When you're on vacation, do you enjoy activities like skiing, golfing, shopping, dining, and
hitting up the town to see what its nightlife is all about?
Yeah, so do we.
That's why one of our favorite travel destinations in the United States is the ever-so-beautiful
Lake Tahoe, California.
The region offers some of the most stunning scenery and diverse wildlife in the nation
and makes for one killer vacation destination.
You can spend days hiking through the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains, hitting the powder-covered
slopes of the Squaw Valley Ski Resort - recently renamed the Palisades Ski Resort - or fishing
for prize catches out on the lake.
Come nightfall, you can try your luck out at some of the area's world-class casinos
like Harrah's or grab a bite to eat at a Michelin star-rated restaurant like Evan's American
Gourmet Cafe or The Lake House.
Lake Tahoe is famed for being the largest Alpine Lake in North America.
It's situated between two snow-covered mountains and is surrounded by lush pine forests.
Because of this, it's long been an ideal vacation spot for nature lovers.
The area likewise packs a lot of historical significance.
During the winter of 1846-1847, the infamous Donner Party – a group of American pioneers
who migrated to California via wagon train from the American Midwest found themselves
stranded in the Sierra Nevada and were forced to resort to cannibalism to survive.
Of the 87 members of the party, only 48 survived.
A visit to the Donner Memorial State Park and its adjacent museum is a must for anyone
that happens to have a morbid fascination with this particularly sad chapter of history.
It's understandable, however, if learning more about that tragedy wouldn't be your cup
of tea.
For a rundown of the top destinations and things to do in Lake Tahoe other than learning
about cannibals, keep watching.
Hiking At Emerald Bay State Park
This natural wonderland was carved by shifting glaciers millions of years ago.
The park is a must-visit for anyone that is hoping to get an eyeful of the beauty that
is Lake Tahoe.
Surrounded by giant trees, this inlet located along the southern shores of the Lake is famous
for its vibrantly colored granite cliff faces and breathtakingly exquisite views.
Be sure to bring your camera because the scenery here is drop-dead gorgeous.
Hiking and sightseeing isn't the only thing to do here.
A visit to what's known as Vikingsholm is also highly recommended.
This mansion which was constructed in the 1920s and was once a summer home is a prime
example of Scandinavian architecture – perhaps even the best in the nation.
Most of the materials that were used to build Vikingsholm were sourced from around the Lake
Tahoe area – which makes it in essence an extension of the landscape.
Tours are only 10 bucks for adults and $8 for children and students.
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And don't go anywhere just yet, we've still got several incredible destinations in the
Lake Tahoe area to discuss.
Get A History Lesson Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum
While it may be a bit morbid, it's hard not to be at least somewhat fascinated by the
tragedy that was the Donner party expedition.
At this destination, you'll find a stone-cut pedestal that commemorates the Donner Party
and the horrors that they went through more than a century and a half ago.
After taking a hike out to go see where the Donner Party endured that brutal winter, visit
the Emigrant Trail museum for an added dose of historical context.
There you'll learn all about the history of railroad development in the Sierra Nevadas
in addition to being treated to a number of educational displays and dioramas.
Take A Dip At Kings Beach State Recreation Area
Along Lake Tahoe's northern shore is this large and open beach area.
The park itself spans about 13 acres, comprised mainly of shoreline.
It's a great spot to go for a swim, spend the day out on the waters on a boat, or kick
back and relax with a book while working on your tan.
There is also a picnic and kid-friendly play area on site with nearby restrooms.
Make sure you show up early, though, as parking spots can fill up fast.
Hit The Slopes At Heavenly Ski Resort
The summit at this resort sits at over 10,000 feet above sea level – making it the highest
peak in the Lake Tahoe region.
It's an incredibly popular resort and the only one located along the southern shores
of the Lake.
There are runs suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels spanning a skiable
area of more than 4,500 acres.
There are more than 30 lifts as well as a 50-passenger aerial tram system.
For those traveling with young children, the resort offers both child-friendly ski lessons
as well as daycare programs.
The main draw here, though, is the Heavenly Gondola.
Suspended cars carry passengers over 2 miles through the mountainous terrain at altitudes
of over 9,200 feet above sea level leading to an observation deck.
Rides are a bit pricey, but trust us, it's worth it.
Shake Things Up By Visiting Squaw Valley Ski Resort
Lake Tahoe is certainly one of the premier ski destinations in the country.
It's basically the Vale of the west coast.
While we chose to reference this resort by the name that many locals still refer to it
as, a year ago, it actually changed its name to Palisades Ski Resort – so don't freak
out if you can't find it with GPS.
With 34 lifts and over 6,000 skiable acres spanning two mountains, this ski resort is
certainly one of the best in the area.
In fact, it's the largest skiing complex in Lake Tahoe and is known for its challenging
terrain.
The resort attracts over 600,000 outdoor sports fans a year and is additionally home to a
handful of annual summer events that draw in large crowds.
Hop Aboard The MS Dixie II
The best way to get out on the waters to explore the lake is aboard this fantastic paddle wheeler.
The 500 passenger lake-faring vessel has won countless awards for excellence and is the
largest cruising ship in South Lake Tahoe.
Cruises depart from Zephyr Cove Resort & Marina.
It's available for daytime, dinner, or private cruises is climate controlled and offers dining
and drinks for purchases with a ton of seating both inside or outside.
Cruises are available year-round.
Have A Picnic At Echo Lake
While Lake Tahoe gets all of the attention, another scenic lake just a half-hour drive
from the shores of Lake Tahoe, Echo Lake, is definitely worth checking out for a day.
It's especially popular with tourists in the summertime, as Echo Lake is well-suited for
venturing out into the water.
The surrounding regions also offer dozens of hiking trails.
We especially recommend putting on your hiking boots to take on the Lake Aloha Trail for
some beautiful panoramic vistas.
Pack a lunch and have a picnic with the family.
And the best thing, since Tahoe gets all of the hype, you won't have to deal with massive
crowds around here.
Echo Lake offers visitors quiet, peaceful tranquility in addition to stunning scenery.
Enjoy A Michelin Star Rated Dining Experience
For a region that isn't especially known for its dining, Lake Tahoe still manages to impress
with some of its culinary offerings.
If you're really wanting a particularly memorable dining experience, check out the Michelin
Star Rated Edgewood Restaurant in Stateline, Nevada, just a short drive from the shores
of the Lake.
The first thing you'll notice when walking through its doors is the floor-to-ceiling
windows which provide incredible views of the lake and mountains.
The wine selection is top-tier, the service is out of this world, and the meat-centric
entrees are nothing short of scrumptious.
Be sure to make a reservation if you're hoping to grab dinner around sunset.
Another excellent fine dining experience awaits you at Evan's American Gourmet Cafe in South
Lake Tahoe.
This establishment opened its doors in 1988 and serves up New American Fare in a renovated
cabin.
All of their dishes are creative, artfully presented, and pack a serious punch in the
flavor department.
They especially know what they are doing when it comes to their seafood specialties.
Shop Till You Drop At Boatworks Mall
While this is indeed an indoor mall, its location right along the lake's shore means that it
provides some awe-inspiring views of the water, marina, and mountains.
Outside there are even several scenic walking paths to leisurely explore.
There are many different shops in this mall, including several local brands.
Shops cater to shoppers looking for clothing, outdoor apparel and gear, souvenirs, jewelry,
art, and toys.
The mall also boasts a Yoga studio, multiple art galleries, and various dining options.
There is even a hair and makeup salon if you're looking to get spruced up for a night out
on the town.
Harrah's Casino
Right over the border in Stateline, Nevada, is this world-class casino.
Harrah's knows what they are doing when it comes to gaming and there are plenty of gambling
options here for you to choose from – including slot machines and table games.
The casino also offers live entertainment and several nightclubs in addition to a spa
and several fine dining and casual restaurants to choose from.
Have you been to Lake Tahoe before?
If so, what are some of your favorite things to see and do in the area?
Let us know in the comments.
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