North Lake Tahoe, located on the California-Nevada border, is one of the most beautiful natural spots in the world. The water here is crystal clear. In fact, a dinner plate lying on the bottom at a depth of 75 feet would be clearly visible. The ultra-clean waters are actually 99.9% pure - amazing in this day and age of pollution and acid rain!
The lake itself is 22 miles long and 11 miles wide, and the surrounding forests and mountain peaks cover a huge area, each with its own personality. Many visitors prefer to visit North Lake Tahoe, in California. According to the locals, this area is more laid back, more refined, and less hectic.
The best towns for lodging on your visit to North Lake Tahoe are Truckee, Kings Beach, and Tahoe City, all located in California. All three are beautiful locations, and each offers a little different adventure, unique in its own way.
Truckee You've probably heard of the tragic Donner Party. Their ordeal took place just a few miles from downtown Truckee. An old logging village, Truckee is now one of the gateways to Tahoe's North Shore. The town is all about skiing, mountain biking, and rock climbing, and it's a favorite haunt of Paul McCartney. You might even catch a glimpse of him performing an impromptu concert! In Truckee, you'll find plenty of shopping, several ski resorts, and lots of restaurants and entertainment. Bring along a jacket: Truckee has some of the coldest summer temperatures in the continental U.S.
Kings Beach Kings Beach has a super laid-back atmosphere, with a dash of hip and trendy style. There's a public beach downtown, if that gives you any indication of the feel of the town. The beach here is in such a geographic position that it enjoys the sun's rays from morning through afternoon. This is a fun-loving town, with street vendors, cool shops, and interesting restaurants. The folks in Kings Beach are warm and friendly, too, happy to share their community with visitors.
Tahoe City This is the place for history buffs and active families. Located at the head of the Truckee River, the town offers an extensive system of paved trails, perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, and skating. Water sports are king here, but families will find all kinds of enjoyable activities like beach-side movies, outdoor concerts, hiking, camping, fishing, haunted houses, and a wide range of winter sports. This is the spot for four-star dining, art galleries, museums, great shopping, and historic sites.
Vacationers will revel in the beauty of Lake Tahoe, no matter which area they choose. But if a laid-back atmosphere with a leisurely pace and a rich heritage is your idea of a great getaway, North Lake Tahoe, California fills the bill!
This guide to the hot spots of North Lake Tahoe was brought to you by Holle Abee.