Tahoe Vlog

I was born and raised in South Lake Tahoe, CA. Since I’ve moved, I typically come up to visit the lake one to two times per year. I enjoy Tahoe’s year-round seasons, mountainous and beach terrain, and tap water (that’s right, no filter necessary). It’s a great place to raise a family, and I feel fortunate to be able to call this place home.

There’s a lot of great hikes, beach/water recreation in the summer, and snow activities in the winter.   Tahoe is a dream destination, which is why so many tourists come to visit our waters. All are welcome, unless you refuse to wear a mask and/or you have corona virus- then please stay home (South Lake Tahoe literally only has six ICU beds). 

Any who, please enjoy this winter and summer vlog I put together! Locations include the following: 

1. Hope Valley is located on the Carson Pass, Highway 88 and 89 Junction. The valley is a favorite for fisherman, hikers, campers, and photographers. During the winter, it is frequented by snowshoers (what we did), snowmobilers, and cross country skiers. 
2. Sawmill Pond is a nice local spot in South Lake Tahoe. People go there to picnic and fish during the summer months. The pond is also perfect for skating activities during the winter months once it freezes over. 
3. West Shore Lake Tahoe is truly magical, as it is known for its beauty and outdoor expeditions. I know if I had millions, I would buy one of the properties on the lake and own a private dock where I could park my boat!
4. The Donner Pass Train Tunnels are situated in Truckee, near Donner Lake (the hike overlooks Donner Lake). This hike is one of the most historic and unique in Tahoe. These tunnels served as the first railroad line in the Sierra Nevadas and was built by Chinese laborers. The abandoned tunnels are said to be hunted, especially tunnel six, which is 1/4 mile long and very dark. Make sure to bring your flashlight! Oh, and also, fair warning, bats and rats live in these tunnels, and the ground gets damp. 
5. Sand Harbor is located on the East Shore of Lake Tahoe. Sand Harbor is a popular destination, and is known for its beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rock formations. It’s a great place for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, and scuba diving. In fact, Sand Harbor is probably one of the most photographed spots in Tahoe, because its beauty is so surreal!
6. The Truckee River  is 121 miles long. Many individuals will spend the day sipping a cold one and floating the river. For those more adventurous folks, river rafting is also available. 
7. Eagle Lake is a backcountry lake, situated in desolation wilderness. Individuals can reach the lake by starting at the Eagle Lake trailhead on HWY 89. This moderate hike is roughly 1.8 miles long. 
8. Mount Tallac is another great desolation/backcountry hike. This hike is on the more difficult side, is 10.2 miles long, and is 3,290 feet in elevation gain. I’m not lying when I say it is the most advanced hike I have EVER done. However, it is totally worth it! Once at the top, you can experience panoramic views of alpine lakes like Cascade and Fallen Leaf. The view is especially beautiful at sunrise.
9. Emerald Bay is another frequented site, with its glistening turquoise and blue waters. It is known as Tahoe’s crown jewel. Emerald Bay is the only inlet on the lake and is home to Fannette Island, in which Mrs. Knight’s teahouse sits at top. You can boat, kayak, or paddleboard over to the island, and if you hike up to the teahouse, there is a window you can sit in that overlooks the bay (great for photo opportunities). 
10. D.L. Bliss is a state park in California, and sits just north of Emerald Bay State Park. Individuals are invited to camp, hike, or forgo the beach.
11. Clear Creek Tahoe is located on the eastern slope of the Carson Range. Clear Creek is a private community; to enter, you must be a member (or in my case know a member). There are new overlook estates that face the mountains and golf course, and members/friends of members are able to access the new clubhouse. While I was in Tahoe last, the girls sat by the pool and drank smoothies and frose, while the boys golfed. 
12. Nevada Beach is one of the many beaches in Tahoe. It overlooks the Sierra Nevadas and is a great spot to walk the dog(s) while enjoying a summer sunset. 
13. The Hangar is one of the various taprooms and bottle shops in Tahoe. They offer a great selection of craft brew and food (per covid). Individuals can enjoy tacos and beer under the starry sky/lights, while they cozy up next to the fire pit. 
14. Cave Rock is a large rock structure on HWY 50. It’s just a short 15-minute hike up to experience some spectacular views of the South Shore. 

Thanks for tuning into my Tahoe vlog! Please subscribe to get the latest updates on any new blog/vlog posts. Happy Sunday!