Travel-mad Zoe Macfarlane shares her life on the road as a digital nomad, this week she comes to you with some great advice on what travellers can do in Lake Tahoe depending on your ‘speed’.
Lake Tahoe. Crossing California and Nevada, the crystalline cobalt waters, inviting local vibes, and an array of activities makes this an incredible destination, whether you’re a Tahoe virgin or vet.
At Lake Tahoe, it’s easy to choose your own adventure and pace. Quoting Drake, we show you how to go from 0-100 (real quick) on the Californian side of Lake Tahoe.
Flop & Drop (0-10mph)
With 300 days of sunshine, there are plenty of reasons to head to Lake Tahoe’s popular beaches. Grab a picnic, take a book, or even practice your yoga. Vikingsholm and Pope Beach make for a leisurely day out.
S’mores For Me (11-20mph)
With an equal number of clear nights and no big-city lights, Tahoe provides a spectacular place to camp and star gaze. With camping comes the excuse to trial the cracker-chocolate-marshmallow combo of S’mores. Roasted over an open fire, under an open sky – it’s magic!
Lake Night Cruising (21-30mph)
No trip to Tahoe is complete without getting on the lake at least once. For effortless water adventures, choose to rent a sailboat, hop on a guided lake cruise or journey aboard M.S. Dixie paddle wheeler.
Paddle’s (S)UP (31-40mph)
If there was ever a time to try the popular stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), this is it. The glassy surface of Lake Tahoe takes pesky waves out of the equation, giving you ample opportunity to prosper or plunge on your abilities alone. If seated water adventures are more your cuppa, rent a kayak or join a tour.
High Sierra Chase (41-50mph)
Bike Tahoe’s High Sierra’s Image: Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority
Want to whip your hair back and forth around the High Sierras? Race backcountry, taking in the majestic mountain scenery and rugged off-road trails on an ATV tour. In winter, take an equally thrilling snowmobile ride, navigating the blanketed High Sierra landscape.
Aerial Trekker (51-60mph)
Get a bird’s eye view from one of three canopy locations with the Tahoe Tree Tops adventure. Traverse rope swings, bridges, zip lines and more amid their secluded forest or alpine park.
Trail Mix (61-70mph)
Getting high in California changes your outlook on life… so hike to a Tahoe viewpoint and release endorphins in awe of this world-class destination! The 10-mile Mt. Tallac Trail has exquisite views of Emerald Bay, or take the easier Eagle Falls route. Snowshoeing makes for a great winter hike.
Alpine Bliss (71-80mph)
Tahoe has world-class alpine resorts with eight ski fields on the California side. Go extreme at the former Olympics Squaw Valley resort, or hit up Homewood if you like a side of wow (the views) with your powdery turns.
Mountain Madness (81-90mph)
Popular in summer, mountain biking down ski runs offers major adventure points. Bike Tahoe City to Squaw Valley, or if you want a dedicated location Northstar California is it. Advanced bikers, do you dare tackle Mr Toad’s Wild Ride?
Hang gliding (91-100mph)
Lake Tahoe’s adventure options give your spirits many ways to soar but book a tandem hang gliding adventure and your body comes along for the ride too. Enjoy the tranquility of flight over one America’s most iconic destinations.
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