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TABLE OF CONTENTS

LAKE TAHOE PROFILE ......................................................... 1


SUMMERTIME ACTIVITIES .................................................. 3
SURROUNDINGS ................................................................ 4
LODGING .......................................................................... 9
TRANSPORTATION ........................................................... 11
LOCAL GATHERING SPOTS ................................................ 13
LODGING COST SAMPLES ................................................. 14
LINKS ............................................................................. 18

LAKE TAHOE PROFILE


Formed over the millennia during the last Ice Age from seismic activity and the movement of glaciers,
Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America and, at a depth of 1,645 feet, the second deepest lake in
the United States. Sitting at an elevation of 6,225 feet, Lake Tahoe straddles the borders of California and Nevada
in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The Lake is known for its crystal clarity, spectacular vistas, and panoramic
views of mountainous terrain on all sides, making it a major tourist attraction that hosts over three million visitors
from around the globe each year.
Lake Tahoe is approximately 22 miles long and 12
miles wide, with a 72-mile shoreline. Sixty-three
tributaries feed the Lake with freshwater its only
outlet being, aside from evaporation, the Truckee
River that terminates at Pyramid Lake, Nevada.
June through August is the most popular time to visit
Lake Tahoe. While temperatures average in the high
70s during summer, with occasional highs in the 80s
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and low 90s, nights can be chilly and often dip into the 40s. A sudden summertime rainstorm with thunder and a
display of lightning is not uncommon. In non-drought years, springtime sees the Truckee River rush with whitewater,
inundated by snowmelt from the surrounding
mountains. Fall is short yet colorful in preparation for
blizzards that quickly envelop the Lakes shores in a
glistening, thick blanket of winter snow. Skiers from
around the world come to this icy wonderland to
partake of world class winter sports at 12 major resorts,
including Squaw Valley that was thrust into the national
spotlight in 1960 as host of the Olympic Games.
Lake Tahoe offers something for just about everyone
adventure for thrill seekers, abundant flora and fauna for
nature lovers, peaceful serenity for those in need of a haven, inspiration for the creative souls amongst us, and
ample recreational activities that make the Lake a year round attraction for people of all ages.
That Lake Tahoe is universally admired the world over not only as the turquoise gem of the Sierras, but as one
of the most celebrated majestic natural landscapes known to man comes as no surprise to those who have
been lucky enough to visit its shores and witness its awe-inspiring beauty.
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SUMMERTIME ACTIVITIES
For Adults and Families

Swimming
Horseback riding at Camp Richardson and Alpine Meadows
ATV riding
Bowling in Incline Village
River rafting on the Truckee River
Beach walks and sunbathing
Walks and hikes in the woods
Miniature golf at Northstar, Squaw Valley, and Carnelian Bay
Trampoline and roller skating at Northstar
4th of July fireworks on the Lake
Treetop Adventure at Granlibakken
Paintball at Squaw Valley
Stateline gambling, restaurants, and shopping
Truckee old town district shopping and walking
Biking
Hot August Nights Reno
Reno River Walk
Reno casino gambling and entertainment
Barbecuing and picnicking
Zip lining for adults and children
Kayaking
Golfing in Tahoe City, Incline Village and Northstar
Paddle boat cruising on the Tahoe Gal to Emerald Bay
Scuba diving
Northstar and Squaw Valley aerial tram rides, shopping, Olympic museum, wall climbing
Summer Wine Walks at Northstar
Jet skiing
Paddle boating
Live music at Northstar
Stand up paddle-boarding

SURROUNDINGS
Camp Richardson
Camp Richardson is a small community on the Lakes southern shore. A day
trip to Camp Richardson Corral offers horseback riding on gentle horses. Trail
rides, steak rides, hay wagon rides, and childrens pony rides present scenic
views of the Lake and surrounding forest. The route to Camp Richardson takes
visitors past spectacular Emerald Bay.
Carson City
With a population of 55,000, Carson City, NV is located approximately 36
miles from North Lake Tahoe, about a one-hour drive. The town offers
shopping, restaurants and the opportunity to see historic buildings.
DL Bliss California State Park
The park is located 17 miles south of Tahoe City at the Lakes southwest
corner and features picnic areas, beaches and hiking trails including the halfmile Balancing Rock Trail. DL Bliss also serves as the terminus of the famed
22-mile Rubicon Trail on which Jeep tests their vehicles and 4x4 enthusiasts
with obviously much too much time on their hands navigate their way
through Sierra boulders the size of buildings. Dont try this craziness at home:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1vXakhJ1uQ. DL Bliss is a popular site
from which to launch kayaks, paddle boats and scuba diving.
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SURROUNDINGS,

continued

Donner Lake
If Lake Tahoe is the diamond of the Sierras, Donner is surely its sapphire.
Named for the infamous Donner Party tragedy of the 1840s, a view of Donner
Lake is worth the trip when combined with a stop in the nearby historic
district of Truckee. An easy drive from North Lake Tahoe, brilliant blue
Donner is 11-miles long and hosts a variety of recreational activities to its
shoreline residents throughout the year.
Emerald Bay
Emerald Bay, located on Lake Tahoes southwest corner, is one of its most
visited and photographed attractions. At its center is tiny Fannette Island that
can be viewed up close from aboard the Tahoe Gal. Designated as a National
Natural Landmark, Emerald Bay, as viewed from Highway 89 and at easilyaccessible vista points, boasts magnificent scenes of natural photogenic
beauty. Emerald Bay State Park features several hiking trails for the physically
fit, including a trek to Eagle Falls and tour of historic Vikingsholm mansion.
Fallen Leaf Lake
Fallen Leaf Lake presents the opportunity for a day trip. Located one mile
from Tahoes southern shore, Fallen Leaf is three miles long, 11 miles around,
and is accessed by a winding, one-lane road in and out.

SURROUNDINGS,

continued

Marlette and Spooner Lakes


Spooner Lake, located off Lake Tahoes northeast shore and accessed from the
highway, features a mostly-flat 2.1 mile family-oriented walking trail along its
perimeter. For those fit enough for a strenuous hike or bike ride, larger
Marlette Lake is accessed from Spooner via a trailhead that rises 1,100 feet in
elevation.
Northstar
Northstar is a resort village that maintains year round activities open to the
public. Located within easy driving distance off Highway 267, Northstar
features luxury hotels, residences, skiing and winter activities, a golf course,
restaurants, shopping, and many types of family-oriented summertime fun.
Reno
Reno is a sprawling metropolitan city in Nevada, 50 miles from Lake Tahoe.
Famous for its casinos and nightlife, Reno offers the amenities and services
one would expect from a city with a population of 250,000. Hot August
Nights, an annual event attracting crowds of hotrod buffs and the general
public since 1986, features food, entertainment and a host of spectator sights
for those with nostalgia of yesteryear.

SURROUNDINGS,

continued

Sand Harbor Nevada State Park


Sand Harbors rocky coves and long expanses of sandy beach appear untouched
by humans. Swimming, scuba diving, hiking and sunbathing are popular
activities at Sand Harbor, located on the Lakes northeast shore, a short drive
from North Lake Tahoe. Sand Harbor presents the opportunity to spend time in
a pristine natural preserve that would still be appreciated by its original Native
American population.
South Lake Tahoe, California & Stateline, Nevada
These two cities present a bustling nightclub scene and year round celebrity
entertainment. South Lake Tahoe hosts a thriving hospitality industry while just
over the border Stateline is anchored by five casinos: Harveys, Harrahs,
Montbleu, Lakeside and Hard Rock. The main drag connecting both cities is a
mini-Vegas geared toward tourism. Restaurants and shops dot the shore, while
nearby Heavenly Valley is a major ski resort serving both states. The two cities,
together, offer amenities one would expect of a popular resort area, and more.
Squaw Valley USA
An eternal flame greets visitors to Squaw Valley USA, venue of the 1960 Winter
Olympics. Squaw Valley maintains a variety of family activities. An aerial tram
climbs 2,000 feet to High Camp where one can roller skate, mini-golf, swim and
wall climb. Squaw also offers a launch point for cycling along Truckee River.
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SURROUNDINGS,

continued

Truckee
Named for a Paiute Indian chief, Truckee is located off Highway 89 near Donner
Lake. Rooted in Native American history and the building of the Transcontinental Railroad, Truckee is supported by tourism and recreation. Old town
Truckee is comprised of a single row of quaint shops where one can dine at a
cafe and browse for home decor and clothing. Truckees Amtrak depot connects
Reno and Sacramento in serving the Lake Tahoe region. Jax Diner across the rail
tracks was featured on Food Networks Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
Incline Village, Nevada
A small enclave just past Californias border at the Lakes north tip, Incline
provides access to Mt. Rose Highway, a winding and scenic route to Reno. A
variety of common services are at the disposal of residents and those who visit
Incline. The village has a small movie theater, large grocery store, golf course,
shopping and restaurants. Lakeshore, a flat road with pedestrian walkway, runs
along the water and offers peeks of mansion-type homes along its route.
Tahoe City and Kings Beach
Each of these small cities located in North Lake Tahoe provide similar services
to visitors restaurants, groceries and supplies, some shopping, and access to
lakefront beaches. Tahoe Gal is moored in Tahoe City, while Kings Beach
houses much of the north shores cottage resort and small motel industries.
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LODGING
Homes
North Lake Tahoe enjoys a thriving vacation home rental market, with
hundreds of homes for rent throughout the year. Homes of every size are
available from the tiniest of cabins, to houses that accommodate 10-15
people or more. Like most resort areas, rentals at Lake Tahoe fill up
quickly for stays during the summer months, but with advance planning
even shoreline homes can be found that are reasonably priced if the cost
is shared amongst guests. Many homes have gourmet kitchens, hot tubs,
pool tables, barbecue pits, and other amenities that make a guests stay
enjoyable. Rates vary widely depending on location, season, and number
of beds and baths. A few sample rates with photos are included on page
14. Most properties are priced by the night or by the week and require an
advance deposit. A rental home offers maximum space and the
opportunity for guests to spread out and relax to fully enjoy the Lake
Tahoe summertime experience.

LODGING,

continued

Cottages
North Lake Tahoe has several cottage resorts that feature two-bedroom units,
including modern, small-sized kitchens. Cottages typically accommodate up to
two adults and two children per unit. Rental rates are about the same as a local
hotel stay however cottage resorts offer independent units with more amenities
and space in rustic settings that put one closer to nature.
Hotel
Four-star Hyatt Regency Resort in nearby Incline Village is a more expensive
option for those who wish to stay in luxury at a brand name hotel. Guests at the
Hyatt enjoy spa service, outdoor group fire pits, onsite restaurants, a casino, and
private access to the beach.
RV Parks
The North Lake Tahoe vicinity has two privately-owned RV parks that
accommodate rigs up to 40 feet. Coachland RV Park in Truckee is a full service
park with 131 pull through sites. Sandy Beach Campground in Tahoe Vista is
close to the shoreline and offers 44 sites, 22 with hook-ups.
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TRANSPORTATION
North Lake Tahoe is served by Reno-Tahoe International Airport
in Reno, NV to the northeast and Sacramento International
Airport in Sacramento, CA to the southwest. Both airports offer a
variety of flights via major airlines in and out of the region, as
well as car rental service.
Reno-Tahoe International Airport (40-minute drive)
Sacramento International Airport (2-hour drive)
Interstate 80 from Reno-Tahoe airport is the most convenient
route and quickest way to access the Lake.
Highway 80 is a well-traveled interstate connecting San Francisco
Bay and Nevada, passing through Sacramento and Reno, with
Lake Tahoe located between. Most travelers utilize Highway 80
to access North Lake Tahoe by car.
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TRANSPORTATION,

continued

Intersecting Highway 80 is Highway 89, a flat, scenic two-lane road that meanders past the Truckee River along
the route to North Lake Tahoe from the interstate. Further north, Highway 267 also intersects Highway 80 and
presents an alternative, but less traveled, route to the Lake.
Once at Lake Tahoe, a two-lane, mostly flat highway hugs its 72-mile circumference. The Lakes California side is
well-developed with resorts and housing, while Nevadas side remains relatively untouched and without ready
access to services. South Lake Tahoe and Stateline at the southern tip of the Lake, have a thriving nightlife,
gambling and nightclub scene, and combined represent the Lakes largest commercial area along its
circumference. Tahoe City in North Lake Tahoe is smaller yet offers many services and amenities, as does Kings
Beach and Incline Village located at the northern tip of the Lake.
Highway 395 to the south provides access to many other points of interest in the Sierra Mountain range. While
higher altitude than Lake Tahoe, nature sights off Highway 395 can be enjoyed as part of an overnight camping
excursion.
Lake Tahoe is served by Amtrak train service that stops at a depot in Truckee, California just off Highway 80.
Amtrak maintains a schedule of daily stops in Truckee.
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LOCAL GATHERING SPOTS


Sugar Pine Point
picnic tables flat grassy areas historic mansion
two miles of lake frontage to roam

Kings Beach

Northstar

sunbathing paddle boating

family and adult group activities

kayaking ice cream

live music tram rides skating

Sand Harbor
quiet coves trails beach lazing
some of the lakes most stunning scenery

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LODGING COST SAMPLES


http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p442278vb
4-bedroom, 2-bath two-story cabin, early September stay
Sleeps 10 (example 4 adults and 6 children)
$1,754 for 7-night stay 4 adults = $438 per adult for stay
$1,754 for 7-night stay 3 adults = $584 per adult for stay
$1,347 for 5-night stay 4 adults = $337 per adult for stay
$1,347 for 5-night stay 3 adults = $270 per adult for stay

http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p661208vb
4-bedroom, 2-bath 3-level condo over 4th of July holiday weekend
Sleeps 10 (example 4 adults and 6 children)
$2,370 for 7-night stay 4 adults = $593 per adult for stay
$2,370 for 7-night stay 3 adults = $790 per adult for stay
$2,217 for 5-night stay 4 adults = $555 per adult for stay
$2,217 for 5-night stay 3 adults = $740 per adult for stay

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COST SAMPLES,

continued

http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p3487498
4-bedroom, 2-bath two-story cabin, late August stay
Sleeps 12 (example 5 adults and 7 children)
$2,909 for 7-night stay 5 adults = $582 per adult for stay
$2,909 for 7-night stay 4 adults = $727 per adult for stay
$2,484 for 5-night stay 5 adults = $497 per adult for stay
$2,484 for 5-night stay 4 adults = $621 per adult for stay

http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p392456
Lakefront 3-cabin compound, mid-August stay
Sleeps 12 (example 6 adults and 6 children)
$3,492 for 7-night stay 6 adults = $582 per adult for stay
$3,492 for 7-night stay 5 adults = $699 per adult for stay
$2,722 for 5-night stay 6 adults = $454 per adult for stay
$2,722 for 5-night stay 5 adults = $544 per adult for stay

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COST SAMPLES,

continued

http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p8295vb
5-bedroom + loft, 3-bath cabin, mid-July stay
Sleeps 15 (example 7 adults, 8 children)
$3,740 for 7-night stay 7 adults = $534 per adult for stay
$1,754 for 7-night stay 5 adults = $748 per adult for stay
7-night minimum stay for this property

http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p762182vb
5-bedroom, 4-bath luxury estate on private road
Sleeps 10, including separate on-site in-law unit, but appears to
accommodate more (sample 6 adults and 4 children)
$3,355 for 7-night stay 6 adults = $559 per adult for stay
$3,355 for 7-night stay 5 adults = $671 per adult for stay
Minimum stay for this property; October 2015 stay was used for example

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COST SAMPLES,

continued

http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p134183
Studio cabin, July 4th holiday stay
Sleeps 2
$ 1,000 for 7-night stay 2 adults = $500 per adult for stay
$ 715 for 5-night stay 2 adults = $357 per adult for stay

http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p583690vb
4-bedroom, 2.5-bath cabin, mid-July stay
Sleeps 14 (example 5 adults, 4 children)
$2,438 for 7-night stay 5 adults = $488 per adult for stay
$2,438 for 7-night stay 4 adults = $609 per adult for stay
$2,134 for 5-night stay 5 adults = $427 per adult for stay
$2,134 for 5-night stay 4 adults = $534 per adult for stay

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LINKS
http://issuu.com/visitrenotahoe/docs/reno_tahoe_usa_getaway_planner_2015
http://www.renoairport.com/
http://www.sacramento.aero/smf
http://www.camprichardsoncorral.com/
http://www.northstarcalifornia.com/
http://squawalpine.com/
http://www.truckee.com/
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rentals/california/lake-tahoe-area/r576
http://www.jaxtruckee.com/
http://tahoegal.com/
http://www.coachlandrvpark.com/
http://tahoesouth.com/
http://hotaugustnights.net/
http://www.truckeeriverrafting.com/index.php
http://laketahoe.hyatt.com/en/hotel/our-hotel.html
http://www.northtahoebusiness.org/july-3rd-fireworks-beach-party/
http://www.granlibakken.com/adventure_center.php
http://renoriver.org/

https://sierrastateparks.org/visit/sugar-pine-point-state-park
http://www.firesigncafe.com/#!menu/ckwa
http://truckeeriver.org/recreate-on-the-river-trails-and-parks-to-enjoy/
http://www.tahoecedarglen.com/
http://www.alpinemeadowsstables.com/
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