Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Favorite things to do in Tahoe - Visitor Edition - Part 1

Megan here again (Katie's sister). While Katie is taking on nature during her three week adventure down the Grand Canyon, I have been putting together some of my favorite things to do when visiting Tahoe. We go up a couple times a year and I have to say, while snow sports would be the obvious #1 attraction in Tahoe - there are many other fun things to do - even when there is no snow on the ground. Here are a few from the 3 - 4x a-year visitor. As I started putting this together, I realized I am going to have to break this up into two parts - so many great things to do! So here goes -- Part 1:



1. Sunnyside
Katie has already mentioned Sunnyside in a previous post - but it bears another mention. Go for the best deck on the Lake - a beautiful, peaceful setting on the West side. Ahhh... makes me a little more relaxed just thinking about it... You can also stay at the lodge there, which I've never done, but heard is also very nice. A short drive away from Tahoe City.

2. Horse back riding at Squaw ...er, I mean Northstar
While I am sure there are many horse back riding outfits around the lake, our favorite is at the base of Squaw Valley. If you have little riders, like we do, you can pay a small fee for them to sit on a friendly pony and ride in a ring led by an adult for 30 minutes. Kids love it - at least under the age of six. So, as I search to find a link to the stables - there is a notice that there is no longer horse back riding in Squaw Valley. Go figure. So without having gone to these other stables - try the Northstar stables.



3. Appetizers at Lone Eagle Grill
The food is amazing, but even more amazing is sitting on their patio next to a fire pit watching the sun set with a good adult beverage. This is a must-do every time we go to Tahoe, regardless of the time of year. You will also get to see the famous "Tahoe Luke" - or as we call him in my family - Luuuuke! (love those leather pants!) He can play just about any song you request - he is especially good at the Dan Fogelberg/James Taylor/Eagles tunes. (Note: There are many photos of Luke to choose from on his web site - and this one seemed nice enough. Looking at the photo today - I just noticed , is Luke sitting on a guard rail on the side of the road, playing his guitar, posing for a picture?)



4. Brunch at Gar Woods
Another wonderful place to eat with an amazing deck overlooking the lake. The brunch is amazing - as well as the rest of their menu. If you are there in the evening, you might catch a Tahoe Luke sighting (see #3). Don't forget to try their famous drink - the Wet Woody.

5. Squaw Valley - summer

Buy a cable car pass to ride to the top of the mountain. It is a beautiful hike down. If you are ready to spend the whole day there, bring your bathing suit and swim in the pool at the top of the mountain/gondola. (Apparently, there is also a spa up there - I haven't check that out yet.) You will have never swam at a pool with a more breathtaking view :) Great lunch options served as well. There is also the Olympic museum at the top - very interesting - check out those wood skis from 1960!

Okay, that's all for today. I realize this was heavy on the eating and drinking. Next time we will go on to more important topics... like shopping!




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