The modern-day Lake Tahoe resort began on Bonanza Road (now U.S. Route 50 between Sierra-at-Tahoe and South Lake Tahoe), when pioneers and gold- and silver-seekers needed places to rest during their travels. Today, the Lake Tahoe vacation experience is much more refined - the prevailing Tahoe accommodation is the mountain ski lodge, although the level of luxury at many of them goes far beyond the original concept. Yet, despite the Four Diamond all-suite accommodations, fine wines and contemporary styles, many resorts here also offer themed weekends and guided family-style outdoor adventures to go along with conscientious “green” programs.

Lake Tahoe, the highest alpine lake in North America, is a natural wonder. With 63 tributaries and only one outlet, the water remains almost 100 percent pure and awaits the avid angler and boater. Meanwhile, the Sierra Nevada peaks hold 12 nationally-known ski areas including Heavenly and Squaw Valley. Casinos are abundant along the southern shores, spurred by its proximity to Reno, NV and originating with the arrival of Harvey's Wagon Wheel Saloon and Gambling Hall in 1944. The surrounding forests, creeks and rivers await the hiker, biker and rafter, and the adventurer will find heaven in Mt. Rose Wilderness to the north and Desolation Wilderness to the south.

The Lake Tahoe area is a hidden gem for wineries. The Sierra Nevadas have always been ideal for grapes and fine wines, especially Zinfandels. Perhaps due to the area’s strong Gold Rush history - and Prohibition - it never gained the fame of Napa or Sonoma, but the wines are just as good. There are nearly 40 wineries in the region; pair that with dishes inspired by the Lake Tahoe mountains surroundings - sustainable meats, steak and chop houses, fresh seafood and locally-grown produce - and you have a successful Lake Tahoe foodie vacation.

How to Get Here

Lake Tahoe is easily accessible from Lake Tahoe Airport, a scant 15 minutes from South Lake Tahoe. By car, you can easily reach Lake Tahoe via Highway 50 from Reno and Sacramento. If you’re traveling by train, Amtrak has a thruway station directly in South Lake Tahoe.

Getting Around

Arrive by air at Lake Tahoe Airport, and the area’s comprehensive public transit system can take you almost anywhere in Lake Tahoe that you want to go. The BlueGO transit service has on-call service, along with a multitude of shuttle services including South Tahoe Express. Charming trolleys roll every 60 minutes in Lake Tahoe, complete with narration. If you drive, don’t miss the spectacular Shoreline Drive, 72 miles of world-class mountain and lake scenery that add to any Lake Tahoe vacation.