ARTISANS, ENTREPRENEURS AND PRODUCT DESIGNERS FROM AROUND THE LAKE
FOOD TRUCKS AND LOCAL BEVERAGES
ENTERTAINMENT AND MUSIC
BOTH DAYS
TAHOE FLOW ARTS
MR. D - DJ SERVICES
SATURDAY
MESCALITO
INDIGO GREY
PETER D e MATTEI
JONATHAN HENNION
6 th SENSE
TRUCKEE DANCE FACTORY
SUNDAY THE NOMADS
RUBICON GOLD
KYLE KIRCH
ALREADY GONE IN OBLIVION
FRESH TRAX
P.O. Box 154 | Tahoe Vista, CA 96148 (530) 546-5995 | f (530) 546-8113 YourTahoeGuide.com | @TahoeGuide
Calendar submissions: YourTahoeGuide.com/Events
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Cover Photography: production@yourtahoeguide.com
making it happen
Publisher/Owner & Editor In Chief
Tahoe fall filled with festivals, fun
It’s a fun-filled fall season in Tahoe and this edition of Tahoe Guide is packed with fun events from film showings and Oktoberfest celebrations (including a Bike’toberfest) to wine walks, the Made in Tahoe festival, the Fire Fest and a benefit Fire Ball. The newly opened Tahoe Blue Event Center has kicked off its opening with shows from Billy Strings and Adam Sandler to the WWE SuperShow. There’s benefit cruises and a Witches Paddle on Lake Tahoe, a costume swap in Truckee and a hay bale raising in the Lost Sierra.
Fall is one of the best times to visit, play and enjoy the Tahoe Sierra and the fall color is already emerging. It’s a great time to explore the hiking and mountain biking trails at some of Tahoe’s lesser-known state parks and Tim Hauserman writes about two North Shore gems – Ward Creek and Burton Creek – for this edition (we’ll cover the South Shore parks in a future edition).
Katherine E. Hill, publisher@yourtahoeguide.com, ext. 102
Lake Tahoe Wildlife Center | (530) 577-2273 | ltwc.org
on the cover
Danny Kern surfs on the East Shore of Lake Tahoe near
Incline Village, Nev. | Photography by Mike Burton Photography, JustMikeyBurton@gmail.com, (909) 838-1846
It also marks the end of Tahoe’s boating season. It’s time to pull out your boats and winterize them before Fall’s blustering winds set in. Those winds are welcomed by local surfers (as featured on this edition’s cover), but the waves they bring will quickly sink boats on the lake. But there’s still several local large cruises available to enjoy on Lake Tahoe into October (with some open year-round). Visit YourTahoeGuide. com for information.
Wildfire Preparedness Guide funded
For the last three years, Tahoe Guide has put together a Wildfire Preparedness Guide to educate our homeowners and visitors how to be prepared in the event of a wildfire in the Tahoe Sierra. I’ve worked with local fire officials to learn the information they need help in getting out to the public from how to sign up for emergency alerts and find evacuation routes, to preparing a Go Bag and a family disaster plan and how to have defensible space around homes.
But we were only able to publish the guide in one edition every year. We have received financial support to help cover some our costs from local businesses and agencies, but it wasn’t enough. And fire officials have long asked for a separate publication that they could hand out during inspections and at outreach events. (The digital version of the guide is available at bit.ly/tahoeguidezine.)
I’m thrilled to announce that we’ll finally be able to publish a standalone guide next spring, thanks to funding we were recently awarded from the North Tahoe Community Alliance. The NTCA manages the TBID funds collected from a special district formed by local businesses in 2021 to collect an assessment on retailers, restaurants, activities, attractions and lodging to fund local projects from workforce housing and transportation to community initiatives. You may have noticed the assessment on your receipts while eating out or on your lodging bill in Eastern Placer County
Thanks to this funding, Tahoe Guide is among the first recipients of a multi-year, $20 million program that will greatly impact our community and help fund many needed projects. You can read more about the NTCA and its funding and programs at northtahoecommunityalliance.com.
I’ll also be looking for additional funding to make the guide available outside of the NTCA’s district, but this is an important step in helping prepare our community and our visitors for the threat of wildfire.
Katherine E. Hill
PUBLISHER/OWNER & EDITOR IN CHIEF
SIGHTSEEING
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. Closes Oct. 8.
SOUTH SHORE
HEAVENLY
Closed
(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
Sat. only Sept.-mid Dec. & 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
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 ARTS CENTER (530) 581-2787 | northtahoearts.com
Featuring works by local artists & workshops in Kings Beach and Tahoe City.
SNOW MUSEUM
Open daily | thesnowmuseum.org
Memorabilia from the 1960 Winter Olympics and select items from Auburn Ski Club’s collection of early ski history. Inside Boatworks Mall in Tahoe City.
WATSON CABIN
Open Oct. 31 only (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. Closes Oct. 8.
OLYMPIC MUSEUM
(800) 403-0206 | palisadestahoe.com
Palisades Tahoe, host of the VIII Winter Olympic Games
Featuring works by local artists & workshops.
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
Memorial Weekend-Oct. 31 (530) 543-2674 | fs.usda.gov
Features Stream Profile Chamber to view slice of Taylor Creek, nature trails & more.
TRUCKEE
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
Open until Oct. 1. | northstarcalifornia.com Ride the Big Springs Gondola up to 8,610’ for
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
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.
Tour the grounds of Vikingsholm Castle (tours closed for season), see Eagle Falls and Fannette Island (the Lake’s only island), home to an old Tea House. Trail closed until mid-Oct.
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
Peter Mondschein enjoys the view from the bridge over Eagles Falls on the West Shore at Emerald Bay. | Anne Artoux
lake tahoe facts
YOUR BUSINESS COULD SPONSOR THIS PAGE
Email anne@yourtahoeguide.com for details
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.
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.
Age of Lake Tahoe: 2 million years
Fed By: 63 streams and 2 hot springs
Only Outlet: Truckee River (Tahoe City)
Watershed Area: 312 square miles (808 sq km)
Average Water Temperature: 42.1˚F (5.61˚C)
Average Surface Water Temperature: 51.9˚F (11.1˚C)
Average Surface Temperature 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 Learn about the natural history of the Tahoe Sierra at
HOW THE LAKE WAS FORMED
About 3 to 5 million years ago, the valley that would become the Tahoe Basin sank between parallel fractures in the Earth’s crust as the mountains on either side continued to rise. A shallow lake began to form in the resulting valley.
Roughly 2 to 3 million years ago, erupting volcanoes blocked the outlet, forcing the lake to rise hundreds of feet above its current elevation, and eventually eroded down to near its current outlet.
Between 1 million and 20,000 years ago, large masses of glacial ice covered the west side of the Tahoe Basin. Current geologic theory suggests an earthen berm (moraine) left by a receding glacier near Olympic Valley acted as a dam, causing the lake level to rise and then draw down rapidly when the dam catastrophically failed. Between 7,000 and 15,000 years ago, a 4-mile segment of
the West Shore collapsed into the Lake causing a massive submerged debris avalanche, widening the Lake by 3 miles and creating McKinney Bay.
The Tahoe Basin is mostly granite, with little topsoil, and therefore few nutrients have washed into the lake to promote the growth of algae and other organisms that make water murky.
As well, 40 percent of the precipitation falling into the Tahoe Basin lands directly on the lake.
The remaining precipitation drains through the decomposed granite soil found in marshes and meadows, creating a good filtering system for water.
Urbanization of the Tahoe Basin has eliminated 75 percent of its marshes, 50 percent of its meadows and 35 percent of its steam zone habitats. About 85 percent of all wildlife in the Tahoe Basin use these habitats.
The University of California, Davis, operates the Tahoe Environmental Research Center (tahoe. ucdavis.edu), which monitors the clarity of Lake Tahoe. Clarity has been measured since 1968 and was first recorded at 102.4’.
The waters of Lake Tahoe were clear to an average depth of 71.7’ (21.9m) in 2022. Lake Tahoe is losing clarity because of algae growth fueled by nitrogen and phosphorus.
ABOUT THE LAKE
Lake Tahoe is located in the states of California and Nevada, with two-thirds in California. It is fed by 63 streams and two hot springs.
The Truckee River is Tahoe’s only outlet and flows from the dam in Tahoe City east through Reno and eventually drains into Pyramid Lake in Nevada.
NATURAL RIM: 6,223’ (1,897 m)
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).
However, water releases are not permitted when the lake surface level falls below the natural rim at 6,223’ (1,897 m). The lowest lake level on record (measured since 1900) was 6,220.26’ (1,896 m) on Nov. 30, 1992.
The Lake of the Sky appears blue in color as other colors in the light spectrum are absorbed and blue light is scattered back.
LAKE TAHOE’S DISCOVERY
The first recorded discovery of Lake Tahoe by white explorers was on Feb. 14, 1844, when John Charles Frémont and Charles Preuss spotted the lake from atop Red Lake Peak. The lake went through many names before it was officially named Tahoe in 1945. Tahoe is a mispronunciation of the first two syllables of the Washo’s word for the lake – Da ow a ga, which means “edge of the lake." n
GET outside
Tahoe’s lesser-known state parks North Shore gems
Tahoe’s popular state parks on the West Shore — Emerald Bay, Sugar Pine Point and Bliss (closed this year for a major remodel) — and Sand Harbor on the East Shore, are renowned for spectacular views and access to Tahoe’s lakeshore. They are worthwhile destinations but are also busy in the summer with parking lots filling early and beaches and trails packed with visitors. Instead, you could follow a rule I’ve been following for the last few years: Go to the less busy, but equally spectacular, state parks for a more relaxing recreational experience.
A quote often attributed to Yogi Berra said it best about baseball, but it works for Tahoe as well: “Hit ‘em where they ain’t.”
Burton Creek State Park
Burton Creek State Park outside Tahoe City includes about 1,800 acres of state land. It borders U.S. Forest Service, Tahoe Conservancy and Tahoe City Public Utility District lands making for a much larger chunk of forest to explore. There is a large network of trails through forest, meadows and ridge lines that provide something for every ability level from leisurely dog walkers
BY TIM HAUSERMAN
checking out the waves of mule ears and lupine, to every level of mountain biker. A bit of climbing will bring you to nice views of Lake Tahoe.
[Burton Creek State Park offers] a large network of trails through forest, meadows and ridge lines that provide something for every ability level from leisurely dog
walkers checking out the waves of mule ears and lupine to every level of mountain biker.
Many of Burton Creek trails in the winter are groomed for cross-country skiing by Tahoe XC. The ski area becomes a mountain-bike rental location in the summer and fall and its trailhead is one of the prime access points to the trail network until the snow flies. In addition to bikes for rent next to the
trail, Tahoe XC also sells snacks and provides maps and information on the trail network.
While the easiest access is using the Tahoe XC trailhead, other access points include the Dollar Creek paved bike trail parking lot on Dollar Hill, the road next to Tamarack Lodge and the top of Jackpine Street in Tahoe City. Those last two are steep access points. | parks. ca.gov
Ward Creek Park Property
Ward Creek Park Property is a small piece of state land abutting against U.S. Forest Service land that even a lot of locals don’t know is a state park. It borders Ward Creek on the north, Timberland Lane on the south and National Forest land to the west. About 2 miles of easy walking trails meander along the creek and through the open forest of large Jeffrey and sugar pine. A highlight is a section of trail on boardwalk passing through a meadow that is full of purple camas lilies and yellow buttercups in the spring. This year, wildflowers have been blooming almost continuously thanks to the heavy snowfall. The trail network connects to the 5-mile-long, mountain bike/hiking
trail up to Stanford Rock and access to Tahoe Rim Trail. This trail is not for beginners, but if you are up for the challenge of several thousand feet of tough climbing, it dishes out some amazing mountain and lake views once you get close to the top. You can loop back to Ward Creek Boulevard via Tahoe Rim Trail (a technical downhill).
The West Shore bike trail passes along the edge of Ward Creek Park Property. Kilner Park, with parking and toilets, is just a few hundred yards to the north where you can park and follow the bike trail across Ward Creek. There are maps showing the trail network at access points to the park after the crossing the bridge. | parks.ca.gov n
FROM LEFT: Trail at Ward Creek State Park. View from the Lakeview Ridge Trail in Burton Creek State Park.
| Tim Hauserman
Oktoberfest celebrations in Tahoe Sierra
The summer may be over, but as the leaves changes and the days get cooler, it’s still one of the most beautiful times of year to be in the Tahoe Sierra. Celebrate the season at these upcoming Oktoberfest gatherings.
Beartoberfest
Sept. 30 | Tahoe Backyard | Kings Beach
Tahoe Backyard hosts Kings Beach Cleanup Day Block Party and Beartoberfest featuring brews from Bear Belly Brewing, food from El Buen Zason, live music with Truckee Mountain Bandits, kids’ crafts, face painting and local vendors from 1 to 7 p.m. | tahoebackyard.com
Oktoberfest
Sept. 30 | Village at Palisades Tahoe | Olympic Valley
This annual event transforms the Village at Palisades Tahoe into the largest Bavarian playground in the Tahoe Sierra, complete with German beer and Bavarian music and dance, plus the ever-popular Oktoberfest Games for plenty of family fun from noon to 6 p.m. | palisadestahoe.com
Oktoberfest Beer Festival
Oct. 1 | South of North Brewing | South Lake Tahoe
Enjoy Oktoberfest-style beers presented by several craft breweries and a complimentary tasting glass along with live music and food specials starting at noon. Proceeds benefit Bread & Broth 4 Kids of Lake Tahoe. | southofnorthbeer.com
22nd Annual Oktoberfest
Oct. 7 | Sierra City
Sierra City hosts Oktoberfest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. featuring food, music, vendors and more in downtown. | sierracountychamber.com
Big mountain skiing film showings
Teton Gravity Research debuts its new film “Legend Has It” at three locations in the region – Sept. 29 at the Community Art Center in Truckee, Sept. 30 at KT Base in Olympic Valley and Oct. 5 at Greater Nevada Field in Reno, Nev.
From the filmmakers: Ski lore is riddled with stories, sometimes of unknown origin, describing plausible but extraordinary past events. Often shared on chairlifts, the skin track, or over a beer, these legendary tales all contribute and shape our present experience. | tetongravity.com
Palisades Tahoe | Matt Palmer
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Bike’toberfest unites bikes, beer
Bikes and beers join together for a day on the mountain at the Bike’toberfest at Northstar on Sept. 30 and Oct. 1. Enjoy a vendor alley, whip off on Livewire or take a long jump on Last Jump. There will be awards for best Lederhosen costume along with a beer garden and a giveaway. | northstarcalifornia.com
FEMA test messages to be sent
FEMA, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission, will conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alerts at approximately 11:20 p.m. PST on Oct. 4. At that time, cell phone users may receive a message by cell phone. There is no need to respond. The purpose of the test is to ensure that the systems continue to be effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level. | fema.gov
Fire Ball supports firefighters
The Fireball fundraiser for the Olympic Valley Fire Department will be held Oct. 4 at the Olympic Valley Center featuring live music, fire performers, a silent auction, dinner and a cash bar. Attire is black and white with a splash of red to honor firefighters. | ovpsd.org
Fire Fest educates on fire threat
Admission is free to the Fire Fest, a public agency extravaganza that provides family fun and fire safety education through demos, raffles and games on Sept. 30 at the Golden Nugget Lake Tahoe (formerly the Hard Rock) in Stateline, Nev.
Helicopters will star this year as they land outside the venue with crews will be on hand to answer questions. Kids will have an opportunity to climb aboard a fire engine, squirt a fire hose, hit the bounce house and escape from the burn house. There will also be an opportunity to watch local firefighters use the jaws of life. | takecaretahoe.org
HIKING
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. Closes October 8. 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. Open until early October. TART
Trails open depending on conditions. Mileage is roundtrip, with levels based on family access.
All trails are more heavily used on weekends.
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.
(530) 659-7207.
TRUCKEE
GLACIER MEADOW LOOP
Easy
MARTIS CREEK WILDLIFE AREA
WEST SHORE
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 Trail closed until mid-Oct.
Steep descent to Vikingsholm Castle (tours closed). 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
Shelly Thomasen, SLTPUD
Northstar California
TAHOE RIMTRAIL
Mountaineer expands for winter season
Mountaineer, which provides free, on-demand winter transportation in Olympic Valley and Alpine Meadows, will expand its operating schedule for the 2023-24 winter season. Passengers may request rides through the Mountaineer app.
Mountaineer will operate its 9-passenger, dog-friendly vans equipped with ski/snowboard racks between Dec. 8 and April 7 daily in Olympic Valley from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Service in Alpine Meadows will be Thursday to Monday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Service between the two valleys will be offered daily from 5 to 11 p.m. There will be extended service during holidays, the World Cup and WinterWonderGrass events. Additional transit options are offered through TART Connect. | mountaineertransit.org
Health fair offers screenings, car seat checks
Truckee Lions hosts a free Community Health Fair on Sept. 30 at the Truckee Community Recreation Center with child safety seat inspections and installation; free dental checks and fluoride treatments; free health and vision screenings, free flu shots; free glasses and more. Agencies on hand will give away free child safety car seats while supplies last. | e-clubhouse.org/sites/ truckee
Cruise for a good cause at Liar’s Cruise
Celebrate autumn with a cruise on Lake Tahoe to raise money for a good cause with the annual Liar’s Cruise on Oct. 7. Enjoy spellbinding stories, a feast of never-ending hors d’oeuvres and bottomless bubbly while traveling along
Tahoe’s West Shore on the “Tahoe Gal.” Proceeds benefit Sierra State Parks Foundation. Tahoe Guide is a sponsor. | sierrastateparks.org
Palisades readies for season opening
Palisades Tahoe has announced improvements for the upcoming 2023-24 winter season. The ski area is slated to open on Nov. 22 for the season (find a complete list of ski resort opening dates at YourTahoeGuide.com/ski). Here’s a look at some of the highlights: World Cup returns | The Stifel Palisades Tahoe Cup is back again for a second year as a stop on the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Tour. The event returns from Feb. 23 to 25 featuring the Giant Slalom and Slalom races, a youth parade, bib draw and live music along with other festivities.
Dining improvements | The mid-Mountain Gold Coast Lodge is getting a multi-million-dollar makeover that will improve the guest experience and create several new dining options. The Gold Coast Food Hall will be revamped with an expanded menu at Funi’s and Marketplace, an increase in variety
within the ARC and the reopening of 39⁰ North showcasing Asian Fusion Cuisine. New dining options are also coming to Olympic House with the arrival of Oishii Ramen, where Japanese-inspired cuisine meets the mountains featuring hearty ramen bowls to Japanese appetizers.
On-mountain improvements | After 25 years of operation, the Funitel haul rope has been replaced with a new galvanized rope that spans almost 7 miles.
The resort has increased its snow-making capabilities by installing five new snow-making machines on the Palisades side near the Exhibition lift. On the Alpine side, the resort has also upgraded its snowmaking infrastructure by adding 2,000 feet of new snowmaking lines.
Palisades Tahoe has also added five new snowcats and installed four new winch picks across the mountain. | palisadestahoe.com
Nature Center building. | F Kevin Stammerjohn, Feather River Land Trust
Help with Sierra Valley Nature Center
More progress is being made at the Sierra Valley Preserve Nature Center with plans to finish the center by May, according to the Feather River Land Trust. The new driveway, walls and a roof have been completed and a volunteer workday is scheduled for Sept. 30 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to help with the
Mountaineer
Palisades Tahoe
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Always check to see if trails & parks are open before visiting. Check in advance for e-bike access.
EAST SHORE FLUME TRAIL
Strenuous | 14 miles
There are several mountain biking trails o the Flume Trail, but if you follow the Flume Trail the whole way you will be rewarded with magnificent views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains. The Flume Trail rises 1,600’ above the East Shore of Lake Tahoe. At the end of the Flume Trail, there is a 3-mile, 1,600’ descent down to Tunnel Creek Station on Hwy. 28. It is a moderately di cult ride at 7,000’ to 8,000’ in elevation with more than 1,000’ of climbing and 4.5-miles of single track. It has several steep sections. Shuttle available at Tunnel Creek Café o Hwy. 28 in Incline Village to Spooner Lake State Park. Shuttle info flumetrailtahoe.com. Parking fee.
MOUNT ROSE TO SPOONER LAKE
Strenuous | 20 miles
The beginning of this beautiful section of the Tahoe Rim Trail is at 8,700’ above the Sheep Flats (aka Tahoe Meadows) on Mount Rose. The first part of the trail parallels the highway and then descends through the meadows and briefly joins the Ophir Creek trail. Look for Rim Trail signs, then after a quarter-mile up and to the right of the Ophir Creek trail (don’t stay on the Ophir Creek Trail). After a 300’ climb out of the meadows, you begin to contour your way to the Tunnel Creek road. At 9 miles, you will come to the Tunnel Creek Road. Follow it a half-mile with the Flume Trail on the right. Continue straight for an 800’ switchbacking climb. Near the top of the climb, consider taking the vista trail to the Sand Harbor overlook.
Once at the top, the trail winds down past the Marlette Peak campground to Hobart Road. The Rim Trail past this point is closed to bikes, so your only path back to Spooner is along this road to the right and down to Marlette Lake. A short, but tough climb leads out of the Marlette basin and then it is downhill back to Spooner Lake. Mind the speed on this descent due to heavy equestrian and hiking use. Shuttle info flumetrailtahoe.com. Parking fee.
MOUNT ROSE
SKY TAVERN
(775) 323-5125 | skytavern.org
The mountain bike park features downhill, climbing and dual slalom trails, designed as a series of progressive trails. Open sunrise to sunset spring to fall.
NORTH SHORE
INCLINE BIKE PARK
Incline Bike Project on Facebook Park terrain and features for all ages.
TAHOE XC
(530) 583-5475 | tahoexc.org
All levels | Varied terrain
Tahoe XC o ers marked mountain biking and hiking trails in the Burton Creek State Park area just north of Tahoe City. Trail access is free and the terrain is ideal for beginner and intermediate mountain bikers. Advanced riders can find challenging terrain on the Tahoe Rim Trail and around Mount Watson.
WESTERN STATES TRAIL
Strenuous | 11.6 miles RT
This is a challenging and exhilarating ride (sometimes referred to as Three Bridges Trail) that will a ord you a fun downhill swoop and beautiful mountain views. You can ride it either way, starting on either side of the Midway Bridge between Alpine Meadows and Olympic Valley o Hwy. 89.
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE
BIJOU BIKE PARK
bijoubikepark.org
The 5-acre park features pump tracks, BMX Track, striderfriendly pump track, jump lines and loop trail. Dawn-dusk.
Check trail conditions before heading out. Please do not bike on wet trails.
CORRAL AREA TRAILS
tamba.org
All levels | Varied terrain
Corral area trails include Sidewinders, Cedar and Armstrong Connector. This area has a high density of trails for all ability levels and serves as the uno cial hub of mountain bike activity in the South Shore. Featuring log rides, jumps and rock rolls including the new jumps, berms, rollers and hips. The trails all run parallel to the Fountain Place paved road. These trails link to Armstong Trail, the Tahoe Rim Trail, Powerline, Railroad Grade and this is also where Toads ends. Trails may be closed during fire restoration work; check in advance.
KIRKWOOD (209) 258-7277 | kirkwood.com
The mountain bike park o ers a network of lift-accessed trails for all levels with 22 trails in the valley, and 12 accessed by the lift, with 11.5 miles of single track. The bike park features log rides, pump tracks and other terrain features. Open until it snows.
MR. TOADS WILD RIDE
Moderate-Strenuous | 6.2 miles
Mr. Toad’s heads mostly downhill from the Tahoe Rim Trail with several options for making a loop. The upper section of this trail is much more technical than either section of the TRT and has many big drops and sections of nothing but rocks. There is also a huge stair step section that comes up on you quickly.
TRUCKEE
COLDSTREAM VALLEY
Easy to moderate | 6 miles RT
This loop o ers a mellow ride o ering views of the Sierra Crest, has nice flowers in the spring and circumnavigates a series of ponds. From Donner Pass Road, take Coldstream Road, which alternates pavement and dirt. After a short climb up the old terminal moraine of the glacier that once filled this valley, the valley opens up. Proceed on this road until you come to private property signs at the last pond, then turn left on the dirt road and return on the east side of the valley. Park outside the white gate on Coldstream.
DONNER SKI RANCH
(530) 426-9350 | facebook.com/donnerskiranch
O ering lift-accessed mountain biking on its trails with varied terrain and great views.
EMIGRANT TRAIL
Moderate | 15+ miles
O ers rolling, wide, single-track through high desert, winding through sagebrush, seasonally wet meadows and Je rey Pine forests. North of Truckee on Hwy. 89 to Donner Camp picnic area. If too wet, proceed 2.5 miles on Hwy. 89 to Prosser Creek Bridge pullout. 15 miles to Stampede, but can continue on to other areas.
NORTHSTAR CALIFORNIA
(530) 562-2268 | northstarcalifornia.com
All levels | Varied terrain
Northstar’s Mountain Bike Park boasts more than 100 miles of trails for mountain biking including its signature trail, LiveWire, and the most extensive life-accessed trail network in the Western United States. The park features Skill Development Areas and terrain features including jumps, rails and bridges. Open until Oct. 1.
TRUCKEE PUMP TRACK/BMX truckeebikepark.org
The Park has the sweetest flow lines and the smoothest strider/pump track for all skills levels to progress along with beginner to advanced jump lines. Featuring a dual pump track, dirt jumps, flow lines, dual slalom track, xc trail, drop zone, medium slopestyle line and more. Open from sunrise to sunset. Helmets & brakes required.
The Slabs lift-served bike park featuring flow lines with natural elements, granite rock and obstacles with berms, wall rides and jumps. And, visit The Trenches BMX park. All levels.
SUBMIT
YOUR
EVENTS
FOR FREE
Visit YourTahoeGuide.com/ Events to add your Event for our print & online calendars.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9
straw-bale insulation. No experience is needed.
Improvements are also coming to the East Entrance of the preserve including enhancing trails and installing wildlife viewing blinds. Find details on the full plan online. Register for the workday in advance at frlt.org or jholland@frlt.org.
Join Witches
Paddle
Beach Retreat & Lodge at Tahoe hosts the 2nd Annual Witch Costume Paddle on Oct. 7 at 1 p.m. Last year’s event had more than 200 participants. The launch and paddle will start at 2 p.m., followed by a costume contest at 5 p.m. The event is open to everyone, including children and pets on leash.
Bring your own paddleboard and wear a witch costume. Details online. | facebook.com/tahoebeachretreat
Halloween Costume Swap in Truckee
Be environmentally conscious and trade in costumes for some spooktacular magic at the Halloween Costume Swap sponsored by Keep Truckee Green on Oct. 7 at the Truckee Community Recreation Center. Drop-off a gently used Halloween costumes to one of four locations in town, then join a costume swap. Drop-off locations are open from Sept. 18 to 30 at the Recreation Center, Truckee Town Hall, Truckee Library and KidZone Museum. | tdrpd.org
events
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 27
Barton Wellness Outing
South Lake Tahoe Library, South Lake Tahoe, 10-11 a.m., bartonhealth.org/tahoe/home.aspx
Community Arts Center, Truckee, 7 p.m., tetongravity.com
Cool Car Cruizen Fridays
Shops at Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe, 8 p.m., theshopsatheavenly.com
SATURDAY, SEPT. 30
Community Clean up Day
North Tahoe Business Association, Kings Beach, 9 a.m., northtahoebusiness.org
Firefest
Golden Nugget Lake Tahoe Hotel & Casino, Stateline, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Community Health Fair
Community Rec Center, Truckee, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., (530) 563-6776, truckeelionsclub.com
Beartoberfest
Tahoe Backyard, Kings Beach, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., tahoebackyard.com
Truckee River Railroad
Truckee River Regional Park, Truckee, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., (530) 582-7720, tdrpd.org
Oktoberfest
The Village at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley, noon to 6 p.m., palisadestahoe.com/events-and-activities
Legend Has It
KT Base Bar (outdoors), Olympic Valley, 6 p.m., (800) 403-0206, palisadestahoe.com
SUNDAY, OCT. 1
Baby Lapsit
Kings Beach Library, Kings Beach, 10:30 a.m., (530) 546-2021, placer.ca.gov/2093/Library
Brisket and Brews
North Tahoe Hebrew Congregation, Tahoe Vista, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., (530) 546-0895, tahoetemple.org
34th Annual Foam Fest Fundraiser
Ongoing, achievetahoe.org
Oktoberfest Beer Festival
South of North Brewing Company, South Lake Tahoe, noon to 4 p.m., (530) 494-9805, southofnorthbeer.com
Beach Retreat & Lodge at Tahoe
BOATING
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. Inspections move to Cave Rock & Lake Forest ramps starting Oct. 1. 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
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.
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.-6 p.m. (closed Wed. & Thurs.) 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.
9 a.m.-3 p.m. daily until Sept. 30. Picnic area, beach, restrooms.
Runs along Lake Tahoe and connects to Hwy. 28 from south end of Incline Village, Nev., to Sand Harbor State Park. Parking near Ponderosa Ranch Road. Paid parking.
NORTH SHORE
Lakeshore Boulevard
Easy | 5 miles (8 km) RT | washoecounty.us
Runs along Lake Tahoe and connects to Hwy. 28 at each end of Incline Village. Park at Preston Field on Hwy. 28.
TAHOE CITY TO CARNELIAN BAY
Easy-moderate | 8+ miles (13+ km) RT | tcpud.org
First 2.5 miles mostly level with a half-mile climb up Dollar Hill. Cross Highway 28 to access 2.2-mile section to Fulton Crescent above Carnelian Bay. Public parking at 64 Acres, Commons Beach, Jackpine and Dollar Point.
TRUCKEE RIVER CANYON
Easy | 9+ miles (14.5+ km) RT | tcpud.org
4.5 miles from the Tahoe City wye to Alpine Meadows Road, with trails continuing to Olympic Valley. Connects with Olympic Valley Road or continue to Truckee. Public parking at 64 Acres and Olympic Valley Park at Olympic Valley Road.
VILLAGE BOULEVARD
Easy | 7.4 miles (12 km) RT | washoecounty.us Bike path runs along Hwy. 28 through Incline Village. Access to shopping and parks. Park at Preston Field on Hwy. 28.
OLYMPIC VALLEY
OLYMPIC VALLEY
Easy | 4 miles (6 km) RT | tcpud.org
A 2-mile trail runs beside Olympic Valley Road to the ski area, with views of the meadow and surrounding peaks. Public parking at Olympic Valley Park or Village at Palisades Tahoe.
TRUCKEE
TRUCKEE LEGACY TRAIL
Easy | 6 miles (10 km) RT | tdrpd.org
Stretches from downtown Truckee to Truckee River Regional Park, River View Sports Park and Glenshire. Park at either park or East River Street.
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE
CAMP RICHARDSON BIKE PATH
Easy | 6 miles (10 km) RT
The trail parallels State Route 89 (Emerald Bay Road) for more than 3 miles, o ering access to a number of local historic and recreational amenities. Park at Taylor Creek, Baldwin or Pope beaches.
SOUTH SHORE BIKE PATH
Easy | 7 miles (11 km) RT | cityofslt.us
Follow the bike trail along South Shore, with sections along Lakeview Commons, Reagan Beach and playgrounds. Public parking at Parks and Recreation lot on Rufus Allen Blvd., Regan & El Dorado beaches & Bijou Community Park.
WEST SHORE
TAHOE CITY TO MEEKS BAY
Moderate | 25+ miles (40+ km) RT | tcpud.org
Mostly separate from the highway, the trail includes a few miles of highway shoulder and residential streets. Terrain is varied with a few steep sections. Access to picnicking, beaches and playgrounds. Public parking at 64 Acres.
CYCLING ROUTES
AROUND LAKE TAHOE
Strenuous | 72 (116 km) miles
This challenging route is a scenic trip around Lake Tahoe. A mix of flat spots, rolling hills and some steep climbs. Heavy tra c through South Lake Tahoe. Amazing views.
BARKER PASS
Moderate-strenuous | 10 miles (16 km) RT
Barker Pass is one of the most beautiful rides in Tahoe, if you don’t mind a little climbing with 5 miles and 1,700 vertical feet. Take Highway 89 south of Tahoe City to Barker Pass Road for about 4.2 miles. Look for the brown sign on the right for Blackwood Canyon/Kaspian, and shortly afterward you will see the Forest Service road.
HOPE VALLEY TO BLUE LAKES
Moderate | 28 miles (45 km) RT
You can explore the Highway 88 in either direction of Hope Valley, but 12-mile ride from the valley to Blue Lakes is a biker’s dream: smooth roads, doable climbs and spectacular alpine scenery with a lake at the end. Park at the intersection of Highways 88 and 89 and turn right. In 2 miles, turn onto Blue Lakes Road. The ride starts out mostly level until you pass the Hope Valley campground where it begins to steadily ascend before reaching the pass with a panoramic view of the area. Then descend for several miles to end at Blue lakes before the return trip.
INCLINE TO MOUNT ROSE SUMMIT
Strenuous | 16 miles (26 km) RT
Ride about Lake Tahoe for panoramic views of the basin climbing to 8,900’ on the Mount Rose Highway out of Incline Village, Nev., to the Mount Rose Pass. While 8 miles of climbing is tough, it’s a fairly gentle grade. Just put it in your lowest gear and keep pedaling, followed by 8 miles of downhill at fast speeds with sandy bike lands. Keeping your speed under control is vital. Parking at Preston Field in Incline Village or start at the top and park at Tahoe Meadows or at the summit.
OLD 40 TO CISCO GROVE
Moderate-strenuous | 39 miles (63 km) RT
This route is one of the easiest to follow, and one of the best. It has it all the views, a good climb, a technical descent, a restaurant en route, Donner Lake and miles of lightly traveled roads. From downtown Truckee head west on Donner Pass Road until it ends in Cisco Grove.
After passing Donner Lake, you begin the long and challenging, but scenic, grind up the summit. This climb has a vertical rise of less than 1,000’. From the top of the summit, it is a rolling downhill along the Yuba River all the way to Cisco Grove. The descent down to Donner Lake is a tech-nical one. Watch your speed, and make sure your brakes work. Parking at West End Beach and boat ramp.
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
Truckee Certified Farmers Market
Truckee Certified Farmers Market, Truckee, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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
Open Fri.-Sun. until Sept. 30, Oct. 1 & Oct. 6-8. 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
PUBLIC POOLS
INCLINE VILLAGE
(775) 832-1300 | inclinerecreation.com
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
Featuring two skateparks – The Sierra Skatepark and the Eastern Sierra Skatepark, and indoor skate park at The Bunker. Always check operating schedules before
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
Everyone who joins at a minimum of $125 donation will be entered into the drawing.
To be entered, donations must be received by the end of day on Wednesday, October 4. Winner will be drawn at random and contacted by email.
All donors of at least $125 will also receive a FREE one-year print subscription mailed to them. Donations are not tax-deductible. No purchase necessary, donations only. Join
horoscopes
BY MICHAEL O’CONNOR
Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 19)
A passionate, frisky, and punchy mood prevails. In fact, with the Sun in Libra, this mood will advance to the next level. Yet, a determination to channel the energy into productive activities is also rising. Making key investments is featured as you maneuver to cover any lost ground.
Taurus (Apr 20 – May 20)
Creating a better overall balance in your lifestyle is on your mind. This includes creative thinking and key discussions with important players on your stage. An expansive cycle that began in spring is yours to harness and avoid it going to your waistline…
Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21)
A creative cycle has begun. Among your bigger challenges will be to decide which of a variety of interests will get your attention. You may choose to do the rounds, Gemini style, attending to each in rhythmic flow. Fun, games, play, and possibly romance too, are indicated.
Cancer (Jun 22 – Jul 22)
The focus has turned to home and family. You are determined to get to the bottom of things and route out anything that does not align with your flow, your values, or your changing aesthetic tastes. This could amount to doing renovations and you are willing to invest if necessary.
Leo (Jul 23 – Aug 23)
Libra times often amount to bursts of energy and diversified interests for you. Short-distance trips or investigations into both business and cultural interests are also featured. Expressing yourself creatively yet with practicality in mind will uplift your spirits.
Virgo (Aug 24 – Sep 22)
A whole new surge of drive and determination is guiding your focus. Your powers of critical analysis, strategic thinking, and discernment are running strong. Venus in Leo is inspiring imaginative thinking as well as you commit to presenting new services to the market.
Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 22)
The Sun now in your sign is activating a whole new level of ambition. This trend will continue and deepen over the coming weeks extending all the way through October. During this time, your focus and priorities will shift to both assert yourself more deliberately, yet to also seek refuge.
Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21)
The time has come to get busier behind the scenes. Yet, to achieve your goals, it is important to recognize and gain access to all the resources you will need. This can include tools appropriate to your focus and key people as well. Get clear on your goals and keep an open mind regarding how to do it.
Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21)
Defining and refining your sense of individuality is an important, rising theme. This trend already began a few weeks ago and now the momentum is leading you to the fast lane. Beyond personal power and popularity, you will push for practical results.
Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19)
Libra time ties in directly with your worldly, public, and professional ambitions. It is a reminder of the importance of diplomatic poise and reputation. Yet, it is also meant to remind you of what is truly important, such as the welfare of family and personal truth and integrity.
Aquarius (Jan 20 – Feb 19)
Expanding your scope and reach of influence is in the spotlight. It includes a creative push to be seen, heard, and heeded. With your confidence levels on a steady rise, the time is right to ride this wave to greater heights yet. Make a plan and focus to follow through even if risk is involved.
Pisces (Feb 20 – Mar 20)
A whole new level of activity and stimulation on relationship fronts continues. This likely includes professional as well as personal orientations. Yet, change is a keyword and could even amount to personal transformation. Be willing to try new approaches to access hidden reserves of power.
puzzles
MARK’S COLUMN IS SPONSORED BY
Truckee’s notorious Red Light District
Mollie Forshay’s troubles, Part I
BY MARK MCLAUGHLIN
Likemany small railroad towns in the 19th Century, Truckee’s businesses were strung along a main thoroughfare known as Front Street or Commercial Row. Behind these storefronts was an alleyway identified on the map as Second Street but what locals eventually called Jibboom Street.
Jibboom Street was the heart of the hamlet’s Red Light District where dive bars, boisterous backroom wagering and conspicuous prostitution thrived. The noise, violence and illicit activity greatly disturbed the residents who lived in neighborhoods up the hill from Jibboom Street. Understandably, they resented criminal misconduct in such proximity to their family homes.
According to research by the Truckee Donner Historical Society, this nefarious part of town was originally located on the south side of the Central Pacific Railroad train tracks near the Truckee River but a fire in 1868 razed that den of iniquity. The raucous lawlessness, however, found life again on Jibboom Street much to the chagrin of polite society.
The term red light in association with prostitution has several possible sources but its roots in Truckee may refer to the habit of libidinous railroad men leaving their glowing red signal lantern near the front entrance of a sex worker’s quarters until business was done.
The back doors of the relatively reputable gaming saloons and dance halls on Front Street opened directly onto Jibboom where there were opium dens, bars with cheap whiskey, card sharks, boarding houses for quick but intimate liaisons and decrepit single room cribs where the lowest level harlots plied their wares.
There were frequent fights and gun
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play on Commercial Row much of it overflowed from Jibboom Street. The back alley was the most dangerous stretch of dirt in Truckee. Thugs prowled the area after midnight looking for victims that had spent the evening gambling, drinking or fraternizing in a bordello. These men would usually be drunk and still have money on them, easy prey for a knife or pistol-wielding crook. With any luck, the loss of their purse was the only consequence of their reckless behavior.
Eliminating street crime from Truckee proved an impossible task even with an active vigilante committee. It was a frustrating method of controlling the seemingly endless number of bad actors.
Vigilante activity chased miscreants and wandering vagabonds from town to town. Truckee’s 601 vigilante faction was among the worst offenders of railroading undesirables out of town, including sending the mentally ill to Sacramento.
Virginia City, Carson City, Reno, Truckee and Sacramento were all connected by railroad and part of the spiderweb of crime.
Although any gender can participate in commercial sex, historically women have dominated the trade especially in the 19th Century American West. In frontier towns men outnumbered women by a large margin and Truckee was no exception in its early decades. In his book “Bad Habits: Drinking, Smoking, Taking Drugs, Gambling, Sexual Misbehavior, and Swearing in American History,” historian John C. Burnham describes a few of the reasons that some women fall prey to prostitution. (I edited and paraphrased Burnham’s much longer section on this.)
Some view it as a temporary arrangement for earning significant income, a mindset associated with highly paid consort or lucrative call girl services. For most, however, it’s often a lack of economic opportunity, childhood trauma, physical and sexual abuse, drug addiction and alcoholism. These are a few of the social and cultural triggers that lead some women into selling sex, notes Burnham.
Prostitutes were – and still are – also frequent victims of abuse and exploitation by pimps, customers (johns) or strangers, according to Burnham.
Mollie Forshay’s downfall
Like many European newcomers to the United States who arrived after the completion of the nation’s first transcontinental railroad, Irish-born immigrant Mollie Forshay boarded a train and headed west. It’s impossible to know her intended destination but by the summer of 1869 she was working the clientele on Jibboom Street.
When business slowed, she took the train to Reno to join the other Sporting Girls at the brothels and hurdy houses (a frontier dance hall where male patrons had access to prostitutes). Forshay, a drinker with a temper, was known to be disruptive. Business owners and law enforcement were familiar with her.
Shortly after Forshay’s arrival she was attacked by Truckee’s most notorious soiled dove, Carrie Smith, also known as the Spring Chicken. According to a Truckee Republican newspaper report “Molly ‘put a head on her [Smith]’ and beat her such it will “serve to keep her quiet for a day or so at least.” (I’ll have more on Carrie Smith in a future column.)
Initially, Forshay was a relatively
minor public nuisance, particularly when compared to the volatile Spring Chicken, but in the early morning hours of Dec. 10, 1871, all that changed. At 3 a.m. Forshay and a couple of friends sauntered into a restaurant at the Arcade Saloon in Reno. She began yelling at the proprietor, Tom Kelley, complaining that the candle on their table was not lit. Unhappy with this unruly behavior, Kelley refused to serve them and requested they leave. As the trio headed out the door, Kelley allegedly grabbed Forshay’s shoulder, most likely to steer the inebriated woman toward the street. In a flash, Forshay whipped out a knife and stabbed Kelley in the chest. The man fell to the floor and died of blood loss in a matter of minutes.
On Jan. 13, 1872, Forshay was arraigned for the murder of Kelley in Washoe County. She pled not guilty, testifying in court that Kelley had threatened her, but on Feb. 2 an all-male jury convicted her of second degree murder. Unwilling to hang the young woman, the judge sentenced Forshay to 27 years in the Nevada State Prison in Carson City. She was 25 years old. The Nevada State Supreme Court turned down her appeal because she could not provide admissible evidence that she had acted in self-defense.
Stay tuned for Part II in the next edition out on Oct. 11. n
Special thanks to the research of Gordon Richards and Chaun Mortier of the Truckee Donner Historical Society.
Tahoe historian Mark McLaughlin is a nationally published author and professional speaker. His award-winning books are available at local stores or at thestormking. com. | mark@thestormking.com
LEFT: Jibboom Street historic plaque. | Mark McLaughlin BELOW: Jibboom Street, circa 1870s. | Truckee Donner Historical Society
THE makers
creative awareness | arts & culture | makers’ movement
Samurai Rains’ unconventional art
BY KAYLA ANDERSON
Anotter drinking a Coors Light. A seagull with a cigarette. A painting called “To me, you’re trash” that could be the front of a Valentine’s Day card given the subject matter behind it.
Like other modern day street artists (Banksy comes to mind), Samuel “Samurai” Rains’ artwork is unconventional, thought-provoking and a fun surprise.
As a 14-year resident of North Lake Tahoe, Rains works as a boat captain, bartender, children’s book creator and artist.
When asked how he got into making art, Rains replies that he’s always sketched and drawn but when it comes to painting on canvas, he began for two reasons: to raise money for Alzheimer’s research and as a social experiment. He started going to thrift stores and buying knockoff paintings of beaches and Tahoe landscapes then adding to them – painting people on cell phones, litter strewn across the shore or pot leaves in a Monet-looking piece. Every one of his repurposed canvases had a political or social message.
“Then I would take it and donate it back to the thrift store and see if people would take it home and notice,” Rains says. He explains that the idea behind this type of art is to create thought awareness by noticing the alterations and thinking about them.
“I would never paint over art that was an original painted by another artist, but
a mass media produced piece I would take,” he says. “I’m there every chance I get looking at art and supplies,” he says of the thrift store he frequents in Tahoe City.
He has been making this kind of art for the last seven or eight years, enhanced by a snowboard accident that changed his perspective. Rains broke his spine and arm after a bad landing in a terrain park and was in a coma for a week.
“I just put it out there, into the world. It’s about spreading awareness and thought-provoking in a passionate manner.”
– Samurai Rains
“I woke up with a whole new appreciation for life,” he says. After recovering from his injuries, Rains traveled, spending a year in the Caribbean sketching and drawing, rolling up his work in bottles and throwing them into the ocean. One restauranteur found one of the messages and framed it in his establishment.
He says that his father is a psychologist and his mom is a potter so he tries to mix the two. Rains explains that he also has so many nieces and nephews
that it has been easier and more economical to make children’s books for them than to buy presents.
He created a coloring book called “The Amazing Odessa,” featuring his niece’s favorite animal, the whale shark. He also drew a book for one of his nephews featuring a leopard with a top hat and bowtie. Rains is currently working on a coloring book project with a friend and an acquaintance in Lahaina, Hawaii, to help support the victims of the recent fire that engulfed the historic town. Rains says that helping people and the opportunity to provoke thought are what inspires his artwork.
“Anyone can raise money for big organizations, but you don’t know where that money is going half the time, so I like to contribute on a more direct, local level,” he says. For instance, when his art was featured in the North Tahoe Arts Gallery in Tahoe City, Rains used the money from the sale of his art to buy and personally put up Christmas decorations for an elderly care center in Carson City.
“For me it’s not just signing checks, it’s getting up on a ladder to hang Christmas lights and then seeing the residents’ faces when they walk in the room. They couldn’t go home for Christmas, so I brought Christmas to them. For me it’s about interacting on a local community level,” he says.
Rains has done countless paintings, most of which have been given away or
re-donated. He says that every painting has a story. His favorite thing to paint is humor and irony.
“I just put it out there, into the world. It’s about spreading awareness and thought-provoking in a passionate manner,” he says.
Rains turned the tables and asked me to define art. I had to think about it before I said, “Anything creative, I think. There are so many different types of art … writing is art. Something that generates emotion.” He responded, “Exactly.” | rainspaintings.com n
FROM LEFT: Samurai Rains paints animals. | Savannah McCrary. “Chickflip.” | Samurai Rains BELOW: Savannah McCrary captures Samurai Rain’s new nun series. | Savannah McCrary
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Travelogue on Hwy. 395 released
Author Stephen H. Provost has released his new book “Sierra Highway: U.S. 395 and El Camino Sierra in California and Nevada (Highways of the West).”
The guidebook is a historical travelogue, featuring more than 550 images and is the fourth installment in the Highways of the West series following Highway 395. | stephenhprovost.com
Made in Tahoe celebrates local artisans
Made in Tahoe celebrates all things local on Oct. 7 and 8. See the Village at Palisades Tahoe transform into an intimate and energetic gathering of regional crafters, makers, musicians, chefs and artists. Discover, explore, and experience our rich community full of talented creators while enjoying a variety of local food, beer and awesome live music. | palisadestahoe.com
Gather for Witches
Night Out
Kick off the supernatural season with a mystical gathering of artisans at a night market and dance under the harvest moon on Sept. 29 at The Hanger in South Lake Tahoe with music by South Lake indie-pop chanteuse Robin Orr. Hosted by the Mountain Moon Coven, this supernatural event will feature a costume contest, photo booth and group howl at the moon. | thehangarlaketahoe. com
Events are subject to change & cancellation; always check in advance for current schedules.
Palisades Tahoe
THE lineup
Musica Sierra presents Chanticleer
Bringing the power of voice to Tahoe Sierra
BY SEAN MCALINDIN
Sept. 27 | Community Arts Center | Truckee
Sept. 29 | Nightingale Sky Room | Nevada Museum of Art | Reno
Sept. 30 | Diamond S Ranch | Beckwourth
Whatis the power of one voice?
How about a dozen voices?
How about 100? Since its opening movements in 1978, San Francisco-based Grammy winners Chanticleer have toured the world with their one-ofa-kind orchestra of voices.
Over the years, more than 120 superlative vocalists have sung with the group whose name is inspired by a singing rooster in Geoffrey Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales.” The 12-man choral ensemble will perform for the public and work with local students in an upcoming visit to our region orchestrated by Musica Sierra – a nonprofit organization founded in 2019 by Truckee native, Julliard graduate and Loyalton resident Lindsay McIntosh to foster the arts in the Lost Sierra
“We get to create long-lasting works that will benefit the next generation and inspire them to be classical stewards and stewards of Mother Earth.”
– Lindsay McIntosh
Through the homegrown program, she and her husband Owen attract worldclass artists to the region while helping provide music education programs to the approximately 400 students of rural Sierra-Plumas Joint Unified School District. The district recently hired Owen as the first full-time music teacher in Sierra County schools in more than two decades.
“It’s been an honor to bring all these incredible musicians and create music for the kids and people in our community,” says Lindsay. “We get to create long-lasting works that will benefit the next generation and inspire them to
be classical stewards and stewards of Mother Earth.”
The McIntosh’s first met Chanticleer’s music director, Tim Keeler, while living and working in New York City as freelance musicians.
“I love the two of them so much because they care so deeply about what they do,” says Keeler. “I remember going to their apartment in Brooklyn for rehearsals and dinner. It’s very special to make music with them in a different stage of life.”
Keeler grew up in Delaware singing in church and children’s choirs. He studied music at Princeton University and joined Chanticleer as a vocalist before becoming music director in 2020.
“I had a good network of people around me who encouraged me to pursue music early on,” he says. “I remember listening to Chanticleer as a kid and being fascinated with them. It’s sort of a dream job to now be the music director of the ensemble. In a good year, we do almost 100 concerts all over the country.”
At live performances, Chanticleer covers a range of musical styles from folk to jazz to pop. Crowd favorites like Tom Petty’s “Wildflowers” and Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now” breathe melodiously alongside classical gems such as Max Reger’s “Opus 83.”
“There’s something about the voices and nothing else that resonates with our listeners,” says Keeler. “All of the tools we need to make it happen are inside us.
It’s an immediate, visceral experience.”
Chanticleer will be performing a new arrangement of “The Rivers are Our Brothers,” a song cycle composed Majel Connery in 2021 with inspiration from the natural landscape of Sierra County. Musica Sierra creates educational song book/field guides to go along with each of the new compositions they commission as part of its Musical Headwaters program
“It’s a such a unique way to share our love of the environment and the natural world with the place we’ll be performing,” says Keeler.
During their time here, Chanticleer
will sing this piece with students from Wild River Waldorf school, Loyalton elementary and high schools and the University of Nevada at Reno choral program.
“Everybody likes to sing in the shower or along with the car radio,” says Keeler. “There is a beautiful joy that comes out of expressing yourself that way… [Singing with others] is similar to a team sport. It’s a community that is creating something together and working towards a common goal. There’s this immense satisfaction when you perform well, but also the emotional side of the music that is shared with everybody in the chorus. I think that’s pretty rare actually that you can have such an intimate experience with a group of people in that way.”
Future artists-in-residents scheduled to arrive via Musica Sierra include sibling violin/cello duo Anita and Julian Graef from Nov. 6 to 12 and pianist Carolyn Enger from Dec. 11 to 16. | musicasierra.org n
San Francisco voice ensemble Chanticleer has performed world-class choral music since 1978. | Stephen K. Mack
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BLUEGRASS
Oct. 8 | Tahoe Blue Event Center | Stateline
Billy Strings
When it comes to contemporary bluegrass music, Billy Strings is it. From selling out arenas to penning Grammy-winning albums, the guitarist and singer born William Lee Apostol in Lansing, Mich., in 1992 has broken bluegrass barriers we didn’t even know existed.
Known for his razor-sharp songwriting, old soul voice, supernatural picking ability and extraordinary live performances, Strings and his spitfire band are sure to bring the house down at the new Tahoe Blue Event Center. | tahoeblueeventcenter.com
WEST TEXAS COUNTRY
Oct. 7 | Harrah’s Lake Tahoe | Stateline, Nev.
Flatland Cavalry
Since humble beginnings in Lubbock, Texas, Flatland Cavalry has embraced its rural West Texas roots.
Formed in 2014 while attending Texas Tech University, Cleto Cordero and company made their presence felt within the Hub City’s songwriting circles and dancehall circuits. Thanks to Cordero’s earnest pen and the band’s blend of country instrumentation, toe-tapping grooves and earworm choruses, Flatland Cavalry quickly became a regional sensation. After recording their sonically sprawling and wistfully written third album, “Welcome to Countryland” at Sound Emporium in Nashville, Tenn., this homegrown outfit is primed for a national breakout. | caesars.com
Brad Penner, Linda Brancato and Joe Kimberlin were happily playing Sacramento dive bars with their cover band
The Garage Openers when the pandemic halted all live performances. So, they turned their creative efforts inward and emerged with a fantastic new project, punningly known as Arson Whales, which performs Sept. 29 and 30.
Joined by drummer Stephen Linn, the El Dorado County quartet released a fantastic debut album, “Galactopus,” earlier this year. With a nod to new wave punk icons The Clash, David Bowie and The Damned, Arson Whale’s original compositions evoke the genre-defying, psychedelic, disco-pop of modern visionaries like Beck, Ween, Yo La Tengo and Modest Mouse. Full of abstract, stream-of-consciousness lyrics and atmospheric, driving instrumentals, the music is poignant, charming and fresh.
“I don’t write with much intention,” says Brancato. “I just download lyrics from the universe. They make sense to me on a personal level. When they’re done, I love to hear people come back and tell me what they think.”
The following weekend, Oct. 6 and 7, Oakland-based indie rockers Junk Parlor will invite the audience at Moody’s into a joyful, raucous and intoxicating sonic dreamscape. Their colorful, edgy live performances and signature sound combine rock and punk influences with traditional Eastern-European folk songs, Manouche rhythms, Bohemian jangling and vintage exotic belly dancing melodies. | moodysbistro.com
MAGIC
Sept. 28-Oct. 10 | The Loft | Heavenly Village | South Lake Tahoe
Matt Marcy
Acclaimed for his blend of mind-boggling magic and clever storytelling, Matt Marcy has entertained everyone from Fortune 500 companies to Hollywood celebrities. His resume boasts more than 1,000 shows at the world-famous Magic Castle, performances on Las Vegas’ most glamorous stages and countless gigs at theaters, casinos, cruise ships and corporate events around the globe. You might have seen him on “Masters of Illusion” or “Penn & Teller: Fool Us.” Wherever he shows up, Marcy creates unforgettable magical experiences, including illusions you won’t see from any other magician that will leave you laughing and gasping in astonishment. | thelofttahoe.com
VARIOUS
Oct. 4 | Community Arts Center | Truckee
Celebrate musical women in new music series
Tahoe Truckee School of Music and Truckee-Donner Recreation and Park District are collaborating to host “A Celebration of Women in Music” from 6 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 4 at the outdoor amphitheater at the Community Arts Center in Truckee. The performance is part of the new Music in the Downtown Park free fall series.
This free community concert celebrates outstanding music played by women in the region and will highlight Steel Sparrows, an all-female, all-mom band playing rock, blues and good-vibe tunes. The celebration will also showcase a range of young female performers.
“We are more than just a band,” says guitarist Cami Childs. “We like to think of ourselves as a movement of bringing more women and young girls into music. We are also music teachers, members of local music nonprofits and community members. We even often bring younger female musicians on stage with us to give them opportunities they might not have otherwise.”
Other Music in the Downtown Park performances will include The Johnson Party on Oct. 18, TreeTones on Nov. 1 and SunRays on Nov. 15. | tahoemusic. net, tdrpd.org
Hanna
honored as local
Icon of Art
In celebration of its 40th Anniversary, the Arts Council of Placer County recently named it’s “40 Icons of Art” that make up the cultural fabric of the region, including Tahoe’s Christin Hanna. Hanna is a nationally acclaimed ballerina, dance instructor and supporter of local arts. After dancing with the best companies in New York City, she came home to found Tahoe Youth Ballet, Lake Tahoe Dance Collective and Lake Tahoe Dance Festival, all based in Tahoe City. Her mission is to ensure youth growing up in a remote area are not limited in their access to arts and culture. | placerarts.org
Laugh, scream at ‘The House on Haunted Hill’
Black Ice Theatre Company presents “The House on Haunted Hill,” the tale of millionaire Frederick Lauren, his fourth wife Annabelle, and five guests who will each receive $50,000 if they stay in a haunted house until sunrise. Adapted from the 1959 Vincent Price classic film. the drama is filled with double crosses, jilted lovers, a wicked sense of humor and a restless spirt or two. The production is from Oct. 5 to 14 at 2307 James Ave. in South Lake Tahoe. | blackicetheatreco.com
Lake Tahoe Dance Collective
Christopher Marley
Junk Parlor | Gabor Beszeda
Arson Whales | Nancy Milla
Matt Marcy
Fernando Garcia
Steel Sparrows. | Michael Loomis
WWE Supershow
WWE Supershow slams South Lake
WWE arrives in Tahoe for the first time on Oct. 1 at the new Tahoe Blue Event Center in Stateline, Nev., ready to drop the hammer with the world’s best pro wrestlers. Scheduled to make an appearance are Cody Rhodes, World Heavyweight Champion Seth “Freakin” Rollins, the Women’s World Championship, Rhea Ripley, Bianca Belair, Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn and many more. | tahoeblueeventcenter.com
Truckee Community Theater
Truckee hosts two local plays
Two plays and one unforgettable experience come to the Community Arts Center in Truckee form Oct. 6 to 15. Truckee Community Theater presents “Lone Star” which takes place in the cluttered backyard of a small-town Texas bar. Then, in “Laundry & Bourbon” three small-town wives discuss marriages that have turned out to be less than what was hoped for. | truckeecommunitytheater.com
WordWave crowns best one-act play
WordWave, Lake Tahoe’s beloved one-act play competition, draws more 100 entries each year with three submissions selected. On Sept. 30, see the winning works directed and produced as a staged reading at the historic Valhalla Boathouse Theatre in South Lake Tahoe. | valhallatahoe.com
Live Music With Brother Dan Palmer
Grand Lodge Casino, Incline Village, 9-11:55 p.m.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 30
Higher Elevation Music Fest at Alibi Incline
Public House
Alibi Incline Public House, Incline Village, 1-11:10 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Matt Marcy
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 p.m.
Wordwave 1-Act Play Competition
Valhalla Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, 7:30 p.m.
Ben Fuller Live Music
Glasses Wine Bar, Incline Village, 7:30-9:30 p.m.
Dueling Pianos
Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Arty the Party
Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.
Karaoke Nights
Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Matt Marcy
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.
Live Music With Brother Dan Palmer
Grand Lodge Casino, Incline Village, 9-11:55 p.m.
SUNDAY, OCT. 1
Bluegrass Jam
Truckee Public House, Truckee, 6 p.m.
THURSDAY, SEPT. 28
Open Mic Thursday’s
Cottonwood Restaurant & Bar, Truckee, 6-9 p.m.
Wolves & Friends Live
The Good Wolf, Truckee, 6:30 p.m.
Thirsty Thursday Trivia
Flatstick Pub, South Lake Tahoe, 7 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Matt Marcy
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 p.m.
Karaoke Nights
Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.
FRIDAY, SEPT. 29
Dance of Hope
MontBleu Showroom, Stateline, 6 p.m.
Magic Fusion Starring Matt Marcy
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 p.m.
Pitbull
Tahoe Blue Event Center, Stateline, 8 p.m.
Dueling Pianos
Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Arty the Party
Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.
Karaoke Nights
Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.
Magic After Dark Starring Robert Hall
The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.
MONDAY, OCT. 2
Open Stage Mondays
Truckee Public House, Truckee, 6:30 p.m.
Open Mic Night
Valhalla Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, 6:30 p.m.
TUESDAY, OCT. 3
Tuesday Night Karaoke
The Paddle Wheel Saloon, Incline Village, 8 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 4
Music in the Downtown Park
Community Arts Center, Truckee, 6-8 p.m.
THURSDAY, OCT. 5
Senior Dance Night
Fox Cultural Hall, Kings Beach, 6-9 p.m.
Open Mic Thursday’s
Cottonwood Restaurant & Bar, Truckee, 6-9 p.m.
Wolves & Friends Live
The Good Wolf, Truckee, 6:30 p.m.
Jamestown Revival
Crystal Bay Casino, Crystal Bay, 7 p.m.
Thirsty Thursday Trivia
Flatstick Pub, South Lake Tahoe, 7 p.m.
Neighbors Night at Flatstick Pub Tahoe
Flatstick Pub, South Lake Tahoe, 7 p.m.
House On Haunted Hill
South Tahoe Association of Realtors, South Lake Tahoe, 7:30 p.m.
Karaoke Nights
Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.
FRIDAY, OCT. 6
Lone Star / Laundry & Bourbon
Truckee Community Theater, Truckee, 7-2 p.m.
House On Haunted Hill
South Tahoe Association of Realtors, South Lake Tahoe, 7:30 p.m.
Arty the Party
Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.
Karaoke Nights
Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.
SATURDAY, OCT. 7
Markleeville Music in the Park
Visit Alpine County, Markleeville, 5 p.m.
Music in the Meadow
The Brewing Lair, Blairsden, 6 p.m.
House On Haunted Hill
South Tahoe Association of Realtors, South Lake Tahoe, 7:30 p.m.
Rumours of Fleetwood Mac
Tahoe Blue Event Center, Stateline, 7:30 p.m.
The Glorious Sons
The Crown Room, Crystal Bay, 8 p.m.
Flatland Cavalry
South Shore Room, Stateline, 8 p.m.
Arty the Party
Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.
Karaoke Nights
Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.
SUNDAY, OCT. 8
House On Haunted Hill
South Tahoe Association of Realtors, South Lake Tahoe, 2:30 p.m.
Bluegrass Jam
Truckee Public House, Truckee, 6 p.m.
Billy Strings
Tahoe Blue Event Center, Stateline, 7:30 p.m.
MONDAY, OCT. 9
Open Stage Mondays
Truckee Public House, Truckee, 6:30 p.m.
TUESDAY, OCT. 10
Tuesday Night Karaoke
The Paddle Wheel Saloon, Incline Village, 8 p.m.
EAT & drink
food & libations | recipes | delicious events
Clever condiments for every meal
The medium rare burger is plated, served on a brioche bun, lettuce, tomato, maybe a pickle and possibly accompanied by a side of fries. An assortment of ketchup, mustard, mayo or perhaps an aioli is served with the meal. What topping do you lean toward? What do you dip your French fries in? What is the difference between a condiment and a sauce? I personally love a good quality Dijon mustard with my burger.
Condiments are considered a topping. They enhance the flavor of prepared food. Ketchup, mustard and mayonnaise are some of the most common condiments. Sauces are, well, saucy. Sauces are partially liquid and generally added to food. One might argue the point, but a sauce and a condiment are two different animals in the food world. What about hot sauce, soy sauce or hoisin sauce? They, too, are considered condiments and not sauces. In the world of cooking, condiments are a topping that enriches the taste of the food.
Harvest time
I love condiments and enjoy experimenting with them. As the seasons change, there are several ways to create new flavors and add to standard condiments. For the gardeners, it’s harvest time. Temperatures are starting to dip and herbs are beginning to bolt. It is time to pick the sage, mint and oregano before the first freeze. I dry some herbs and add others to condiments such as herbed mayonnaise or aioli.
BY PRIYA HUTNER
Fruit
Fruit can also be made into condiments. End-of-the-season peaches are unique and delightful. Think of a peach relish on roasted chicken. Or try peach, apple or pear syrup on pancakes, and, yes, syrup is a condiment.
Salsas are also considered a condiment. Pear, apple or peach salsa are fabulous on tacos and tortilla chips.
What topping do you lean toward? What do you dip your French fries in? What is the difference between a condiment and a sauce?
Pickled vegetables & relishes
Pickles and pickled vegetables are also considered condiments. I recently made pickled jalapenos when I purchased a large bag of peppers. I use them in a seven-layer dip and they add the perfect amount of spicy punch to this dish.
Pickled red onions, another condiment, are always in my fridge. Pickled onions are delicious on tacos, sandwiches and baked potatoes.
Pickled vegetables in almost any form add a nice flavor to many dishes.
Relish is also a winner. Add relish and ketchup to mayonnaise and, voila, a great condiment is prepared and perfect
for a turkey sandwich or any type of sandwich.
Kimchi, Sriracha, chili sauce and wasabi give Asian food a delicious flavor and add spice to a meal. Asian nori bowls with seasoned rice, seared salmon and vegetables topped with chili garlic condiments and kimchi are among my favorite meals. n
Priya Hutner is a food writer, personal chef and owner of The Seasoned Sage, a meal delivery and catering company. | TheSeasonedSage.com, priya@ yourtahoeguide.com
KIMCHI MAYONNAISE
From the kitchen of Priya Hutner
Homemade Mayonnaise
1 egg
1 T fresh lemon juice
1 T white wine vinegar
1 T Dijon mustard
¼ t coarse salt
Pinch of pepper
1 C oil (avocado, canola or olive)
In a food processor, add egg, mustard, lemon juice, vinegar, salt and pepper. Mix for 30 seconds. Add 2 T of oil. Blend into the mixture. Slowly add remaining oil until the ingredients emulsify, about 3 minutes. Store mayo in a jar in the fridge.
Easy Kimchi
1 large head napa cabbage, 2-3 lbs.
½ C daikon radish, peeled & cut into matchsticks
5-6 green onions, sliced into ½-inch pieces
1 C kosher salt
4-6 gloves garlic, finely minced
3 T fresh ginger, grated
1 t sugar
2-3 T Gochugaru or red pepper flakes
4 C water
2 T fish sauce or salted shrimp paste (optional, but traditional)
Cut cabbage lengthwise and place in a large bowl. Salt the cabbage and let sit for 30 to 60 minutes. Squeeze excess water that is produced. Place the cabbage in a container and cover with water. Let it sit for a few hours.
Mix remaining spices together for a marinade and add remaining vegetables. Mix with cabbage and place in a container, covered with salted water. Seal jar and let ferment for one to five days. Serve with everything. Refrigerate after opening.
Kimchi Mayo
½ C homemade mayo (can substitute vegan mayo) ¼ C kimchi, chopped small (can use store-bought)
Using homemade mayo, storebought mayo or vegan mayo, add ½ cup to the food processor and add the kimchi. Mix for 30 to 40 seconds until blended. Store in the fridge until ready to use.
FROM LEFT: Common condiments. Homemade kimchi mayonnaise. | Priya Hutner
TUESDAYS TRUCKEE | 4–5pm Warehouse, 12116 Chandelle Way, Unit 2D
WEDNESDAYS
Tahoe’s tea houses
BY KAYLA ANDERSON
Asthe kids settle back into school and the temperatures get cooler, you may be yearning for a hot healthy cup of coziness to help you through the day. Here are my favorite Tahoe tea house picks.
Pep’s Place
Located right across from the Tahoe Vista Recreation Area boat ramp and next to Perennial Nursery & Landscape, Pep’s Place makes and sells breakfast, lunch, coffee, tea, beer, wine and more using locally sourced ingredients. It also carries a full line of Tahoe Teas available by the bag or by the cup made right around the corner in Carnelian Bay. My favorites are the Tahoe Local, which has an aromatic spearmint taste and the Tahoe Balance goes great as a latte. | pepstahoe.com, tahoeteas.com
Free Bird Cafe
Years ago, in his early Tahoe days as a barista, Aaron Abrams learned how to make chai tea from a woman of Indian descent. He changed it to his taste and opened the Free Bird Café in South Lake Tahoe. His chai is so delicious that he was able to open two more locations
in South Lake Tahoe. His original, roots, yerba, ruby, dirty and muddy chai teas are made from scratch. My favorite is the muddy chai with chocolate and milk. Free Bird serves 10 flavors of loose leaf tea, and Abrams will introduce chai and tea latte specials. All three Free Bird cafes have a cozy atmosphere. | freebirdtahoe.com
Cha Fine Teas in Truckee. | Kayla Anderson
Cha’ Fine Teas of Truckee
Cha’ Fine Teas of Truckee has an amazing selection of boba tea and more than 80 kinds of loose leaf tea including 14 green teas, 7 white teas, 21 herbal teas and 2 Pu-erh blends. I’m a fan of the Hibiscus and Berry Lemonade teas, but the Get Well Soon, Tummy Tamer, Peppermint Patty and Truckee Green selections are great for the body. The Earl Grey la Crème also won the Taste Test award from Tea Time Magazine. | chafineteasoftruckee.com
Bare Roots Artisan Coffee Roasting Co.
Although Bare Roots Artisan Coffee Roasting Co. in South Lake Tahoe is known more for its coffee than its tea, their masala chai and golden lattes are worth mentioning. They make their own spice mix for the two which are their most popular tea selections. However, Bare Roots also carries the Teapigs brand in interesting flavors including popcorn, spiced winter and chocolate orange. I tried the seasonal pumpkin chai made with house-made masala, pumpkin sauce and signature fall spice blend. The first sip reminded me of the bright orange and yellow colors of autumn. | barerootscoffeetahoe.com
Notable mentions
Although it has coffee in its name, Coffeebar also sells five kinds of loose leaf tea. The Tahoe Sunshine is a sweet herbal tea made with honeybush, lemongrass, lavender, rooibos and calendula petals.
As the only Tahoe tea house with “Tea House” in its name, I feel that Tahoe Bear Tea House in South Lake Tahoe is worth a mention. It specializes in cold boba (or bubble) meaning most of its black tea combinations have tapioca pearls in them. | coffeebar.com, tahoebearteahouse.com n
Free Bird owner Aaron Abrams making writer Kayla Anderson a Muddy Chai. | Kayla Anderson
at YourTahoeGuide.com/Events
Events are subject to change & cancellation; always check in advance for
Brisket & Brews for Sukkot
Indulge in mouthwatering brisket and sip on brews while enjoying the festive atmosphere on Oct. 1 at North Tahoe Hebrew Congregation in Tahoe Vista. There will be live music, kids’ activities and a farmers’ market. Learn about Sukkot and meet the members of the congregation. | tahoetemple.org
Foam Fest Fundraiser
Join Achieve Tahoe for its 34th annual Foam Fest fundraiser from Oct. 1 to 31. Buy a ticket and visit local partner breweries to drink beer and support Achieve Tahoe’s outdoor recreation programs for people with disabilities. Participating venues include Alibi Ale Works, Donner Creek Brewing, The Good Wolf, Truckee Brewing Company, 5050 Brewing Co., Bear Belly Brewing, Jakes on the Lake, Tahoe Tap Haus and Whitecaps Pizza. | achievetahoe.org
Enjoy Truckee Wine Walk & Shop
Truckee Wine Walk & Shop is scheduled from noon to 4 p.m. on Oct. 7 in historic downtown. Attendees receive a commemorative wine glass to sample wine at more than 30 venues while enjoying bite-sized snacks at a variety of downtown restaurants and merchants. | truckeewinewalk.com
Wine in the Woods in Sierra City
Taste a variety of wines and delicious foods in a spectacular garden at the Wine in the Woods fundraiser on Sept. 30 for the Sierra City Volunteer Fire Department. Music will be provided by Oso Blue at Sorracco’s Saloon in the historic Zerloff Hotel. Tickets are available at Sierra Country Store or Sierra Pines Resort. | sierracountychamber.com
Truckee Wine Walk & Shop
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