Best selling author Jill Shalvis
Was
July 22 - 23
LAKE TAHOE REGGAE FESTIVAL
August 12
BREWS, JAZZ & FUNK featuring ALO • MONOPHONICS • SAL’S GREENHOUSE
September 3
ALPEN WINE FEST
September 8
GUITAR STRINGS vs CHICKEN WINGS
Sept 16 & 17
ADVENTURE VAN EXPO
September 30
OKTOBERFEST
October 7 - 8
MADE IN TAHOE FALL FESTIVAL
Tuesdays: June 20 - August 29
BLUESDAYS
7/4 RED, WHITE & BLUESDAYS MigHtY MiKe SCHerMer BanD rOY rOgerS & tHe DeLta rHYtHM KingS
7/11 MarK HuMMeL BanD ft. JuniOr WatSOn
7/18 aLaStair greene
7/25 rOCKY atHaS
8/1 Laurie MOrVan BanD
8/8 DenniS JOneS BanD
8/15 CHriS Cain
8/22 terrY HanCK
8/29 J.C. SMitH BanD
Wednesdays: July 5 - Aug 30
FIRST STREET YOGA
Thursdays: June 29 - July 27
FAMILY FRIENDLY BINGO NIGHTS
Fridays: June 30 - August 18
SUNSETS LIVE MUSIC
7/7 Peter DeMattei
7/14 Ben fuLLer
7/21 HOneY ViXen
7/28 JOeL O’COnnOr
8/4 DuSt in MY COffee
8/18 KYLe KirCH
8/25 JaCKeD uP
Community Summit Stars Student Showcase - July 14
A Hero's Journey - July 21
Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage - July 22
European Virtuosi - July 23
Community Concert: Mixing it Up - July 27
Made in America - July 28
Adventure Awaits - July 29
Community Family Day - July 30
Love, Murder, and the Violin - July 30
In the Air - Aug. 4
Drumroll, Please - Aug. 5
Musique de Table - Aug. 6
Classical Tahoe Summer Gala - Aug. 17
Summer is in full swing in the Tahoe Sierra and warm days have finally arrived after an unusually cool and rainy spring. It’s time to revel in our short summer season and make the most of your time in Tahoe. My summer days will be filled with lots of hiking trails, wildflower chasing, SUP, biking and beach time with my nephew.
While water activities and beach time are the obvious summer-time activities for many families, I am always asked for my recommendations for what to do with kids in Tahoe. So, every summer (and winter), we put together our picks in our Family Fun Guide. In this year’s guide, along with outdoor activities, I’ve included some ideas for indoor fun for those rainy days, aerial adventures to tackle as a family and stargazing. You’ll also find my picks for some great family events to enjoy.
Priya Hutner has penned the first part in her series “Beyond Big Blue” of local lakes for you and your family to explore that aren’t Lake Tahoe (or Donner Lake for that matter). There are hundreds of lakes in the region to enjoy from easy-toaccess waters to some that will require a hike suited for older kids. In her first part, she shares her picks for lakes in the Truckee region.
Priya also shares her picks for “Tahoe’s sweetest summer treats” from rolled ice cream to house made ice cream and gelato. She also has recommendations for local restaurants that are great for families with younger kids in her story “Dining out with kids.”
I look forward to reading each of historian Mark McLaughlin’s column as much as you do for every edition, and I am fascinated by the column in this edition about early Sierra aviators, including two brothers who have may achieved first flight before the Wright Brothers. You don’t want to miss his story “First flight in El Dorado?”
This summer is one of the busiest in years for live music to enjoy. Sean McAlindin writes about two upcoming festivals – Classical Tahoe (a personal favorite) and the inaugural Gambler’s Run – for his feature “North Shore’s musical wonderland” in this edition. If you missed our Tahoe Music, Events & Festivals summer guide in the last edition, you can read it at issuu.com/TheTahoeWeekly. It’s chocked full of hundreds of events to enjoy in the next few months.
Read about how the lake was formed, Lake Tahoe’s discovery, lake clarity and more at TheTahoeWeekly.com. Click on Explore Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is located in the states of California and Nevada, with two-thirds in California.
LAKE CLARITY:
2022: 71.7 feet depth (21.9 meters)
1968: First recorded at 102.4 feet (31.21 m)
AVERAGE DEPTH: 1,000 feet (304 m)
MAXIMUM DEPTH: 1,645 feet (501 m)
Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in the U.S. (Crater Lake in Oregon, at 1,932 feet, or 589 m, is the deepest), and the 11th deepest in the world.
VOLUME: 39 trillion gallons (147.6 trillion liters)
There is enough water in Lake Tahoe to supply everyone in the United States with more than 75 gallons (284 liters) of water per day for 5 years.
NATURAL RIM: 6,223’ (1,897 m)
Age of Lake Tahoe: 2 million years
in July: 64.9˚F (18.3˚C)
Highest Peak: Freel Peak at 10,881 feet (3,317 m)
Average Snowfall: 409 inches (10.4 m)
Permanent Population: 70,000
Number of Visitors: 17 million annually
Lake Tahoe sits at an average elevation of between 6,223’ and 6,229.1’. (1,897-1,899 m) The top 6.1’ (1.8 m) of water is controlled by the dam in Tahoe City and holds up to 744,600 acre feet of water (91,845 m).
SIZE: 22 miles long, 12 miles wide (35 km long, 19 km wide) Lake Tahoe is as long as the English Channel is wide.
SHORELINE: 72 miles (116 km)
Lake Tahoe has a surface area of 191 square miles (307 km). If Lake Tahoe were emptied, it would submerge California under 15 inches of water (.38 m)
Sources: Tahoe Environmental Research Center, U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Forest Service, “Tahoe Place Names” and David Antonucci (denoted by 1).
EAST SHORE
CAVE ROCK
This iconic sight is part of an old volcano. Take in the view from Cave Rock State Park.
THUNDERBIRD LODGE
May-October | thunderbirdtahoe.org
The former Whittell estate. This magnificent lakefront home features the Lighthouse Room, Old Lodge, 600’ underground tunnel (with a former lion cage) and Boat House, home to the “Thunderbird,” a 1939 wooden boat. Ages 6+ only. Tours by reservation only.
NORTH SHORE
GATEKEEPER’S MUSEUM
(530) 583-1762 | northtahoemuseums.org
Featuring historic photos, the Steinbach Indian Basket Museum and historical memorabilia in Tahoe City.
TAHOE CITY visittahoecity.com
Popular for shopping and dining with historical sites. Visit the Tahoe Dam, Lake Tahoe’s only outlet, and Fanny Bridge. Peer into Watson Cabin (1909) for a glimpse at pioneer life. Free parking at Commons Beach, Grove St., Jackpine St. and Transit Center.
TAHOE CITY DEMONSTRATION GARDEN
Tours by appt. | (530) 583-3279 | tahoe.ucdavis.edu/tcdg
This 1920s-era building features a history of the field station, current UC Davis research projects, interactive exhibits and demonstration garden. Grounds open Memorial Day-Labor Day. Ages 8+.
TAHOE SCIENCE CENTER
Tues.-Sat. by reservation
(775) 881-7566 | tahoesciencecenter.org
University of California, Davis, science education center at at UNR Lake Tahoe in Incline Village, Nev. Exhibits include a virtual research boat, biology lab, 3D movies and docent-led tours. Ages 8+.
in 1960, celebrates its Olympic History with the Tower of Nations with its Olympic Flame and the symbolic Tower of the Valley at Highway 89. The Olympic Museum at High Camp features historic memorabilia and photographs. Tram ticket required.
SOUTH SHORE
HEAVENLY
(775) 586-7000 | skiheavenly.com
Enjoy a 2.4-mile ride on the gondola to the top with panoramic views, along with zip lines, climbing wall, tubing, coaster and more. Ticket required.
LAKE TAHOE MUSEUM
Thurs.-Sat. & by appt.
(530) 541-5458 | laketahoemuseum.org
Washoe artifacts and exhibits on early industry and settlers. Pick up walking tour maps.
TAHOE ART LEAGUE GALLERY
(530) 544-2313 | talart.org
Featuring works by local artists & workshops.
OLD TRUCKEE JAIL MUSEUM
By appt. only | (530) 659-2378 | truckeehistory.org
One of a few surviving 19th Century jailhouses used from 1875 until May 1965. Volunteers needed.
TOWN OF TRUCKEE
truckeehistory.org | truckee.com
Settled in 1863, Truckee grew quickly as a stagecoach stop and route for the Central Pacific Railroad. During these early days, many historical homes and buildings were built including The Truckee Hotel (1868) and the Capitol Building (1868). Stop by the Depot for a walking tour of historic downtown. Paid parking downtown.
TRUCKEE RAILROAD MUSEUM
Open Sat.-Sun. & holidays
truckeedonnerrailroadsociety.com
Learn about the historic railroad. Located in a caboose next to the Truckee Depot.
WEST SHORE
EAGLE ROCK
KINGS BEACH
northtahoebusiness.org
Kings Beach is a popular spot for dining and shopping with the North Shore’s largest sandy beach located in the heart of town. Free parking at North Tahoe Beach, Brook St., Minnow and the Christmas Tree lot on Hwy. 28.
NORTH TAHOE DEMONSTRATION GARDEN (775) 586-1610, ext. 25 | tahoe.ucdavis.edu/NTDG
Featuring lake-friendly landscaping using native and adaptive plants. Self-guided tours & clinics. On the campus of UNR Lake Tahoe in Incline Village, Nev.
NORTH TAHOE ARTS CENTER
(530) 581-2787 | northtahoearts.com
Featuring works by local artists & workshops in Kings Beach and Tahoe City.
WATSON CABIN
Open Sat. & Thurs. (during Farmers’ Market)
(530) 583-1762 | northtahoemuseums.org
Watson Cabin, built by Robert Watson and his son in 1908, is the oldest building in Tahoe City and on the National Register of Historic Places.
OLYMPIC VALLEY
HIGH CAMP
(800) 403-0206 | palisadestahoe.com
Aerial tram rides with views of Lake Tahoe, Olympic Heritage Museum, events and more. Ticket required
OLYMPIC MUSEUM
(800) 403-0206 | palisadestahoe.com
Palisades Tahoe, host of the VIII Winter Olympic Games
Readings
Lake Tahoe ELEVATION: 6,228.09’ IN 2022: 6,224.4’ NATURAL RIM: 6,223’
Truckee River FLOW AT FARAD: 898 CFS TROA NET
TALLAC HISTORIC SITE
(530) 541-5227 | tahoeheritage.org
Once known as the “Grandest Resort in the World” as the summer retreat for three San Francisco elite families with the Baldwin Estate, Pope Estate & Valhalla. Grounds open year-round. Tours in summer.
TAYLOR CREEK VISITOR CENTER
(530) 543-2674 | fs.usda.gov
Features Stream Profile Chamber to view slice of Taylor Creek, nature trails & more.
DONNER SUMMIT HISTORICAL SOCIETY donnersummithistoricalsociety.org
At Old Hwy 40 & Soda Springs Rd. 20-mile interpretive driving tour along Old 40.
EMIGRANT TRAIL MUSEUM
(530) 582-7892 | parks.ca.gov
The Emigrant Trail Museum features exhibits and artifacts on the Donner Party (1846-47) at Donner Memorial State Park. See the towering Pioneer Monument.
KIDZONE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
Tues.-Sat. | (530) 587-5437 | kidzonemuseum.org
Interactive exhibits, science & art classes for kids up to age 7. BabyZone & Jungle Gym.
MUSEUM OF TRUCKEE HISTORY
Open Fri.-Sun. | (530) 582-0893 museumoftruckeehistory.com
Housed in the original Depot, built in 1901. Exhibits cover different eras in Truckee history.
NORTHSTAR northstarcalifornia.com
Ride the Big Springs Gondola up to 8,610’ for views of Tahoe and Truckee.
Eagle Rock, one of the Lake’s most famous natural sites, is a volcanic plug beside Highway 89 on the West Shore. Trail to top is on the south side.
FANNETTE ISLAND
(530) 541-3030 | parks.ca.gov
Lake Tahoe’s only island is in Emerald Bay & is home to an old tea house. Boat access only. (Closed Feb. 1-June 15 for nesting birds.)
HELLMAN-EHRMAN MANSION
Parking fee | parks.ca.gov
(530) 525-7232 Park | (530) 583-9911 Tours
Sugar Pine Point State Park is home to the historic Ehrman Mansion. See boathouses with historic boats and General Phipps Cabin built in the late 1800s. Tours May 27-Sept. 30.
VIKINGSHOLM CASTLE
(530) 541-3030 | (530) 525-9529 ADA parks.ca.gov | vikingsholm.com
Tour the grounds of Vikingsholm Castle (interior tours June 15-Sept. 30), see Eagle Falls and Fannette Island (the Lake’s only island), home to an old Tea House.
TRANSIT
North Tahoe & Truckee (TART) | laketahoetransit.com South Tahoe | tahoetransportation.org
ROAD CONDITIONS
California road conditions roads.dot.ca.gov, (800) 427-7623
Nevada Road conditions nvroads.com, (877) 687-6237 or 511 (while in Nevada)
VISITORS’ CENTERS
Kings Beach State Rec. Area (Thurs.-Mon., July-Aug.)
Incline Village 969 Tahoe Blvd. (800) 468-2463
South Shore At Heavenly Village. (530) 542-4637
Tahoe City 100 N. Lake Blvd. (530) 581-6900
Truckee 10065 Donner Pass Rd. (530) 587-8808
CAL FIRE has suspended all burn permits for outdoor residential burning within Alpine, Amador, El Dorado, Eastern Sacramento, Nevada, North-Eastern San Joaquin, Placer, Sierra and Yuba counties. This suspension is in effect until November and bans all residential outdoor burning of landscape debris such as branches and leaves.
CAL FIRE is asking residents to take extra time to ensure that they are prepared for wildfires by maintaining a minimum of 100 feet of defensible space around every home and buildings on their property and being prepared to evacuate if the time comes.
Learn how to prepare for an evacuation, how to sign up for emergency alerts, how to find local evacuation plans, creating defensible space and more in Tahoe Weekly’s 3rd annual Tahoe Wildfire Preparedness Guide available for free download at issuu.com/TheTahoeWeekly.com. | preventwildfireca.org
The suspension of burn permits for residential landscape debris does not apply to campfires within organized campgrounds or on private property. A campfire permit can be obtained at local fire stations or online for private property. Federal and state lands campfire restrictions may differ. Check local fire restrictions. | preventwildfireca.org
Incline Village | Summer fire restrictions are in effect for North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District serving the communities of Incline Village and Crystal Bay, Nev., until further notice. Fire restrictions prohibit the use of solid fuel, which includes charcoal and wood. This also applies to the IVGID parks and beach charcoal-grilling areas.
North & West Shores | North Tahoe Fire Protection District, Meeks Bay Fire Protection District and Alpine Springs County Water District have suspended the outdoor burning of solid fuels for the duration of fire season.
South Shore | Smokeless fire pits and charcoal barbecues are prohibited through fire season and The City of South Lake Tahoe does not allow any open burning at any time.
Truckee | Truckee Fire District has issued a district-wide fire ban until November. No wood or charcoal fire will be allowed.
Check weather conditions daily for Red Flag Warnings, during which all sources of outdoor open flame, including gas fire pits/grills and pellet grills/smokers are prohibited.
The National Weather Service, Reno issues Red Flag Warnings to alert land-management officials and fire agencies when the potential of critical weather that could lead to wildfire activity occurs. | weather.gov
TAHOE RIMTRAIL
Moderate
The Tahoe Rim Trail is a 164.8-mile loop trail that encircles
Lake Tahoe. The trail is open to hikers and equestrians, and mountain bikers in some sections. It is generally moderate in di culty, with a 10 percent average grade and elevations ranging from 6,300 to 10,333’. tahoerimtrail.org
LAKE TAHOE
ALPINE MEADOWS
FIVE LAKES
Strenuous | 5 miles RT
Five Lakes is a great hike inside Granite Chief Wilderness, with the first 1 mile+ a steady ascent with great views of Alpine Meadows. Trailhead 1.8 miles up Alpine Meadows Road from Hwy. 89 across from Deer Park Drive. Dogs prohibited May 15-July 15 for deer fawning.
EAST SHORE
MARLETTE LAKE
Moderate | 9 miles RT
Walk along the dirt path through the picnic area and follow signs to Marlette Lake. Mostly sun exposed. Great wildflowers in early summer. Start at Spooner Lake State Park. Parking fee. parks.nv.gov.
SPOONER LAKE
Easy | 1.8 miles RT
Spooner Lake is a great, easy hike for any season with interpretive displays. At Spooner Lake State Park. Parking fee. parks.nv.gov
PICNIC ROCK
Moderate | 3.6 miles RT
Just o the Tahoe Rim Trail, the expansive view from the top provides a panorama of both Lake Tahoe and the Martis Valley. A single track winds up, o ering a gradual climb with no technical challenges, until reaching Picnic Rock, an old volcanic rock. O Hwy. 267.
NORTH SHORE
STATELINE LOOKOUT
Easy-moderate | .5 miles RT
This short, but steep, paved hike o ers superb views of Lake Tahoe. A short, self-guided nature trail explains the history of the North Shore. Hwy. 28 in Crystal Bay.
OLYMPIC VALLEY
SHIRLEY CANYON & SHIRLEY LAKE
Moderate-Strenuous | .5-5 miles RT
This hike follows a creek as it passes by waterfalls and spectacular granite boulders along Shirley Creek. Park at the end of Shirley Canyon Road. The first section that follows the creek is great for kids. As you climb, the trail may sometimes be hard to distinguish, so keep the creek on your right going up and on your left going down. Can continue a strenuous climb to High Camp and take the Aerial Tram to the valley (schedule at palisadestahoe.com). Check Tram schedule in advance. TART
WASHESHU & EMIGRANT PEAKS
Moderate | 3.4-4.4 miles RT
Ride the Aerial Tram to High Camp, elev. 8,200’, and choose from a variety of trails (maps from Guest Services or palisadestahoe.com). Climb to the weathered buttresses atop Washeshu Peak, visit the historic Watson Monument at Emigrant Peak or meander through the meadows covered with wildflowers, and enjoy the panoramic views a orded from the spacious upper mountain. Tram ticket required (schedule at palisadestahoe.com). Hikes in the meadows good for small children. Check Tram schedule in advance. TART
SOUTH SHORE
LOWER & UPPER ECHO LAKES
Easy | 2.4-4.8 miles RT
Lower and Upper Echo Lakes is a little-known paradise perched atop Echo Summit, 5 miles west of Meyers on Hwy. 50. The trailhead begins next to the dam. Once you reach Upper Echo Lake, 2.4 miles from the start, you’ll see a kiosk at a dock for a water taxi. You can take a taxi back or return the way you came, or continue into Desolation
Wilderness. The ride is a relaxing 20-minute tour through the channels connecting the two lakes. Taxi, cash only. Taxi open Memorial Day-Labor Day weekend. (530) 659-7207.
TRUCKEE
GLACIER MEADOW LOOP
Easy | .5 miles RT
Short, self-guided nature loop with signs that explain how glacial action carved and polished the surface landscape. Take Interstate 80 W from Truckee to the Castle Peak/Boreal Ridge Road exit.
MARTIS CREEK WILDLIFE AREA
Easy | 4 miles RT
Loop through Martis Creek meadow for a walk along the creek. O Hwy. 267.
WEST SHORE BALANCING ROCK
Easy | .5 miles | No dogs CLOSED 2023
A short, self-guided nature trail featuring Balancing Rock, an overlying rock of 130 tones balanced on a rock. At D.L. Bliss State Park. Parking fee. parks.ca.gov
EAGLE ROCK
Moderate | 1 mile RT
Quick hike to the top of a volcanic outcropping o ers panoramic views of the area o Hwy. 89 south of Tahoe City.
EMERALD BAY & VIKINGSHOLM CASTLE
Moderate | 2.5 miles+ RT | No dogs
Steep descent to Vikingsholm Castle (tours until Sept. 30). Can continue to Eagle & Emerald Points around the bay for easy hikes. Connects to Rubicon Trail (see below). Park on either side of rocky overlook in Emerald Bay on Hwy. 89. ADA access. Parking Fee. (530) 525-9529 | parks.ca.gov
GRANITE LAKE
Moderate | 2.2 miles RT
A small alpine lake situated on the cusp of Desolation Wilderness, the hike is a popular entrance for hikers and equestrians to the back country and a spectacular trek towering over the pristine waters of Emerald Bay. Steady ascent of 850’ in less than 1 mile. Trailhead at Bayview Campground o Hwy. 89.
PAGE MEADOWS
Easy-Moderate | 4-6 miles RT
The hike to Page Meadows is a local favorite because of its easy access and beautiful scenery through forests to an expanse of several meadows. You can start the hike to Page Meadows from 64 Acres o Hwy. 89 along the Tahoe Rim Trail for a longer hike or from Ward Creek Boulevard o Hwy. 89.
RUBICON TRAIL & LIGHTHOUSE
Easy-Moderate | .5-9 miles | No dogs CLOSED 2023 Hike starts at Calawee Cove at D.L. Bliss State Park or Emerald Bay. Trail follows cli s and coves along Lake Tahoe, nesting ospreys and eagles, short side trail to Rubicon Lighthouse, which is easy to access with small children. Parking fee. parks.ca.gov.
SUGAR PINE POINT STATE PARK
Easy | 1.5 miles RT
The nature trail loops through the forest past an array of wildflowers and through several sections of dense slash bleached nearly white from years of sun exposure. There are great spots to relax on the beach below Ehrman Mansion (tours until Sept. 30). Parking fee. ADA access (530) 525-7982. parks.ca.gov. TART
Great Basin Institute and USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit bring scientists, historians and artists to Taylor Creek Visitor Center’s Lake of the Sky Amphitheater on the South Shore for evening programs over the summer.
On July 7, from 7 to 8 p.m., historical character actor Steven Hale will present as George Whittell, Jr. at one time the richest man in America. Whittell once owned 27 miles of the East Shore where he built the Thunderbird Lodge, captained his 56-foot mahogany “Thunderbird” yacht and piloted his DC-2 Thunderbird Grumman Goose. Other evening programs include Creative Nature Observation with El Dorado County Library on July 14, A Final Evening with Mark Twain and Farewell to McAvoy Lane hosted by Snowshoe Thompson on July 21 and Winged Flight at Night by NorCal Bats on Aug. 18. The events are free and for all ages. | taylor-creek.square.site
Every year, an average of seven people drown in Lake Tahoe due to cold-water shock. A new safety education campaign from Take Care Tahoe is encouraging people in Lake Tahoe to wear a life jacket and “think before you sink.”
Envisioned by local Girl Scout and South Lake Tahoe high-school student Sadie Beall, the campaign educates people about the dangers of cold-water shock, how quickly it can happen and how to avoid drowning. Marinas
and other watercraft rental operators participating in the campaign will post cold-water shock posters and stickers with QR codes that drive visitors to the Take Care Tahoe website.
• Within 15 minutes in cold water, blood flow decreases to the extremities to preserve heat at the core. You will lose movement of legs and arms and will be unable to stay afloat unless you are wearing a life vest.
• 55 percent of all open-water drownings occur within 10 feet of safe refuge.
• 66 percent of people who drown in cold water are regarded as strong swimmers.
Information also includes boating laws related to lifejacket use, live lake conditions information, and forecast models for water temperature, wave height and water currents compiled by UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center. There are also details about proper boating etiquette, information from the Lake Tahoe Water Trail and other resources related to cold-water shock. | takecaretahoe.org
User-created trails are damaging Rabe Meadow near Nevada Beach. Trail users are asked to stay on the official trail to protect wildlife habitat and water quality. | Shay Zanetti, USDA Forest Service
The USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (LTBMU) is asking the public to stay on the designed trail at Rabe Meadow near Burke Creek and Nevada Beach on the South Shore, according to a press release.
Due to the wet winter and beaver activity in the area, the Lam Watah Trail that meanders through Rabe Meadow is flooded in some locations and trail users are bypassing flooded sections and creating undesignated trails in the meadow. Users are asked to remain on designated trails, which in some cases may require walking through flooded sections, rather than around them in order to protect adjacent sensitive areas.
User-created trails can be devastating to public land and water quality, especially in areas adjacent to Lake
CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
Schedules subject to change. Check Lake Tahoe conditions | tahoe.ucdavis.edu/lake-conditions
BOAT INSPECTIONS
INTERSTATE AIS HOTLINE (844) 311-4873
Inspections are required for Lake Tahoe, Echo Lakes, Fallen Leaf Lake, Donner Lake, area reservoirs, Lake of the Woods, Webber Lake and Lakes Basin waters.
LAKE TAHOE, FALLEN LEAF LAKE & ECHO LAKES
(888) 824-6267 | tahoeboatinspections.com | Inspections first-come, first-served. Appointments: (888) 824-6267
Inspections open 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. until Sept. 30.
NORTH SHORE | Alpine Meadows: Hwy. 89 at Alpine Meadows Rd.
EAST SHORE | Spooner Summit: Junction of Hwys. 28 & 50. No vessels more than 30’.
SOUTH SHORE | Meyers: At the junction of Hwys. 89 & 50.
DONNER LAKE
(530) 550-2323 | bit.ly/donner_boating
Current Lake Tahoe sticker applies to boats on Donner Lake (inspections at above stations). OR, self-inspection through Town of Truckee to obtain a no-fee sticker. Info at bit.ly/donner_boating.
RESERVOIRS, WEBBER LAKE, LAKE OF THE WOODS & LAKES BASIN WATERS
(888) 824-6267 | truckeeboatinspections.com
Mandatory self inspections are in place at Prosser, Boca, Jackson Meadows & Stampede reservoirs and all lakes in Sierra and Nevada counties. Forms available at ramps or online.
CALIFORNIA BOATER CARD
CALIFORNIA REQUIRES BOAT OPERATORS TO PASS A MANDATORY BOAT SAFETY EDUCATION COURSE. Everyone ages 50 years and younger who operate a boat must have the card; this includes non-residents. californiaboatercard.com
PUBLIC RAMPS
LAKE TAHOE
CAVE ROCK | E AST S HORE
(775) 831-0494 | Hwy. 50, East Shore
6 a.m.-8 p.m. until Oct. 1
EL DORADO BEACH | S OUTH S HORE
(530) 542-2981 | cityofslt.us
Hwy. 50 at Lakeview Ave., South Lake Tahoe
Friday-Monday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Picnic area, restrooms.
LAKE FOREST | N ORTH S HORE
(530) 583-3796 | 1.5 miles east of Tahoe City, o Hwy. 28 Mon.-Thur. 5:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Fri.-Sun. 5:30 a.m.-8 p.m.
OBEXER’S | WEST SHORE
(530) 525-7962, x0 Hwy. 89, Homewood. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily
RACOON ST. BOAT LAUNCH | K INGS B EACH
(530) 546-9253
Hwy. 28, Bottom of Racoon St. in Kings Beach Call for schedule. Restrooms.
SAND HARBOR | E AST S HORE
(775) 831-0494 | Hwy. 28, 2 miles south of Incline Village
6 a.m.-8 p.m. Parking lot open with limited parking for nonmotorized launch only. Picnic area, beach, Visitors’ Center, food, restrooms. Sealed boats only.
TAHOE VISTA REC. AREA
(530) 546-4212 | Hwy. 28, Bottom of National Ave. 7 a.m.-7 p.m. daily. Picnic area, beach, restrooms.
AREA LAKES
BOCA/STAMPEDE RSVR.
(530) 587-3558 I-80, Hirschdale exit 45 mph speed limit. No launching fee. Parking fee. Subject to closure during low water levels. Mandatory inspections.
DONNER LAKE
(530) 550-2318 I-80, Donner Lake exit 2 boat lanes, fish cleaning station, restrooms. Call for hours.
INDEPENDENCE LAKE
(775) 322-4990
Independence Lake Rd., 20 miles north of Truckee
Restricted to on-site watercraft: kayaks, tubes & small motor boats available on first-come, first-served basis. No outside craft. Call for schedule.
PROSSER RSVR.
(530) 587-3558 | Hwy. 89, 2 miles north of Truckee 10 mph speed limit strictly enforced. No fees for parking or launching. Mandatory inspections.
WEBBER LAKE
(530) 582-4711 | Henness Pass Rd., 26 mi. north of Truckee 5 mph speed limit. Boat ramp & trailer parking. Self inspection required. Sierra County Inspection form at sierracounty.ca.gov.
PUBLIC PIERS
Limited to loading & unloading. Fenced piers are private
DONNER LAKE
DONNER LAKE
37 public piers on north shore from the boat ramp east.
LAKE TAHOE
GAR WOODS
Carnelian Bay
Access to restaurant, small beaches. Restrooms.
GROVE STREET
Center of Tahoe City
Open 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Located east of Commons Beach. Restrooms at Commons Beach.
KASPIAN PICNIC AREA
West Shore 4 mi. south of Tahoe City. Picnic area, beach. Restrooms.
KINGS BEACH
Bottom of Racoon St. Pier adjacent to town, public beach, picnic sites. Restrooms.
SKYLANDIA PARK
Lake Forest Small beach, picnic facilities. Restrooms.
SUGAR PINE POINT
Tahoma
Hiking, Ehrman Mansion tours, nature trail. Restrooms.
Tahoe that impacts lake clarity. It is also expensive and labor-intensive to correct. Healthy meadows (not trampled by footsteps) are important, not only as wildlife habitat but for the natural filtration it provides.
The Burke Creek Rabe Meadow Riparian Restoration Project includes plans to reroute sections of the Lam Watah Trail and construct boardwalks to address flooding and water quality issues in several locations including Rabe Meadow, Jennings Pond and Nevada Beach campground, with some work expected to begin this summer. | fs.usda.gov
PBS’s ViewFinder offers the origins of the Lincoln Highway, the country’s first cross-country road. “Saving Americana — The Great Lincoln Highway,” follows people traveling along Highway 50 and Interstate 80, 100 years later. Donner Summit and local historians from Truckee are mentioned in the 27-minute show available online. | pbs.org
A group of Lake Tahoe destination management, land management and nonprofit organizations launched the Lake Tahoe Destination Stewardship Plan by signing an agreement to create the first, destination stewardship council for the greater Tahoe region. The plan outlines a comprehensive framework and sets in motion action priorities to better manage outdoor recreation and tourism and ensure the sustainability
and preservation of a natural treasure and its local community, according to a press release. The plan is available on the website.
The event capped a stakeholder engagement and community visioning process that began in 2022 after the community felt immense challenges initially brought on by COVID. The plan’s vision and actions were developed in collaboration with 17 organizations and participation of more than 3,000 residents, visitors and businesses through surveys, interviews and workshops. The plan identifies 32 actions across four strategic pillars:
• Foster a tourism economy that gives back.
• Turn a shared vision into shared action.
• Advance a culture of caring for the greater Lake Tahoe region.
• Improve the Tahoe experience for all.
Key programs include Take Care Ambassadors at recreation sites and trailheads, expanded litter cleanups, solar-compacting trash cans and coordinated stewardship education campaigns focused on visitors and outdoor recreation users.
Learn more at an upcoming webinar on July 10 from 5 to 7 p.m. | stewardshiptahoe.org
Tahoe Fund has partnered with the Tahoe Meadows Access Ramp Committee (TMAR) to raise $150,000 for a new accessibility ramp to the boardwalks on the Tahoe Meadows Trail.
The boardwalk meanders through Tahoe Meadows near Mount Rose summit, providing visitors with views and signage about the flora and fauna, but access to the boardwalk is limited to those who can navigate two sets of stairs.
Once all required funding and environmental approvals have been secured, plans are to begin construction this fall. Every donation to this project will be matched up to $75,000. | tahoefund.org
10th Annual Keep Tahoe Red, White & Blue Beach Cleanup
Various locations around Lake Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, 8-11:30 a.m., keeptahoeblue.org
Storytime
Zephyr Cove Library, Zephyr Cove, 11 a.m., (775) 5886411, library.douglascountynv.gov
Mommy & Me Support Group Toddler
Barton 4th Street Classroom, South Lake Tahoe, 1-2 p.m., (530) 541-3420, bartonhealth.org
Meyers Mountain Market Farmers Market
Tahoe Paradise Park , South Lake Tahoe, 3-7:30 p.m., (805) 857-4103, meyersmtnmarket.org
Wild Wednesdays
Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care, South Lake Tahoe, 6-7 p.m., (530) 577-2273, ltwc.org
THURSDAY, JULY 6
Tahoe City Farmers Market
Commons Beach, Tahoe City, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., (775) 831-8015
Family Storytime
Incline Village Library, Incline Village, 10:30 a.m., (775) 832-4130, washoecountylibrary.us
Preschool Storytime
IV Quad
Incline Village Library, Incline Village, 3 p.m., (775) 832-4130, washoecountylibrary.us
Ice Cream Socials
North Tahoe Recreation & Parks, Tahoe Vista, 3-5 p.m., northtahoeparks.com
Incline Village Farmers Market
Incline Village Farmers Market, Incline Village, 3-6 p.m., (775) 339-1203, nevadagrown.com
Truckee Thursdays
Downtown Truckee, 5 p.m., historictruckee.com
FRIDAY, JULY 7
Community Forum
Incline Village Library, Incline Village, 9-10 a.m., (775) 833-5252, ivcba.org
Washoe Cultural Talk
The Village at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley, 10 a.m., (800) 403-0206, palisadestahoe.com
Romano’s Certified Farmers’ Markets
Sierra Valley Farms, Beckwourth, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Wild Things
South Lake Tahoe Library, 2 p.m., eldoradolibrary.org
Summer Movie: National Treasure
Zephyr Cove Library, Zephyr Cove, 2:30 p.m., (775)
Cool Car Cruizen Fridays
Shops at Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 8 p.m., theshopsatheavenly.com
SATURDAY, JULY 8
Truckee Hula Bowl
Truckee River Regional Park, Truckee, 8 a.m., (530) 582-7720, tdrpd.org
Naturalist Talk
The Village at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley, 11 a.m., (800) 403-0206, palisadestahoe.com
Guided Kayak Tours
Sugar Pine Point State Park, Tahoma, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., (530) 583-9911, sierrastateparks.org
Summer Social and Rodeo
Shakespeare Ranch, Glenbrook, 2 p.m., (702) 4836000, keepmemoryalive.org
29th Annual Asado: Red Dog Rodeo
The Branagh Estate, Olympic Valley, 3 p.m., laketahoeskiclub.com
Makers Market
Tahoe Backyard, Kings Beach, 3 p.m., tahoebackyard.com
Weekly Social Run & Hangout
Trout Creek Pocket Park, Truckee, 6 p.m., donnerpartymountainrunners.com
SUNDAY, JULY 9
Guided Backpacking: Taste of the TRT
Tahoe Rim Trail Association, Stateline, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., (775) 298-4485, tahoerimtrail.org
Truckee Hula Bowl
Truckee River Regional Park, Truckee, 9 a.m., (530) 582-7720, tdrpd.org
For the perfect summer no matter the age find your way to Mountain Hardware and Sports. All locations have a large selection of outdoor gear, home decor, apparel, and something for the kid in each of us.
Bioblitz at Sagehen Creek
Sagehen Creek Field Station, Truckee, 9 a.m. to noon, (775) 298-0060, tinsweb.org
Blairsden Community Farmers Market
Blairsden Garden Center, Blairsden, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., (530) 836-2541, blairsdengardencenter.com
Naturalist Talk
The Village at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley, 11 a.m., (800) 403-0206, palisadestahoe.com
Guided Kayak Tours
Sugar Pine Point State Park, Tahoma, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., (530) 583-9911, sierrastateparks.org
Brunch in the Barn
Sierra Valley Farms, Beckwourth, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Summer Social and Rodeo
Shakespeare Ranch, Glenbrook, 5:30 p.m., (702) 4836000, keepmemoryalive.org
MONDAY, JULY 10
Crawl Space Baby & Toddler Program
South Lake Tahoe Library, South Lake Tahoe, 10 a.m., (530) 573-3185, eldoradolibrary.org
TUESDAY, JULY 11
Farmers Market
American Legion Hall parking lot, South Lake Tahoe, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., eldoradofarmersmarket.com
Truckee Tuesday Farmers Market
Truckee River Regional Park, Truckee, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., facebook.com/truckeecertifiedfarmersmarket
CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 events
Play and Learn Program
South Lake Tahoe Library, South Lake Tahoe, 9 a.m., (530) 573-3185, eldoradolibrary.org
Family Storytime
Incline Village Library, Incline Village, 10:30 a.m., (775) 832-4130, washoecountylibrary.us
Preschool Storytime
Kings Beach Library, Kings Beach, 10:30 a.m., (530) 546-2021, placer.ca.gov/2093/Library
Reading Furends
Zephyr Cove Library, Zephyr Cove, 3:30 p.m., (775) 588-6411, library.douglascountynv.gov
Barton Performance Golf Series
Barton Health, South Lake Tahoe, 5:30-6:30 p.m., (530) 541-3420, bartonhealth.org/tahoe/home.aspx
Storytime
Zephyr Cove Library, Zephyr Cove, 11 a.m., (775) 5886411, library.douglascountynv.gov
American Century Golf Championship
Edgewood Tahoe Resort, Stateline, noon, (844) 2079179, edgewoodtahoe.com
Mommy & Me Support Group Toddler
Barton 4th Street Classroom, South Lake Tahoe, 1-2 p.m., (530) 541-3420, bartonhealth.org
Meyers Mountain Market Farmers Market
Tahoe Paradise Park , South Lake Tahoe, 3-7:30 p.m., (805) 857-4103, meyersmtnmarket.org
Movies on the Beach
Commons Beach, Tahoe City, 6 p.m., tcpud.org
Wild Wednesdays
Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care, South Lake Tahoe, 6-7 p.m., (530) 577-2273, ltwc.org
13
Downieville Classic Mountain Bike Race
Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship, Quincy, 8 a.m., (530) 283-2426, sierratrails.org
Tahoe City Farmers Market
Commons Beach, Tahoe City, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., (775) 831-8015
Family Storytime
Incline Village Library, Incline Village, 10:30 a.m., (775) 832-4130, washoecountylibrary.us
Preschool Storytime
Tahoe City Library, Tahoe City, 10:30 a.m., (530) 5462021, placer.ca.gov/2093/Library
Paddling Tours on Donner Lake
Donner Memorial State Park, Truckee, 10:30 a.m., (530) 583-9911, sierrastateparks.org
Mother Goose on the Loose
South Lake Tahoe Library, South Lake Tahoe, 10:30 a.m., (530) 573-3185, eldoradolibrary.org
American Century Golf Championship
Edgewood Tahoe Resort, Stateline, noon, (844) 2079179, edgewoodtahoe.com
Ice Cream Socials
North Tahoe Recreation & Parks, Tahoe Vista, 3-5 p.m., northtahoeparks.com
Incline Village Farmers Market
Incline Village Farmers Market, Incline Village, 3-6 p.m., (775) 339-1203, nevadagrown.com
Truckee Thursdays
Downtown Truckee, 5 p.m., historictruckee.com
Old-Fashioned Lobster Feed
The Chateau at Incline Village, Incline Village, 5-7:30 p.m., (775) 832-1303, yourtahoeplace.com
FRIDAY, JULY 14
Downieville Classic Mountain Bike Race
Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship, Quincy, 8 a.m., (530) 283-2426, sierratrails.org
Heavenly Celebrity Invitational Car Show
Good Sam Safe Ride, South Lake Tahoe, 10 a.m., (530) 541-7300
Washoe Cultural Talk
The Village at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley, 10 a.m., (800) 403-0206, palisadestahoe.com
Summer Movie: Pride and Prejudice
Zephyr Cove Library, Zephyr Cove, 10 a.m., (775) 5886411, library.douglascountynv.gov
Romano’s Certified Farmers’ Markets
Sierra Valley Farms, Beckwourth, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
American Century Golf Championship
Edgewood Tahoe Resort, Stateline, noon, (844) 2079179, edgewoodtahoe.com
Backpacking 101
Tahoe Rim Trail Association, Stateline, 1-2 p.m., (775) 298-4485, tahoerimtrail.org
Summer Movie: Paddington
Zephyr Cove Library, Zephyr Cove, 2:30 p.m., (775) 588-6411, library.douglascountynv.gov
Ski Run Farmers Market
Ski Run Farmers Market, South Lake Tahoe, 3-8 p.m., skirunfarmersmarket.com
Cornhole Tournament
Alder Creek Adventure Center, Truckee, 5-8 p.m., (530) 587-9400, tahoedonner.com
Cool Car Cruizen Fridays
Shops at Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 8 p.m., theshopsatheavenly.com
Downieville Classic Mountain Bike Race
Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship, Quincy, 8 a.m., (530) 283-2426, sierratrails.org
Death Ride: Tour of the California Alps
Visit Alpine County, Markleeville, 8 a.m., alpinecounty. com
Heavenly Celebrity Invitational Car Show
Good Sam Safe Ride, S.Lake Tahoe, 10 a.m., (530) 541-7300
Gold Discovery Days
Plumas Eureka State Park, Blairsden, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Old Timer’s Picnic
Truckee River Regional Park, Truckee, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., (530) 582-0893, truckeehistory.org
Naturalist Talk
The Village at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley, 11 a.m., (800) 403-0206, palisadestahoe.com
Guided Kayak Tours
Sugar Pine Point State Park, Tahoma, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., (530) 583-9911, sierrastateparks.org
Truckee River Railroad
Truckee River Regional Park, Truckee, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., (530) 582-7720, tdrpd.org
American Century Golf Championship
Edgewood Tahoe Resort, Stateline, noon, (844) 2079179, edgewoodtahoe.com
Pints for Pups
The Brewing Lair, Blairsden, 4-8 p.m., (530) 394-0940, thebrewinglair.com
CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 events
Sierra Speaker Series
15
Donner State Memorial Park, Truckee, 5:106:30 p.m., (530) 583-9911, sierrastateparks.org
Weekly Social Run & Hangout
Trout Creek Pocket Park, Truckee, 6 p.m., donnerpartymountainrunners.com
Big Chief 50K
Big Blue Adventure, Tahoe City, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., (530) 546-1019, bigblueadventure.com
Downieville Classic Mountain Bike Race
Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship, Quincy, 8 a.m., (530) 283-2426, sierratrails.org
Guided Backpacking: Taste of the TRT
Tahoe Rim Trail Association, Stateline, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., (775) 298-4485, tahoerimtrail.org
South Lake Butterfly Count
Tahoe Institute for Natural Science, Incline Village, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., (775) 298-0060, tinsweb.org
Heavenly Celebrity Invitational Car Show
Good Sam Safe Ride, South Lake Tahoe, 10 a.m., (530) 541-7300
Gold Discovery Days
Plumas Eureka State Park, Blairsden, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Naturalist Talk
The Village at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley, 11 a.m., (800) 403-0206, palisadestahoe.com
Guided Kayak Tours
Sugar Pine Point State Park, Tahoma, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., (530) 583-9911, sierrastateparks.org
American Century Golf Championship
Edgewood Tahoe Resort, Stateline, noon, (844) 2079179, edgewoodtahoe.com
MONDAY, JULY 17
Crawl Space Baby and Toddler Program
South Lake Tahoe Library, South Lake Tahoe, 10 a.m., (530) 573-3185, eldoradolibrary.org
TUESDAY, JULY 18
Farmers Market
American Legion Hall parking lot, South Lake Tahoe, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., eldoradofarmersmarket.com
Truckee Tuesday Farmers Market
Truckee River Regional Park, Truckee, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., facebook.com/truckeecertifiedfarmersmarket
Play and Learn Program
South Lake Tahoe Library, 9 a.m., (530) 573-3185
Family Storytime
Incline Village Library, 10:30 a.m., (775) 832-4130
Preschool Storytime
Kings Beach Library, Kings Beach, 10:30 a.m., (530) 546-2021, placer.ca.gov/2093/Library
Spellbinders Magic Show
Zephyr Cove Library, Zephyr Cove, 11 a.m., (775) 5886411, library.douglascountynv.gov
Reading Furends
Zephyr Cove Library, Zephyr Cove, 3:30 p.m., (775) 588-6411, library.douglascountynv.gov
Barton Performance Golf Series
Barton Health, South Lake Tahoe, 5:30-6:30 p.m., (530) 541-3420, bartonhealth.org/tahoe/home.aspx
WEDNESDAY, JULY 19
Storytime
Zephyr Cove Library, Zephyr Cove, 11 a.m., (775) 5886411, library.douglascountynv.gov
Mommy & Me Support Group Toddler
Barton 4th Street Classroom, South Lake Tahoe, 1-2 p.m., (530) 541-3420, bartonhealth.org
Meyers Mountain Market Farmers Market
Tahoe Paradise Park , South Lake Tahoe, 3-7:30 p.m., (805) 857-4103, meyersmtnmarket.org
Movies on the Beach
Commons Beach, Tahoe City, 6 p.m., tcpud.org
Wild Wednesdays
Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care, South Lake Tahoe, 6-7 p.m., (530) 577-2273, ltwc.org
Jumping into the cool waters of a mountain lake is a highly sought-after summer activity in the Tahoe Sierra. Seeking solace paddling on an alpine lake somewhere away from the crowds, surrounded by tall pines and craggy granite, is an awe-inspiring meditative experience.
Stillness, beauty and nature are a draw to the area for many nature lovers. In some cases, a picnic by the water’s edge where the family can enjoy a view from the shore is another lake adventure that requires little effort.
Finding quiet in a busy tourist town can be a challenge but there are hundreds of lakes within a short distance of Lake Tahoe. Some require a hike or short walk to get to for swimming or picnicking. The longer the hike, the quieter it’ll be.
Lakes of Donner Summit
Donner Summit has several beautiful lakes within easy reach. Serene Lakes, also called Ice Lakes, is in Soda Springs off Old 40 (Donner Pass Road). It is two lakes, Serene Lake and Lake
Dulzura, and once provided ice for San Francisco in the days before refrigeration. Quiet and beautiful Serene Lakes is perfect for swimming, paddling and picnicking.
Long Lake, Cascade Lake and Kidd Lake are also in Soda Springs located beyond Royal Gorge Cross-Country Resort. I love this area. Access to the lakes is on a long, bumpy, dirt road; all-wheel drive is recommended. There is a parking lot and a short hike to the lakes. Swimming, paddling, hiking and lying around are all welcome activities to enjoy here. The view of the craggy Devil’s Peak is a stunning backdrop. On the north side of Donner Summit Lakes Trail, Angela, Flora and Azalea lakes are along the Pacific Crest Trail These lakes are perfect for an easy hike and picnic. Start at the PCT Trailhead just off the Boreal exit off Interstate 80. There’s no swimming in Lake Angela, but a lovely trail surrounds the lake. It can be accessed by Donner Ski Ranch off Old 40. Check for road closure
CONTINUED ON PAGE 20
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 information for Old Highway 40 before taking this route otherwise use I-80.
The reservoirs of Truckee Prosser, Boca and Stampede reservoirs in Truckee are the perfect summer playgrounds. The farther in you go, the less crowded it gets. Paddles, picnics, hikes and swims are all fair game at these locations. There are also some lovely mountain bike trails around Prosser Reservoir area and out to Stampede via the Emigrant Trail. And the wildflowers are spectacular. Take the Hirschdale exit off I-80 to access Boca and Stampede or take Highway 89 North of Truckee to reach Prosser.
Shirley Lake
If a hike and swim are on the day’s adventure list, try the Shirley Canyon hike to Shirley Lake, where waterfalls and granite abound. Located in Olympic Valley, the trail can be wet, snowy and sometimes hard to find. It is well-traveled in the summer. A swim in the lake is cold and refreshing. The hike to the lake is about 3 miles uphill and involves a lot of hiking over rocks.
Five Lakes is a 4-mile hike that intersects with the Pacific Crest Trail with, well, five lakes to explore. The trailhead can be accessed along Alpine Meadows Road. Enjoy a crisp alpine swim and a
picnic along the way. This hike is steep and sun-exposed; best to get out early. Note the trail is closed to dogs until July 15 for deer fawning.
Independence Lake, Webber Lake, Lake of the Woods and Jackson Meadow Reservoir are lovely lakes located off Highway 89 north of Truckee.
Truckee Donner Land Trust and the Nature Conservancy protect many of these lakes that make for great family adventures, camping, picnicking, paddling and swimming. Webber Lake is also the headwater of Little Truckee River and reservations for camping lakeside go quickly.
Independence Lake is reached by a bumpy dirt road that recommends 4WD but you’ll be rewarded by the trip. To protect the lake, only the boats and kayaks at the lake may be used in its waters.
Jackson Meadow Reservoir offers excellent opportunities for paddling, swimming, hiking or camping.
Most local lakes and reservoirs allow swimming, while some do not (the ones that supply drinking water). Best to know before you go.
Be a good steward while enjoying Tahoe. Always pack it in and pack it out. Take any trash with you and clean up after your dog. Dog poop pollutes lakes and waterways n
If a hike and swim are on the day’s adventure list, try the Shirley Canyon hike to Shirley Lake, where waterfalls and granite abound.
Visit
5-8:30PM • Historic Downtown Truckee
SUMMER FUN
Always check operating schedules before visiting. No smoking or vaping of cigarettes, e-cigarettes or marijuana.
DISC GOLF
EAST SHORE
INCLINE VILLAGE
(775) 832-1300 | inclinerecreation.com
18-hole course at Incline Park at 980 Incline Way. Free. Daily dawn-dusk. TART
PUBLIC POOLS
(775) 832-1300 | inclinerecreation.com
Thank
NORTH SHORE
NORTH TAHOE REGIONAL PARK
(530) 546-4212 | northtahoeparks.com
18-hole, o National Ave. Parking $5. Daily dawn-dusk. TART
PALISADES TAHOE’S HIGH CAMP
(530) 583-6985 | palisadestahoe.com
18-hole course. Disc rentals. Tram ticket required. TART
SOUTH SHORE +
BIJOU COMMUNITY PARK
A mostly flat and moderately wooded course with 27 holes covering 8,324 feet. On Al Tahoe Blvd. o Hwy 50. BlueGo
DISCWOOD
(209) 258-7277 | kirkwood.com
Experience disc golf at 7,800 feet at Kirkwood Resort.The 18hole course weaves through the trees and over mountainous terrain. Free.
TAHOE PARADISE PARK tahoeparadisepark.com
9-hole course in Meyers.
TURTLE ROCK PARK CAMPGROUND
(530) 694-2140 | alpinecounty.ca.gov | Closed for repairs Located in Markleeville.
ZEPHYR COVE
18 holes covering 5,256 feet with holes of varying lengths. On Warrior Way. BlueGo
TRUCKEE
DONNER SKI RANCH
(530) 426-3635 | donnerskiranch.com
18-hole course. Free to play; must register at restaurant.
SIERRA COLLEGE
(530) 550-2225
18 holes on campus. Free. Daily dawn-dusk. TART
TRUCKEE RIVER REGIONAL PARK (530) 582-7720 | tdrpd.com
18-hole course, o Brockway Road. Dogs must be on leash. Free. Daily dawn-dusk. TART
GEOCACHING
OLYMPIC VALLEY
(800) 403-0206 | palisadestahoe.com
High-tech treasure hunt on mountain using GPS to find 10 caches. Free with Aerial Tram ticket. TART
MINI GOLF COURSES
SHOPS AT HEAVENLY theshopsatheavenly.com
10 a.m.-8 p.m. daily
VILLAGE AT NORTHSTAR northstarcalifornia.com
Free. First-come, first-served. TART
25-yard, 8-lane indoor pool at Incline Recreation Center, swim lessons, aqua fitness, 1-meter spring diving board, inflatable slide (weekends). Daily rates & memberships available. TART
OLYMPIC VALLEY
(800) 403-0206 | palisadestahoe.com | Closed Swimming Lagoon & Spa at High Camp at Palisades Tahoe, free form lagoon with 50-meter lap lanes, two islands with waterfalls and native boulders. TART
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE
(530) 542-6056 | cityofslt.com
25-yard indoor/outdoor year-round pool. Lessons. BlueGo
TRUCKEE
(530) 582-7720 | tdrpd.com
Lap & recreation pool. Kids swimming area, slides.TART
ROCK CLIMBING WALLS
TRUCKEE
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER
(530) 582-7720 | tdrpd.com
O ers 29’ climbing wall & 12’ bouldering wall. All ages & levels. Lessons available. TART
SKATE PARKS
EAST SHORE
INCLINE SKATE PARK
(775) 832-1300 | inclinerecreation.com
Intermediate/advanced area with two, 5-foot tall bowls with a spine, 3-foot box and 2.5 foot bowl for beginners. Street course on top, with 8-foot flat rail, 6-foot down rail, four stairs and a 10-foot downward ramp. Corner Hwy. 28 & Southwood. Daily dawn-dusk. TART
SOUTH SHORE
BIJOU COMMUNITY PARK
cityofslt.us
Bijou Community Park features a skateboard park on Al Tahoe Boulevard o Highway 50. BlueGo
SKATEHOUSE
@skatetahoe
40’x80’ warehouse with indoor skate rink. 867 Eloise, South Lake Tahoe.
TAHOE CITY
SCOTTY LAPP MEMORIAL SKATE PARK scottylappmemorialskatepark.org
4,000-square-foot pop-up park behind the old Blue Agave building. Friday-Sunday 10 a.m.-sunset until the snow flies.
TART
TRUCKEE
TRUCKEE RIVER REGIONAL PARK
(530) 582-7720 | tdrpd.com
Truckee River Regional Park with several bowls with a spine and channel, a long rail and ledges. Knee and elbow pads and helmets required. Free. Daily dawn-10 p.m. TART
WOODWARD TAHOE
(530) 426-1114 | rideboreal.com
Featuring two skateparks – The Sierra Skatepark and the Eastern Sierra Skatepark, and indoor skate park at The Bunker.
You’ve finally made to your summer vacation in Tahoe and the kids keep asking “What are we doing tomorrow?” You’d be content to spend the week at the beach with a good book, but a kid’s idea of fun involves lots of activities and lots of time in the water. To help make those plans for tomorrow, here’s my picks for making the most of your time in Tahoe.
You’ll find options and even a few deals for many of these outings in this edition from our clients who support Tahoe Weekly through their advertising. You’ll also find some great options for dining out. Please be mindful of our fragile environment on your outings and only park in designated areas. Carry trash bags and pack out all of your trash (including your dog poop) and there may not be restrooms. While 17 million people visit Tahoe annually, only about 40,000 live here year-round so our resources are limited.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 25
Come tr y all THREE Aerial Adventure Parks... 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 clipped in to a safet y line!) N o expe r i e n ce o r spec i a l e q u i pm e nt necessar y.
Hours of unforgettable, super-fun outdoor ac tivity for the whole family! And a great way for visitors to experience what Tahoe’s all about. Courses for Adults, Teambuilding Groups, & Kids 6 + . Reser vations HIGHLY recommended (and required in the Summer!)
call 530-807-1004 or visit: Ta h o eTre e to p. co m
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23
There has never been a time when kids of all ages had more options for activities than now, but the one absolutely must-do for a summer in Tahoe is to get out on the water.
Cruise | Take a cruise on Lake Tahoe. Whether you rent a boat or take a sailing or boat cruise, you’ll remember your outing for years to come.
Paddle | There are a plethora of options to rent SUP, kayaks and even outrigger canoes. Or take a guided kayak or SUP tour with a local outfitter.
Ski & surf | For the more adventuresome kids, sign up for wakesurfing, wakeboarding or waterskiing lessons. Float | The rafting companies that operate on the Truckee River between Tahoe City and Alpine Meadows aren’t operating this summer, but you can bring your own rafts to enjoy this 5-mile gentle float (be prepared to paddle due to low water).
Ride the rapids | Whitewater rafting further down the Truckee River is amazing this year and older kids will enjoy this thrilling adventure. Explore local lakes | There are many other lakes besides Lake Tahoe to enjoy. Read our feature “Beyond Big Blue” in this edition.
Lifejackets are required in California and Nevada for kids younger than 13 on all vessels (including SUP and kayaks).
Beach time
Tahoe beaches get crowded fast so head out by 8 a.m. and plan on having to walk as parking fills up. I recommend a foldable beach wagon to haul all your gear along with little ones. I also recommend avoiding the East Shore beaches until after Labor Day; it’s not worth the hassle or getting towed. Find a list of local beaches in this edition or at TheTahoeWeekly.com/beaches.
Take to the trees
Climbing and soaring through the treetops is an amazing experience and a kid favorite. Tahoe Treetop Adventures offer three locations on the North Shore or enjoy zip lining at Heavenly.
Adventure awaits at Heavenly Heavenly offers a plethora of kid-friendly summer outings at Tamarack Lodge. Ride the Gondola to the top (be sure to stop at the Observation Deck for spectacular views) and enjoy a day riding the zip line, the Mountain Coaster, gem panning, the climbing wall and tubing.
Explore Palisades Tahoe
Palisades Tahoe may be closed for skiing, but summer adventures await at High Camp from roller skating with a view of Lake Tahoe, to playing disc golf, exploring the wildflower-filled
2435 Venice Dr., South Lake Tahoe, CA 530.573.1928 | birkholmswatersports.com
TUESDAYS TRUCKEE | 4–5pm Warehouse, 12116 Chandelle Way, Unit 2D WEDNESDAYS K INGS BEACH | 3–4:30pm
Community House, 265 Bear St
THURSDAYS INCLINE VILLAGE | 2:30–3:30pm
St. Patrick’s Church, 341 Village Blvd
Anyone can pick up a bag and no application, ID, or proof of income is required. Home delivery is available on a case by case basis. To sign-up or cancel, e-mail food@sierracommunityhouse.org or call 530-546-0952 . Check website for updates: SierraCommunityHouse.org
1842-1942
Explore
Presented
Until Aug. 16 (Wed.)
Movies on the Beach | Tahoe City | tcpud.org
Until Aug. 30 (Wed.)
Wildlife Wednesdays | South Lake Tahoe | ltwc.org
Until Sept. 30 (select days)
Truckee River Railroad | Truckee River Regional Park | tdrrs.org
July 14
Classical Tahoe Student Showcase | UNR Lake Tahoe | classicaltahoe.org
July 15 & 16
Gold Discovery Days | Plumas-Eureka State Park | plumas-eureka.org
July 22
Kids’ Fishing Day | Packer Lake | fs.usda.gov/tahoe
July 24-Aug. 3
Young Shakespeare | Area venues | laketahoeshakespeare.com
July 30
Classical Tahoe Family Day & Concert | UNR Lake Tahoe | classicaltahoe.org
Aug. 12
Pine Lodge 120th Birthday | Sugar Pine Point State Park | sierrastateparks.org
Aug. 12 & 13
Ta-Hoe Nalu Paddle Festival | Kings Beach | tahoenalu.com
Aug. 25 & 26
Truckee Professional Rodeo | Truckee | truckeerodeo.org
Sept. 17
Family Farm Festival | KidZone Museum | kidzonemuseum.org
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25
meadows or geocaching. For a more exhilarating adventure, climb the Tram Face on the Via Ferrata.
Take a boat ride out onto Lake Tahoe, clip into a massive parasail with your family (up to three people) and then gently ascend into the blue skies above for an amazing experience. This gentle ride is a must-do summer activity.
Take the tykes out on Tahoe’s many trails to explore nature. Don’t expect them to tackle long hikes, but instead focus on making the experience one they want to repeat. Local state parks are ideal for family outings with nature trails for easy exploration. Make it fun by asking them to find wildflowers or look for bugs under rocks. Download the iNaturalist app so they can take photos to identify their discoveries and participate in citizen science.
Start kids out on easy mountain bike trails at local parks or take them on a downhill mountain biking adventure at Northstar, Kirkwood, Donner Ski Ranch, Sky Tavern or Boreal.
One of the most unique experiences you can enjoy is an evening under the stars with Tahoe Star Tours. Star guide Tony Berendsen provides a fascinating and inspiring look into the night sky with his mix of easy-to-understand facts, astro poetry and, of course, viewing celestial objects through high-powered telescopes at several locations.
If it’s raining out or the kids need a break from the sun, take them indoors. There are bowling alleys on both sides of the lake, several indoor climbing walls, an indoor skate park and an indoor mini-golf course (both in South Lake Tahoe), an escape room and Woodward Tahoe adventure park.
Make the most of any outing in Tahoe by remembering that Lake Tahoe is at 6,223’ meaning you are a lot closer to the sun (and a sunburn) then you are at home so heed our tips:
• Always wear sunscreen & reapply
• Always wear a hat
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes
• Drink lots of water; avoid sugary drinks
• Consider a shade structure
• Wear sun shirts with UPF protection
• Purchase water shoes; many beaches are rocky n
Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 19)
Home and family combine with fun, games, and the prospects of new love. Even long-standing relationships could experience a reset for romance. Otherwise, the energy will ideally be channeled into more playful, creative, and even artistic activities. Just be careful that selfish desire does not dampen the mood.
Taurus (Apr 20 – May 20)
You have been in a mood to get to the bottom of things for the past several weeks. Positively, this has proven to be a satisfying and productive process during which you are cleaning and improving where it is needed. This push will go to the next level this week, but you are cautioned to take extra care.
Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21)
Getting clear on what you want and do not and need and do not is a central theme now. This process of prioritization comes around periodically and is strong now. All the while, a restless mood is agitating you to step out and do something new with an emphasis on social engagement.
Cancer (Jun 22 – Jul 22)
You have come around an important corner and you have begun to accelerate. Somehow entering new territory is indicated. Your energy levels are probably running high as a weave of desire and passion pushes you to make your ambitions known. A spirit of surrender lingers in the background.
Leo (Jul 23 – Aug 23)
In some respects, you feel a surge of energy with abundant power drive supporting you to be more assertive. On the other hand, you are happy to be busy behind the scenes and yearn for quietude. This is the perfect combination to be busy in your creative space and/or to enjoy private time with your lover.
Virgo (Aug 24 – Sep 22)
A career push continues to guide your focus. By now, it has entered a phase of experimentation and invention to meet the challenge of the changing times. This trend will continue so trust your hunches that it is a good time to consider new approaches and to wow the world with a new you.
Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 22)
A philosophical mood lingers, even though you also feel moved to get more attention, or at least more action, in your public and professional life. Taking an alternate approach is also indicated. Perhaps you do simply want a promotion, but one that comes with a new career altogether.
Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21)
Some rather deep activation sparked by the Gemini New Moon a couple of weeks ago is invariably producing deep changes within you. Like shedding old skin, the process may not be comfortable, but there is a high side to
feeling like you are able to let go of stagnant thought patterns, attitudes, and approaches.
Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21)
Your relationship life continues to undergo changes. You may notice that deeper themes are brewing and it may feel like a part of you is dying. Yet remember, a rebirth of some kind follows death, and the reference is metaphorical. Engage by entertaining new possibilities and exploring new approaches.
Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19)
A steady flow of shifts and changes in your overall lifestyle ideally includes both improvements of some kind and an emphasis on a deeper and more intimate engagement with the significant other(s) in your life. With your passions running so strongly, you are bound to make a big impression.
Aquarius (Jan 20 – Feb 19)
A creative and playful mood prevails. It is one that is calling you out to explore new territory. Independence is a keyword and is perhaps the best way to engage this energy pattern. Be as resourceful as you can and be careful of expectations of how others will meet you; be ready to adapt quickly to other interests.
Pisces (Feb 20 – Mar 20)
The emphasis on home and family continues. This could well include practical projects. Giving more than you might feel the desire to is part of the plot. This is where an added measure of determination and strength of character to support your resolve is required to see you through to completion.
Artists in Residence
Tallac Historic Site, South Lake Tahoe, July 5-19, 9 a.m., (530) 544-7383, thegreatbasininstitute.org
Lake Tahoe Historical Maps 1849-1932
Gatekeepers Museum, Tahoe City, July 5-19, 11 a.m., (530) 583-1762, northtahoemuseums.org
Through Tahoe’s Lens:
Early 20th Century Photography
Gatekeepers Museum, Tahoe City, July 5-19, 11 a.m., (530) 583-1762, northtahoemuseums.org
Summer Art Show
Tahoe Art League, South Lake Tahoe, July 6-16, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., (530) 544-2313, talart.org
Saturday Makers Market
Tahoe Backyard, Kings Beach, July 8, 3-7 p.m., tahoebackyard.com
Tuesday Night Artists’ Talks
University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe, Incline
Village, July 11-18, 6 p.m., unr.edu
Poetry at the Backyard
Tahoe Backyard, Kings Beach, July 12, 6-8 p.m., tahoebackyard.com
Meet the Artist: Maya Eventov
Marcus Ashley Fine Art Gallery, South Lake Tahoe, July 14-15, noon to 5 p.m., (530) 544-4278, marcusashley.com
Arts & Crafts Fair
Graeagle.com, Graeagle, July 15-16, graeagle.com
ly do love to read,” she says.
When she’s working on a book, she doesn’t read books in the romance-comedy (aka rom-com) genre. It’s important for her not to absorb anything from a book in the genre in which she is writing while working on a project. Her process for writing includes a detailed outline before she starts a new book.
For “The Sweetheart List” she had an idea in her head. After she fleshes out her ideas, sees them in her mind’s eye, she writes a synopsis. She outlines the turning points, conflicts, dark moments and resolutions, breaking them into scenes and then she begins to write.
“It doesn’t mean that I write it from start to end without getting stuck.
Sometimes the roadmap is wrong and I have to go back and adjust my outline,” she says.
What advice does she give to aspiring writers?
Every so often during an interview there is a person who stands out, one I am profoundly struck by and have an unexplained connection. Author Jill Shalvis is one such person. Shalvis was a delight to speak with. Her passion for the craft of writing was palpable. I felt like I was seeing an old friend.
A prolific writer, a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Shalvis has published more than 100 books. Her latest, “The Sweetheart List,” set in Tahoe was just released. And what a fun read it is. “The Sweetheart List” is the fourth book in Shalvis’ Sunrise Cove Series. Each book in the series is a stand-alone book. The series is tied together by location, which in this case is Lake Tahoe.
Shalvis says she’s been writing since she could talk. She took journalism in college but tended to embellish the truth and realized that fiction was truly her calling. Her heart is in fiction. She loves creating stories, telling them to herself and sharing those stories with her thousands of fans.
Shalvis started writing in the romance genre. “I started doing Harlequin romances,” she says.
In the past 10 years Shalvis began writing larger books. She writes two books a year and it generally takes her five to six months to write each one.
Although she writes fiction, she admits that there is some part of her in each story. While reading “The Sweetheart List,” I recognized that Shalvis and her main character had similarities: both were originally from a city, both ended up in Tahoe and both love animals. “I’m not sure how to write a book without pieces of me,” says Shalvis.
“The fact is writing is hard. This is not an easy job. There’s no one standing over you every day saying, ‘Did you put your eight hours in?’ Writing requires discipline,” she says. “If you have a dream and it’s writing a book, you should try. It’s not easy. It’s an interesting and challenging job. If you are sure you want to be a writer, don’t give up. You have to read to be a good writer.”
When Shalvis gets stuck in her writing process she may need to step aside. She says for her it requires going out and living life. She cautions that writers can’t write in a bubble.
“You have to be living your life in order to write,” she says, adding that sometimes it is difficult to get unstuck.
She finds solace and inspiration in nature. She has lived in Tahoe since 1998 and much like the main character, Harper, in her new book, Shalvis packed up her family and moved to Tahoe many years ago. She loves the outdoors. Her favorite cookie is Lemon Oreos.
She never writes characters based on people in her life but creates her characters. She admits that when she’s writing it’s as if she’s opening a vein and bleeding.
“Writing fills my cup, watching TV fills my cup, life fills my cup and I real-
For those who love the rom-com genre, reading such novels offers a feel-good escape that tugs on the heart. Her books have drama and humor; they pull on the heartstrings.
According to Shalvis, when it comes to reading: “The heart wants what it wants. Comfort reads are like mac and cheese for the soul.” n
“The fact is writing is hard. This is not an easy job. There’s no one standing over you every day saying, ‘Did you put your eight hours in?’ Writing requires discipline.”
– Jill Shalvis
Grass Valley resident Lyman W. Gilmore may have dissed gravity when he took flight in a homemade airplane on May 15, 1902. A coal-fueled, steam-powered engine provided energy for lift. His 32-foot monoplane was genius in design, with a pilot compartment and innovative single wing covered with aluminum (likely the first) and retractable landing gear (another first). Skeptics sneered that the engine weight and its fuel supply were too heavy for takeoff and, perhaps more importantly — too heavy to allow for a sustained flight time. Nevertheless, during the early 20th Century the reclusive inventor, helped by his brother Charlie, allegedly piloted more than 20 flights from 100 yards to 1 mile or more in a controlled manner about 3 feet off the ground at Big Meadows in El Dorado County. Witnesses were few, but if true, the secretive Gilmore brothers preceded Orville and Wilbur Wright’s 1903 historically recognized first flight by at least a year.
The Gilmore brothers built two larger monoplanes and in 1912 a large crowd gathered to witness their debut. One failed to get off the ground and the other suffered a broken driveshaft before liftoff. The Gilmore’s Grass Valley Aerodrome hanger burned in 1935, destroying the aero planes and Lyman’s aeronautical drawings, but a 1907 photograph of the monoplane is evidence that his designs were at the vanguard of aircraft development. Lyman’s spirit lives on at Grass Valley’s Lyman Gilmore Middle School with the motto “Flying into the Future.”
Robert Fowler was born in San Francisco in 1884. In his 20s he was a well-known racecar driver in America and Europe. When he learned about the development of the newfangled flying machines, he wanted in. From then on, he was infected with the aviation bug and it defined him for life. Fowler earned widespread acclaim as an early aviation hero who set records and gained enduring fame.
In October 1910, publisher William Randolph Hearst offered a $50,000
prize to the first pilot to fly coast-tocoast, either direction, in 30 days or less, by Nov. 1, 1911. Fowler had no flying experience, but figured extensive cockpit training wasn’t required. He may have been right. Calbraith P. Rodgers, an avid motorcycle racer at the time, received 90 minutes of flying instruction from Orville Wright before soloing. Two months later he won $11,000 in an exhibition endurance competition.
Witnesses were few, but if true, the secretive Gilmore brothers preceded Orville and Wilbur Wright’s 1903 historically recognized first flight by at least a year.
On Sept. 11, 1911, with less than seven weeks remaining before the Hearst contest expired, Fowler took flight from San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park heading east. Thousands cheered for him to be the first to fly over the Sierra and the first to cross the country by air. (Just 45 years before this competition, the primary long-distance transportation vehicle was a covered wagon.)
Fowler’s only competitor, the aforementioned Rodgers, took off from Long Island, N.Y., on Sept. 17. A third pilot, James Ward, crashed and ended his quest after flying only a week.
These pioneer-era planes had range
and power limitations; in S.F. it took 10 men to push Fowler to takeoff speed. Crashes were expected so a crew of mechanics with spare parts followed via Southern Pacific Railroad, on the same tracks that Fowler intended to use as guidance in his flight across the Great Basin.
His idea of flying over Donner Pass at 7,056 feet in elevation was breathtaking. Reduced oxygen for the engine and erratic mountain winds were a real threat. After a short promo stop in Sacramento, Fowler landed in Auburn that evening after averaging about 50 mph.
According to Fowler’s 1966 obituary in the San Francisco Chronicle, he had only three hours of flying lessons with Orville Wright when he, “set out to conquer the continent by air, in a machine that weighed 200 pounds and had a maximum speed of 45 miles an hour.”
The statement is dubious, however. Fowler was flying a biplane with two propellers powered by a 30- to 40-horsepower Cole Motor Car Company engine. The plane weighed close to 900 pounds. The automobile engine was 200 pounds heavier than the original Wright motor installed in the aircraft and had a lower performance rating. Fowler, however, was certain that the Cole motor increased thrust and improved handling. He was willing to bet his life that it represented the future of aviation propulsion technology. Incidentally, Cole Motor Car Company was the financial sponsor of this widely publicized flight attempt.
The next morning, on Sept. 12, Fowler flew east toward Donner Pass, but as he climbed the Sierra west slope he ran into gusty headwinds. He reached Blue Canyon at elevation 4,700 feet where air
turbulence proved too much for the underpowered biplane. Just 25 miles west of the pass, he was forced to retreat.
Near Alta the bucking plane flipped in an updraft and crashed into trees that broke the wings, propellers and rudders. Fowler suffered minor injuries, but the “Cole Flyer” required 12 days of waiting for parts and repairs. Between Sept. 24 and 29, he charged to the summit several more times, once getting within a few miles of the pass, only to be blown back each attempt. Every flight risked injury or death.
Fowler failed to breach Donner Pass. Undaunted, he departed for southern California. On Oct. 19 he flew from Los Angeles toward Florida with no maps, no landing fields and no navigational directions. He arrived in Jacksonville on Feb. 17, 1912, becoming the second pilot to fly across the country.
Rodgers beat him by arriving in Los Angles on Nov. 5, 1911. Both pilots were too late to win the Hearst Prize, but for Fowler, who lived until 1966, it was just the first of many aviation accomplishments. Rodgers was killed in a plane crash on April 3, 1912. Donner Pass was finally conquered by air in 1919 with a 90-HP engine. n
CLASSIC ROCK
July 12 | Music in the Park | Truckee
Truckee-based Down The Rabbit Hole provides great harmonies and solid, danceable, 1980s through 2000s rock ‘n’ roll with a mountain town twist. They will be performing a free concert at Truckee River Regional Park’s Amphitheater. | tdrpd.org
BLUES
July 14 | Music on the Beach | Kings Beach
Read our Summer Music, Events & Festivals Guide at TheTahoeWeekly.com for a complete summer lineup
Thelake. The mountains. The music. It’s all there at Classical Tahoe, an unparalleled celebration of music on the idyllic campus of University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe in Incline Village, Nev.
This year’s festival features a selection of stunning international artists including German-Canadian cellist Johannes Moser who grew up in a musical family. His mother is renowned Canadian soprano Edith Wiens, his father, Kai, played cello with the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, and his brother, Benjamin, is a distinguished pianist.
Buddy Emmer Blues Band has been a longtime favorite on the West Coast and Northern Nevada circuit. A versatile party band whose musical style includes every form of blues from the 1930s up to modern, this rockin’ group will be sure to get you moving to the music. Tahoe Weekly is a sponsor. | northtahoebusiness.org
PERFORMANCE ART
July 7 | Alibi Ale Works | Incline Village, Nev.
“My earliest musical memory was before I was born,” says Moser. “My mom was performing with me eight months pregnant.”
As a young child, Moser joined Wiens on tour where he was exposed to the world of classical music. After a brief and tortuous stint on violin, he turned to cello and never looked back.
“I loved those low frequencies,” he says, “and the versality of it is just wonderful.”
Moser now lives in Vienna, Austria, where he strolls by the many apartments in which his favorite composer, Beethoven, once lived and worked.
“Apparently, he was a terrible tenant,” says Moser. “I guess that’s the price you pay for genius. He brings into his music both the joy and the struggle of human experience.”
“It’s about a fallen hero because Elgar wrote it in 1919 after World War One,” says Moser. “Old Europe was laying in ruins. He was not only writing a beautiful concerto, but also describing the loss of his world. You start from the moment of despair and try to branch out and bloom from that.”
The song cycle ends with Brahms’ searchingly triumphant “Symphony No. 2 in D Major.” When Moser takes the stage with his Andrea Guarneri cello built in 1694, he is there for one primary goal: to communicate with his audience.
“I find that an audience is just as important to a musical performance as the performer themselves,” he says. “There is some energy there that is more than the sum of its parts. When an audience is willing to go with that collectively, it can be very powerful.”
The inaugural Gambler’s Run Music Festival comes to the Crown Room and a special outdoor stage at Crystal Bay Club in Crystal Bay, Nev., from July 14 to 16. Led by three nights of Maryland party band Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, this stacked lineup showcases an assorted Tahoe blend of jam, funk, EDM, reggae and bluegrass.
For Americana, you’ve got Shovels & Rope; Dustbowl Revival; Hot Buttered Rum; The Waydown Wanderers; Goodnight Texas; Moontricks and The Lil Smokies.
“Iconic Women in Music” combines out-of-this-world, aerial acts and high-energy dance numbers by the
Moser performs at the Classical Tahoe Ricardi Pavilion on July 21 as part of a night of moving music entitled, “A Hero’s Journey.” The sequence, inspired by a universal human myth created by American writer Joseph Campbell, will begin with rising Serbian conductor Daniela Candillari leading the Classical Tahoe Orchestra through Beethoven’s “Overture to Fidelio,” the opening piece from his only opera.
Then comes Moser’s interpretation of Edwin Elgar’s “Cello Concerto in E Minor.”
Classical Tahoe begins its 2023 season with the Brubeck Jazz Summit from July 9 to 14. Season highlights include superstar violinist Tessa Lark, who arrives on July 28 for a special event called “Made in America.” Swiss pianist Gilles Vonsattel performs Rachmaninoff’s “Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini” on July 29. German conductor Ruth Reinhardt takes over on Aug. 4 with “In the Air” starring clarinetist Daniel Gilbert and juggler Frank Olivier and on Aug. 5 with “Drumroll, Please, starring harpist Emmanuel Ceysson. | classicaltahoe.org
Looking for jam bands? Some of the hardest-hitting, under-the-radar groups such as The Higgs, The Magic Beans and Dogs in a Pile will be there. SunSquabi and Paper Idol deliver high-energy EDM. And then there’s the jazzy explorations of Moon Hooch. Local bands Pipe Down, Jenni & Jesse Dunn and Six Mile Station also perform.
But it doesn’t stop there. You can’t sleep on Big Sam’s Funky Nation, Con Brio or the Hawaiian sounds of Kanekoa. Newgrass pioneers Yonder Mountain String Band, Tauk and Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown play the latenight parties. This festival’s got a little something for everyone. | devildogshows.com n
100% Local, Grass-fed, Grass-finished Beef
Weekly Farmer’s Markets
TRUCKEE – Tuesdays, 8am -1pm
TAHOE CITY – Thursdays, 8am-1pm
MEYERS MOUNTAIN MARKET –Wednesdays, 3 -7:30pm
FOR MORE INFO | Sign up for our newsletter Order Online at bradleygrassfedbeef.com
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31
the vulnerability, power and grace of local women as they take you on a journey through the peaks and valleys of influential female musical geniuses from throughout the years. This special show is dedicated to beloved Tahoe Flow Arts founder Kelly Smiley who passed away in 2022. | alibialeworks.com
ROCK ‘N’ ROLL
July 13 | Live at Lakeview | S. Lake Tahoe
Visit TheTahoeWeekly.com/ Events to add your Event for our print & online calendars.
Live Music
Bar of America, Truckee, 9 p.m.
Karaoke Nights
Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 10 p.m.
FRIDAY, JULY 7
Sunsets Live Music Series
Village at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley, 5-7 p.m.
Live Music
Sunnyside Resort, Tahoe City, 5:30 p.m.
Heavenly Village Summer Concert Series
Shops at Heavenly Village, S. Lake Tahoe, 5:45 p.m.
Live Music
Cottonwood Restaurant, Truckee, 6 p.m.
Bacon Drive
Jason’s Beachside Grille, Kings Beach, 6 p.m.
“As far as styles goes, it’s truly all over the map, to define is to confine,” says Green. “We have funk, jazz, Latin, pop, ballads, blues, electronic, rock, folk. I’d like to think a little something for everyone.”
Downhome South Lake funk rockers, Bread and Butter Band, led by Alabama vocalist Lindsay Cheek, will open the lakeside show. | liveatlakeview.com
WEDNESDAY, JULY 5
Heavenly Village Summer Concert Series
Shops at Heavenly Village, S.Lake Tahoe, 5:45 p.m.
Bacon Drive
Jason’s Beachside Grille, Kings Beach, 6 p.m.
Music in the Park
Truckee River Regional Park, Truckee, 6:30 p.m.
Red, White & Tahoe Blue: A Salute to America
Robert Z Hawkins Amphitheater, Reno, 7 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Robert Hall
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 & 9 p.m.
Little Shop of Horrors
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Incline Village, 7:30 p.m.
THURSDAY, JULY 6
Red Dirt Ruckus
Lakeview Commons, S. Lake Tahoe, 4:30-8:30 p.m.
Alice and the Wonderlandz
Tahoe Wine Collective, Tahoe City, 5 p.m.
Heavenly Village Summer Concert Series
Shops at Heavenly Village, S. Lake Tahoe, 5:45 p.m.
Bacon Drive
Jason’s Beachside Grille, Kings Beach, 6 p.m.
Open Mic Night
Cottonwood Restaurant, Truckee, 6-9 p.m.
Wolves & Friends Live
The Good Wolf, Truckee, 6:30 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Chase Hasty
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 & 9 p.m.
Little Shop of Horrors
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Incline Village, 7:30 p.m.
Bradley and Son Cattle-Durham, CA
Men On Boats
Valhalla Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, 7:30 p.m.
Music in the Meadow
The Brewing Lair, Blairsden, 6 p.m.
Music on the Beach: Free Concert Fridays
Kings Beach State Recreation Area, 6-8:30 p.m.
Karaoke Night
Brewery & Barrel House, Incline Village, 6-9 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Chase Hasty
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 p.m.
Red, White & Tahoe Blue: A Salute to America
Truckee High School, Truckee, 7-9 p.m.
Little Shop of Horrors
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Incline Village, 7:30 p.m.
Men On Boats
Valhalla Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, 7:30 p.m.
Iconic Women in Music W/Honey Vixen
Alibi Ale Works, Incline Village, 8 p.m.
Clay Walker
Bally’s, Stateline, 8 p.m.
Fever Dream
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Stateline, 8 p.m.
Rustler’s Moon
Gar Woods Grill & Pier, Carnelian Bay, 8-11 p.m.
Dueling Pianos
Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
Live Music
Bar of America, Truckee, 9 p.m.
Arty the Party
Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.
Magic After Dark Starring Robert Hall
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.
Live DJ
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Stateline, 10 p.m.
Karaoke Nights
Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 10 p.m.
SATURDAY, JULY 8
Drag Brunch
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Stateline, 10:30 a.m.
Live Music
Beacon Bar & Grill, South Lake Tahoe, 1-5 p.m.
Coyote Bluff Music Festival
Coyote Bluff, Truckee, 3-10 p.m.
Music at the Castle
Emerald Bay State Park, S. Lake Tahoe, 4:45-7:30 p.m.
Music by the Meadow
Pizza On the Hill, Truckee, 5-7 p.m.
Heavenly Village Summer Concert Series
Shops at Heavenly Village, S. Lake Tahoe, 5:45 p.m.
Bacon Drive
Jason’s Beachside Grille, Kings Beach, 6 p.m.
Beatles Flashback
Marie Sluchak Park, Tahoma, 6 p.m.
Music in the Meadow
The Brewing Lair, Blairsden, 6 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Chase Hasty
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 & 9 p.m.
Little Shop of Horrors
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Incline Village, 7:30 p.m.
Men On Boats
Valhalla Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, 7:30 p.m.
Fever Dream
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Stateline, 8 p.m.
Rustler’s Moon
Gar Woods Grill & Pier, Carnelian Bay, 8-11 p.m.
Dueling Pianos
Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
Live Music
Bar of America, Truckee, 9 p.m.
Arty the Party
Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.
Live DJ
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Stateline, 10 p.m.
Karaoke Nights
Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 10 p.m.
Live Music
Beacon Bar & Grill, South Lake Tahoe, 1-5 p.m.
Concerts at Commons Beach
Commons Beach, Tahoe City, 4 p.m.
SoL Sunday Summer Concert Series
SoL Cannabis, Washoe City, 4:15-7:45 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Chase Hasty
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 4:30 p.m.
Heavenly Village Summer Concert Series
Shops at Heavenly Village, S.Lake Tahoe, 5:45 p.m.
Kurt Beckering
Jason’s Beachside Grille, Kings Beach, 6 p.m.
Red, White & Tahoe Blue
Tahoe Paradise Park, South Lake Tahoe, 6-8 p.m.
Open Stage Sundays
Incline Public House, Incline Village, 6:30 p.m.
Brubeck Jazz Summit: Brubeck Brothers Quartet
Ft. Lucas Pino & Roxy Coss
Classical Tahoe Ricardi Pavilion, Incline Village, 7 p.m.
Moe’s Summer Concert Series
Moe’s Original Bar B Que, Tahoe City, 7 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Chase Hasty
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 & 9 p.m.
Little Shop of Horrors
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Incline Village, 7:30 p.m.
Men On Boats
Valhalla Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, 7:30 p.m.
Live DJ
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Stateline, 10 p.m.
MONDAY, JULY 10
Magic Fusion Starring Chase Hasty
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 & 9 p.m.
TUESDAY, JULY 11
Bluesdays
Village at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley, 6-8:30 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Chase Hasty
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 & 9 p.m.
Little Shop of Horrors
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Incline Village, 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday Night Karaoke
The Paddle Wheel Saloon, Incline Village, 8 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
Music in the Park
Truckee River Regional Park, Truckee, 6:30 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Matt Marcy
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 & 9 p.m.
Sammy Hagar & the Circle
Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 7:30 p.m.
Little Shop of Horrors
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Incline Village, 7:30 p.m.
Dueling Pianos
Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
THURSDAY, JULY 13
Ten Food Tiger w/ Bread & Butter
Lakeview Commons, S. Lake Tahoe, 4:30-8:30 p.m.
Open Mic Night
Cottonwood Restaurant, Truckee, 6-9 p.m.
Wolves & Friends Live
The Good Wolf, Truckee, 6:30 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Matt Marcy
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 & 9 p.m.
Brubeck Jazz Summit:
Brubeck Brothers With the All-Star Faculty
Classical Tahoe Ricardi Pavilion, Incline Village, 7:30 p.m.
Little Shop of Horrors
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Incline Village, 7:30 p.m.
Men On Boats
Valhalla Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, 7:30 p.m.
Dueling Pianos
Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
Live Music
Bar of America, Truckee, 9 p.m.
Karaoke Nights
Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 10 p.m.
FRIDAY, JULY 14
Gambler’s Run Music Festival
Crystal Bay Club, Crystal Bay, 1 p.m.
Sunsets Live Music Series
Village at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley, 5-7 p.m.
Live Music
Sunnyside Resort, Tahoe City, 5:30 p.m.
Heavenly Village Summer Concert Series
Shops at Heavenly Village, S. Lake Tahoe, 5:45 p.m.
Robbie Gade & Friends
Jason’s Beachside Grille, Kings Beach, 6 p.m.
Music on the Beach: Free Concert Fridays
Kings Beach State Recreation Area, 6-8:30 p.m.
Karaoke Night
Brewery & Barrel House, Incline Village, 6-9 p.m.
Brubeck Jazz Summit:
Summit Stars Student Showcase
Classical Tahoe Ricardi Pavilion, Incline Village, 7 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Matt Marcy
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 p.m.
Little Shop of Horrors
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Incline Village, 7:30 p.m.
Men On Boats
Valhalla Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, 7:30 p.m.
Fever Dream
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Stateline, 8 p.m.
Rustler’s Moon
Gar Woods Grill & Pier, Carnelian Bay, 8-11 p.m.
Dueling Pianos
Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
Live Music
Bar of America, Truckee, 9 p.m.
Gambler’s Run Music Festival After Party
Crystal Bay Club, Crystal Bay, 9 p.m.
Arty the Party
Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.
Magic After Dark Starring Robert Hall
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.
Live DJ
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Stateline, 10 p.m.
Karaoke Nights
Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 10 p.m.
Drag Brunch
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Stateline, 10:30 a.m.
Gambler’s Run Music Festival
Crystal Bay Club, Crystal Bay, 1 p.m.
Live Music
Beacon Bar & Grill, South Lake Tahoe, 1-5 p.m.
Music by the Meadow
Pizza On the Hill, Truckee, 5-7 p.m.
Heavenly Village Summer Concert Series
Shops at Heavenly Village, S. Lake Tahoe, 5:45 p.m.
Robbie Gade & Friends
Jason’s Beachside Grille, Kings Beach, 6 p.m.
Role Models
Marie Sluchak Park, Tahoma, 6 p.m.
Music in the Meadow
The Brewing Lair, Blairsden, 6 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Matt Marcy
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 & 9 p.m.
Little Shop of Horrors
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Incline Village, 7:30 p.m.
Men On Boats
Valhalla Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, 7:30 p.m.
Fever Dream
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Stateline, 8 p.m.
Rustler’s Moon
Gar Woods Grill & Pier, Carnelian Bay, 8-11 p.m.
Dueling Pianos
Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
Live Music
Bar of America, Truckee, 9 p.m.
Gambler’s Run Music Festival After Party
Crystal Bay Club, Crystal Bay, 9 p.m.
Arty the Party
Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.
Live DJ
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Stateline, 10 p.m.
Karaoke Nights
Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 10 p.m.
SUNDAY, JULY 16
Gambler’s Run Music Festival
Crystal Bay Club, Crystal Bay, 1 p.m.
Live Music Beacon Bar & Grill, South Lake Tahoe, 1-5 p.m.
Concerts at Commons Beach
Commons Beach, Tahoe City, 4 p.m.
Kurt Beckering
Jason’s Beachside Grille, Kings Beach, 6 p.m.
Open Stage Sundays
Incline Public House, Incline Village, 6:30 p.m.
Moe’s Summer Concert Series
Moe’s Original Bar B Que, Tahoe City, 7 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Matt Marcy
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 & 9 p.m.
Little Shop of Horrors
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Incline Village, 7:30 p.m.
Dueling Pianos
Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
Gambler’s Run Music Festival After Party
Crystal Bay Club, Crystal Bay, 9 p.m.
Live DJ
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Stateline, 10 p.m.
MONDAY, JULY 17
Magic Fusion Starring Matt Marcy
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Matt Marcy
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.
TUESDAY, JULY 18
Bluesdays
Village at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley, 6-8:30 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Matt Marcy
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 & 9 p.m.
Tahoe Improv Comedy Players
Valhalla Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday Night Karaoke
The Paddle Wheel Saloon, Incline Village, 8 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 19
Music in the Park
Truckee River Regional Park, Truckee, 6:30 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Matt Marcy
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 & 9 p.m.
The Disco Biscuits
Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 7:30 p.m.
Little Shop of Horrors
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Incline Village, 7:30 p.m.
Marty O’Reilly Trio
Valhalla Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, 7:30 p.m.
Find
food & libations | recipes | delicious events
Hiking up a mountain trail, taking a long bike ride or enjoying a day splashing around in a cold lake on a hot day are only a few reasons to visit Tahoe. It can get hot up here and nothing is more satisfying than grabbing an ice-cold, sweet treat to cool you down — no matter on which shore of Lake Tahoe you are. Here’s some of my picks to try this summer.
Aloha Ice Cream | Aloha Ice Cream Tahoe in South Lake Tahoe offers a unique twist on a cool treat: Thai-rolled ice cream. Owners Lorena and Jared Benvenuto make their ice cream, and each treat is made to order and takes 3 minutes to prepare.
“We do fun flavors, we use organic fruit and have plant-based vegan and gluten-free choices. We have something for everyone,” says Lorena. In addition to their Thai-rolled ice cream, Aloha Ice Cream offers traditional ice-cream flavors, as well as sundaes, shakes, malts, floats and one of my favorites, homemade ice-cream sandwiches. They also create ice-cream cakes for special occasions. | alohaicecreamtahoe.com
The Baked Bear | The Baked Bear was started by two childhood friends in San Diego. Their claim-to-fame is ice-cream sandwiches. They started a franchise business and the South Lake Tahoe location is the place to go if you love ice-cream sandwiches. Customize your favorite cookie with your favorite flavor of ice cream. There are many cookie choices: chocolate chip, cookies and cream, Nutella chocolate chunks and Snickerdoodle are just a few of the choices. Pair them with a scoop of ice cream, with equally unique flavors such as blackberry crumble, caramel pretzel fudge, mud pie, toasted s’mores or vegan chocolate chip. Then there are toppings to consider. Hot caramel, hot fudge, Nutella, whipped cream, mini chocolate chips and sprinkles are a few that can be added. The Baked Bear also offers vegan and gluten-free options. | thebakedbear.com
Tahoe Pops | Let’s talk popsicles, as in Tahoe Pops. Fruity or creamy they are always icy cold and refreshing. Tahoe Pops create artisan ice pops prepared
Visit
with Tahoe mountain water and fresh products. Their unique flavors include Thai Tea (a frozen, Thai iced tea in a popsicle, yum), hibiscus lemon, watermelon mojito and strawberry lemonade. They also offer traditional popsicle flavors to savor. Stop at the Tahoe Pops Shack at Ski Run Marina for a delicious refreshing popsicle. There are a number of markets around the lake where you can purchase them, including Raley’s in Truckee, SaveMart in Tahoe City and both the Tahoe City and Truckee New Moon locations. | tahoepops.com
Camp Richardson | Lake Tahoe Ice Cream Parlor at Camp Richardson is an excellent stop. Enjoy a delicious icecream sundae or scoop in a cone, while gazing up at Mount Tallac. They are known for their ice-cream sundaes and large scoops. They feature the classic flavors as well as green-tea, pineapple coconut and a fan favorite, mocha almond fudge. | camprichardson.com
North Lake Tahoe
Susie Scoops | Cruise north to Incline Village, Nev., and stop at Susie Scoops, where they source their ice cream from the Hoch Family Creamery in Carson Valley, Nev. Try a hand-dipped cone or a cup, enjoy classic flavors or modern twists or cool down with Hawaiian shaved ice.
Log Cabin Ice Cream | In Kings Beach, visit Log Cabin Ice Cream where ice cream from Tahoe Creamery is offered. Tahoe Creamery was born in the back room of a small restaurant
in Reno, Nev. They create flavors with Tahoe in mind, such as Blue Lake Blueberry, Strawberry Slopes Forever, Chimney Beach Chocolate and Brownie and Truckee Coffee Toffee. Tahoe Creamery can also be found at Brooks’ Bar & Deck in Edgewood Tahoe Resort in Stateline and in locations in Virginia City and Reno. Pints are available at all Raley’s locations. | logcabinicecream. squarespace.com, tahoecreamery.com
Truckee
Handmade in Truckee, The Little Truckee Ice Creamery has fabulous ice cream. It’s my go-to place on Donner Lake. Flavors pay homage to the region – Big Chief Chocolate, Mountain Top Mint and Truckee Trails, made with pine-nut brittle and brownie chunks. Nondairy desserts are an option, too. They also have a food truck serving at Mountain Lotus Yoga in Truckee and in The Cobblestone Center in Tahoe City. | truckeeicecream.com
Alotta Gelato
I love gelato. Where We Met Coffee and Gelato shop in Tahoma offers delicious housemade gelato. The shop is open daily in the summer and the flavors are delightful and refreshing. I loved the orange vanilla and pink grapefruit during a recent visit. This is worth seeking out if you love gelato. Euro Sweets offers Italian-style gelato in the Village at Palisades Tahoe in Olympic Valley and in Euro Snack in the Village at Northstar in Truckee. n
South Lake Brewing Co. recently released This Is How I Roll Cold IPA at an Ales for ALS party at The Libation Lodge in South Lake Tahoe. Brewed in collaboration with South of North Brewing Co. and Cold Water Brewery & Grill, the can label was designed by Tahoe local Scott Craig, a person living with ALS, using eye-tracking technology.
Proceeds from the party and a portion of beer sales will be donated to ALS Therapy Development Institute, an organization that focuses on finding treatments for ALS. This Is How I Roll Cold IPA is available on tap and in cans at South Lake Brewery Co., The Libation Lodge and online for shipping in California. | southlakebeer.com
lunch. They can watch as planes take off and land. There’s an outside patio and playground with plenty of space in which to run around to keep them occupied. They can enjoy a tasty Naan Dog or if they have a more developed flavor palate, the samosas are fabulous. | redtrucktahoe.com
Whitecaps Pizza in Kings Beach is beachfront on beautiful Lake Tahoe. Kids can run around in the sand while waiting for a slice. | whitecapspizza.com
Diningout with kids can be a challenging experience. Busy restaurants don’t necessarily cater to children younger than age 12 and finding places with kid-friendly food and activities can make or break a family dining experience.
Several restaurants in Tahoe have kids’ menus but keeping them entertained is the key. Whether it’s bowling, miniature golf or a place in which to run around until the food is served, try these spots when dining out with your children.
Bowl a strike
Incline Bowl is an exciting family-friendly destination in Incline Village, Nev., that combines delicious food with entertaining activities — bowl, play in the arcade or try the outdoor patio with lawn games. There is something on the menu for everyone.
Sam Choy’s Ohana Diner menu is delightful. The Hawaiian-themed menu offers items such as Poke Nachos, Spam Musubi, tacos and Kalua pork dishes for the adults and lots of kid-friendly options. Root beer floats and ice cream will satisfy any young palate. | bowlincline.com
On the South Shore, order a pizza at Tahoe Bowl and enjoy the bowling lanes, arcade games or a game of pool with the family. | hotelazuretahoe.com
Mexican & mini golf
Flatstick Pub in South Lake Tahoe offers miniature golf and a mouthwatering Mexican menu. Kids can play a round of indoor golf and enjoy tacos, nachos, or quesadillas when hungry. | flatstickpubtahoe.com
Watch the planes come and go Red Truck located inside the Truckee Tahoe Airport in Truckee is an excellent place to bring the kids for breakfast or
Base Camp Pizza Co. in South Lake Tahoe has a great kid’s menu, an outdoor patio and there’s live music every day. The family can explore activities in the Shops at Heavenly Village. | basecamppizzaco.com
Pizza on the Hill in Truckee’s Tahoe Donner neighborhood is a family favorite and the perfect place to take the kids. The outdoor playground will keep youngsters happy. They offer live music on Saturdays from 5 to 7 p.m. | tahoedonner.com
Best Pies Pizzeria & Restaurant in historic downtown Truckee offers pizza by the slice, games, puzzles to play with at the table, air hockey, arcade games and room to stretch little legs. | bestpiespizzeria.com
Zanos Family Italian & Pizzeria, also in Truckee, has an extensive menu. Their calzones are delicious. The kids’ menu includes fried ravioli, spaghetti, meatballs and fried cheese bites. Zanos also has an outdoor patio, arcade games and plenty of room for kids to stretch their legs. | zanos.net
Pints & Pies in in Tahoe City has a dedicated family dining area complete with oversized Connect 4, video games and other activities. | pintspies.com
Most kids love a burger, fries and a milkshake. Burger Me in Truckee is the place for all three. There’s easy, casual indoor and outdoor dining with a few arcade games. The restaurant has several types of burgers on the menu, as well as hot dogs, chicken fingers and grilled cheese. | burgermeusa.com
It takes a village
Tahoe is a mountain ski town. Palisades Tahoe in Olympic Valley, Northstar California in Truckee and Heavenly Ski Resort all have villages, open year-round, that offer activities, live music and places to eat for the ficklest of palates. Take the kids to the villages for an afternoon of fun activities with plenty of food options. n
