October Tahoe Hiking

October Tahoe Hiking

October Tahoe HikingOctober in Tahoe is a time to slow down and enjoy the change in season as the air gets colder and the leaves start to turn. Getting outside this time of year is beautiful most everywhere around Lake Tahoe but there are some hikes that light up this time of year due to the thick aspen groves. There are 3 trails that are great for hiking and mountain biking. Bring a picnic and stop and enjoy the wonders of fall in the mountains.
  

Page Meadows
This trail is based out of Tahoe City and is packed with views. Twin Peaks, Grouse Rock, Ward Peak and Scott Peak can be seen in the distance. Page Meadows is comprised of many meadows, each with it’s own personality and views. Look out for wildlife as it is not uncommon to see hawks, golden eagles, coyote or even a bear. This hike is friendly for just about anyone, including small children.


Directions:
The Tahoe Rim trail makes it’s way right through the Page Meadow. Pick up the trail from the top of Talmont Estates. Drive south on HWY 89 and turn right on Pineland Drive (2 miles south of Tahoe City). Keep heading up, veer left till you make it to Ward Creek Blvd. The Tahoe Rim Trail intersects this road. Be on the lookout as there is a large trail marker on the left with a spot to park. From there head north on the trail. The first meadow is about 1 mile in.

Marlette Lake
This hike starts at Spooner Lake which is a miniature version of Marlene that requires little hiking. Enjoy this little gem before making the 5 mile trek that takes you 1150 feet above Lake Tahoe to the shores of Marlette Lake. Head to the east side of the lake and walk through the tunnels of yellow aspens to a small peninsula where you can still find old remains of the Marlette Lake Water System that was created to provide water for the silver mining boom in the late 1800’s. Enjoy the beauty and history this fall on this hike.
  

Directions:
Spooner Lake parking is at the intersection of HWY 28 and HWY 50 at the northeast corner of Lake Tahoe. You can either park in the state park and pay a $10 fee or take the short jog left where HWY 28 meets 50 and park at the summit.

Katie Tyler

Realtor®

BRE 01442453

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Active Fall Events in Tahoe

Active Fall Events in Tahoe

It is officially what we call the “shoulder season” here in Tahoe.  A time when most kids are back in school, temperatures are cooling but it’s not time to hit the slopes just yet.  This is my favorite time of year and an especially good time of year to be outside enjoying nature. There are many opportunities to join in on some organized events and competitions around the area this fall. My favorite is the Great Trail Race that takes you on foot or bike from Truckee to Tahoe City through the National Forest and parts of the Tahoe Rim Trail.  The route is similar to the winter’s Great Ski Race.  

There are quite a few adventurous activities in the area to choose from in the near future.

Sierra Stetina's Race

Northstar

https://www.sierraprospect.com/

September 22-24, 2017

Join Peter Stetina for a journey to Nevada’s scorched desert from Lake Tahoe’s crystal waters and back.  A road rally of timed segments, stocked aid stations and breathtaking vistas brought to you by the creators of Levi’s GranFondo.  There are 5 timed segments, some flat, some hilly.  This is your moment to throw down and show what you are made of.  Outside of the segments there is no penalty to relax, snap photos and be social. 

   

The Truckee Marathon

Truckee

http://truckeemarathon.com/

September 24th, 2017

Starting in Historic Downtown Truckee, this event has some home town soul.  Course options include the Truckee Marathon, Truckee Half Marathon and the Truckee Marathon Relay.  Get a taste of this wonderful mountain town as you run to Donner Lake, through Old Greenwood and Gray’s Crossing. 

Spartan World Championship Weekend

Squaw Valley

https://www.spartan.com/en/race/detail/2605/overview

September 30 – October 1, 2017

Competitors can choose from 2 levels (12-14 miles or 26+miles).  As racers run the course they will be faced with 30-50 obstacles that will test every bit of strength, endurance and personal resolve.  The unpredictable terrain and Spartan obstacles are masterfully designed to push you deep into your discomfort zone.  Are you up for the challenge? 

  

Great Trail Race

Truckee to Tahoe City

http://greattrailrace.com/

Sunday, October 8, 2017

An epic point to point course that starts in Truckee and ends in Tahoe City.  You can choose to trail run or mountain bike one of the two course options, Elite (aprx. 18 miles) or Classic (aprx. 22 miles).  Enjoy every bit of the journey along the course and at the end, enjoy celebrations with BBQ, beer and music! 

  

Donner Party Hike 

Sugar Bowl Resort

http://donnerpartyhike.com/

October 14-15, 2017

There are 6 hikes to choose from on Saturday followed by music by Richard Blair, lunch and a Mark Twain portrayal by McAvoy Layne.  The event continues on  Sunday with a walking tour that will take you straight in to Donner Party historical sites- starting just off HWY 89 and finishing at the Donner Memorial State Park by Donner Lake.  

Katie Tyler

Realtor®

BRE 01442453

c 530 277 1012 

Tahoe Summer Sports

How Many Sports Can You Do In A Day?

Tahoe is a mecca for summer sports. Each day spent here is full of more things to do than hours in the day or days in the week. This year there is one more to add in there, skiing. Squaw Valley has decided to stay open on Saturday’s as long as conditions permit.  One of my favorite days consists of trying to fit in as many sports in one day as you can. With the long days, how many can you fit in? Load up the car with all your sports gear and get ready for an epic day.

Boating Sports
As the sun rises, the deep blue waters of Lake Tahoe are flat and clear. Get out on a boat and water ski, wake board or try out surfing behind the boat. Breathe in the clean crisp air, jump in and feel the rush of the chilling blue water.

Snow in the Summer Sports
With Squaw Valley open on weekends, it’s time to head to the mountain. Put on your best retro outfit, summer shorts or maybe a bikini. Take the funitel up to mid-mountain and then head to Shirley Lake chair. The slopes are North facing here and some good corn turns will be found.

Biking & Hiking Sports
With thousands of trails in North Lake Tahoe, an adventure out in the woods is waiting. At the base of Squaw Valley, Shirley Canyon trail is beautiful this year with a raging river and multiple waterfalls along the way. This is a hiking only trail. For biking, head out of Squaw Valley and pick up the Western Sates trail just outside the Squaw entrance on HWY 89 towards Tahoe City or head up to the Tahoe City nordic center for a web of fantastic trails that wind up the hill for Lake Tahoe views and endless wildflower viewing.


Swimming Sports
The hot summer is warming up at this point. It’s time to jump in the lake. My favorite is going to Donner Lake. The South side of Donner Lake where there are 37 public piers. Pick your favorite spot or on busy days, share with other patrons. Look out…. Cannon ball! SPLASH!
  

Paddle Board & Kayaking Sport
To top off the day head to Waterman’s Landing on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe and rent a paddle board or kayak. Get out on the water just in time for the sunset. Even better, plan it for the full moon and stay out as late as you can! This month, the full moon falls on Monday, August 7th.


You did it. You earned it. Now it’s time to eat. Close by Waterman’s Landing is Gar Woods, a great spot for dinner and their famous Wet Woody drinks. If you come back to Truckee, treat yourself to a dinner at Truckee Tavern where each cocktail is carefully hand crafted with top notch ingredients.

Katie Tyler

Realtor®

BRE 01442453

c 530 277 1012 

Tahoe Race Season 2017

Tahoe Race Season 2017

Spring has sprung and summer is here in Tahoe. It is time to come up and enjoy all the outdoor activities that the area has to offer. Better yet, sign up for an event. Design your vacation around the event and enjoy the organized activities that take place in one of the most beautiful settings in the world. There are so many options to choose from.

Below are the top 10 choices for this summer. There is really something for everyone starting this weekend with American’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride that takes riders the circumference of Lake Tahoe with a view over your right shoulder of Lake Tahoe all day long. The Truckee Running Festival is also happening this weekend with a 5K, 10K, 1/2 marathon and kids run. Get out and enjoy the Tahoe sunshine while competing or even spectating in the fresh clean mountain air.

America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride
Sunday, June 4, 2017This road bike ride starts and ends in South Lake Tahoe taking riders 72 miles, circumnavigating Lake Tahoe clockwise. End the ride with a party at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

Truckee Running Festival
Sunday, June 4Enjoy a morning of running at Riverview Park and Waddle Ranch in Truckee. Try a 5K and support Girls on the Run Sierras (https://www.girlsontherunsierras.org). Also offered is a 10K, 1/2 marathon and kids races.

Xterra Tahoe City Off-Road Triathlon
Saturday, June 24thSwim in the blue water of Lake Tahoe, mountain bike the Sierra and enjoy an epic trail run all based out of Tahoe City.

Donner Lake Triathlon
Saturday, July 22 and Sunday, July 23This long standing event has grown and now offers 3 different distances (WHAT ARE THE DISTANCES), a kids triathlon and if you want to swim and bike without the run portion. All events start and end at the West End area of Donner Lake.

Northstar Downhill Mountain Bike Race Series
5 Sunday’s from July 9 – September 3Enjoy the best of downhill mountain biking that Northstar California has to offer. Compete as part of 20 divisions and celebrate with food and drink after each race. Race one day or in at least 4 out of the 5 races to qualify for the point series.

Tahoe Trail 100
Saturday, July 15This 100K mountain bike course that starts and ends at Northstar California will challenge even the fittest athletes. The thrill of finishing or watching the finishers is exhilarating.

Lake Tahoe Open Water Swim
Sunday, August 27Located off the shores of the Sugar Pine State Park from the white stand beach to the clear blue waters of Lake Tahoe. This swimming extravaganza will include a 1/2 mile, 1.2 mile and 2.4 mile course.

37th Annual Donner Lake Swim
Saturday, August 12, 2017Swim the length of Donner Lake with 400 other competitors. This is a 2.7 mile swim that will start at the East End of Donner Lake and finish at the West End of Donner Lake.

Tahoe Fall Classic
Sunday, September 10Check out the longest inland distance paddle board race in the world. The race starts in South Lake Tahoe and takes competitors 22 miles across the lake to Mouretatos Lakeshore Resort in Tahoe Vista. A 3 mile race and kids race will also be available starting and ending at the finish area in Tahoe Vista.

Great Trail Race
Sunday, October 8Trail run or mountain bike this course that runs from Truckee to Tahoe City. You can choose the Elite Course for more challenging and technical trails (21 miles long) or The Classic that will stick to the fire road course that is 17 miles long. Either way, you are in for a beautiful day spent in the Tahoe forest.

Katie Tyler

Realtor®

BRE 01442453

c 530 277 1012 

Truckee Bike Trails

Truckee Bike Trails

The Truckee River Legacy Trail is a culmination of nearly 20 years of planning and collaboration.  The year 2009 was a landmark in the planning and execution of this project as phase 1 and 2 of the Truckee River Legacy Trail were completed.  These phases linked the Truckee Regional Park to the Riverview Sports Park making it easy to commute by bike or foot between the two.  The segment has been used and loved by many ever since.  Now with phase 3 completed last year,  (which connects the existing trail to to Glenshire) runners, bikers and walkers have 5 miles of traffic free class 1 bikeway and multi-use trails.  The journey down the Legacy Trail is certainly peaceful with sections that run parallel to the Truckee River, trees tower above and open space surrounds you. 

Next up for the Truckee River Legacy Trail is an expansion westward and upstream along the Truckee River towards HWY 89. From HWY 89 the trail will find it’s way to Donner State Park on the East End of Donner Lake.  Measure R passed in June 2014, and the estimated result will be to generate $10 Million over 10 years in order to build more trails. This will enable phases 4 and 5 of the Truckee River Legacy Trail to get underway. 

Progress on trails and neighborhood connectivity can be seen in other parts of the Truckee area as well. 

From old town Truckee, roughly branching off from the bridge below the Regional Park that connects to East River Road, a trail leads up under HWY 80 to the back side of Coyote Moon golf course and into Tahoe Donner.   If you take a right turn turn just after heading under HWY 80, the trail will take you up to the Pioneer Center.  Continue on the bike path to Gray’s Crossing where you will find extensive bike trails.  In one direction you will hook into the Prosser Lake View neighborhood.  In the other direction you will go back under HWY 80 to the Old Greenwood neighborhood. 

From the Truckee Regional Park there is a path that leads along Brockway Raod towards HWY 267.  Winding through neighborhoods and into the Martis Valley.  By the end of this fall, the trail will be completed through the Martis Valley parallel to HWY 267 almost all the way  to the Tompkins Memorial Trail parking area on HWY 267 (a hiking biking tail that winds up through Northstar).  Eventually, this trail has plans to make it up over the Brockway summit connecting Truckee to Lake Tahoe.  

It is truly incredible how far the trail system has come in such a short time.  Thinking back 5 to 10 years ago, it was hard to find even a decent sidewalk to push the stroller, enjoy the outdoors or take the kids safely on a walk or bike ride.  Now, the web of trails and especially the class 1 bikeway and multi-use tails are growing every year in Truckee.  Thanks to strong community support as the outdoors continues to be the main focus and love of the this town.  

Katie Tyler

Realtor®

BRE 01442453

c 530 277 1012 

Fall Colors in Tahoe

Fall Colors in Tahoe

Fall in Tahoe is here. The time when we can take a deep breath, unwind, and enjoy the cooler temperatures as we anticipate the winter ahead. I love the change in season and this time of year when the cold nights are followed by crisp blue skies accented by the fall leaves below.

Whether you are driving, biking, hiking or on the lake by boat, paddle board or kayak, now is the time to get out and see the bright colors of fall. This coming weekend is probably one of the last chances to see the leaves in all their glory.

Feel like getting out for a hike? Mount Rose Meadows trail sits high above Lake Tahoe on HWY 431. Because of the high elevation the leaves do turn early. Take a walk through the 1.2 mile interpretive loop that is great for families, children and wheel chairs. Enjoy the golden meadow this time of year.

Feel like a mountain bike ride? Marlette Lake will be your destination as you ride through the thick aspens found on the east side of the lake. Start your journey at Tunnel Creek Café where you can arrange a shuttle to take you and your bike to Spooner Summit to start your ride. It’s a tough start with a steep climb up to the lake through Snow Valley but don’t give up, just enjoy your surroundings. After enjoying a snack and some rest at Marlette, continue onto the popular Flume Trail with jaw-dropping views of Lake Tahoe. Grab a cold beer and a burger at the Tunnel Creek Café where your car is waiting for you.

Feel like being on the water? Hurricane Bay is the best place to be when it comes to enjoying the fall colors from the lake. Dip your paddle board, kayak or boat in at William Kent Beach next to Sunnyside and head south, or start at Hurricane Bay and head north towards Sunnyside. Glide past Ward Creek and some of the finest estates on Lake Tahoe that are home to large cottonwood trees and other colorful deciduous trees.

Feel like going for a drive? Barker Pass, 4 miles south from Tahoe City on Blackwood Canyon Road is a 7 mile climb up from Lake Tahoe. The colors will surround you as you drive up and up to the top. You will reach Ellis Peak and the road will turn to dirt. If you want to stretch your legs, there are many trails that lead off from here. I would recommend heading back down the hill to the river, step outside for a bit and simply enjoy your surroundings.

Happy fall and I hope you get the chance to enjoy the autumn season here in Tahoe.

Katie Tyler

Realtor®

BRE 01442453

c 530 277 1012