Spring Comes to North Lake Tahoe
There's something for everyone: rock climbing, mountain biking, scuba diving, hiking, beer and yes...still skiing
Like many parts of the west this year, North Lake Tahoe had a record-breaking winter. They’ve had so much snowfall that some resorts extended their seasons to July 7. Imagine skiing in the morning and canoeing or golfing in the afternoon; this will be what life will be like in North Lake Tahoe over the next several months.
Photo courtesy of North Lake Tahoe
Rock climbers take note. Tahoe Via Ferrata, a protected rock climbing route, makes its debut this spring. Via Ferrata means “Iron Road,” and this route in North Lake Tahoe is the newest Via Ferrata route in the country. There are a total of 10 routes in the United States. Climbers of all skill levels can scale one of two Alpenglow Expeditions’ guided routes this spring and summer, including Via Ferrata.
Most of us associate scuba diving with oceans but people who love the sport can dive at Lake Tahoe. This year, scuba divers will get the first look at the brand new Emerald Bay Heritage Trail. This is California’s first underwater trail and features interpretative panels at four dive sites revealing sunken ships in Lake Tahoe’s Emerald Bay.
Photo courtesy of North Lake Tahoe. Photo by Brin R. Photo.
This spring, mountain bikers can experience the region’s only downhill bike facility and largest lift-served mountain bike park on the West Coast. Northstar California’s bike park opens in late spring and it offers beginner to advanced cross-country, downhill and e-bike mountain biking trails. In addition, team racing events take place all summer.
Hiking is a popular pastime in the area and North Lake Tahoe offers a variety of hikes to choose from, as well as lake activities such as stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and canoes. Outfitters and guide companies also offer boat tours.
Photo courtesy of North Lake Tahoe. Photo by Ryan Salm Photography.
If all the activity has led to a beer craving, the Lake Tahoe Ale Trail is the answer. Thirsty visitors can navigate the trail by land or lake by using this interactive digital map. Whether they come by boat or land, every guest can end their excursion with a cold craft beer on a sunlit patio.
In what’s new this year news, Boulder Bay Resort is replacing the Tahoe Biltmore Lodge and Casino. It is a 275-room hotel with a 20,000-square-foot wellness center. There are also 18 residential condominiums associated with the project located in historic Crystal Bay. In addition, there will be a casino, spa, wine experience, art galleries and boutique shopping. Phase one of this project will be completed this spring.
Photo courtesy of North Lake Tahoe
Squaw Valley | Alpine Meadows has extended their ski season until July 7. There’s plenty to do here between now and closing including watching the NASTAR National Championship on April 4-7. This weekend features some of the country’s top alpine racers. Other events include concerts, a raffle and slalom competitions. Guests can even get autographed signings by the NASTAR Pacesetters.
On April 20, the resort will present Tahoe Truckee Earth Day Festival, a great reason to plan a trip. When you go, pack your skis and swimsuit for the High Camp Pool & Hot Tub. Access this unique aspect of the resort via the Aerial Tram. Nothing welcomes warmer weather like a mountaintop-soak in the sunshine.
