LAKE TAHOE
VISITOR GUIDE | WINTER/SPRING 2021/22
The Joys of Winter FINDING THE PERFECT SKI RESORT 31 FUN THINGS TO DO
SECTION
WELCOME
YOUR GUIDES TO KERRY DONOVAN
MEGAN PARR WARREN
KEVIN DONOVAN
MIKE YOUNG ___
Donovan Group
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Donovan Group
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775.303.2672
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Incline Village
Incline Village
NV BS.0052696
NV BS.0143530
Incline Village
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NV BS.029150 CA 784148
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Lake Tahoe Truckee
Lake Tahoe Truckee
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Incline Village Northern NV
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Incline Village
NV S.0170786
NV S.0066076
___
775.771.2391 Incline Village
CA 01961794
CA DRE 01440019 NV S.62427
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Lake Tahoe Truckee
CA DRE 1269937 NV S.068471
Lake Tahoe
CA DRE 326518 NV BS.1022
CA & NV
CA DRE 02087849 NV S.0187966
Lake Tahoe
CA DRE 01953231 NV S.0190207
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530.416.2272
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Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe
CA 01740492
CA 01491811 NV S.0176418
Glenbrook
NV S.0193272 CA 01416434
NV BS.40194
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Reno
Zephyr Cove
Reno
NV S.0044471 CA 01258760
NV S.0169609 CA 01254614
NV S.0042018 CA 01226918
NV S.0192432
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Northern Nevada Reno
NV S.0065400
Reno
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NV S.0181748
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Tahoe City
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Sacramento
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WELCOME
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WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 5
WELCOME
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WELCOME
Contents 8
Welcome Four “R”s of Tahoe winter vacations.
10
Test Your Tahoe Knowledge What is the Sierra’s oldest ski resort?
12
Tahoe’s Greatest Winter Hits! Spectacular, special places and experiences.
14
Where to Ski and Ride A quick guide to Tahoe’s 14 downhill ski resorts.
18
Cross-country Skiing Our nation’s largest concentration of trails and resorts.
20
Lake Tahoe Winter Recreation Map Ski resorts, snowshoe trails and communities.
23
Glossary of Winter Fun A comprehensive guide to sports and activity options.
30
Diverse Communities The region’s unique towns and cities.
DIRECTORY LISTINGS
32 34 36 38
Dining Activities Shopping & Lodging Services
Cover: Bill Kelly riding the backcountry above Sand Harbor, PHOTO BY MIKE EADINGTON Right: Winter Snow Sunnyside, PHOTO BY MIKE EADINGTON LAKE TAHOE VISITOR GUIDE WINTER/SPRING 2021-2022 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.
WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 7
WELCOME
The “R”s of a Winter Vacation WELCOME TO TAHOE! We hope your visit lives up to, or exceeds, your every expectation. Lord knows we all need release and rejuvenation this winter! If you’re a skier, snowboarder, cross-country skier, snowmobiler, snowshoer, or “polar bear” paddler, Tahoe can certainly deliver on your recreation dreams (as it can if you’re seeking a romantic restaurant or a rowdy bar). Here are some more “R” words that seem to sum up the essence of a Tahoe winter vacation. RELAX. Tahoe’s stunning beauty and quiet forests can slow your heartbeat and turn down your brain-noise, but this can also be a challenging environment for winter travel and for families managing sports equipment and clothing. Give yourself space to relax by allowing plenty of time for prep, drives and parking. Or take away some of the stress completely with public transit, often free in Tahoe! Apps are available that track shuttle bus schedules in real time, or arrange for free, door-todoor micro-transit around North Lake Tahoe (turn to page 38 for more info). REVITALIZE. What’s the perfect pace for your vacation: Go-go-go, adventure-seeking, or flextime to count the snowflakes, and your blessings? Make sure your fellow-travelers share, or at least respect, your priorities. RESPECT is a mind-set we hope you’ll carry throughout your Tahoe-time. Please don’t litter roads and parking areas. Don’t venture into environmentally sensitive wetlands unless they are well-covered with snow. Do not leave food in your vehicle overnight; it tempts hungry black bears (who occasionally roam during winter) to break into your car and thereby target themselves for euthanasia. Please respect Tahoe’s frontline workers, many of whom have suffered from business closures during this past summer and fall’s Caldor Fire. Heroic wildfire teams saved South Lake Tahoe from the flames, but many workers are still recovering economically. And with COVID-19 protocols, be aware that Tahoe is comprised of two states, multiple counties and cities with perhaps very different COVID rules (none of them determined by the front-line workers required to enforce them).
Winter sunrise from Zephyr Cove, PHOTO BY MIKE
RECLAIM—your center, your sanity, your joy! We hope the snow falls in the right amounts at the right times to make your winter vacation dreams come true, and that the pages of this guide add to your enjoyment of a magic season at “The Lake of the Sky.”
EADINGTON
8 WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
CHACO MOHLER Publisher
TART
This winter hit the slopes, head to work, explore the shops, dine out, and leave the car behind!
and TART Connect
TART Hop on the free TART bus to the North Shore and Truckee!
TART Connect Take the free, on-demand shuttle service anywhere along the North Shore. Just tap, relax and go! Get the app!
Park and Ride Park for free at the designated park and ride lots and enjoy a relaxing ride to all your winter recreation! Linking you to work and play.
TahoeTruckeeTransit.com/Winter22
WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 9
WELCOME
Facts Quiz Test Your Tahoe Knowledge C) Its volume would cover California in over 14 inches of water. D) All of the above.
4. The Tahoe ski resort with the highest elevation is: A) Heavenly B) Kirkwood 3. The first ski resort C) Mt. Rose D) Palisades Tahoe in California was: 2. Amazing Lake 5. Mark Twain wrote Tahoe facts include: A) Plumas Eureka, of Lake Tahoe: A) It holds more water north of Truckee A) “It must surely be than all of America’s B) Soda Springs, the fairest picture the man-made reservoirs Donner Summit C) Sugar Bowl, whole earth affords.” combined. Donner Summit B) “To breathe the B) A water molecule D) Hilltop, Truckee same air as the an stays in the lake for gels, you must go to an average of 650 Lake Tahoe.” years. 1. Lake Tahoe’s maximum depth is: A) 1480 feet B) 1521 feet C) 1644 feet D) 1780 feet
C) “Lake Tahoe would restore an Egyptian mummy to its pristine vigor.” D) All of the above. 6. Which famous author spent a winter caretaking an isolated Tahoe estate? A) John Steinbeck B) Mark Twain C) Ernst Hemingway D) Jack Kerouac Answers on page 13.
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WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 11
FEATURE
Tahoe’s Greatest Winter Hits Winter highlights and excursions Olympic Valley/Village at Palisades Tahoe This scenic mountain valley was the site of the 1960 Winter Olympic Games, held at the former Squaw Valley resort, now re-named Palisades Tahoe. The pedestrian base village has a unique variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and outdoor seating near firepits. Check ahead for availability of sightseeing rides on the aerial tram. Weather permitting, nearby Resort at Squaw Creek offers dog sledding, cross-country skiing and ice skating.
Heavenly Village/Stateline Heavenly Village and four nearby casino towers at Stateline are a world-class nucleus of fun. Shops and dining spots line both sides of Highway 50, linked by wide sidewalks and open areas. Heavenly Village has ice skating and sightseeing rides on its aerial gondola, carrying passengers up to 9,123-foot elevation and spectacular views.
Tahoe City/Truckee River Outlet State Park Tahoe City clears snow from a network of sidewalks and bike paths overlooking the lake, linking one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants. Gatekeeper Museum and its Native American basket collection are part of Truckee River Outlet State Park, as is the dam that controls the top six feet of the lake (with the river only a trickle here this fall). 12 WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
(above) New snow on KT22 at Palisades Tahoe, PHOTO COURTESY PALISADES TAHOE, (below) COURTESY PHOTOS
FEATURE
Downtown Truckee/Donner Memorial State Park Truckee’s charming, “Old West” downtown district is bisected by the Transcontinental Railroad and the Truckee River. The many historic buildings house a variety of quality restaurants, shops, galleries and brew pubs. Donner Memorial State Park is less than three miles to the west, its museum telling the stories of the infamous Donner Party and other Western pioneers.
Hope Valley/Kirkwood Highways 89 and 88 lead south from Tahoe through scenic Hope Valley and over the Sierra Crest to Kirkwood ski resort. Hope Valley is popular for snowmobiling and snowshoeing. Sections of the forest between Carson Summit and Kirkwood were unfortunately burned in this fall’s Caldor Fire.
Emerald Bay Tahoe’s most photographed spot, Emerald Bay resembles a Norwegian fjord surrounded by steep mountainsides, dotted with an island topped by a stone tea house. Parking can be extremely limited in winter, however, and this section of Highway 89 will often be closed for multiple days after large snowstorms.
Virginia City This 1860s silver boomtown was pivotal to helping the Union finance the Civil War. Its town center is well-preserved, with wooden boardwalks fronting shops and “watering holes.” The high-desert drive to and from the town completes the Old West journey.
Mt. Rose Highway Viewpoint A short drive above Incline Village on Nevada Highway 431 is a scenic pull-off with unobstructed views of the Lake Tahoe Basin, its parking spots usually cleared of snow. The highway heads north from there, traversing a 8,911 foot elevation pass and then winding down the mountainside to Reno.
Answers to “Test Your Tahoe Knowledge,” page 10 1C Lake Tahoe’s maximum depth is 1644 feet. 2D All of the above. Lake Tahoe is massive! 3B Soda Springs, established in 1931, was Tahoe’s first ski resort, celebrating its 91st season this winter! 4D Heavenly tops out at 10,067 feet elevation. Mt. Rose has the highest base elevation at 8,260 feet. 5D Mark Twain wrote all those things about Tahoe in Roughing It (1872). 6B Steinbeck completed his first novel, Cup of Gold, while caretaking a remote cabin at Cascade Lake, just south of Emerald Bay.
WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 13
SKI RESORTS
Where to Ski & Ride
Tahoe’s 14 downhill resorts are each refreshingly unique. Tahoe has the largest concentration of ski areas in America, including huge resorts that encompass multiple peaks served by dozens of super-efficient ski lifts. Each of Tahoe’s “Large” resorts listed below have enough terrain to satisfy advanced skiers and riders for multiple days. But they also have more expensive day passes and thousands of season passholders adding to lift lines on busy days. Tahoe’s “Medium” resorts are large enough to be popular with many local skiers and riders, who tend to buy mid-week, non-holiday season passes and leave the slopes largely to day-pass visitors on weekends. Young families and beginners may find Tahoe’s “Small” resorts just the right fit. These ski areas have few season pass holders and generally less-expensive day passes.
Large PALISADES TAHOE 42 Lifts—6,000 acres A premier American winter resort and expert mecca, with multiple mountains of terrain. The resort combo of Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows has a new name, but remains an epic experience of steeps, bowls, intermediate trails, and even excellent beginner terrain. The resort’s ownership concluded in 2019 that the word “Squaw” was “derogatory and offensive” and launched a year-long effort to find a new name, Palisades refers in part to the towering cliffs that crown one of the resort’s peaks. The 2 base areas—Alpine Meadows and Olympic Valley—are connected by free shuttle buses and micro-transit this winter, but by next winter the resort hopes to complete construction of a new gondola running between them.
HEAVENLY MOUNTAIN
Carving Crystal Ridge run at Diamond Peak, PHOTO BY RYAN SALM
28 Lifts—4,800 acres Huge winter resort with much to offer every ability. Heavenly is a two-state experience, with 34 miles of wide intermediate trails and some of the most spectacular views in the ski world. The resort has four entry points; Heavenly Village gondola and California Main Lodge lifts are the two most commonly used. There are beginner runs atop both the gondola and California Main Lodge lifts. Heavenly boosts the West Coast’s largest snowmaking system and Tahoe’s highest summit elevation.
14 WINTER/SPRING 2020/21 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
SKI RESORTS
making it a popular season pass for the city’s many avid skiers and snowboarders. The resort’s high elevation can give it some of Tahoe’s best ski conditions, or leave its top runs exposed to high winds. The “Chutes” are seriously steep expert runs. The resort’s added a new lift and trail to its extensive beginner terrain.
HOMEWOOD MOUNTAIN
Skiing through the forest at Heavenly, PHOTO BY MIKE EADINGTON
NORTHSTAR CALIFORNIA 20 Lifts—3,170 acres Quality grooming, high-end parks and services. Northstar offers excellent skiing with long, well-groomed trails and extensive snowmaking system. Experts have Lookout Mountain steeps and multiple terrain parks. The resort is convenient for those staying nearby, but drive-ins on busy winter days should expect remote parking and shuttle bus rides.
KIRKWOOD MOUNTAIN 15 Lifts—2,300 acres One of America’s deepest average snow-packs. Kirkwood is a big mountain with entertaining terrain for beginners-to-experts. The drive from South Lake Tahoe is a scenic, 40- to 60-minutes under most winter road conditions, which helps limit crowds during some busy periods. Kirkwood’s high base and summit elevations and location atop the Sierra Crest often give it Tahoe’s deepest natural snowpack.
SIERRA-AT-TAHOE 14 Lifts—2,000 acres Varied terrain, excellent tree skiing and parks. Straddling the Sierra Crest off Interstate 50, Sierra is a favorite of South Tahoe locals. The hurt was deeply felt, therefore, when the Caldor Fire burned through the ski area this fall. The main buildings were saved, but there was damage to lifts and other facilities. Sierra does not anticipate opening until early in 2022, with some lifts and trails remaining closed for the season.
SUGAR BOWL 13 Lifts—1,650 acres Scenic trails for all abilities, deep average snow pack. Located on the Sierra Crest only 10-minutes from Interstate 80, Sugar Bowl often boosts excellent snow conditions. The resort’s 3 peaks are connected by fun trails, particularly for intermediate to advanced abilities. Excellent beginner terrain is located next to Judah base lodge.
Medium MT. ROSE 8 Lifts—1,200 acres Diverse variety of terrain and high elevation. Mt. Rose is a quick, 25- to 30-minute drive from Reno, 16 WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
8 Lifts—2,010 acres Incredible views and relaxed atmosphere. Located on Highway 89 on Tahoe’s West Shore, the resort’s lower elevation can often protect its runs from storm winds. It becomes a liability, however, during warmer winters. Homewood’s parking is conveniently located close to its lower lifts, beginner runs, and day lodge. The upper mountain has marvelous tree skiing and spectacular lake views.
DIAMOND PEAK 7 Lifts—655 acres Family-oriented, impressive views and advanced terrain. Incline Village’s community ski resort features some of Tahoe’s greatest winter views. Beginner runs are conveniently located next to the parking lot. Intermediate to advanced skiers ride the Crystal Express lift to long trails and 360degree panoramas. Diamond Peak also has extensive snowmaking capabilities.
Small DONNER SKI RANCH 8 Lifts—500 acres Fun intermediate runs high on the Sierra Crest. A small resort with a surprising variety of intermediate trails, inexpensive lift pass, and convenient location near the summit of Old Highway 40, off Interstate 80.
BOREAL MOUNTAIN 8 Lifts—380 acres Magnet for freestyle riders, with lights at night. Located directly off Interstate 80 on Donner Summit, Boreal delivers fun for freestyle snowboarders and skiers in several terrain parks and a half-pipe. Most of the slopes are lit at night and covered by snowmaking.
SODA SPRINGS 3 Lifts—200 acres Fun for beginner to lower intermediate ability. A short drive off Interstate 80, Soda Springs sports a variety of beginner and intermediate runs off its one peak.
TAHOE DONNER 4 Lifts—120 acres Neighborhood hill, fun for young families. The ski hill for the Tahoe Donner development, located above Truckee, the resort caters to beginners and young families.
GRANLIBAKKEN 2 Lifts—74 acres Beginner and family spot. This lodging property features an adjacent ski hill open to the public, located just south of Tahoe City.
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SKI RESORTS
COURTESY PHOTO
Cross-Country Resorts
New equipment and technique have given this sport more speed and excitement! Tahoe has the highest concentration of cross-country ski resorts and groomed trails in the country, grooved lanes for classic technique and smooth surfaces for skate skiing stretching for hundreds of kilometers. State-of-the-art grooming machines and advances in skate ski equipment and technique have attracted both downhill skiers and older athletes to the sport. For those wanting to explore forests or mountain meadows off the groomed trails, traditional cross-country skis are often the better choice, the wider classic models providing more buoyance in fresh snow. “Wax-less” scales make climbing easier. For rental information, call ahead to resorts’ rental departments.
ROYAL GORGE 140 km groomed The nation’s largest cross-country resort, with trails for all abilities, plus majestic scenery.
TAHOE DONNER 100 km groomed Both mountain top and valley floor trails, with a large variety of advanced terrain and the West’s best XC lodge.
TAHOE XC 65 km groomed Formerly Tahoe Cross-Country, this community resort has entertaining trails for all abilities, plus snowshoeing and dog trails.
KIRKWOOD 60 km groomed Sections of this resort’s entertaining trail system might be closed this winter due to the Caldor Fire, which burned through this area in the fall. Check for current status.
NORTHSTAR CALIFORNIA 39 km groomed Trails start near the top of the gondola and lead to views of Martis Valley.
SMALLER TRAIL SYSTEMS Several area lodges and organizations groom public-accessible cross-country trails when snowpack allows. In South Tahoe, head to Lake Tahoe Community College or Camp Richardson; North Tahoe options include Tahoe City Winter Sports Park, Resort at Squaw Creek, Granlibakken Resort, Sugar Pine Point State Park, or public land just south of the summit of Nevada Highway 431. 18 WINTER 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
TS
Winter fun for everyone! Convenient location in downtown Tahoe City
Ice Skating • Sledding Cross Country Skiing • Snowshoeing ADVANCE RESERVATIONS REQUIRED
• Limited walk-ups will be permitted, but not guaranteed. • Visit tcpud.org/winter for Know Before You Go tips, details on sessions, season passes, and reservations.
251 North Lake Blvd, Tahoe City (behind Plumas Bank)
530-583-1516
RESERVE ONLINE AT
tcpud.org/winter
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10091 Donner Pass Road | 530-550-8857 tahoeoilandspice.com
530.583.5475 | tahoexc.org
Tasting Room located in Historic Downtown Truckee Open Daily 10:30 am–6:00 pm | Closed Sundays
WINTER 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 19
80 9
1
Granlibakken
PalisadesTahoe/ Alpine Meadows
3 4
Palisades Tahoe/ 11 OlympicValley
Granite Chief
89
Tahoe Donner
Squaw Creek Nordic Center
Tinker Knob
Ski Ranch Royal Gorge Sugar Donner Bowl 12 Memorial State Park
1 10 Soda 4 Springs nner Do 3
2
Boreal Mountain Resort
5
1
Rim
Kings Beach/ Tahoe Vista Tahoe City Winter Sports Park
6
28
Tahoe City
7 5
5
267
North Tahoe Regional Park
Tahoe XC Burton Creek 6 State Park
4
Northstar
2
Northstar
2 2 9
Truckee
oe
8 7 13
89
SNOWSHOEING
Mayberry Park
3
Sand Harbor State Park
Incline Village
il Tra
8
Diamond Peak
Mt Rose
Lake Tahoe State Park
Tahoe Meadows
3
Mt. Rose
1 Blackwood Canyon 2 Northstar CROSS-COUNTRY SKI RESORTS 3 Tahoe Meadows 1 N. Tahoe Regional Park 4 Sugar Pine State Park 2 Northstar 5 N. Tahoe Regional Park 3 Royal Gorge 6 Tahoe XC 4 Resort at Squaw Creek 7 Tahoe City Winter Sports Park 5 Tahoe City Winter Sports Park 8 Tahoe Donner 6 Tahoe XC 9 Donner Memorial State Park 7 Tahoe Donner 10 Spooner Lake 8 Lake Tahoe Community 11 Van Sickle Park College 12 Tallac Historic Site Creek Galena 9 Kirkwood 13 Washoe Meadows Regional Park
14 Sierra-at-Tahoe 15 Kirkwood
Ta h
Tahoe Donner
1 Palisades Tahoe/ Alpine Meadows 2 Boreal 3 Diamond Peak 4 Donner Ski Ranch 5 Granlibakken 6 Heavenly Mountain 7 Homewood 8 Mt. Rose 9 Northstar 10 Soda Springs 11 Palisades Tahoe/ Olympic Valley 12 Sugar Bowl 13 Tahoe Donner
DOWNHILL SKI RESORTS
80
1
WINTER RECREATION COMMUNITIES
7
1
Tahoe City
4
ci Pa fic Mt. Tallac
89
13
Trail
14 9
Washoe Meadows
Fallen Leaf Lake
15 9
Kirkwood
8
50
7
AL
Freel Peak
C
207
Van Sickle Park
11
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Lake Tahoe State Park
Spooner Lake
5 Stateline 6 6
South Lake Tahoe
9
10
Heavenly Mountain
Glenbrook
Zephyr Cove Resort
Tallac Historic Site Lake Tahoe 12 Community College
Lake Tahoe
Sierra-at-Tahoe
Emerald Bay
Sugarpine Point State Park
Tahoma
Homewood
Crest
Desolation Wilderness
Ellis Peak
Homewood
Blackwood Canyon
5
Trail
ELDORADO NATIONAL FOREST
1 Boreal 2 Northstar 3 Palisades/Olympic Valley 4 Tahoe City Winter Sports Park 5 Tahoe Tubing 6 Heavenly Mountain 7 Hansen’s Resort 8 Tube Tahoe 9 Adventure Mountain
WINTER RECREATION SNOW TUBING
Granite Chief Wilderness
Granlibakken
Tahoe Rim
Science exhibits, 3-D movies, and more.
Come explore... TAHOE SCIENCE CENTER Incline Village, NV
Reservations required for Tahoe’s only science center!
TahoeScienceCenter.com
22 WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
TAHOE INFO
Photography is a favorite winter pursuit, PHOTO BY MIKE EADINGTON
Glossary of Tahoe Winter & Spring Activities Find your definition of winter fun and adventure. Arcades
See “Gambling.”
Art Galleries See “Shopping”
Backcountry
[Skinning, split-board, mountaineering] The experience of the Tahoe backcountry in winter is defined by the abundance or lack of snow. Experienced, avalanche-trained backcountry skiers, snowboarders and mountaineers travel throughout the Tahoe Sierra during normal winters, with January through April usually peak backcountry season. But most winters experience shifting weather patterns that can turn stable snow pack into one prone to avalanches. Check current conditions with SierraAvalancheCenter.org, or their Facebook page, before planning an adventure. Be aware of the inherent risks of venturing into the mountains outside ski resort boundaries. In spring, when afternoons get warmer, south-facing mountain slopes go through multi-day, melt-freeze cycles that create a relatively solid snowpack, with lovely corn-snow conditions possible on mornings after freezing nights. When
temperatures get too warm, however, wet-slide avalanches are possible. Stop by one of the area’s excellent mountaineering stores for more info and insight: Backcountry in Truckee; Alpenglow in Tahoe City; and Sierra Ski & Cycle Works in South Lake Tahoe.
Beaches
[Explore the lakeshore] A walk along one of the public stretches of Lake Tahoe can be incredibly scenic during winter, and sometimes requires snowshoes. Beaches on the lake’s east and north shores will begin to clear of snow in lateMarch. By mid-April, sun-n-sand seekers can find stretches of dry beach at Kings Beach State Recreation Area and Commons Beach in Tahoe City. When it is cleared of snow, a scenic three-mile bike path leads from Incline Village to Sand Harbor State Park, passing a dozen scenic coves. Small beaches on Tahoe’s roadless East Shore are popular in spring but require a steep hike-in and often difficult parking. Zephyr Cove and other South Shore beaches are usually clear of snow by spring. Be aware that Tahoe’s water is extremely cold, even on warm spring days! The surface temperature throughout winter and spring usually hovers in the mid-40 degrees F, WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 23
TAHOE INFO
only reaching the mid-60s in July. Fall in from a paddle board or other watercraft in spring and you risk hypothermia within minutes. For beach locations and more information, go to TahoePublicBeaches.org.
Bike Paths [Scenic walks] After winter storms, Tahoe’s miles of bike paths are popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Communities begin clearing snow from bike paths in mid-spring, but icy patches can remain in April and into May or develop after storms. During winter, most of Tahoe’s bike paths will only be plowed for short stretches. South Lake Tahoe has an excellent network of bike paths that extend west to parks and lakeshore. Incline Village’s new path to Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park has stunning views and accesses several small beaches. Both Tahoe City and Truckee have extended networks of bike paths. Bird Watching
In spring and fall, wetlands in the Upper Truckee River, Carson Valley and Little Truckee River host a wide variety of a migratory birds. Year around, you might spot an osprey, red-tail hawk or even a bald eagle in Tahoe’s skies. Ravens are active throughout winter, including at high elevations. Flocks of Canadian geese also winter in the region. The start of spring is heralded by the mountain chickadee, whose call sounds to some like “cheeseburger.”
Breweries
Breweries throughout Tahoe and Reno produce awardwinning “suds,” served up in brew pubs or taprooms that pour beer from around the world. Local brew pubs include Fifty/Fifty, Tahoe Mountain Brewing, Tahoe Cold Water, Alibi Ale and Great Basin.
Casinos
See “Gambling.”
Cross-Country Skiing See Page 18.
Cruises
Weather permitting, M.S. Dixie II in Zephyr Cove departs daily throughout the winter on round-trip voyages into Emerald Bay.
Dining See “Dining Directory” on page 32.
24 WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
Disc Golf Most of Tahoe’s “Frisbee golf” courses run through forests and therefore hold snow well into April. But if the snowpack isn’t deep, throw on snowshoes and slide your disc for distance. Entertaining courses are found at North Tahoe Regional Park in Tahoe Vista, Incline Village, South Lake Tahoe and Truckee. Dog Walks and Swims
If your dog has never seen snow, you both might be in for a treat. Many breeds love bounding and tunneling through fresh powder, producing endless Instagram images. Long-haired breeds can develop snowballs that stick on their bellies and legs, especially in new snow. Bring a towel, and a thermos with warm water, but still expect melt afterwards inside a heated car or house. Paw mitts also work reasonably well with some breeds. A swim in Lake Tahoe will melt snowballs, but some beaches are inaccessible in mid-winter. Ones that allow dogs include Kiva Beach in South Tahoe, Zephyr Cove on East Shore, Coon Street in Kings Beach, Patton Beach in Carnelian Bay, and Hurricane Bay on the West Shore. Near Truckee, trails accessible by mid-spring often include Truckee River Legacy trail and Donner Memorial State Park.
Driving
During big Tahoe winters, consider not driving at all. Transit systems run throughout the season in Tahoe/Truckee communities, including free ski resort shuttles and micro-transit in North Tahoe and Truckee. If the 72mile drive around the lake is on your wish-list, be aware that the stretch of road around Emerald Bay often closes for periods after winter storms. There are also long stretches of road around the lake with no snow-cleared parking spots. But lakeside public parking is cleared soon after storms in Kings Beach and Tahoe City with plentiful parking available around South Tahoe, including the casino core. Nevada road crews try to keep parking spots plowed at the Mt. Rose Highway Scenic Viewpoint above Incline Village and near the summit of Nevada Highway 431 in Tahoe Meadows.
Fishing [Charters] Some charter fishing boat captains take clients out on the lake on calmer winter days, with Tahoe’s famously large Mackinaw Trout till active in the depths. Freestyle Parks [Terrain parks, half-pipes, rails] Most all of Tahoe’s downhill ski areas have terrain features or parks. Resorts known for the variety, size and creativity of their parks and features include Boreal Mountain, Northstar California, Palisades Tahoe and Sierra-at-Tahoe.
30 Year Anniversary Sale!
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26 WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
TAHOE INFO
Gambling
[Slots, table games, arcades] Stateline in South Tahoe has the lake’s most famous, large casino towers —Harrah’s, Harveys, MontBleu and Hard Rock Hotel—all adjacent to each other and featuring 24-hour slots and table games, plus entertainment, dining and lodging. At North Tahoe’s Nevada state line, Crystal Bay has 3 smaller casinos, plus the Hyatt in Incline Village. You’ll also find slots and digital gaming at many bars on the Nevada-side of Tahoe. Head to the casinos for the best arcades, with spots like the Hard Rock and Harveys featuring large rooms of cutting-edge games.
Gliding
Weather allowing, commercial glider plane and powered hang glider rides operate during winter months, taking clients on scenic adventures over Lake Tahoe and surrounding peaks. Glider flights are available from Truckee and Minden airports, powered gliders depart from Carson City Airport. Reservations are usually required.
Golf
Lake Tahoe and Truckee golf courses are closed throughout winter and into spring. The first courses to open in spring, or stay open during dry winter months, are in Carson Valley and Reno, both an hour to 90-minute drive from most Tahoe communities.
Ice Skating
Outdoor skating rinks are usually open during the winter months at Heavenly Village, Edgewood Tahoe Resort, Tahoe City Winter Sports Park, Truckee River Regional Park, Northstar, and at High Camp at Palisades Tahoe. Indoor, South Lake Tahoe Ice Arena is an excellent facility with an NHL-sized rink—check www.tahoearena.co for an updated schedule.
Museums
There are a wide variety of museums in the Tahoe region and in neighboring Reno and Carson City. Discover the region’s history at Donner Emigrant Trail Museum outside Truckee, Gatekeepers Museum in Tahoe City, and Nevada Museum and Nevada Railroad Museum in Carson City. Historic Virginia City has numerous museums and attractions. The interactive Tahoe Science Center is open afternoons, Tuesday through Friday, in Incline Village, with entertaining 3-D movies. Reno has both Nevada Museum of Art and National Auto Museum.
Photography
Emerald Bay and Old Highway 40 above Donner Lake are Tahoe’s classic winter vistas, the latter a favorite of national car commercials. The overlook on Nevada Highway 431 above Incline Village has gorgeous views. Heavenly’s gondola and Palisades Tahoe’s tram are
both memorable rides to spectacular vistas, with round-trip sightseer tickets. Scenic road trips include the historic silver mining boomtown of Virginia City and high desert landscapes at Pyramid Lake and Black Rock Desert.
Rock Climbing [Bouldering, climbing gyms] During prolonged breaks in winter weather, south facing rock walls may dry enough to entice climbers, especially on sunny afternoons. Tahoe’s most popular climbing destinations are Donner Summit off Old Highway 40 near Truckee, and Lover’s Leap off Highway 50 near Echo Summit. Sugar Bowl ski resort plows Old Highway 40 during much of the winter with some parking usually available at the summit. Indoor climbing gyms include High Altitude Fitness in Incline Village and Truckee and Blue Granite Climbing, South Lake Tahoe. Ropes Courses [Adventure parks, ziplines]
Weather-permitting, Tahoe Treetop Adventure parks are open winter days at one or more of its 3 locations: Tahoe Vista, Olympic Valley and Granlibakken Resort. Call ahead for information and reservations. In the Spring, Heavenly will usually offer zip-lining at the top of its gondola
Scenic Rides
[Aerial tram, gondola lift] The Heavenly ski resort gondola and Palisades Tahoe’s aerial tram are both spectacular experiences, with sightseer one-ride tickets available on most winter days. Call ahead for updates.
Ski and Snowboard Resorts Turn back to “Where to Ski & Ride,” starting on page 14, for resort descriptions and statistics. Shopping
Boutiques, art galleries, gift and souvenirs shops can be found in many Tahoe communities. Sidewalks through shopping districts are cleared of snow on most winter days in Downtown Truckee, Heavenly Village/Stateline, Tahoe City, Incline Center, and Kings Beach. Turn to “Directory,” page 34 for more information.
Snowmobiling
Go for a spin around a groomed circuit at one of two snowmobile rental locations in South Shore. Or join tour operations at Zephyr Cove or the summit of Highway 267, traveling to spectacular lake views. Snowmobile tours and rentals are offered at additional North Tahoe locations, including mini-snowmobiles at Palisades Tahoe. WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 27
TAHOE INFO
Snowplay
[Sledding, tubing, snowmen] Snow-tubing and snowplay zones are found at the Tahoe City Winter Sports Park, Hansen’s Resort in South Lake Tahoe, and several ski resorts, including Boreal Mountain and Palisades Tahoe. Sledding spots on public land include: Kahle Park and Van Sickle Bi-State Park in South Tahoe; North Tahoe Regional Park; Incline Village Snow Play Area; 64-Acres in Tahoe City; near the summit of NV Highway 431; and west of the midtown freeway off-ramp in Truckee. Be aware that sledding and snow-tubing outside organized areas carries risk of injury or worse from impact with trees, rocks and other sledders. You are responsible for the safety of your family members and potentially others. Practice good sense and keep the day fun!
Snowshoeing
Snowshoes are widely available for rent at shops around the region. Lightweight and strong, they allow exploring of the level forests and meadows around Lake Tahoe. Poles are recommended for stability. Excellent snowshoeing areas include Tahoe City Winter Sports Park and nearby Tahoe XC, and Camp Richardson in South Lake Tahoe.
Surfing When 30 to 60 m.p.h. winter storm winds create 2- to 4-foot waves in the shallows off Tahoe Vista and Kings Beach, a surprising number of surfers and kayakers head out into the bone-chilling cold. They wear thick wetsuits, hoods, gloves and booties, with perhaps large thermos of hot water waiting in the car. Swimming
Are you looking to notch a “polar bear swim?” Even a few seconds in Lake Tahoe’s dangerously cold water in winter can create an ice-cream headache that will last much longer. A few zealots claim to swim in Lake Tahoe year around without a wetsuit. Even with a wetsuit, a few minutes in Lake Tahoe’s winter water can lead to life-threatening hypothermia. Or are you looking for a warm pool? There are excellent indoor public pools in South Lake Tahoe, Truckee and Incline Village. Check ahead to learn if reservations are required.
Walking See “Bike Paths.” Yoga The Tahoe Sierra is a yoga vortex. Yoga studios
and events are popular with locals and visitors alike. The Wanderlust wellness festivals of yoga and music were started in 2009 at Squaw Valley resort (since renamed “Palisades Tahoe”). Most Tahoe communities have at least one yoga studio, with a variety of winter classes available.
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28 WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
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COMMUNITIES
Diverse Communities STATELINE/CITY OF SOUTH LAKE TAHOE
South Lake Tahoe
This bi-state community encompasses 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 ski gondola, and Hard Rock, Harrah’s, Harveys and Mont Bleu casino/hotel towers. Sidewalks are usually cleared from the casinos to Heavenly Village and surrounding shopping, dining and lodging.
NORTH TAHOE Small resort towns dot Lake Tahoe’s north and west shores. Gambling is legal in Incline Village and nearby casinos at the Nevada state border. Sidewalks are cleared in Kings Beach and Tahoe City, both towns with a variety of unique shops and restaurants, plus great lake views. Olympic Valley and Palisades Tahoe resort are approximately 7 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 ski resort is 6 miles to the east.
RENO Downtown Reno includes three well-known casinos interconnected as The Row, plus the Riverwalk District’s shops and dining. Reno’s Mid-Town is an eclectic shopping and dining destination. Other Reno casino/hotels include Atlantis, Grand Sierra and the Nugget. City attractions include the Nevada Museum of Art and National Auto Museum.
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 Western vistas and the towns Minden, Gardnerville and Genoa, 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 walkways, give visitors a wonderful look into the Old West. 30 WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
Reno
ieve Bel e W
is a
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.
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Naturally tasty BURGERS & MORE.
tahoe City
MIDTOWN RENO
WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 31
DIRECTORY—Dining
Business Directory DINING NORTH LAKE TAHOE BRIDGETENDER American
JASON’S BEACHSIDE GRILL American
Jason’s serves up classics like prime rib, baked chicken, burgers, sandwiches and delicious salads. Popular for take-outs, too! More on next page.
Bridgetender is a true local’s favorite, with excellent burgers, starters and salads, large selection of beer on tap, and rustic dining room and bar. Great for take out! More on next page.
8338 North Lake Blvd., Kings Beach 530.546.3315 jasonsbeachsidegrille.com
65 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.3342 tahoebridgetender.com
Treat yourself to drinks and dining at iconic River Ranch Lodge & Restaurant. A landmark since the late 1800’s, River Ranch is known for its lively, river-view dining room and bar. More on page 17.
CHRISTY HILL American
RIVER RANCH American
Elegant, unique cuisine with spectacular lake views, Christy Hill is beloved by Tahoe food aficionados. Chef Andrew Shimer’s dinner menu is creative and ever-changing. More on page 6.
2285 River Road, Alpine Meadows 530.583.4264 riverranchlodge.com
115 Grove Street, Tahoe City 530.583.8551 christyhill.com
Since 1978, Chef Dale has developed a fusion of California and Asian influences — “Cuisine Unique”—featuring fresh and simple aesthetics. With a warm ambiance and lake views, the family-run business is celebrating 44 years of exceptional food and service. More on page 37.
FAT CAT BAR & GRILL American
A family-friendly restaurant dedicated to using the freshest ingredients from local farms and ranches. Guests enjoy quality dishes, extensive bar menu and views of Lake Tahoe. Or visit the Reno Fat Cat. More on page 31. 599 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.2233 fatcatrestaurants.com FRONT STREET STATION Pizza
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. More on next page. 205 River Road, Tahoe City 530.583.3770 frontstreetpizza.com JAKES ON THE LAKE American
WOLFDALE’S CUISINE UNIQUE Seasonal Asian & Californian
640 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.5700 wolfdales.com
WEST SHORE MARKET—deli & grocery
1780 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.584.2475
TRUCKEE FRONT STREET STATION Pizza
Front Street’s convenient Truckee location serves all-natural, hand-thrown, New York-style pizza, authentic Mexican specialties, sandwiches and a large selection of beverages and beer on tap. More on page 28. 11782 Donner Pass Road, Truckee 530.536.5035 frontstreetpizza.com PIANETA Italian
A much-loved, local favorite with excellent and creative Italian food, salads, full bar and wine list. Call ahead for reservations and updates. More on page 6. 10096 Donner Pass Road, Downtown Truckee 530.587.4694 pianetarestauranttruckee.com CASA BAEZA—Mexican
10010 Bridge St., Truckee 530.587.2161 DARK HORSE COFFEE ROASTERS
10009 W. River St. Ste. B, Truckee 530.550.9239 FIFTY-FIFTY BREWERY—American
11197 Brockway Road, Truckee 530.587.2337 CROSBY’S GRILL & PUB—lunch, dinner
MORGAN’S LOBSTER SHACK—seafood
868 Tahoe Blvd., Incline Village 775.833.1030
10087 W. River St., Truckee 530.582.5000
DAM CAFÉ—breakfast, lunch
SIAM CUISINE—Thai
55 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.581.0278
10770 Donner Pass Rd., Truckee 530.550.0503
LAS PANCHITAS—Mexican
8345 North Lake Blvd., Kings Beach 530.546.4539
SOUTH TAHOE
LONE EAGLE GRILL—American
EDGEWOOD TAHOE RESORT Three distinct eateries
111 Country Club Dr., Incline Village 775.886.6899 OLD POST OFFICE—breakfast, lunch
5245 North Lake Blvd., Carnelian Bay 530.546.3205 PIONEER COCKTAIL CLUB—American
This premier resort has dining that pairs perfectly with “Wow”: the casual golfinspired Brooks’ Bar & Deck, energetic Bistro, and spectacular lakeview dining at Edgewood Restaurant. Edgewood Tahoe Resort makes any dining experience a memorable one.
Outstanding scenic dining overlooking Tahoe City Marina, Jakes’ menu specializes in seafood and steak, delicious appetizers and salads. Online ordering available. More on page 25.
521 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.523.0402 pcctahoe.com 1785 West Lake Blvd. #5, Tahoe City 530.581.5400
80 Lake Parkway, Stateline 888.881.8659 edgewoodtahoe.com
780 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 550.583.0188 jakestahoe.com
TAHOE HOUSE BAKERY —breakfast, lunch
BASECAMP PIZZA
625 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.1377
Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe 530.544.2273
SPOON—American
32 WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
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Open Every day Lunch & Dinner BREAKFAST SAt-SUN 9 am HAPPY HOUR MON-THURS 4 PM
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6 5 W E S T L A K E B LV D . TAHOE CITY, CA. 5 3 0 . 5 8 3 . 3 3 4 2
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WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 33
DIRECTORY—Activities / Shopping CAFÉ FIORE—Italian
1169 Ski Run Blvd., South Lake Tahoe 530.541.2908
PALISADES TAHOE Skiing, snowboarding, shopping, snowplay
FRESHIES—vegetarian
This world-class resort encompasses the former Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley ski resorts and Olympic Valley base village. In addition to stellar skiing and riding, there’s a large snow play area with tubing and mini-snowmobiles, aerial tram rides, and diverse shopping and dining in the village. More on the back cover.
3330 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe 530.542.3630
1960 Squaw Valley Road, Olympic Valley 800.403.0206
FIRE + ICE—American
Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe 530.542.6650 FRESH KETCH—seafood
2435 Venice Dr., South Lake Tahoe 530.541.5683
FRIDAY’S STATION—steak & seafood
Harrahs Casino, Stateline 775.586.4988 MCP’S TAPHOUSE GRILL
4125 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe 530.542.4435 ORCHIDS THAI CUISINE
2180 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe 530.544.5541 RED HUT—breakfast, lunch
3 locations in South Tahoe 530.544.1595 SONNEY’S BBQ SHACK—American
787 Emerald Bay Road, South Lake Tahoe 530.541.7427 SPROUTS CAFÉ—vegetarian
3123 Harrison St., South Lake Tahoe 530.541.6969 SUSHI PIER
117 US 50, Stateline 775.588.8588
ACTIVITIES WINTER SPORTS & PLAY THE BACK COUNTRY Ski/snowboard sales & rentals
Sister shops featuring full-service rental and repair plus the latest skis, snowboards, split-boards, climbing and outdoor equipment and clothing. More on page 17.
TAHOE CITY WINTER SPORTS PARK Ice skating rink, sledding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing
Scenic and conveniently located on the grounds of Tahoe City golf course, this park offers a full menu of winter fun. Reservations are required for the 2021–22 season with limited walk-ups offered based on availability. More on page 19. 251 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.1516 tcpud.org/winter TAHOE XC Cross-country skiing & snowshoeing
This popular, community-owned cross-country area has over 30 miles of entertaining trails, some leading to lovely lake views, and others that allow dogs. Lessons and ski or snowshoe rentals are available. More on page 19. 925 Country Club Drive, Tahoe City 530.583.5475 tahoexc.org POWDER HOUSE—rentals & sales
Five locations in South Lake Tahoe 530.542.6222 TAHOE DAVES—rentals & sales
Locations in Tahoe City, Kings Beach, Truckee, Olympic Valley 530.583.0400
11400 Donner Pass Rd., Truckee 530.582.0909 1602 Squaw Valley Rd., Olympic Valley 530.581.4707 thebackcountry.net
TAHOE TREETOP ADVENTURES—rope courses, zip lines
NORTH TAHOE REGIONAL PARK Cross-country skiing & more
TRUCKEE RIVER REGIONAL PARK
Locations in Tahoe City, Tahoe Vista 530.807.1004 10050 Brockway Road, Truckee 530.582.7720
This beautiful park has groomed trails for skiing and snowshoeing, large snow play area, sled and snowmobile rentals, plus (weather-permitting) Tree Top Adventure Park. More on page 22.
VILLAGE SKI LOFT—rentals & sales
6600 Donner Road, Tahoe Vista 530.546.4212 northtahoeparks.com
TAHOE ADVENTURE COMPANY Tours & rentals
800 Tahoe Blvd., Incline Village 775.831.3537
TOURS & ADVENTURES
Snowshoe tours, including Full Moon, Sunset and Astronomy, plus multi-sport
34 WINTER/SPRING 2021/22 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide
adventures. Watercraft rentals and tours start up in spring. More on page 29. 7010 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe Vista 530.913.9212 tahoeadventurecompany.com VIRGINIA CITY Authentic Old West town & tours
A little over an hour drive from many Tahoe communities, this picturesque, Wild West “boomtown” is the site of the historic, 1860s Comstock Lode silver strike. Check ahead for scheduled mine tours or steam train rides. 86 South C St., Virginia City 775.847.7500 visitvirginiacitynv.com
SHOPPING NORTH TAHOE/TRUCKEE BLUESTONE Jewelry & wine
If you like fine jewelry or wine from Sierra Foothill wineries, 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 4. 10046 Donner Pass Road, Truckee 530.582.0429 495 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.581.4298 bluestonetahoe.com CAMILA’S AT TAHOE Women’s boutique
Contemporary and affordable fashions, including sweaters, handbags, shoes and accessories. Celebrating with a 30 Year Anniversary Sale, located in the enclosed Boatworks Mall. More on page 25. 760 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.0120 GEARED FOR GAMES / MIND PLAY Games, puzzles & toys
These stores carry an entertaining selection of board games and puzzles for all ages, plus toys and books. Stimulate your brain while having fun with family and friends! More on page 28. 475 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.581.4263 1985 Squaw Valley Road, Olympic Valley 530.584.6133
WINNER
2020 & 2021
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—Shopping / Lodging SCRAPS DOG BAKERY Pet supplies
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 foods low in preservatives. More on page 26. 475 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.584.0220 STEVE SCHMIERS JEWELRY Custom fine jewelry
For over 40 years, residents and visitors have been thrilled by the selection of precious stones and custom designs found at this Tahoe City jeweler. Located inside the enclosed, lakefront Boatworks Mall, this is a must shopping stop for connoisseurs of craftsmanship. More on page 5. 769 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.5709 steveschmiersjewelry.com TAHOE CITY CHOCOLATES Sweets
THE TREE HOUSE Children’s clothing & toys
A large selection of imaginative and cute children and toddler clothing, plus books, puzzles, toys, this is the spot for new discoveries and birthday and holiday gifts! More on page 37. 10104 Donner Pass Road, Downtown Truckee 530.587.4883 tahoetreehouse.com WILD SOCIETY Boutique & gifts
Island chic lifestyle boutique offering clothing, décor, plants and exclusive novelties unlike any other found in the area. More on page 17. 8612 North Lake Blvd., Kings Beach 530.553.1771 wildsocietylt.com EADINGTON GALLERY—fine art photography
589 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.9000
BIG VISTA—clothing & gifts
4101 Lake Tahoe Blvd., across from Heavenly Village, South LakeTahoe TAHOE WELLNESS CENTER— dispensary
3445 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe 530.694.4904 VILLAGE TOYS—toys & gifts
1001 Heavenly Village Way #39, South Lake Tahoe 530.541.6600
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 29.
“The World’s Best Candy Store” offers top, handmade chocolates and candies from all over the world, plus classic, nostalgic confections and delicious ice cream in a cone. Upstairs in the enclosed Boatworks Mall. More on page 25.
MOUNTAIN HARDWARE & SPORTS
10075 Jibboom St., Truckee 530.550.9664
CEDAR HOUSE SPORT HOTEL
769 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.583.6652 tahoecitychocolates.com
TIPSY GYPSY—women’s boutique
10918 Brockway Road, Truckee 530.582.5655
TAHOE OIL & SPICE Olive oil, vinegar, gifts
SOUTH TAHOE
1690 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.581.4073 thecottageinn.com
EADINGTON GALLERY Fine art photography
FRANCISCAN LAKESIDE LODGE
Two Truckee locations, 530.587.4844 NULEAF—dispensary
877 Tahoe Blvd., Incline Village 775.404.5323
845 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 888.451.0156 naturalretreats.com/cedarcrest
THE POUR HOUSE—fine wine
475 N. Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.584.2210
THE COTTAGE INN
With a delicious selection of over 50 extra virgin and flavor-infused olive oil and balsamic vinegar, plus unique condiments and foods items, this is the place to spice up your next culinary creation or find the perfect gift. More on page 19. 10091 Donner Pass Road, Downtown Truckee 530.550.8857 tahoeoilandspice.com THE POTLATCH Jewelry, gifts & clothing
Celebrating 52 years in business, The Potlatch is the place to shop for Native American jewelry and gifts. You will find a wide selection of jewelry, home decor, Tahoe clothing, souvenirs, bath and body products, and other amazing merchandise! More on page 39. 930 Tahoe Blvd., Incline Village 775.833.2485 potlatchlaketahoe.com
Discover awesome moments of light and landscape, captured at Tahoe and other locations by Michael Eadington and other fine art photographers. Archival-quality printing and mounting is available in a variety of sizes. More on page 26. 1001 Heavenly Drive #9, South Lake Tahoe theeadingtongallery.com HEAVENLY VILLAGE Shopping center
Over 40 shops in an open-air, pedestrian mall, plus a variety of dining options, ice skating and the Heavenly Gondola. Dozens of additional shops are only steps away in the adjacent Village Center and Chateau at the Village. 1001 Heavenly Village Way, South Lake Tahoe 775.265.2087 theshopsatheavenly.com
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6944 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe Vista 530.546.6300 GRANLIBAKKEN TAHOE—hotel, conference center
725 Granlibakken Road, Tahoe City 530.583.4242 HYATT REGENCY—hotel, conference center, restaurants
111 Country Club Drive, Incline Village 775.832.1234 RIVER RANCH LODGE—hotel, 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
DIRECTORY—Lodging 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 EDGEWOOD TAHOE RESORT Luxury golf resort
Edgewood Tahoe Resort has crafted a new beginning in a storied setting where casual comfort effortlessly blends with classic refinement. The lakefront resort boasts 154 luxury rooms and suites, spa, 3 restaurants, and premium shopping. 180 Lake Parkway, Stateline 888.881.8659 edgewoodtahoe.com HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO
50 US-50, Stateline 884.588.7625 HOTEL AZURE
3300 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe 800.877.1466
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
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DIRECTORY—Lodging / Services 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
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, laminating…The BOSS does it! More on page 11. 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
MEDICAL BARTON MEMORIAL HOSPITAL Inpatient & outpatient services
The Barton Center for Orthopedics & Wellness is committed to treating the entire patient and not just the injury or symptoms. The U.S. Ski & Snowboard Certified Center of Excellence houses orthopedics, including Spine, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Rheumatology, ankle, foot and hand specialists, as well as rehabilitation services, performance training, and wellness programs. More on page 4. 2170 South Ave., South Lake Tahoe 530.541.3420
family, children, sports performance and long-term care centers. More on page 9.
VETERINARIAN
10121 Pine Ave., Truckee 530.587.6011 880 Alder Ave., Incline Village 775.833.4100 tfhd.com
BURTON CREEK VETERINARY CLINIC Full-service veterinarian
REAL ESTATE CHASE Regional experts
Chase International is the #1 real estate firm in the Tahoe-Reno region. With more than 375 professional Realtors® representing homes at all price points, the company is proud to be the market leader, achieving the highest 2020 volume in the region with nearly $2.5 billion in sales. More on page 2.
2933 Lake Forest Road, Tahoe City 530.583.8587 burtoncreekvet.com
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
GARY AIR Charter air taxi
TRANSPORTATION
408.805.4359 garyair.us
TAHOE AREA REGIONAL TRANSIT Free daily North Tahoe & Truckee service
LAKE TAHOE AIRPORT
Leave the car behind with TART, TART Connect curb-to-curb service, and the Winter Park and Ride. Download the App NEXT-BUS for real-time schedules and departures, and the TART Connect App for on-demand service on the North Shore. More on page 6.
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 and women,
BLUE LAKE ANIMAL CARE CENTER
South Lake Tahoe 530.600.3911
AVIATION
Convenient, economical service for groups of 5 or less, flying from airports throughout the West into South Lake Tahoe, Truckee and Reno airports, with convenient connections to rental cars.
1901 Lisa Maloff Way, South Lake Tahoe 530.542.6182 TRUCKEE TAHOE AIRPORT
10356 Truckee Airport Road, Truckee 530.587.4119
CHILD CARE
180 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.550.1212
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB
NORTH LAKE TAHOE EXPRESS— Reno airport shuttle
A+ CHILD CARE
One-way and roundtrips from Incline Village, Tahoe City and Truckee locations to Reno International Airport. 24-hour advance reservation required. Group discounts available. Reno International Airport 833.709.8080 northlaketahoeexpress.com BLUEGO TRANSIT
TAHOE FOREST HEALTH CARE SYSTEM Inpatient & outpatient services
Providing a personal, thorough approach to high-quality veterinary care. Quick and timely services, including specialty and general outpatient surgery, laser therapy, in-house laboratory, ultrasound and emergency care. More on page 10.
1679 Shop St., South Lake Tahoe 530.541.7149 tahoetransportation.org
Kings Beach 530.546.4324 South Lake Tahoe 530.542.0838 Tahoe City 530.583.1534
VISITOR SERVICES CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTER
10065 Donner Pass Road, Truckee 530.587.8808 Truckee.com INCLINE VILLAGE CRYSTAL BAY VISITORS BUREAU
969 Tahoe Blvd., Incline Village 775.832.1606 gotahoenorth.com TAHOE CITY VISITORS CENTER
SOUTH TAHOE AIRPORTER— airport shuttle
100 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City 530.581.6900 gotahoenorth.com
Reno International Airport southtahoeairporter.com
TAHOE SOUTH VISITORS CENTER
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169 US-50, Stateline 775.588.4591 tahoesouth.com
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 5/30/2022
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 5/30/2022
