Lake Tahoe – The Jewel of the Sierra Nevada

Jul 23, 2023 | 0 comments

By Kimberly Matarazzo

“To breathe the same air as the angels, you must go to Tahoe” – Mark Twain

Lake Tahoe is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It is the largest alpine lake in North America with a max depth of 1645 ft, and it boasts some of the most stunning scenery in the world. Here are some of the features that make Lake Tahoe so special.

Spectacular views

Lake Tahoe is surrounded by majestic mountains that create a stunning backdrop for the lake. You can admire the views from many vantage points around the lake, my favorites are D.L. Bliss State Park, Emerald Bay State Park, Sand Harbor State Park, Zephyr Cove and Nevada Beach. A scenic drive along the 72 miles of shoreline is and all day affair but a worthy endeavor. A must on your first visit

Emerald Bay

Four-season recreation

Lake Tahoe offers something for everyone in every season. You can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding in the summer. Hiking, biking, camping, and golfing in the spring and fall; and skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and sledding in the winter. For those that like the nightlife there is Stateline, NV which features many large hotel/casinos with resort amenities. There are also many cultural and historical attractions to explore around the lake. Here are a few suggestions: Tallac Historic Center, Thunderbird Lodge, Vikingsholm, Hellman-Erhman Mansion and Watson Cabin.

Diverse ecosystems

Lake Tahoe is home to more than 300 species of plants and animal. Some that are endemic to the region. You can find pine forests, meadows, wetlands, and rocky shores around the lake. And, let us not forget our famous Tahoe bears.

Crystal-clear water

Lake Tahoe has an average clarity of 70 feet. You can see the bottom of the lake from a boat or a pier. The water is so clear because it is fed by snowmelt from the surrounding mountains. There is very little sediment or pollution.