Lake Tahoe:
Lake Tahoe, the larger part of which lies in eastern California and the smaller part in the U.S. federal state of Nevada, is considered to be one of the most beautiful of mountain lakes and thanks to its immediate surroundings is one of the favorite winter sports regions and summer outdoor hiking and boating playgrounds. The Lake covers an area of 200sq.mi/518sq.km, lies about 6,200ft/1,900m above sea level and is up to 1,600ft/490m deep. With a length of 21mi/34.5km, and a width of up to 12mi/19km, it is one of the largest lakes in California.
U.S. 50 leads around the south, CA 28 leads around the north, and CA 89 at the West of the lake. All offer splendid views of the lake at different points. Lake Tahoe is completely surrounded by mountains.
Desolation Valley/ general hiking:
Desolation Wilderness contains 63,475 acres of subalpine forests, granite peaks and glacially formed valleys and lakes. It is 12½ miles long and 8 miles wide, and is accessible by 15 trailheads. As in all wilderness areas, travel is limited to hikers and packstock. All visitors into Desolation Wilderness must have a wilderness permit. Day users may issue themselves a free wilderness permit from any of the east-side trailheads. The following trailheads do not have self-registration: Van Vleck, Lyons, Ralston and General Creek - so permits must be obtained in person. Overnight users must register and pay fees at office in South Lake Tahoe. Open campfires are prohibited in Desolation Wilderness. Use portable gas stoves only! There are many 10,000+ ft peaks in the area and excellent trails. Hiking in late spring (wildflowers), summer and fall (golden aspen fall colors).
Skiing/ Boarding/ Boating/ Sailing:
Heavenly Ski Resort is world renowned and has both a CA and NV side, it is a 10 minute drive.
Sierra at Tahoe is a smaller, lower cost and more family oriented ski area and is a 15 minute drive. they also have snowshoe tracks.
There are also areas for X Country skiing and sledding.
In the summer the lake is great for sailing, boating, windsurfing and waterskiing.
The property has a dock included within steps from the front door at the lagoon about 200 ft from the lake.
