Introduction to Lake Tahoe

Imagine a perfect alpine lake -- smooth-as-glass green water, towering snowcapped mountain peaks and a sky that seems always to be sunny -- and you're looking at Lake Tahoe, situated where California and Nevada meet. Outdoor lovers flock to this natural paradise, spending their days skiing California's best slopes in winter, and hiking, paddling and camping in Bliss State Park and Lake Tahoe's North Shore wilderness in summer. But in the evening manmade attractions rule this California resort area, when the bright lights of Vegas-style casinos glow over Tahoe's South Shore.

Things to Do

Surrounded by the snowcapped Sierra Nevadas, Lake Tahoe is an outdoor lover's dream. Summer visitors hike the lakeside trails at Bliss State Park and Sugar Pine Point State Park, identifying delicate alpine wildflowers and photographing towering mountain peaks reflected in the lake. Winter visitors head for the mountains, skiing California's best resorts and snowmobiling or snowshoeing through the woods, sparkling with snow. Don't miss the opportunity to take a gondola ride or soar above the lake's clear waters in a hot air balloon.

Shopping

Winter sports lovers head to Lake Tahoe's North Shore to buy the latest necessary gear -- sleek snowboards, lightweight snowshoes and the latest cold-weather clothing. Designer sweaters, thick fleece jackets and high-end sunglasses fill Lake Tahoe's North Shore boutiques and outdoor shops, while art lovers head to Tahoe City. The town's galleries sell watercolor landscapes of Lake Tahoe's stunning mountain peaks and lakeside vistas to remind you of your stay.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Lake Tahoe's chief entertainment lies along its South Shore, where glittering casinos light up the night. Resorts such as Harrah's and MontBleu add headliner acts to the mix, entertaining visitors with performances by top singers, musicians and Las Vegas-style shows. If you're content to simply relax over a drink, head for the spectacular River Ranch Lodge on Highway 89, whose casual cantilevered bar stretches across the roaring Truckee River.

Restaurants and Dining

Impeccable service and mountain vistas might be enough to draw visitors to Evan's American Gourmet Café near South Tahoe. However, an inventive menu of grilled beef with foie-gras and prosciutto-crusted veal make Evan's a favorite special-occasion restaurant in Lake Tahoe. Catering to locals and a tired gang of kayakers and skiers, the casual brewpub Bridgetender in Tahoe City has served up oversized burgers, tacos, waffle fries and sandwiches since 1977.