a technical, 22-miles from McKinney-Rubicon, on Tahoe’s west shore, to near Georgetown in the California foothills. It rates a “10” difficulty on a scale of 10. Four-wheelers and two-wheelers seeking more wide-open spaces head toward Northern Nevada’s countless off-road trails and dirt roads.
Gambling
[Also– Arcades] Stateline in South Tahoe is home to the region’s famous, large casino towers— Harrah’s, Harveys, MontBleu and Hard Rock Hotel—all adjacent to each other. All feature 24-hour slots and table games, plus entertainment, dining and lodging. Crystal Bay on the northern state line has 3 smaller casinos, with the Hyatt nearby in Incline Village.
NORTH TAHOE EVENT CENTER
The only thing we overlook is the Lake.
Jen Schmidt Photography
SPECTACULAR LAKEFRONT LOCATION for events and celebrations of all sizes! 530.546.7249 sales@NorthTahoeEvents.com NorthTahoeEvents.com NorthTahoeEventCenter 8318 N. Lake Blvd, Kings Beach, CA The North Tahoe Event Center is owned and operated by North Tahoe Public Utility District
3 steps closer to fun
CLEAN
DRAIN
DRY
pp!
gA oatin B e Taho rg FREE oating.o B e Taho
Tahoe welcomes boaters to watercraft inspection stations with COVID-19 precautions in place. Face coverings are required during inspections for aquatic invasive species. For the latest information on inspection locations and appointments, visit:
TahoeBoatInspections.com • 888-824-6267 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 33
TAHOE INFO
Those looking for Tahoe’s best arcades should also head to the casinos, with Harveys being one favorite spot to play. Operations and capacities were limited in most casinos at press-time due to COVID-19. Check casino websites for updates on any current restrictions.
Gliding
[Also– Hang gliding, ultralights] Commercial glider plane rides are available from the Truckee and Minden airports. Powered hang glider rides depart from Carson City Airport. All three operations usually take customers over parts of Lake Tahoe. Experienced hang gliders sometimes launch from Slide Mountain Highway off Mt. Rose Highway 431, where summer updrafts along the steep Eastern Sierra can power record flights.
Golf The Reno/ Tahoe region has good golf, from high-end championship courses to relaxed local links. Edgewood Tahoe at Stateline is the “Pebble Beach” of the mountains, home to the nationally televised American Century Celebrity Golf Championship. South Tahoe has three additional public links. Numerous well-known golf architects have designed courses here, both private and public. Greater Truckee has seven courses, with public options including the Jack Nicklaus-designed Old Greenwood and Peter Jacobson-designed Grey’s Crossing. In North Tahoe, historic 9-hole courses are found in Tahoe City and in Kings Beach at Old Brockway, where in 1934 Bing Crosby created the pro-am tournament that is now the ATT National Pro-Am at Pebble Beach. Nearby, Incline Village has two beautiful courses.
2021 Trail Races & 10 miler
TA H O E
July 18
TA H O E
TA H O E
August 15
September 11
The most beautiful runs on earth.
TM
TahoeTrailRunning.com 34 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
Tee-up at the historic Tahoe City Golf Course. Enjoy golf with a view, bocce ball, dining at Café Zenon, walking distance to downtown Tahoe City and Commons Beach. JOIN US!
Family-friendly | Affordable | Fun Oldest Golf Course in Lake Tahoe
251 NORTH LAKE BLVD, TAHOE CITY (behind SaveMart) Some restrictions due to COVID-19
Book your tee time or private event | 530.583.151 6 | GolfTahoeCity.com
Powerboat Rentals Service Department ~ Fuel ~ Shopping and Dining
20 to 23ft. • Up to 300 hp • Canopies • Up to 10-person capacity
“A Tahoe Tradition” In business more than 30 years
Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, 365 Days a Year Available for Parties.
700 North Lake Blvd. Hwy 28 ~ Tahoe City, CA
530.583.1039
571 North Lake Blvd Tahoe City, CA 96145 530-583-8504 www.rosiescafe.com
TAHOECITYMARINA.COM SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 35
TAHOE INFO
Hiking
[Also– Getting away from the crowd, forest-bathing, adventure treks] From spring through latefall, Tahoe has perfect hikes for most every day and every mood. The Tahoe Rim Trail is one of three iconic trails that originate or pass through the region, the others being the John Muir and Pacific Crest trails. You can pick up sections of the Rim Trail at 12 trailheads, enjoying out-and-backs or point-to-point with a car shuttle. Popular trailheads include Tahoe Meadows, above Incline Village on Nevada Highway 431, Brockway Summit off Highway 267, Echo Lakes near Interstate 50, and Spooner Lake near I-50’s Spooner Summit on Tahoe’s East Shore. The Pacific Crest Trail can be accessed at over 7 trailheads in the Tahoe region. All three trails travel through the spectacular granite landscapes of Desolation Wilderness, the nation’s most visited wilderness area (requiring permits for overnight stays). Many lovely hiking trails wind through the woods at lower elevations, some in state parks, others accessed from neighborhood roads. Look to our recreation map on page 26 for some suggestions. For adventurous, off-trail hikers, the Sierra Nevada Range offers endless peak-bagging and backcountry route finding. As with all travel in Tahoe backcountry, go prepared with cellphone charged and adequate water and clothing.
Ice Skating
South Lake Tahoe Ice Arena is an excellent indoor facility with an NHL-sized rink. Check tahoearena.co for their updated summer schedule.
Jet Skiing See “Boating” Kayaking See “Paddling” Kite Boarding [Also– Windsurfing, Hobie-
catting] Lake Tahoe and other nearby lakes often have summer afternoon winds, but rarely at a velocity to excite kite boarders or windsurfers. That can change as storm fronts brush the Northern Sierra, whipping up whitecapped action off Kings Beach, Tahoe Vista and South Shore. Wet suits are advised, even on warm afternoons, as lake surface temperatures can drop on windy days.
Miniature Golf Find mini-golf fun at Kings Beach Miniature Golf or Magic Carpet Golf locations in South Lake Tahoe and Carnelian Bay. Heavenly Village lays out summer-only holes on its plaza.
36 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
Mountain Biking [Also–
Single track, fire roads] The entire Northern Sierra is a mountain biking mecca of single-track and fire road fun, from classic granite descents to newly built routes that curve and bounce fluidly down mountain sides. Flume Trail is the most iconic of Lake Tahoe routes, a breathtaking trek along mountain ridges and cliff side, including single-track following the route of an old lumber flume. This classic fat-tire ride is made more accessible with a shuttle service that cuts out the painful road climbing part of the loop. Take a look at the map on page 26 for more information on popular trails. Bike shops are great sources for in-depth information on adventures to match your goals.
Museums
Interesting area museums include Donner Emigrant Trail Museum outside Truckee, Gatekeepers Museum and Native American basket collection in Tahoe City, and Tahoe Environmental Research Center in Incline Village. Nearby museums and historic sites include Nevada Museum of Art and National Auto Museum in Reno, Nevada Museum and Nevada Railroad Museum in Carson City, and tours and museums in Virginia City.
Paddling
[Also– SUP and kayaking] Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters—every shade of blue from near-black to turquoise—have a magnetic attraction for paddle boarders and kayakers. There are multiple Tahoe marinas that offer launching and rentals. Many of the most popular beach locations also have rentals and convenient parking. East Shore’s mix of undeveloped shoreline, numerous coves, hidden beaches and huge granite boulders make it a favorite adventure, normally accessed through Sand Harbor at Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, with rentals available there or at the Hyatt Regency beach in Incline Village. Emerald Bay is the great paddle journey on the West Shore, accessed from D.L. Bliss State Park to the north or Baldwin beach to the south. Go to LakeTahoeWaterTrail.org for information about multi-day paddles around the lake.
truly connect
TRAILHEAD MOUNTAIN BIKE RENTALS
530.583.5475 | tahoexc.org 925 Country Club Drive, Tahoe City
“Whatever your cycling needs may be, Olympic Bike Shop can get you riding!”
PHOTO BY TOM ZIKAS
SALES SERVICE RENTALS
NORTH LAKE TAHOE’S PREMIER BIKE SHOP! 620 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, CA 96145 | 530-581-2500 O p e n s e a s o n a lly 10 a m–5p m | w w w.O ly m p icB i keS h o p.co m
SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 37
TAHOE INFO
Photography
Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, and Old Highway 40 above Donner Lake are Tahoe’s classic vistas, the latter featured in many national car commercials. The overlook on Nevada Highway 431 above Incline Village has gorgeous views throughout the day and night. The Heavenly gondola is a journey of spectacular vistas. The Squaw Valley tram is scheduled to resume operation this summer, flying over peaks that inspired Walt Disney’s design for Frontier Land. Day trips include historic silver mining boomtown of Virginia City, high desert landscapes at Pyramid Lake and Black Rock Desert, the ghost town of Bodie, and the towering Sierra Buttes to the north.
Playgrounds
[Also– Playing fields] The City of South Lake Tahoe has an excellent recreation and swim center, plus three playgrounds. Kings Beach and Tahoe Vista have numerous playgrounds and play fields, both along the lakeshore and at the North Tahoe Regional Park. Tahoe City Commons Beach has a playground and lawn. In Truckee, head for Truckee River Regional Park.
River Rafting [Also– In-
ner-tubing] The relatively gentle stretch of the Truckee River between Tahoe City and River Ranch can supply multi-generational rafting and tubing fun. There are two commercial rafting operations serving this stretch—book ahead. If you’re riding your own floatation, you’ll want to leave a car near River Ranch (but not in their parking lot, unless you’re dining or staying there). The Truckee River beyond River Ranch is much more technical and dangerous, but becomes gentle again downstream in Truckee, where inner tubers launch near the junction of Highway 89 and West River Street and float to Legacy Trail Bridge or Glenshire Bridge. Portions of the upper Truckee River in Meyers are also gentle enough for inner tubers, but beware of obstacles on the way to Tahoe Keys. If you’re seeking bigger whitewater, portions of the Truckee
38 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
River Canyon between Truckee and Verdi feature Class Three and Four rapids. Tahoe Whitewater Tours runs commercial day trips through the Truckee River Canyon, the Carson River, and on the forks of the American River.
Rock Climbing [Also– Boul-
dering] Tahoe’s most popular climbing destinations are Donner Summit, near Truckee, and Lover’s Leap, off Highway 50 near Echo Summit. Old Highway 40 west of Donner Lake travels up to numerous granite cliffs with traditional routes of all grades. Lover’s Leap is a renowned Sierra climbing area known for multiple-pitch routes reaching up to 600 feet. Climbers have ferreted out excellent granite bouldering around Tahoe’s woods—look to web or print climbing guides for the continually expanding areas.
Ropes Courses [Also– Adventure parks, ziplines] Tahoe Treetop Adventure parks have three locations—Tahoe Vista, Squaw Valley and Granlibakken Resort—with rope courses, zip-lines and a “leap of faith.” Heavenly in South Tahoe has a fun ropes course and alpine slide at the top of the gondola lift.
Sailing See “Boating” Scenic Rides [Also– Aerial tram, gondola lift]
Tahoe boosts two of the world’s most breathtakingly scenic aerial rides. Heavenly’s gondola travels from near Stateline in South Lake Tahoe straight up the mountainside and connects with another lift, trails and rides. While Heavenly’s gondola stayed in limited operation during 2020, COVID conditions shut down Squaw Valley’s aerial tram and its much larger cabin. At press-time, Squaw Valley announced that they would resume operations this summer but had no details available (nor any news on their anticipated change of name).
Skate Parks Fun skate parks are found in Truckee and South Lake Tahoe.
Shopping
Boutiques, art galleries, gift and souvenirs shops are clustered in walkable concentrations in Truckee’s downtown, Heavenly Village/Stateline, Tahoe City, Incline Center and Kings Beach, all also featuring fun lunch and coffee spots. Look to our Directory, page 46, for more information on shops and galleries.
Hot Slices, Cold Beer, Subs, Tacos, Burritos, Quesadillas and More!
205 RIVER ROAD TAHOE CITY
www.frontstreetpizza.com
530.583.3770 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 39
TAHOE INFO
Swimming
[Also– Open-water] Lake Tahoe is DEEP, and COLD, but its top 3 feet can become refreshingly swimable most Augusts and Septembers, with the water temperature near 70 degrees F, even warmer in the sandy shallows on summer afternoons off South Tahoe, Kings Beach, Tahoe Vista and Sand Harbor beaches. To enjoy Tahoe’s water clarity, wear swim goggles or a mask. Or take a dip in the lower Truckee River, basically Lake Tahoe in motion. There are excellent indoor public pools in South Lake Tahoe, Truckee and Incline Village
Trail Running See “Hiking” Walking [Also– Handicap access] Paved walking
and bike path options are found throughout the region, with popular strolls including South Lake Tahoe to Tallac Historic Site, the West Shore bike trail from Meeks Bay to Tahoe City, Truckee River bike trail between Tahoe City and Squaw Valley, lakeside trail through Tahoe City to Dollar Hill, and Tunnel Creek Cafe to Sand Harbor in Incline Village. Many of these trails are handicap accessible with long, relatively flat sections. Take the kids on Family Discovery nature trails in Sugar Pine Point State Park. Near Truckee, the paved Truckee River Legacy Trail and dirt trails in Donner Memorial State Park and Martis Valley are all delightful places to raise your heart rate a bit.
Water Skiing
[Also– Wake Boarding, Wake Surfing, Lessons] On a calm summer morning, when the lake’s surface perfectly mirrors the blue sky and green peaks, Tahoe is a water skiing nirvana. West Shore locations are often the most wind protected. Take a waterski lesson from experienced pros at High Sierra Waterski School at Homewood Marina. Tahoe’s marinas rent boats for wake boarding or wake surfing—the latter fun even in minor windchop because it requires slower boat speeds. Pay attention to current weather forecasts before planning any boating trip on Lake Tahoe. Other area lakes with boat launches include Donner Lake and Fallen Leaf Lake.
Zoos To see animals from around the world, head to Animal Ark, located north of Reno, providing sanctuary for orphaned, injured, or non-releasable wildlife. —CHACO MOHLER
A Magical Place for Children of All Ages Clothing from newborn to size 14, a large selection of toys, books, accessories and shoes. Open every day,
10 am until 6 pm.
10104 Donner Pass Road
Email: tahoetreehouse@aol.com
530.587.4883 www.tahoetreehouse.com
40 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
CON V LOC ENIENT ATIO N!
THE FOR LY! FUN E FAMI OL H W
H SIERRA G I H
WAT E R S K I S C H O O L 44 Years of Operation! • POWERBOAT RENTALS
- Hourly and Daily Rates Available - Ski Nautiques (up to 6 passengers) - Sport Nautiques (up to 9 passengers)
• COMPLETE SKI SCHOOL & WAKEBOARD INSTRUCTION • wakesurfing • wakeskating • wakekiting - US Coast Guard Licensed - AWSA Certified Instructors - Everything Included - All Ages & Abilities - Pro Shop and Sales - Rentals and Repairs
• PERSONAL WATERCRAFT RENTALS - SEA•DOO (up to 3 passengers) 4 stroke - TRPA approved! - CANOES - KAYAKS - PADDLEBOARDS
highsierrawaterskiing.com At Homewood High & Dry Marina 7 miles south of Tahoe City • 5190 West Lake Blvd.
530-525-1214
SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 41
Business Directory DINING At press-time, area restaurants were starting to end COVID 19 restrictions, but please call ahead for reservations and current information.
NORTH LAKE TAHOE BRIDGETENDER American
Bridgetender is a true local’s favorite, with excellent burgers, starters, salads and a large selection of beer on tap. Outdoors: Riverfront dining in a spacious patio and bar. Indoors: Rustic and warm dining room and bar. More on page 29. 65 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.3342 tahoebridgetender.com CHRISTY HILL American
Elegant, unique cuisine with spectacular lake views, Christy Hill is a beloved favorite of Tahoe fine dining. Chef Andrew Shimer brings a creative touch to the ever-changing dinner menu. The restaurant’s lakefront garden, The Sand Bar, serves wine, beer and snacks. More on page 4.
JAKES ON THE LAKE American
Outstanding scenic dining! Jakes’ menu specializes in fresh seafood and delicious Hawaiian inspired appetizers. The large outdoor patios look out from Lake Tahoe’s beautiful North Shore. Serving lunch and dinner, with online ordering available. More on page 21. 780 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 550.583.0188 jakestahoe.com JASON’S BEACHSIDE GRILL American
8338 North Lake Blvd., Kings Beach 530.546.3315 jasonsbeachsidegrille.com
8345 North Lake Blvd., Kings Beach 530.546.4539
Treat yourself to drinks and dining at the iconic River Ranch Lodge & Restaurant. A landmark since the late 1800’s, River Ranch is known for the lively, spacious outdoor patio and the more intimate and historic river-view dining room and bar. More on page 19.
ROSIE’S CAFÉ American
Located in a log cabin on the river, Front Street serves up all-natural, hand-thrown, New York-style pizza, plus authentic Mexican specialties, mouth-watering sandwiches, and beer on tap. Outdoor tables are available on the deck and near the river. More on page 39.
55 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.581.0278 LAS PANCHITAS—Mexican
LONE EAGLE GRILL—American RIVER RANCH American
FAT CAT BAR & GRILL American
FRONT STREET STATION Pizza
640 North Lake Blvd. Tahoe City 530.583.5700 wolfdales.com DAM CAFÉ—breakfast/lunch
2285 River Road, Alpine Meadows 530.583.4264 riverranchlodge.com
599 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.2233 fatcatrestaurants.com
Since 1978, Chef Dale has developed a fusion of California and Asian influences, using ‘Cuisine Unique’ to describe the fresh and simple aesthetics. With a warm ambiance and lake views, the family-run business celebrates 43 years of exceptional food and service. More on page 23.
With a scenic lakefront deck, Jason’s serves classics like prime rib, baked chicken, burgers, sandwiches, and Tahoe’s best salad bar. More on page 25.
115 Grove Street, Tahoe City 530.583.8551 christyhill.com
This family-friendly restaurant is dedicated to using the freshest ingredients from thoughtfully sourced farms and purveyors. Guests can enjoy quality dishes, an extensive bar menu, and nightly events with a view of Lake Tahoe. Indoor/outdoor dining available. More on page 41
WOLFDALE’S CUISINE UNIQUE Seasonal Asian & Californian
Breakfast, lunch and dinner of all-American favorites and new, delicious creations. Indoors, Rosie’s features entertaining décor and popular bar. Outdoors tables have lakeviews. More on page 35. 571 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.8504 TAHOE NATIONAL BREWING CO. Brewery & Restaurant
Your new local lakefront brewery and kitchen in the heart of Tahoe City. Serving up delicious food, freshly brewed beer, wine and cocktails in our newly remodeled venue and outdoor patio. Opening Summer 2021! 850 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.296-8807 tahoenational.beer
205 River Road, Tahoe City 530.583.3770 frontstreetpizza.com 42 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
111 Country Club Dr., Incline Village 775.886.6899 OLD POST OFFICE—breakfast/lunch
5245 North Lake Blvd., Carnelian Bay 530.546.3205 TAHOE HOUSE BAKERY
625 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.1377 WEST SHORE MARKET—deli & grocery
1780 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.584.2475
TRUCKEE FRONT STREET STATION Pizza
Front Street’s Truckee restaurant has generous outdoor seating and convenient location, serving all-natural, handthrown, New York-style pizza, authentic Mexican specialties, sandwiches and a large selection of beverages and beer on tap. More on page 29. 11782 Donner Pass Road, Truckee 530.536.5035 frontstreetpizza.com MORGAN’S LOBSTER SHACK Seafood, Sandwiches & Market
The freshest seafood this side of the San Francisco, Morgan’s has daily deliveries of fish, shellfish, and live Maine lobster. Enjoy a sandwich, salad or chowder in the outdoor patio or take freshness home from its seafood market. More on page 37. 10087 West River St., Truckee 530.582.5000
Dining/Activities
PIANETA Italian
GORDON RAMSAY HELL KITCHEN
Harvey’s Casino, Stateline 775.586.6868
A favorite for excellent and creative Italian food, salads, full bar and wine list. Pianeta has expanded its outdoor seating under a heated tent. Inside, the atmosphere in this historic building is intimate and cozy. More on page 4.
OFF THE HOOK SUSHI
10096 Donner Pass Rd., Downtown Truckee 530.587.4694 pianetarestauranttruckee.com
OYSTER BAR
2660 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe 530.544.5599 ORCHIDS THAI CUISINE
2180 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe 530.544.5541 Hard Rock Casino, Stateline 884.588.7625 SPROUTS CAFÉ—vegetarian
CASA BAEZA—Mexican
10010 Bridge St., Truckee 530.587.2161
3123 Harrison St., South Lake Tahoe 530.541.6969
DARK HORSE COFFEE ROASTERS
STATELINE BREWERY—Brew pub
10009 W. River St. Ste. B, Truckee 530.550.9239
4118 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe 530.542.9000
FIFTY-FIFTY BREWERY—American
SUSHI PIER
11197 Brockway Road, Truckee 530.587.2337
117 US 50, Stateline 775.588.8588
MOODY’S BISTRO—American
10087 W. River St., Truckee 530.582.5000
STELLA—American
ACTIVITIES Call ahead for reservations and information on any remaining COVID restrictions.
10918 Brockway Road., Truckee 530.582.5655
SOUTH TAHOE EDGEWOOD TAHOE RESORT Three distinct eateries
This premier golf resort has dining that pairs perfectly with “Wow”: the casual golf-inspired Brooks’ Bar & Deck, energetic Bistro, and spectacular lakeview dining at Edgewood Restaurant. Edgewood Tahoe Resort makes any dining experience a memorable one. 80 Lake Pkwy., Stateline 888.881.8659 edgewoodtahoe.com
NORTH TAHOE REGIONAL PARK Variety of recreation
6600 Donner Rd., Tahoe Vista 530.546.4212 northtahoeparks.com
7010 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe Vista 530.913.9212 tahoeadventurecompany.com
FRESH KETCH—seafood
FRESHIES RESTAURANT & BAR
3330 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe 530.542.3630 FRIDAY’S STATION—steak & seafood
Harrahs Casino, Stateline 775.586.4988
A 60- to 90-minute drive from most Tahoe communities, this picturesque Wild West “boomtown” is the site of the 1860’s Comstock Lode silver strike. Check ahead for mine tour or steam train ride schedules.
INCLINE VILLAGE REC CENTER & INDOOR POOL
980 Incline Way, 775.832.1300 TRUCKEE COMMUNITY REC CENTER & INDOOR POOL
10981 Truckee Way, 530.582.7720 SOUTH LAKE TAHOE REC COMPLEX & INDOOR POOL
WATER SPORTS
Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe 530.542.6650 2435 Venice Dr., South Lake Tahoe 530.541.5683
Three locations: Granlibakken Resort, North Lake Tahoe Regional Park & Squaw Valley 530.807.1004 tahoetreetop.com
1180 Rufus Allen Blvd., 530.542.6056 TAHOE ADVENTURE COMPANY Tours & watersports rentals
FIRE + ICE—American
1900 Jamison Beach Road, South Lake Tahoe 530.541.0630
Tahoe Treetop’s parks features a variety of courses for every level of athleticism. Multiple tree platforms are connected by zip lines, bridges, or “events.” It adds up to over 2 hours of fun for the entire family! More on page 5.
775.847.7500
This park’s 124 acres includes playgrounds, hiking and biking trails, dog park, disc golf, Tree Top Adventure Park, and ¾ mile Interpretive Nature Trail. On the lake is Tahoe Vista Recreation Area, with boat launch and beach. More on page 33.
Serving up the best in Tahoe fun and natural beauty, including kayak and paddle board rentals and tours, mountain biking and hiking tours, rock climbing, corporate trips and events, even paddle board yoga. Specializing in exceptional service. More on page 45.
BEACON BAR & GRILLE—American
TAHOE TREETOP ADVENTURE Rope courses & zip lines
VIRGINIA CITY Authentic Old West town & tours
SIAM CUISINE—Thai
10770 Donner Pass Rd., Truckee 530.550.0503
291 Country Club Dr., Incline Village 775.881.7566 https://tahoe.ucdavis.edu/ tahoesciencecenter
TAHOE SCIENCE CENTER Interactive museum & films
ACTION WATER SPORTS Rentals, lessons & tours
AWS is a premium North Tahoe destination for boat and yacht rentals, jet skis, parasailing, sailboat tours, wake surfing and water-skiing lessons. Located on the water across from the Hyatt Regency. More on page 8. 995 Lakeshore Blvd., Incline Village 775.831.4386 awsincline.com
On the bottom floor of the University of California, Davis’ Tahoe Environmental Research Center, this is fun for all ages, with interactive displays, wonderful 3-D films and special presentations. More on page 13. SUMMER /FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 43
DIRECTORY—Activities HIGH SIERRA WATERSKI SCHOOL Lessons & rentals
For 44 summers, High Sierra has been introducing visitors and locals to the thrills of Tahoe water sports, now including water skiing, wakeboarding, wake surfing, tubing, knee boarding and wake skating lessons. Or rent a boat, jet ski, paddle board, canoe or kayak. More on page 41. 5190 West Lake Blvd., Homewood 530.525.1214 highsierrawaterskiing.com LAKE TAHOE BOAT INSPECTIONS Environmental protection
Boats entering the Lake Tahoe Basin are required to be inspected prior to launching. Clean, drain and dry all watercraft before arriving at an inspection station. There a friendly inspector will check your boat for invasive species. More on page 33.
leave daily. More on page 35. 700 North Lk. Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.1039 tahoecitymarina.com
roads, Tahoe XC is fun for all levels of riders. The lodge has apparel and gear. Call ahead for bike rental reservations. More on page 37.
TAHOE WHITEWATER TOURS Guided River Rafting
925 Country Club Dr., Tahoe City 530.583.5475 tahoexc.org
Offering whitewater rafting tours near Lake Tahoe and beyond, led by guides with 25+ years of experience. The safety of guests and staff is always their top priority, whether on the river or in their shuttle buses. More on page 39.
10015 Palisades Dr., Truckee 530.587.5777 gowhitewater.com WILD SOCIETY Clear Crystal Kayak rentals
Locations near Meyers, Truckee and Spooner Summit (US-50 & NV-28) 888-824-6267 tahoeboatinspections.com
Transparent kayaks and paddleboards provide an incredible view of Tahoe’s clear waters. Rent or take a guided tour to Sand Harbor and other beaches. Kayaks come with waterproof phone cases, speakers, USB plug, binoculars, goggles, snorkels, cooler and selfie sticks. More on Back Cover.
SUNNYSIDE MARINA Rentals, marina & repairs
8612 North Lake Blvd., Kings Beach & 201 Village Blvd., Incline Village 530.553.1771 wildsocietylt.com
Premium boat, wake surfing, jet ski, paddle board and kayak rentals. Located next to Sunnyside Restaurant, 2 miles from Tahoe City. Experience the beauty of Tahoe on the lake from an iconic Tahoe location. More on page 41. 1835 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.7201 marinasunnyside.com TAHOE CITY KAYAK Rentals and Hobie sales
Two convenient rental locations: Tahoe City’s Commons Beach and Nevada State Park at Sand Harbor. Lessons and tours, too! North Lake Tahoe’s Hobie kayak and pedal board dealer, plus SUP sales at their Tahoe City shop. More on page 39. 521 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.581.4336 tahoecitykayak.com TAHOE CITY MARINA Rentals & marina services
Offering boat, slip and buoy rentals, this waterfront complex includes shopping and lakefront dining. It is one of Tahoe’s oldest marinas, recently renovated and enlarged. Powerboats and sailboats are available for rental and fishing charters
THE BACK COUNTRY Sales, rentals & service
With a wide variety of mountain and road bikes to rent (plus paddle boards), The Back Country is Truckee’s recreation headquarters. The store has a large selection of equipment and gear, plus clothing, books and full bike service shop. More on page 37. 11400 Donner Pass Rd., Truckee 530.582.0909 thebackcountry.net SOUTH SHORE BIKES—rentals, sales
871 Emerald Bay Rd., South Lake Tahoe 530.544.7433
GOLF EDGEWOOD TAHOE Championship course
TAHOE SPORTS/SKI RUN MARINA— retail, rentals & services
Site of the American Century Championship of celebrity golf, Edgewood is the only Tahoe course directly on the lake. More on page 9.
900 Ski Run Blvd., South Lake Tahoe 530.544.0200
180 Lake Pkwy., Stateline 888.881.8659 edgewoodtahoe.com
TAHOE ADVENTURE COMPANY— rentals & tours
7010 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe Vista 530.913.9212 TRUCKEE RIVER RAFTING—rentals & shuttle
175 W. River Road, Tahoe City 530.583-1111
BIKES OLYMPIC BIKE SHOP Demo rentals, sales & service
One of the region’s premier bike shops, offering rentals and demos, mountain- and road-bike repair, plus clothing and gear, with a staff knowledgeable about local trails and conditions. More on page 37. 620 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.2500 olympicbikeshop.com
TAHOE CITY GOLF Community course
A family-friendly golf facility located in the heart of Tahoe City, this fun and challenging 9-hole, par-33 course is surrounded by towering pine trees with views of Lake Tahoe. More on page 35. 251 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530-583-1516 GolfTahoeCity.com INCLINE VILLAGE CHAMPIONSHIP & MOUNTAIN COURSES
775.832.1146 or 775.832.1150 OLD BROCKWAY
400 Brassie Ave., Tahoe Vista 530.546.9909 PONDEROSA GOLF
10040 Reynold Way, Truckee 530.587.3501 TAHOE PARADISE
3021 US-50, South Lake Tahoe 530.577.2121 TAHOE XC Rentals and trail system
Offering mountain bike rentals plus a large system of single-track and fire
44 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
DIRECTORY—Shopping
SHOPPING
GALLERY 5830’ Truckee Artist Collective
NORTH TAHOE/TRUCKEE BLUESTONE Jewelry & Wine
For fine jewelry or wine from the Sierra Foothill, visit Bluestone Jewelry & Wine in Truckee. Unique jewelry from local to custom designs can be found there and in Bluestone’s Tahoe City store overlooking Lake Tahoe. More on page 47. 10046 Donner Pass Road, Downtown Truckee 530.582.0429 495 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.581.4298 bluestonetahoe.com CAMILA’S AT TAHOE Women’s Boutique
Displaying a large selection of contemporary fashions, including dresses, sweaters, footwear and accessories. Stop by this summer for 30th Anniversary Sale bargains! More on page 21. Boatworks Mall, Tahoe City 530.583-0120
Gallery 5830’ is a creative portal featuring an eclectic mix of artwork and functional crafts, handmade by artists in the local community and neighboring regions. Examples of artwork for sale on consignment include: Painting, sculpture, ceramics, blacksmithing, glass, jewelry and furniture. 10060 Donner Pass Road, Downtown Truckee 530.902.0322 gallery5830.com GEARED FOR GAMES / MIND PLAY Games, puzzles & toys
These stores carry an entertaining selection of board games, puzzles, toys and books. Stimulate your brain while having fun with family and friends! Locations in Tahoe City’s Cobblestone Mall, Boatworks Mall, and Village at Squaw Valley. More on page 19. 475 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.581.4263 1985 Squaw Valley Rd., Olympic Valley 530.584.6133
• Mountain Bike Tours • Guided Hiking • Backpacking • Family Adventures • Multisport Tours
MOUNTAIN HARDWARE & SPORTS Hardware, sporting goods, clothing
Serving the Truckee community since 1977, Mountain Hardware & Sports offers a wide variety of products for camping, hiking, fishing, painting and staining, hardware and home décor. More on page 17. Two Truckee locations: 11320 Donner Pass Road, 530.587.4844 10001 Soaring Way, Ste 105 mountainhardwareandsports.com THE POTLATCH Jewelry, gifts & clothing
Celebrating over 50 years in business, The Potlatch is the place to shop for Native American jewelry and gifts. You’ll find a wide selection of jewelry, home decor, Tahoe clothing, souvenirs, bath and body products, and more amazing merchandise! Turn to page 51. 930 Tahoe Blvd., Incline Village 775.833.2485 potlatchlaketahoe.com
Tahoe Adventure Company Inspiring High Sierra Adventures
• Kayak & SUP Tours • Beachfront Kayak & SUP Rental 7010 N. Lake Blvd. Tahoe Vitsa
G R O U P & C O R P O R AT E O U T I N G S + T E A M B U I LD I N G
TahoeAdventureCompany.com | 530.913.9212 SUMMER /FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 45
DIRECTORY—Shopping/Lodging SCRAPS DOG BAKERY Pet supplies
Located in Tahoe City’s Cobblestone Mall, Scraps has a full selection of high-quality toys, food and accessories for your pets. All items are selected with your pet’s health in mind, free of toxins, and featuring foods low in preservatives. More on page 25. 475 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.584.0220 STEVE SCHMIER’S JEWELRY Jewelry
Since 1977, Steve Schmier’s Jewelry has been creating and repairing fine jewelry, featuring exotic-colored stones, diamonds and custom designs based in years of expertise. Stop by the store to experience a treat for the eyes and heart. More on page 20.
TAHOE WINE COLLECTIVE Wines & craft beer
Visit the newest community gathering spot to discover boutique wines and craft beers from the Sierra Nevadas and beyond. Weekly and sometimes daily events are planned for the summer. Or join the Wine Club. More on page 20. Boatworks Mall, Tahoe City 412.498.5216 tahoewinecollective.com THE TREE HOUSE Children’s clothing & toys
A large selection of imaginative and cute children’s and toddler’s clothing, plus books, puzzles and toys. Popular brands and new discoveries, perfect for finding birthday and holiday gifts! More on page 40.
Boatworks Mall, Tahoe City 530.583.5709
10104 Donner Pass Road, Truckee 530.587.4883 tahoetreehouse.com
TAHOE CITY CHOCOLATES Sweets
WILD SOCIETY Boutique & gifts
“The World’s Best Candy Store” has the top handmade chocolates and candies from all over the world, plus classic, nostalgic confections, and delicious ice cream in a cone. More on page 21.
Island chic lifestyle boutique offering clothing, décor, plants and exclusive novelties unlike any other found in the area. More on Back Cover.
769 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.6652 tahoecitychocolates.com
8612 North Lake Blvd., Kings Beach 201 Village Blvd., Incline Village 530.553.1771 wildsocietylt.com
TAHOE GOURMET FOODS Food and gift baskets
EADINGTON GALLERY—fine art photography
Delicious food comes from delicious ingredients. The shop sources the best local providers as well as products from around the world. Turn to page 20.
589 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.9000 THE BACKCOUNTRY—sports clothing
11400 Donner Pass Road, Truckee 530.582.0909
Boatworks Mall Tahoe City 401.473.6323
THE POUR HOUSE—fine wine
TAHOE OIL & SPICE Olive oil, vinegar, gifts
SOUTH TAHOE
Sample a delicious selection of over 50 extra virgin and flavor-infused olive oil and balsamic vinegar, plus unique condiments and foods items. Spice up your next culinary creation or find the perfect gift. More on page 22. 10091 Donner Pass Rd., Downtown Truckee 530.550.8857 tahoeoilandspice.com
10075 Jibboom St., 530.550.9664
EADINGTON GALLERY Fine art photography
Discover awesome moments of light and landscape, captured at Tahoe and other spectacular locations by Michael Eadington and other fine art photographers. Archival-quality printing and mounting in a variety of sizes. More on page 50. 1001 Heavenly Drive #9, South Lake Tahoe theeadingtongallery.com
46 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
HEAVENLY VILLAGE Shopping center
Over 40 shops in an open-air, pedestrian mall, plus a variety of dining options, miniature golf and scenic gondola rides. Dozens of additional shops are only steps away in the adjacent Village Center and across US-50 at The Chateau at the Village. 1001 Heavenly Village Way, South Lake Tahoe 775.265.2087 theshopsatheavenly.com BIG VISTA—clothing & gifts
4101 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe 870.701.5200 POWDER HOUSE—sports wear
Multiple locations in South Lake Tahoe 530.542.6222 TAHOE SPORTS LTD
4000 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe 530.542.4000 VILLAGE TOYS—toys & gifts
1001 Heavenly Village Way #39, S. Lake Tahoe 530.541-6600 villagetoys.com
LODGING NORTH TAHOE CEDAR CREST COTTAGES/ NATURAL RETREATS Vacation Rentals
Each of these uniquely furnished, luxury vacation cottages feature custom wood or stone flooring, thoughtful décor, luxurious linens and modern amenities. Perfect for families, wedding groups or reunions. Your home away from home awaits! More on page 22. 845 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 888.451.0156 THE COTTAGE INN Cabins
Delightful, themed cabins, each unique and enchanting, located across from private Tahoe Park Beach with access for inn guests. All of the cabins have fireplaces, and some with large jetted or soaking tubs. More on page 49. 1690 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.581.4073 thecottageinn.com
WINNER
2020
BLUESTONE JEWELRY
BLUESTONE JEWELRY & WINE
495 N Lake Blvd, Suite 170 530-581-4298
10046 Donner Pass Road, #3 530-582-0429
TAHOE CITY
BluestoneTahoe.com
TRUCKEE
DIRECTORY—Lodging/Services CEDAR HOUSE SPORT HOTEL
10918 Brockway Rd., Truckee 530.582.5655 CLUB TAHOE RESORT
914 Northwood Blvd., Incline Village 775.831.5750 DONNER LAKE VILLAGE
15695 Donner Pass Road, Truckee 530.587.6081 FRANCISCAN LAKESIDE LODGE
6944 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe Vista 530.546.6300 GRANLIBAKKEN TAHOE—resort & conference center
725 Granlibakken Road, Tahoe City 530.583.4242 HAMPTON INN
11951 CA-267, Truckee 530.587.1197 HYATT REGENCY LAKE TAHOE— cabins, spa & casino
111 Country Club Dr., Incline Village 775.832.1234 RIVER RANCH LODGE—with restaurant
2285 River Road, Alpine Meadows 530.583.4264 SQUAW VALLEY LODGE
201 Squaw Peak Road, Olympic Valley 530.562.4881 TAHOE VISTANA INN
6549 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe Vista 530.546.2529 TAHOMA MEADOWS COTTAGES
6821 West Lake Blvd., Tahoma 530.525.1553 TRUCKEE DONNER LODGE
10527 Cold Stream Rd., Truckee 530.582.9999 VILLAGE AT SQUAW VALLEY
1750 Village East Road, Olympic Valley 530.584.1000
SOUTH TAHOE
SERVICES BUSINESS OFFICE BOSS Shipping, printing & supplies
Let the BOSS help you get your to-do list DONE! Shipping services include packaging, mailbox rentals, parcel handling, notary, plus printing of house plans to posters, direct mail marketing, graphic design, layout, binding, copying, lamination… The BOSS does it! More on page 19. Two locations in Truckee: Truckee Safeway and Soaring Way (near Airport) 530.587.1620 TheOfficeBOSS.com RAINBOW OFFICE SUPPLY
917 Tahoe Blvd., Incline Village 775.831.2276 FEDEX OFFICE AND PRINT
4000 LakeTahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe 530.542.2402
CONSTRUCTION HUFF CONSTRUCTION General Contractor
Huff Construction Company, Inc. has been building excellence since 1971 and today stands at the forefront of innovation in the construction industry. Each project is a distinct opportunity to build something special that will last for generations to come. More on page 7. 9000 Heartwood Dr., Truckee (209) 652-2612 huffcon.com
EDGEWOOD TAHOE LUXURY GOLF RESORT
MEDICAL
180 Lake Pkwy., Stateline 888.881.8659 edgewoodtahoe.com
TAHOE FOREST HEALTH CARE SYSTEM Inpatient & outpatient services
HOTEL AZURE
3300 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe 800.877.1466 TAHOE BEACH RETREAT
3411 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe 530.541.6722 TAHOE BEACH & SKI CLUB
3601 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe 530.541.6220 TAHOE SEASONS RESORT
3901 Saddle Road, South Lake Tahoe 530.541.6700
An excellent rural hospital system with two locations: Truckee Forest Hospital and Incline Village Community Hospital, plus the state-of-the-art Gene Upshaw Memorial cancer treatment center, 24-hour emergency care, and women, family, children, sports performance and long-term care centers. More on page 13. 10121 Pine Ave., Truckee 530.587.6011 880 Alder Ave., Incline Village 775.833.4100 tfhd.com
48 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
BARTON MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
2170 South. Ave., South Lake Tahoe 530.541.3420
REAL ESTATE CHASE Regional experts
Chase International is one of the nation’s most successful independent real estate firms specializing in unique and distinctive properties in the Tahoe/Reno region. More than 380 compassionate and determined REALTORS® in 12 locations are committed to their clients’ success. With qualified luxury professionals and top lakefront specialists, Chase has the experience and connections to serve any client’s needs. More on page 2. Offices in Zephyr Cove, Glenbrook, Incline Village, Carson Valley, South Lake Tahoe, Tahoe City, Truckee, Reno, Sparks, Henderson and London. 530.544.2121 chaseinternational.com
TRANSPORTATION TAHOE AREA REGIONAL TRANSIT Free North Tahoe & Truckee service
Car Free Fun in 2021! Hit the trails, head to the beach, shop and dine out by riding TART (Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit) for free to Truckee and North Lake Tahoe. From June 24 through Labor Day, take TART Connect: free, on-demand, curb-to-curb, shuttle service along the North Shore. More on page 10. 180 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.550.1212 NORTH LAKE TAHOE EXPRESS Airport shuttle
One-way and roundtrips available from Reno-Tahoe Airport to North Lake Tahoe and Truckee. Leave your car behind with this friendly, convenient shuttle service. Three routes include Incline Village, Tahoe City and Truckee. 24hour advanced reservations and group discounts. More on page 10. 833.709.8080 northlaketahoeexpress.com
DIRECTORY—Services BLUEGO TRANSIT
1679 Shop St., South Lake Tahoe 530.541.7149 tahoetransportation.org SOUTH TAHOE AIRPORTER— airport shuttle
Reno International Airport southtahoeairporter.com
VETERINARIAN BURTON CREEK VETERINARY CLINIC Full-service veterinarian
Providing a personal, thorough approach to high-quality veterinary care. Quick and timely services, including outpatient surgery, laser therapy, in-house laboratory, ultrasound and emergency care. University of California, Davis-trained veterinarians. Complete client intake form prior to appointment. More on page 10.
AVIATION
A+ CHILD CARE
390 Fairway Dr., Tahoe City 530.583.1534 TRUCKEE TAHOE AIRPORT General aviation
EVENTS
Truckee Tahoe Airport (KTRK) is the first general aviation airport in the region to make sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) available for jet, turbine and dieselpowered aircraft, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and aligning with the airport’s sustainability goals. More on page 14.
BIG BLUE ADVENTURE—athletic & corporate events
530.546.1019 bigblueadventure.com
VISITOR SERVICES
10356 Truckee Airport Road 530.587.4119
CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTER— Truckee
GARY AIR—air taxi
10065 Donner Pass Road, Truckee 530.587.8808 Truckee.com
Service to Tahoe and Reno airports. 408.805.4359
INCLINE VILLAGE CRYSTAL BAY VISITORS BUREAU
LAKE TAHOE AIRPORT
969 Tahoe Blvd., Incline Village 775.832.1606 gotahoenorth.com
1901 Lisa Maloff Way, South Lake Tahoe 530.542.6182
2933 Lake Forest Road, Tahoe City 530.583.8587 burtoncreekvet.com
CHILD CARE
BLUE LAKE ANIMAL CARE CENTER
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB
1154 Emerald Bay Road, South Lake Tahoe 530.600.3911
8125 Steelhead Ave., Kings Beach 530.546.4324 1100 Lyons Ave., South Lake Tahoe 530.542.0838
TAHOE CITY VISITORS CENTER
100 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.581.6900 gotahoenorth.com TAHOE SOUTH VISITORS CENTER
169 US-50, Stateline 775.588.4591 tahoesouth.com
QWQW
“The Most Magical Place on Lake Tahoe’s West Shore” 530.581.4073 ] 1690 W. Lake Blvd., Tahoe City/Sunnyside ] www.TheCottageInn.com SUMMER /FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 49
DIRECTORY—Dining
Lake Tahoe’s Premier Photographic Gallery
50 SUMMER/FALL 2021 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
(530) 583-9000 www.TheEadingtonGallery.com Heavenly Village & Tahoe City, CA
Jewelry - Gifts - Clothing - Decor - Bath & Body - Tahoe Photography - Souvenirs - More!
Celebrating Fifty Years!
$10 OFF a $50 PURCHASE Limit one per person. Restrictions may apply. Expires 1/30/2022
930 Tahoe Blvd. #401 Incline Village, NV 89451 (775) 833-2485 www.potlatchlaketahoe.com
Free Tahoe Magnet with any purchase! Limit one per person. Restrictions may apply. Expires 1/30/2022
Book your next adventure today!
Now with Two Great Locations and Tours to Sand Harbor
Explore the shores of stunning Lake Tahoe in our unique transparent kayaks & SUPs! Set off from Lake Tahoe’s north shore and wander freely with a self-guided transparent kayak/SUP rental. Or take a tour with a catered lunch! Clear Kayaks are equipped with wireless waterproof speakers with a USB plug, waterproof phone cases that allow you to take underwater photos, high-quality dry bags, binoculars, goggles, snorkel, cooler, cup holders, selfie sticks and, of course, safety equipment needed to protect you in any situation. Experience a new and exciting adventure this summer!
TRY OUT OUR SUPER FUN, ENTIRELY TRANSPARENT STANDUP PADDLE BOARDS! A cool, new way to enjoy the gorgeous waters of Lake Tahoe—very beginner friendly (as are our clear kayaks)— definitely an adventure not to be missed!
Check out our new Incline Village rental location and beach boutique! Our super cute Lifestyle Boutiques in Kings Beach and Incline offer a variety of décor, clothing, plants, and exclusive novelties unlike any other found in the area.
530–553–1771 www.wildsocietyLT.com
8612 N. Lake Blvd, Kings Beach, CA 96143 201 Village Blvd., Incline Village, NV 89541
Or shop online at www.shopwildsociety.com Follow us on Instagram @the.wild.society and @shop.wildsociety
