Lake Tahoe, CA
My Blue Heaven
By Tiffany Weatherman
“At last the lake burst upon us--a noble sheet of blue water lifted six thousand three hundred feet above the level of the sea, and walled in by a rim of snow-clad mountain peaks that towered aloft three thousand feet higher still! As it lay there with the shadows of the mountains brilliantly photographed upon its still surface, I thought it must surely be the fairest picture the whole world affords.” – Mark Twain
Divided down the middle by the California and Nevada border, Lake Tahoe sits as the largest alpine lake in North America. Boasting 72 miles of shoreline, 396 inches of annual snowfall, 182 ski trails (spread throughout 18 world class ski and snowboarding resorts), fantastic hotels, casinos, and of course, breathtaking Lake Tahoe itself, it is no wonder this Sierra Nevada gem has steadily developed into one of the country’s largest winter tourist attractions. Whether you’re an avid skier or snowboarder, in search of a wintertime sanctuary, or lusting after casino-fed wealth, Lake Tahoe possesses something for everyone.
The Tahoe Shores
Split into two different ‘shores’ (North Shore and South Shore), Lake Tahoe offers plush accommodations on both. Though only an hour drive between the two, there’s a considerable difference between them. South Shore is typically described as the ‘swanky’ shore, home to the high-rise casinos and Heavenly Village shops. North Shore is better suited for those seeking simple tranquility. While you may choose to spend time in both during your visit, choosing one for your base of operations is highly suggested.
Winter Wonderland
Though Lake Tahoe is commonly known for its skiing and snowboarding, the area is home to over a dozen large state and county parks offering room for other seasonal activities. Head over to South Shore and make your way to Kirkwood where you will find Running Creek Sled Dog Rides. Here you can experience the Finnish sport of dog mushing. The Borges Family Sleigh and Carriage Ride is only a quick car ride away where old-fashioned horse-pulled sleigh rides in antique European sleighs await to whisk you away through the snow-coated pine forests. For those craving speed and excitement, Lake Tahoe Adventures will provide exactly that. Led by experienced, professional guides, take a scenic back country tour through breathtaking Hope Valley aboard a snowmobile fit for two.
A Bird’s Eye View
For visitors in search of a more intimate way to experience Tahoe, climb aboard a helicopter and experience this winter oasis from the air. Soaring over landmarks such as Emerald Bay, Zephyr Cove, and Fallen Leaf Lake (layered beneath blankets of fresh white snow) makes this the ideal romantic, luxurious escapade. Sierra Air Helicopters in North Shore will guide you over the sights.
Northstar at Tahoe
With the addition of the new Northstar Lodge - Hyatt Residence Club and the Ritz-Carlton Highlands, Lake Tahoe, Northstar Resort offers one of the largest variety of lodging options.
Situated among Ponderosa pines in a coveted slope-side location is the Northstar Lodge - Hyatt Residence Club. Displaying hand-scrapped, dark hickory hardwood floors, marble and granite countertops, state-of-the art appliances, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing dazzling mountain views, these inviting two and three bedroom winter bungalows provide for the ideal setting to spend your winter vacation.
Proudly boasting the areas first five star-caliber hotel featuring 170 rooms and a 17,000 square-foot spa, Northstar at Tahoe introduces The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe. Where rugged mountain landscapes are tamed by simple elegance, this wintry sanctuary welcomes you with the finest in service and amenities. Offering ski in/ski out access with ski concierge services including a valet to tune your gear, heat your boots, and place your skis right next to the slopes. An inter-mountain gondola is also provided for an easy commute to the nearby Village at Northstar with The Ritz-Carlton.
Mont Bleu Hotel Casino & Spa
Staying true to their slogan “Tahoe on the outside, Vegas on the inside,” this mountain haven provides accommodations fit for any winter visitor. Featuring 437 lavish hotel rooms, many providing stunning views of Lake Tahoe itself and the breathtaking Sierra Nevada, a top of the line full-service spa and fitness center, a Vegas style casino, and easy access to nearby Heavenly Ski Resort.
A Taste of the Sierra Nevada
With all this winter excitement and activities that Lake Tahoe offers, any visitor will find themselves working up quite an insatiable appetite. Fortunately, from Shore to Shore, dining options are abundant.Visit the Edgewood Restaurant in South Shore and experience a menu that blends high-end dining with an appreciation for simplicity. Sit inside what feels like an alpine chateau and enjoy an unparalleled view of breathtaking Lake Tahoe through floor-to-ceiling windows. Head over to North Shore to find Christy Hill situated 100 feet above the shoreline. Celebrating 25 years as one of Lake Tahoe’s most popular restaurants and recently voted “Most Romantic Restaurant” by the San Francisco Chronicle, this lakeside jewel features a menu compiled of the finest and freshest ‘California Seasonal’ ingredients.Though the food scene in Tahoe is typically chic and sophisticated; there are also dozens of cafes offering ‘home-style’ cooking. The Red Hut Cafe prepares its food on a 1959 style gas-cooking grill and offers a choice between breakfast or lunch.
