Search results matching tag 'activities'

Peril on the Seven Seas! (Or, What NOT to Do When Boating Tahoe)

Jennifer — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 00:38:00 GMT

The only instance in my life when I thought I was going to die happened on a day in 1971 while boating on Lake Tahoe! My fiance (now husband) and I were young and dumb, boating in our fixer-upper, fourteen-foot, outboard. Only completely insane college kids would do something so stupid. To top it off, the two of us were water skiing alone, without a third person to watch the skier. As I was waiting in the cold, cold, water for the Love of My Life to get the ski rope to me, the gas-line broke. Oops. just a bit of a problem.

Unknown to us, it is typical for the temperament of Lake Tahoe to change in a moment; and change, it did; from smooth as glass to a choppy, frightening, gray expanse of huge swells. We hadn't checked the forecast. The current and wind pulled me farther and farther from the boat. Whitecaps surrounded me. Finally, my partner-in-stupidity repaired the gas line and came to me. He pulled me out of the water, and off we went. That isn't exactly what happened. At that point, the real fun began.

Our boat was much too small for Lake Tahoe; especially in bad weather. The waves had become so big that we couldn't make it in to shore. As they broke over our hull and into the boat, we began to take on water. Not good! While I bailed out the water, lover boy tried to get us to shore. He wisely decided not to fight against the waves and the current, but to go with it along the shore. This was probably the most intelligent decision of the day and, exhausted, cold and wet, we eventually made it to shore.

Live and learn; or as my late Mother-in-Law would have said, "No jackass steps in the same hole twice." So, in 1987, when we bought our condo on Lake Tahoe's North Shore, we decided to buy a lake-worthy boat. What a concept was that! We also had children of our own by that time, and we were responsible adults who had learned a healthy respect for the lake. I've told you what NOT to do while enjoying Lake Tahoe; now I can give you a few tips about how to have a safe, fun experience on one of the world's most beautiful lakes:

* Buy, or rent a boat no smaller than 20 feet. Lake Tahoe is 22 miles long and 12 miles wide. Respect the size!

* Check the weather forecast.

* Bring a radio and/or cell phone.

* Know the Coast Guard rules: When the Coast Guard boards your boat, and they will, your captain had better be sober. Keep up to date with current regulations.

* Lake Tahoe is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world with a challenging, 72 miles of rocky shoreline. Be aware and pay attention to the buoys that mark areas within which you may encounter a shallow, rocky bottom. The buoys aren't there to look pretty.

Have fun! I could tell you 20 more stories recounting fabulous summers of boating on Lake Tahoe. Even if you can't buy or rent your own boat, take a party cruise or hire a ski boat with operator. Whatever you do, you shouldn't miss cruising on Lake Tahoe.

This first-hand account of Lake Tahoe Do's and Don'ts was brought to you by Taylor Shay.

Experience Norway in Lake Tahoe

Jennifer — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 17:22:00 GMT

Taking its inspiration from medieval Nordic architecture, Vikingsholm Castle was built in the late 1920's. The fortress is situated within the protective confines of Emerald Bay State Park, in South Lake Tahoe, California, and is considered a popular, summer attraction. The attraction is accessible by either private boat or traversing a steep, mile long trail. Visitors to this historic getaway will be awed by the majestic splendor of the grounds as well as the castle's magnificent construction.

Located in El Dorado County, the protected inlet of Emerald Bay and its steep slopes so inspired the owner, Mrs. Lora Knight, of the Fjords of Norway that she commissioned a relative by marriage to design the structure. The project was completed in 1929 and became the summer home of Mrs. Knight from mid June until the middle of September yearly.

Vikingsholm's exterior is silhouetted against massive evergreens of pine and cedar. Granite cliffs etch the background which is in stark contrast to the pink and red Columbine that speckle the sod seeded roof of the castle. In keeping with Nordic or Scandinavian tradition, the thirty-eight room interior of the castle welcomes sightseers to a glimpse into the past from its handcrafted carvings around the doors, Scandinavian antiques, to the Nordic fireplaces. There are two, authentic dragon beams that hang from the living room's ceiling, reinforcing the Norse belief of their symbol of power and strength.

Guided one half hour tours are available from mid June until the end of September, seven days a week, from 10 a.m. with the last tour of the day beginning at 4:00 p.m. Because of the limited parking at Vikingsholm, morning tours are strongly recommended. On the one mile hike to the castle, visitors can stop along the way at one of the several resting spots to enjoy the lush landscape dotted with wildflowers or perhaps catch a peek of a Bald Eagle. For your convenience, there is additional parking in the Day Use Area of Eagle Point State Park. Its 1.7 mile hike is longer but it is not as steep as the trail located at Vikingsholm. Comfortable footwear is advised for both locations

This tidbit of real Lake Tahoe travel advice was brought to you by Joanne Mansfield.

Hiking in and Around Tahoe: Grab a Bottle of Water and Hit the Trails!

Jennifer — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 21:07:00 GMT

Hiking is a great way to explore the Sierras mountains around North Lake Tahoe. If you want to get off the beaten path and be a traveler rather than a tourist then take heed. Tahoe is hot and dry in the summer and for this reason there is nothing better than having a nice body of water to splash around in after a hike. Besides the main lake, Lake Tahoe that is, there are many great spots tucked away for a nice swim. The best part is that you don't need permits for any of the following.

Hike up to Mount Judah on the famous Pacific Crest Trail which runs all the way from Oregon to Mexico. (Take Donner Pass Rd. up towards Sugarbowl Ski Resort. Before Sugarbowl, turn left into the parking lot for the Ski Academy. Follow that road about 50 yards back to the Mt. Judah trail-head.) Continue to Tinker's Knob across Anderson Ridge, a narrow saddle that offers amazing views of Donner Lake and wildflowers in the spring. You'll feel like you're soaring like one the hawks you'll most likely see gliding out past the ridge! Afterward, take a flying leap off one of the docks on Donner Lake to cool down.

For the serious hiker you can start at the Mt. Judah Trail-head and hike all the way to Squaw Valley. This will take all day so start early. It is 16 miles with big elevation changes--you will need to bring lots of water. If you're up for it, it's an amazing hike taking you through different environments and varied scenery; you'll feel as though you are covering much more terrain than you actually are--you might even feel like a member of Lord of the Rings!

Another favorite hike of mine is the one to Shirley Lake. Bring a small picnic; it's a cute spot for one.(From Truckee, take Hwy 89 South and turn right onto Olympic Valley Rd. towards Squaw Valley Ski Resort. Just head straight toward their fire station and park the car. Then take the Shirley Lake Trail-head.) What is unique about this hike, aside from being rarely frequented, is that much of it is on exposed rock so you feel like you are mountain climbing. Don't worry--you don't need ropes, just pay attention to the painted arrows on the rock leading the way. You probably won't want to swim in this lake as it's pretty murky but be sure to cool off in one of the natural pools that form in the rocks from the freshly melted snow. Dry off next to this mountain stream by basking in the sun on the hot rocks like one of the native lizards.

If you're feeling like an explorer, try Five Lakes Trail. Short, but steep, it makes for a great leg work out, and the reward is a nice cooling dip at the top.(Turn right off of Hwy 89 onto Alpine Meadows Rd, then continue to a small pullout on your right. There is a wooden sign that marks the trail-head.) The beginning of the trail is the most difficult with lots of switchbacks, but the thrilling middle section on the granite rock is worth it. At the top you will enter Granite Chief Wilderness, a shady forest which attempts to conceal most of the five lakes(there is an obvious one you'll see just to the left of the trail). Have fun exploring or head straight for my favorite. Make a sharp left off of the trail when you've reached the covering of the forest keeping the obvious lake on your right. Cross over the fallen tree and voila, you've come to your own private natural swimming pool!

Two words: Water and Sunscreen!
(You are responsible for educating yourself to the precautions and dangers associated with hiking. I take no responsibility.)

This guide to Tahoe hiking adventures was brought to you by Cara Baker.

Head North for Tahoe's Greatest Variety

Jennifer — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 03:07:00 GMT

Lake Tahoe is a premier vacation spot, one of the most beautiful in the U.S. It covers a huge area, and visitors have a wide choice of locales in which to stay. North Tahoe on the Nevada side is probably a little livelier than the California side, but even so, the different communities each have their own unique personalities.

Incline Village The village was named for the 1878 logging tramway that climbed its steep sides. This is a paradise for mountain bikers and winter sports enthusiasts. Much of this community is upscale, home to some of the wealthiest people on earth. Visitors will find some great Tahoe beaches at nearby Sand Harbor, along with plenty of gaming action in the casinos and three beautiful golf courses. Also, Incline Village is only 25 minutes from the exciting entertainment of Reno.

Mt. Rose Mt. Rose is a mecca for skiers and snowboarders. Boasting Tahoe's highest base, it provides the chance to drop 1,800 feet in a breathtaking 3.5 minutes. There are numerous trails for beginner, intermediate, advanced, and expert skiers, with plenty of lifts. The resort includes a tavern, cafes, a barbecue restaurant, a pizzeria, and a Mexican restaurant serving huge burritos. The hiking trails at Mt. Rose offer panoramic views of the lake, and in Summer, many native wildflowers cover the meadows. Also, the Mt. Rose Wilderness Area is the perfect venue for backpacking.

Tyrolean Village Located in a beautiful evergreen forest above Incline Village is the quiet neighborhood of Tyrolean Village, offering views of the lake through the pines. Strolling through the quaint Alpine-flavored buildings is a real treat, and shopping and restaurants are nearby. You'll find some great hiking trails and biking trails here, and the village has its own tennis courts. Best of all, Tahoe beaches are only two miles away.

Nevada State Park Located near Incline Village, Nevada State Park offers lots of activities for visitors. The park's Sand Harbor features some of Tahoe's best beaches, a boat launch, and some wonderful sites for picnicking. For some secluded relaxation, check out Memorial Point and Hidden Beach. The park also features trails for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and horseback riding. Cave Rock is an interesting spot, too, with high caves hollowed out by years of waves, used in ancient times by the Washoe Indians for religious ceremonies. Fishing and swimming in the clear, pristine waters of the lake is an unforgettable experience!

The entire Lake Tahoe area is gorgeous, no matter where you choose to stay, but if you're looking for a place filled with beauty, great beaches, secluded coves, AND exciting nightlife, shows, and gaming, the Nevada side of North Lake Tahoe is your best bet. It offers the best of both worlds!

This guide to amazing Lake Tahoe was brought to you by Holle Abee.

Wine Lover? Check Out Lake Tahoe!

Jennifer — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 02:50:00 GMT

The vineyards in the North Lake Tahoe area will amaze you so much, you'll want to "stomp your feet". Truckee, California is the prominent area for wine on the California side of North Lake Tahoe. Truckee River Winery ages their wine in a snowbound barn. It must age longer, but the winery says it gives it a fruity, mature flavor. Gary's Vineyard in the Santa Lucia Highlands provides them with Pisoni clone Pinot Noir grapes. Their grapes used for Zinfandel come from Gribaudo Vineyard in Lodi, California. Last but not "yeast", the source for their Merlot wine is Bear River Vineyard in Chicago Park, California. They will be using their own grapes for new varieties of wine starting in 2009. Do you need proof that their wine tastes great? They would love to have you visit, but they ask that you call first at 530-587-4626.

Also in Truckee, there's an Annual Lake Tahoe Autumn Food and Wine Festival. If you're planning on visiting North Lake Tahoe on the weekend of September 11th (Friday) through September 13th (Sunday), you'll have barrels of fun at this festival! They are drunk with pleasure to announce that this will be their 24rd year. They will have a grape stomp, a wine walk, a chef cook off, wine tasting, food and wine pairing classes, and much more.

In Nevada, approximately 25 miles outside of Incline Village, is the Tahoe Ridge Winery and Marketplace. Located in a town called Genoa, Nevada, the vineyard was founded by Rick and Kathy Halbardier. They have planted over 20,000 grapevines and have researched over 35 different varieties of grapes. They were the first to produce the first Chardonnay wine made of all Nevada-grown wine. They have a cute little saying at their vineyard: "From the roots of the vine to your glass of wine, we are here for you every step of the way". Clever, isn't it? You'll sparkle and be tipsy with delight when you experience their tasting room and gourmet gift shop. Not only do they have a variety of wines, wine accessories, and food; but they also feature a library of their current and past varieties of wine. Their tasting room is open year round, but the hours of operation vary. You'll want to call them at 800-783-1566 to find out when they're open.

If you're a wine lover or would just like to do something different, put your foot down and tell your family that you want to go to North Lake Tahoe for the wineries and festivities.

This guide to Tahoe wineries was brought to you by Nicole Williams.

Emerald Bay: South Lake Tahoe's Scandinavian Jewel

Jennifer — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 02:31:00 GMT

Emerald Bay State Park isn't just the most scenic spot in Lake Taho e; it may be the most scenic spot in the country. In fact, visiting the area might convince you that someone conked you on the head and dragged you to Europe. The bay is an inlet, reminiscent of an Icelandic fjord, carved by glaciers back when mastodons were vacationing in Tahoe. Granite cliffs, towering cedars, plus the only waterfall directly flowing into the lake make this National Natural Landmark the most spectacular camping and hiking destination in the area.

If the view itself weren't enough, the park has some surprises up its pine-scented sleeve. Take a one mile uphill hike to Vikingsholm, and you will be greeted by a sight that appears to have dropped out of the sky: a Viking castle. A 38-room estate, built by serial-millionaire-marrier Lora Knight in 1929, is oddly not incongruous in the woods here. Built of local materials, the fortress seems at home in the Scandinavian-looking bay area.

Knight spared no expense on this project with awe-inspiring features like Nordic fireplaces and dragon's head beams. The whole thing is topped off with a sod roof that sprouts wildflowers every Spring. Inside are Scandinavian antiques -both real and painstakingly crafted museum reproductions - and ceiling paintings. You'll be acting out your favorite scenes from the 13th Warrior with a real Nordic backdrop. Half-hour tours are available, so you can harass the guide with questions like "Where's Beowulf?" or "Do you sell mead?" After the tour, have a picnic at a nearby table. Food lockers are all around the park, so you can stash the makings of a warrior feast for later.

If Vikingsholm puts you in mind of plundering, go jump in the lake -literally- and have a look at some booty. Emerald Bay was designated an Underwater State Park in 1994. SCUBA diving is an archaeological adventure here, where you can view the remains of the shipwrecked boats and barges from over a century ago. Artifacts from the heyday of Emerald Bay resort are also in abundance. With refuse ranging from abandoned sinks to a Model A Ford, you can play underwater I Spy. Keep in mind that this is an archaeological site, so while touching is okay, actual plundering is not. An underwater panel gives further instructions on conserving the area.

When you come up from the crystal clear water, take some more time to explore the park. While the strange surprises in Emerald Bay State Park may distract you momentarily, they still can't compete with the simple beauty of this showcase area.

This guide to Lake Tahoe's Emerald Bay was brought to you by Elizabeth Kelly

Bring on the Grapes: A Guide to Wine in North Tahoe

Jennifer — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 03:00:00 GMT

North Lake Tahoe is an area which offers wonderful cultural events and premier entertainment. Of all the things to do there, however, few things beat the simple joys found in attending a winery tour or one of the local wine festivals. The following events and places are all ones at which you can taste a few (or perhaps more than a few) great wines, relax with friends and family, and generally enjoy yourself.

The Lake Tahoe Autumn Food & Wine Festival

The 2009 Lake Tahoe Autumn Food & Wine Festival will be the 24rd incarnation of this magnificent event, which takes place each year in the Village at Northstar. The event takes place over the course of an entire weekend, beginning on Friday, September 11th and ending that Sunday evening, the 13th. In between, festival-goers are offered wine tastings, a "grape stomp", tours, celebrity chef demonstrations, a wine walk, classes on the pairing of food and wine, a gourmet marketplace, and much, much more. For wine connoisseurs and beginners alike, this is an ideal opportunity to enjoy fine wine and fine culture.

Uncorked in the Village at Squaw

Uncorked, which is located on First Street in the Village at Squaw, is a wine bar and shop which is geared towards those who are serious about their love of wine. This establishment offers wine tasting, wine by the glass, and special weekend events at which customers can meet and interact with local winemakers.

Trio in Truckee

Trio is a beautiful wine bar which is located in Truckee. Along with offering a stunning array of different wine selections from around the globe, this place also features small plate appetizers, delicious champagnes, and is basically just a very cool, chic place to visit.

Time for Wine in Tahoe City

This interesting wine shop, which is touted as a more "common man's" establishment, is a good choice for those who aren't as familiar with wine, or educated about it. The employees at Time for Wine are very willing to explain things and make beginners feel welcome.

The Pour House in Truckee

The Pour House, located in Truckee, is a great wine-tasting bar and wine shop. Unfortunately, however, it has extremely limited hours. The prices here, though, make up for any other element that's lacking.

Grapes and Grounds in the Village at Northstar

Grapes and Grounds, as its name implies, is a wonderful wine and coffee specialty store. A visit to this place is made worthwhile by the smell of the interior all by itself. The prices here, however, are a bit on the higher side.

The Truckee Village Winery

This winery, which offers year-round wine tasting, is of absolutely premier quality. Of especial brilliance are this winery's merlots, which make up some of the best the area has to offer. All in all, this is a great winery to visit for beginners and veteran connoisseurs alike.

This guide to some of the gorgeous grapes in and around North Lake Tahoe was brought to you by Geoff Weed.

Four-Season Tips for Catching the Big One in Lake Tahoe

Jennifer — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 23:02:00 GMT

Fishing the beautiful lakes of the high Sierras is an absolutely unforgettable experience. Anglers from across the globe trek to the area in hopes of landing a trophy, and one of their prime targets is Lake Tahoe. Located on the California-Nevada border, the lake has an elevation of 6,230 feet, with crystal clear waters holding a variety of exciting gamefish. In fact, the area offers some of the best freshwater fishing on the planet, with abundant brook trout, rainbow trout, brown trout, Lahontan cutthroat trout, Kokanee salmon, and the delicious Mackinaw, which is caught year round. Most of the other species are seasonal. And speaking of seasons, here are some tips and tricks to fishing year-round.

SPRING and SUMMER When the water warms up a little, it's time for the brown, brook, and cutthroat trout, along with the Kokanee salmon, to start biting. For browns and brook trout, try the western end of Lake Tahoe. These fish prefer shallows with rocky bottoms and any type of structure, like piers, submerged brush, and docks. Small lures and night crawlers are the preferred baits, but dry flies can be deadly, as well.

The best method to hook a cutthroat is to troll from a boat with a nightcrawler near the surface. For shore fishing, try Rubicon Point. Make long casts using baits like worms or salmon eggs, slightly jigging the bait on the retrieve.

To catch Kokanee salmon, you'll need a boat. Load a few worms, accordian style, on a number six hook and troll the southwest corner of Lake Tahoe or the Cave Rock area until you begin getting strikes. The average size for Kokanee in the lake is 1.5 pounds, not huge, but they're fun to catch!

FALL The dropping temperatures of the cool autumn days entice the beautiful rainbow trout to bite. These fish reach amzing sizes in Lake Tahoe, up to 25 pounds. Trolling or casting small lures on or near the surface is the best way to land a rainbow, but they are voracious feeders, eating a variety of insects, crayfish, and smaller fish. They also put up quite a fight on a fly rod when they devour a dry fly.

YEAR ROUND Lucky for fishermen, the Mackinaws bite all year. These fish prefer deep water, so you'll need a boat to reach them, along with downriggers. Try deep-trolling worms or flashy lures. Hookups can also be accomplished by freelining live minnows, but the minnows must be nettted in the lake. The average Tahoe Mackinaw is four pounds, but eight pounders are common. The state record, a 37-pound monster, was landed in Lake Tahoe.

If you're visiting Lake Tahoe and want some exciting angling action, you'll need to purchase a non-resident license. You can buy an annual license for $94 or a 1-10 day temporary permit for $18 for the first day and $7 for each additional consecutive day. Most tackle shops sell licenses and permits.
If you're serious about landing a trophy, your best bet is to hire a fishing guide. Tahoe is a huge lake, 22 miles long and 12 miles wide, with over 191 square miles of surface area. Depths reach over 1,600 feet. That's a lot of water! A professional guide knows the lake well and will be able to put you on the fish. By booking a half-day or allday trip, your chances of battling a lunker will vastly increase, and so will your enjoyment. Let them do all the work, while you have all the fun!

This guide to year-round angling in Lake Tahoe was brought to you by Holle Abee.

North Lake Tahoe: Three Different Experiences in One Vacation Adventure

Jennifer — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 02:41:00 GMT

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.

Experience Incline Village in North Tahoe

Jennifer — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 23:09:00 GMT

The recent closing of North Lake Tahoe's Ponderosa Ranch may have left some tourists feeling left in the lurch, but Incline Village isn't just a one trick pony when it comes to attractions. How much sarsaparilla can a person really drink anyway? Here's a novel way to spend the day in Incline Village: see what it's like to be a rich guy as well as a regular Joe.

Start your day at the top of the heap. A man known to his friends as "Captain" George Whittell built the Thunderbird Lodge in 1936, but don't let the name of the place fool you. It's not another knotty pine hotel. The house is an architectural beauty, sitting on part of the 40,000 acres the Cap'n acquired with visions of building a million-dollar casino and hotel. Before you start thinking of the man as the Mr. Burns of Tahoe, look around you: he obviously changed his mind. A developing interest in nature and conservation refreshingly outweighed his desire for big bucks, and he held on to the huge estate for the rest of his life. Present-day tourists can now essentially step through a time tunnel into the Tahoe of the past, when only the ultra-elite had property here and built opulent homes worthy of envy.

Guided tours include the stunning main house (plus behind-the-scenes areas such as the cooks' quarters) as well as its unusual additions, such as a lighthouse and a glass-enclosed bridge. Take a gander at the fancily embellished elephant garage, which housed - you guessed it - an Indian elephant that once lived on the estate. The card house is supposedly one of the few remaining examples of its type of building: a spot where men and their best pals supposedly played cards, but just as readily smoked, drank and otherwise caroused. Something about the atmosphere will make you suddenly crave a single malt Scotch.

If you make plans to coincide with one of Thunderbird Lodge's ritzy wine and dinner events, you can have that drink after all. Don't despair if you miss a special event, as there is plenty yet to do, including the simple marvel of trying to imagine this place if Whittell's original vision had panned out. Play the "I'm a developer" game while viewing the pristine landscape and see if you can pick out the best spots for neon signs and diners.(5000 Hwy. 28, 775-832-8750 Tour costs vary from $25 for a bus tour to $110 for boat tours. Tours dates and times are seasonal, so check ahead.)

After seeing how the rich half live, contemplate the pleasures of being an ordinary working class stiff with the best that lowbrow Americana has to offer: bowling. Bowl Incline is a comfortable place to get away from the chi chi tourist restaurants and the ski snobs, with 16 lanes for laid back bowling bliss. Practice your best Fred Flintstone imitation while having a cold beer and mingling with the locals. Try out the golf simulator and redeem yourself for all of your real-life golfing gaffs on the greens. Test the theory that each beer improves your score.(920 Southwood Blvd., 775-831-1900 $3.75 per game with $2.25 shoe rental.)

Afterward, further celebrate the simple life with a big fat burger at Rookies, a popular neighborhood sports bar nearby. Now this is the good life! Savor each bite with thankfulness that you don't live on a mansion on a hill where you have to eat tiny arugula salads and sip wine from a dainty flute. It's good to be Joe.

This guide to the best of both worlds in North Lake Tahoe's Incline Village was brought to you by Elizabeth Kelly.