Lake Tahoe in Summer

For the longest time, Lake Tahoe used to be our Winter vacation spot. We could not really think of much else to do other than skiing. For many years, we used to go there to ski/ snowboard every other weekend during peak season. It is only in the last 2-3 years that we started visiting Tahoe in summer and it is equally beautiful, if not more. I love Tahoe in spring and early summer. All the snow has melted off the hiking trails by then. The waterfalls are filled with new snow melt, and  you could enjoy the snow if you get to the top of the mountains. It is the best of both worlds. 

 

Heavenly Resort: During spring and early summer, tubing is available at heavenly. The viewing gallery is open at all times, so do not miss to take the Gondola to the top. One summer my dad was here for a couple of weeks for a work trip, and we went to Heavenly and tried tubing. It was so much fun. Dad loved it.

Eagle Falls: We have been to the Upper and Lower Eagle falls in Spring. It was filled with fresh snow melt.

Biking and easy hikes: For easy to moderate hikes, you can choose the walking trails along south lake tahoe. Most of it is flat and you get fabulous views of the lake.

 

There are bike rentals in South Lake Tahoe. There is a huge biking path that can keep you occupied for an entire day. Stop along the way and enjoy the beautiful beaches.

 

Cave rock: Traveling   from South lake Tahoe towards Reno, you will pass through the Cave Rock tunnel. Just before the tunnel is a pathway that leads to the Cave rock. It is easy to miss, so look out for signs. It looks the best during sunset. The spring bloom adds to the beauty.

Cave rock tunnel - on Hwy 50 (towards Reno)

Emerald bay: This is my favorite hike in Tahoe. I love it as much as the Vernal falls hike in Yosemite and the River hike in Zion. There is a steep descent from the starting point to the base that is around the lake. After that it is a very easy hike. There are places where you can get off the trail and reach the lake shore. The path is so green, it is like a dream walking through it!

This is the view from the starting point, and it keeps getting better!

Here are some pictures from the hike:

 

 

Water activities: There are lots of water activities to try on the gorgeous lake. If you like to go slow and enjoy the views, rent a kayak. You could also rent a motor boat and cruise along. If you are looking for more speed, our favorite water sport is jet skiing. The Zephyr Cove marina  is the most famous for rentals. Camp Richardson is another such spot. I have also heard of Meeks Bay marina, but have not been there.

Some photos of the water activities at Lake Tahoe (from the web):

http://guidehop.com/

http://www.parasailnorthtahoe.com/

http://www.parasailnorthtahoe.com/

http://www.mayflowertours.com/

Parasailing is very popular too. The views of the lake from Heavenly ski resort are gorgeous. You can say the same other way round as well. Heavenly at 800 feet above the lake looks majestic. The dip into the ice cold water is very exhilarating. I would highly recommend it.

Here is a pic of sis and I parasailing:

Stay: There are a lot of options for stay along the lake. You can book vacation rentals through Home away, Vacation home junction, Airbnb, Vacation Rentals by Owner, or Vacation Rentals. We like to rent a house or a big cabin if going a large group. There are some good hotels as well. We like Harrahs as it is close to the South Lake Tahoe ski slopes, and also because we can play Poker all night! We have stayed a couple of times at High Country Lodge when looking for places to stay at the last minute. The rooms are decent, and the best part is the outdoor Jacuzzi. The cabins at Heavenly, Sierra Tahoe, Northstar etc are also great.

- Yam