The beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains frame the large, freshwater lake of Lake Tahoe, which spans the border between California and Nevada. Visitors can enjoy the beach and ski resorts while staying in charming towns along the shore. Various state parks and attractions are available, including the 1929 Nordic-style mansion Vikingsholm at Emerald Bay State Park. The nearby Spooner’s Lake offers access to the Tahoe Rim Trail, an 11-mile hike through the mountains.
The name “Tahoe” derives from an 1862 suggestion by Henry DeGroot. It is an anglicized version of the Washoe word da ow a ga, which means “Big Water” or “Water in a High Place.” This label hung on until 1945, when the name was officially changed to Tahoe. For centuries, the Washoe people used the lake as a sacred summering area, but the discovery of gold has led to a rapid increase in white settlement and the removal of the native population.
The region around Lake Tahoe has been inhabited by the Washoe tribe for thousands of years. During this time, it was the center of the Washoe Indian territory, including the upper valleys of the Walker, Carson and Truckee Rivers. In the early 20th century, the town of Incline Village was founded. In the 1990s, the town grew up around the lake, and today it is the site of an annual summer carnival.
Visitors to the city can take advantage of year-round activities in this small town, which is situated at the headwaters of the Truckee River, the only river outlet of the lake. The city’s trails run along the river and historic Lake Tahoe dam. From challenging water sports to family-friendly hiking and mountain biking, this area is an ideal destination for any visitor to Lake Tahoe. The city also offers lakeside camping, backcountry hiking, and mountain biking.
The town of Tahoe offers several restaurants and boutiques with an excellent selection of local and international cuisine. The famous Riva Grill on the Lake, located on the shore of the lake, offers a spectacular view of the lake while serving local cuisine, Pacific seafood and wines. The Sage Room at Harveys is home to the Gordon Ramsay HELL’S KITCHEN, which is the first fine dining establishment in the area. Located on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, it features the chef’s recipes from the hit show “Hell’s Kitchen”.
Lake Tahoe offers an exciting variety of entertainment. A performance center at the Fallen Leaf Lake is a highlight. Many other attractions include a museum, a theatre, and numerous galleries and art stores. There are many things to do in the area. At the Pacific Crest Gallery, there are plenty of options for art lovers. The gallery also offers a large variety of gifts and souvenirs. Aside from the art galleries, there are also theaters and performing arts centers in the city.