Lake Tahoe is the largest freshwater alpine lake in North American, located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, straddling the border of California and Nevada. It is home to winter sports including skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding; as well as summer activities include paragliding, hang-gliding, mountain biking, paddleboarding, swimming, horseback riding, jet skiing, boating, rock climbing, rafting, and kayaking. The Nevada side is popular with casino-goers; whereas the California side is popular with resorts and outdoor activities around the lake.

STAY

RITZ-CARLTON A luxurious mountain resort with stunning views and ski concierges.

EDGEWOOD A sprawling lodge, spa, and golf course with a restaurant overlooking the water. A lakeside ice-skating rink pops up during the winter season.

THE COACHMAN A newly opened hotel reminiscent of The Ace with a hip Brooklyn-esque aesthetic.

FLEUR DU LAC These 22 residences are available to rent or buy and are spread across 15 acres of lakefront property with a protected boat slip, clubhouse, tennis, pool. gym, hot tub, and bocce court. Fun fact- this was the setting of The Godfather II including the scene where Fredo goes to “sleep with the fishes.”

RESORT AT SQUAW CREEK Nestled beneath the peaks of Squaw Valley, which hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics, and the perfect place to stay for skiiers.

DINE | DRINK

PIANETA A cozy, charming, and delicious Italian spot in the heart of Truckee.

COTTONWOOD Housed in a historic ski lodge with popular deskside seating overlooking Truckee.

CHAMBER’S LANDING BAR & GRILL A cabinlike tavern on a pier with a deck overlooking the lake. Our pick for sunset!

MANZANITA The upscale restaurant at The Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe with a Chef’s Table.

CUPPA Perfect for bookworms, this coffee shop also offers books, games, and stationery.

CHRISTY HILL A French-inspired menu is offered at this romantic bistro with a patio overlooking the lake.

GAR WOODS GRILL & PIER Californian cuisine with a wraparound deck on the lake.

ACTIVITIES

SKI Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, Sugar Bowl, Northstar California, and Homewood resorts offer skiing.

EMERALD BAY As the name suggests, this body of water sparkles like an Emerald. Paddleboarding is a popular activity as is hiking in the surrounding area.

VIKINGSHOLM Vikingsholm is considered one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the United States, located in Emerald Bay State Park.

Text: Veronica H. Speck Photo: Slim Aarons, © Getty Images