LAKE TAHOE
LAKE TAHOE IS famous for world-class skiing
during the winter months (the 1960 Winter
Olympics were held at Squaw Valley) but
consider that the average high temperature
in August is nearly 79 degrees, making this
an irresistible venue for outdoor adventures,
whether knee-deep in crystalline blue waters,
sunning on the sandy shore or exploring
the sylvan scenery. Water sports include
parasailing, kayaking, boating and sailboat
racing. Fishing excursions range from expert
level fly fishing to cushy chartered
boat excursions where experienced guides
assist novices in hooking a find worthy of
a “big fish” story.
North America’s largest alpine lake (22
miles long, 12 miles wide, 1,645 feet deep),
it sits 6,225 feet above sea level, and is renowned
for its crystal-clear water. Spectacular
mountain scenery surrounds all 75
miles of shoreline.
The Tahoe Rim Trail (165 miles circumnavigating
the lake) provides magnificent
vistas for hikers, and the Flume Trail, on
Tahoe’s east shore, is a must-conquer route
for avid mountain bikers. Due to heavy
snowfall last winter, the trail may not reopen
until mid-June, so plan ahead. At several
points around the lake, hay wagon excursions
are a hit with younger adventurers and
pony and trail rides appeal to city slickers
and more seasoned trail trekkers with a
thirst for equestrian adventure. Top-rated
golf courses and glitzy casinos provide additional
lures for those who prefer more
cultivated surroundings.
78 South Bay Accent
Fallen Leaf Lake
FALLEN LEAF LAKE
JUST ABOUT A mile south of Lake Tahoe and
a world away from the big, bustling resort
vibe, is the much smaller Fallen Leaf Lake.
According to Native American tradition,
the lake was created when a boy defended
himself against a bear with a branch from
an Aspen tree. An enchanted leaf fell from
the branch and formed this breathtaking
body of water. Windsurfing, waterskiing,
fishing, kayaking and boating are all at play
on this one mile wide, 3.1-mile-long hidden
gem. Fallen Lake also draws hikers and
backpackers to its relatively “off-the-beatenpath”
trails. Some lead into the Desolation
Wilderness, a stretch of gloriously unpopulated
swath of land that calls to those in
search of a refuge from modern distractions.
Covering more ground, cyclists glide along
Shasta Lake
FROM TOP: MITCH BARRIE; KODIAK GREENWOOD; OPPOSITE: RACHID DAHNOUN, PREVIOUS SPREAD: RACHID DAHNOUN