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Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains offer a large variety of activities year round. We at Coldwell Banker have compiled some of our favorite activities, restaurants, and sights to see to help you plan your visit to the North Shore of Lake Tahoe.
SUMMER ACTIVITIES
Biking:
Whether you are an adventurous mountain biker, or you would just like to enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the Truckee River, there are bike trails all over Tahoe to meet your needs. One of the most popular rides begins in Tahoe City and takes you down the river to Squaw Valley (very scenic and not too strenuous). There are bike rentals shops all over the North and West shores that will set you up on the perfect bike and give you maps and directions to a great ride.
Boating/Kayaking:
The sparkling water of Lake Tahoe is the perfect spot for water sports (be prepared though, the water temperature is a bit chilly even in August). If you would like to learn to water ski, speed around the lake on a jet ski, or just paddle around in a kayak, the various boat rental shops will be able to accommodate all of your needs.
Golfing:
Lake Tahoe and the surrounding areas are famous for their world-class golf courses. There are over 10 golf courses in the North Lake Tahoe/Truckee area, and with the relatively temperate summer weather we have in the High Sierras, you can golf pretty much anytime of the day. There are also driving ranges in the area if you just want to practice your swing.
River Rafting/Floating:
Rafting (or rather floating) down the Truckee River from Tahoe City to River Ranch is one of the Tahoe summer activities that you cannot miss. You will find locals and tourists alike floating down the Truckee River on a sunny afternoon. You can rent a large raft right in Tahoe City that can fit up to 8 people, or everyone can grab a tire tube and float down individually. Don't forget a picnic lunch and drinks because it does take about 4 hours to float from Tahoe City down to River Ranch. For the more adventurous type, there is actual whitewater rafting available in the area too.
Miscellaneous Fun:
There are plenty of other activities in the North Lake Tahoe area to keep you busy for your entire vacation, or you can always just grab a book and relax on the sandy shores of the Lake. Some more fun options include horseback riding, Tahoe cruises, fishing charters, and paintball.
WINTER ACTIVITIES
Skiing/Snowboarding:
The North Lake Tahoe region has more ski resorts per square mile than any other area in the US. With all of the options, you are sure to find something for everyone. Each resort has something special to offer, but whether you are just a beginner or you are an expert double black diamond skier, you are guaranteed a fun-filled day on the slopes no matter which resort you choose to visit. Night skiing is also available at Squaw Valley and Boreal subject to weather conditions.
Cross Country Skiing:
If you do not like to barrel down steep hills on skies or if you are just looking for an excellent work out, cross country skiing is a great option. There are many areas of Tahoe that you can explore on cross-country skies. You can stick to the trails at one of the cross-country ski areas, or if you are more adventurous, you can go out on your own and make you own trail.
Ice Skating/Sledding/Sleigh Rides:
Once you have had enough of the slopes, there are many other winter activities to try out. There are several ice skating rinks located in the North Tahoe area, along with lots of great sledding hills. Northstar and Squaw Valley also offer sleigh rides, which can be quite romantic, or a fun family activity.
Snowmobile:
For breathtaking lake views and scenic mountain views, a snowmobile tour is a fun and exciting way to see all of Lake Tahoe. Make sure to wear your snow clothes because you may get a little wet cruising through the forest and up and down the mountains on the snowmobiles.
RESTAURANTS
Breakfast:
| Syd's Bagels | 530-583-2666 |
| Free WiFi access! Loacated at 550 North Lake Blvd in Tahoe City. Great bagels, pastries, coffee and espresso, also a great lunch menu of salads and sandwiches. |
| Firesign Café | 530-583-0871 |
| Located near Sunnyside, 2 miles south of Tahoe City on Hwy 89. This is one of our favorites…great omelets, waffles, and home squeezed orange juice. Lunch is also served. |
| Old Post Office Coffee Shop | 530-546-3205 |
| Located in Carnelian Bay on Hwy 28. Great breakfast and lunch menu, homestyle cooking. Huge selection of pancakes, and a friendly atmosphere. |
| Log Cabin | 530-546-7109 |
| 7109 N. Lake Blvd in downtown Kings Beach (on the lake side.) Breakfast and lunch served 7 days a week in an authentic log cabin setting. |
| Tahoe House | 530-583-1377 |
| In Tahoe City on Hwy 89 just south of Fanny Bridge. Large selection of homemade pastries, and other breakfast goodies. Great coffee and in the winter they usually have some homemade soup. Also a good place to pick up a dessert for after dinner. |
Lunch
| Bridgetender | 530-583-3342 |
| In Tahoe City across "fanny bridge just south of the "Y" on Hwy 89. The great burgers, chicken sandwiches and the best waffle fries around (the waffle fries our a favorite!) Best beer selection on tap…great microbrews. Open lunch and dinner. |
| Rubicon Deli | 530-583-0577 |
| Located inside the Tahoe Tree company at the corner of Hwy 89 and Granlibakken road, just south of Tahoe City. Fabulous deli sandwiches on freshly baked bread. There is some outside seating, but they're easy to take to go for a picnic lunch. |
| The Blue Onion | 530-546-3915 |
| In Kings Beach on the Brockway Golf Course at the corner of Hwy. 28 and Hwy. 267. There is also on in the Squaw Valley Olympic House. Great gourmet sandwiches, burgers, soups, and salads. Also a very yummy breakfast menu, the crepes are fantastic! Sit out on the deck during the summer and enjoy views of the lake. Open limited days during the winter. |
| Rock's Rotisserie | 530-581-1401 |
| Right in downtown Tahoe City, just in front of the Cobblestone shopping center. Larger than life burritos, excellent mashed potatoes, and great roast chicken. Eat there or take it to go for lunch and dinner. |
| Balboa Café | 530-583-5850 |
| In the Village at Squaw Valley, a San Francisco classic. Bistro style with great burgers, sandwiches, and drinks! Open daily from 11am. Dinner is also served. |
Dinner
| Fiamma | 530-581-1461 |
| Located in downtown Tahoe City (next door to Coldwell Banker) this charming restaurant has authentic Italian cuisine and great wine to complement any meal. Yummy wood fired pizzas. Open for lunch during the summer. |
| Black Bear Tavern | 530-583-8626 |
| Located about 2.5 miles south of Tahoe City on Hwy 89 opposite the lake. Outstanding cuisine and fine wine in a classic mountain atmosphere. Large fireplaces give it a warm cozy feel during the winter, and outdoor dining in the summer. Unique menu ranging from seared ahi tuna to wild game. |
| Dragon Fly | 530-587-0557 |
| Located in old Town Truckee on commercial row, upstairs. Asian fusion cuisine, an eclectic blend of Thai, Japanese, and Malaysian foods. Menu changes frequently but always offers excellent dishes, and fantastic service. Outdoor seating overlooking Truckee during the summer. Lunch also served (great noodle soup bowls). |
| Garwoods Grill & Pier Restaurant | 530-546-3366 |
| Located right on the Lake in Carnelian Bay. Their famous "Wet Woodies" are sure to cool you down on a hot day. They offer a full dinner menu, or lots of great drinks and appetizers. Outdoor seating and lunch menu in the summer. |
| La Petite Pier | 530-546-4464 |
| In Tahoe Vista on the lakeside, this authentic European restaurant is sure to delight you. Excellent seafood and lamb dishes. Reservations recommended. |
| Hiro Sushi | 530-546-4476 |
| In Kings Beach on Hwy 28, an amazing assortment of quality fish, and other Asian foods for those of you scared of Sushi. Have a seat at the bar and watch the chefs prepare the sushi. All you can eat available if you're very hungry! |
| Jake's on the Lake | 530-583-0188 |
| In the Boatworks mall in Tahoe City, this restaurant is a great spot year round. In the summer sit out on the deck and gaze at the lake. Great fish dishes, drinks, and atmosphere. |
| Blue Agave | 530-583-8113 |
| Authentic Mexican food on Hwy 28 in Tahoe City. Great big bar area with lots of TVs in case you can't miss the big game, and great chips and salsa! Large lunch and dinner menu, outdoor seating in the summer. |
| Wolfdale's | 530-583-5700 |
| A true gourmet bistro with exquisite food and wine. Located in downtown Tahoe City, this is a must for any special occasion. Reservations recommended. |
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