by Eydie Scher
It’s an easy ride. We go pretty often since we have a small house up there. Winters are for skiing and shoveling. That’s another story.
It’s an easy ride. We go pretty often since we have a small house up there. Winters are for skiing and shoveling. That’s another story. I like summers better. Our boat sits idyllically in the Lake and the blue water beckons us. Come along as I go to Tahoe and point out some sights you might enjoy, both on the water and off. There is so much to do in Tahoe and so many hot spots but since I’m most familiar with the West Shore on the California side, that’s where I’m taking you.
We get on 80 W in Sparks and take the 89 south exit towards the lake. There are other ways to go of course, but this is our main route. Squaw Valley passes us. As we near Tahoe City, the Truckee River is flooded with rafters. You can rent one for a group or bring your own. It’s a leisurely 2-hour float with gentle rapids. It’s a popular pastime. If you choose to rent a raft, the price is $35 (13+), kids $30 (6-12) and children under 6 - $5. You can get $5 off before 10:00 or after 2:00 with a reservation.
As we turn right at the Y, we watch the fannies. Fanny Bridge hosts tourists who watch the fish swimming below. The bridge, of course, is named for all the fannies you see as you pass by. Now that makes sense!
A few miles down on 89 is Sunnyside. Everyone in Tahoe knows about this mini hotel and restaurant. Summer lunches on the terrace overlooking the lake are to die for. The food is excellent but do think about crowds and don’t go on busy weekends during the summer. Sometimes, we go by boat and dock at their pier, that is, if we can get a spot.
Back on the road, we pass Fleur Du Lac, where the Godfather movies were filmed. It is gated and private. We do not stop. The Homewood Ski Area rises on the right. On Saturdays, there is a Farmer’s Market and a craft show. A yacht museum has been built and is now open. The Homewood Ski Area is expanding and will eventually become a little like Northstar.
Right past Homewood, on the right, is West Shore Sports. On the outside, it resembles a gasless gas station but it has the best bike rentals on the Lake and the best service. The owner, Rob Weston, has accommodated our requests, both summer and winter, on numerous occasions and he will do his best to accommodate yours. Trust me on this; you’ll be happy you stopped there.
Be careful so you don’t miss it. It’s on the left. Chamber’s Landing is the place to hang out and have one of their famous Chamber’s punches. It has a public and a private beach. Water shoes come in handy since the lake is low this year and rocks dig into bare feet. Lunch barbecues provide food or you can bring you own. The bar teems in the evening hours. Dogs are not welcome though; ours is a staple and we bring her early in the morning for a bath. Be sure and say hi to our good friend Bruce at the entrance who is his own welcoming committee of one. He’s a cool and friendly guy.
Often we go by boat and tie up at a dock. Actually, it’s just a short walk there from our house.
“Grrr”. Your stomach might be growling by now. That’s easily solved. On the left is the PDQ Market. From the outside, the PDQ looks unassuming.
If it’s anywhere near lunchtime, the parking lot and surrounding area will be jammed. You see, it’s common knowledge on the West Shore that the PDQ makes the best sandwiches in Tahoe. That's not just locals talking. Last year, there was a writeup in the New York Times extolling their deli delights. Umm, did I encourage you to stop?
If summer is on the wane, don’t let that deter you from visiting Tahoe. Picturesque fall days without the crowds are letter perfect.
Our next stop is Sugar Pine Park. Usually we rest the car and take the bike trail there. Going down to the park is easy except at the end. Everyone gets off their bikes and walks the last part. We often take Scrabble and lunch in a backpack. Guess who wins? There are also beaches that are easily accessible. You can take your dog but it must be on a leash. Even so, dogs cannot go on the beaches at all. Don’t use up all your energy. There is a steep section on the ride back but then it’s all down hill. Did I mention, there is a bike trail all along the West Shore from Sugar Pine to Tahoe City? Also, don’t forget the altitude. You may be out of breath sooner than you think.
Venturing along the perfect beach waits. If you have kids or g-kids that love silky sand under their feet and cool crisp water, then Meeks Bay is the place. The beach lies on both sides and there are docks in the center. There isn’t much shade so bring sunscreen. Oh, and don’t forget pails, shovels, blow-up and other toys... I’m talking for the adults here. Perfect sand castles are hard to make without the proper utensils.
The docks are rented out so you cannot pull in and tie up your boat. You can anchor out and take a raft in.
Back on the road, we head to Emerald Bay. Again, this place is crowded. You can walk down to the Lake and the Vikingsholm Castle but remember, you have to walk back up at some point. Across the way is our favorite hike. Our dog knows the way and walks it twice as she waits for us to catch up. Dogs are allowed but carry a leash.
Remember you do have to register before you start out. Take lots of water and food for the hike. About half way up, there is view of the Lake that begs a camera to shoot it. Don’t stop there. Continue up to Eagle Lake where you can check out a spot to picnic and rest your weary legs. If you are wearing a swimsuit, the water is inviting though you can just cool your heels. It’s a doggie paradise too.
The hike up the trail is easier than the hike back down, at least for these knees. My husband fashioned 2 walking sticks that come in handy on the somewhat steep parts. We have gone to Emerald Bay by boat. Approaching the center of the Bay lies Fannette Island where the water in Emerald Bay definitely lives up to it name. The color is a greenish blue. It’s all definitely worth it.
There is shade and benches on the shore for the perfect outdoor picnic.
If summer is on the wane, don’t let that deter you from visiting Tahoe. Picturesque fall days without the crowds are letter perfect. On the negative side, yes, gas is very expensive. On the Lake, it’s way over $5 a gallon for a boat and you know what it is for your car. But it’s a vacation that is not that far. It only takes us an hour or so from Sparks or an hour and 15 minutes if I’m driving. You deserve a beautiful getaway and so does your family.