Lake Tahoe

Much of the world discovered Lake Tahoe when the Squaw Valley ski resort hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics, and it has been a favorite destination ever since. Lake Tahoe is split into two sections: North Lake, which includes the towns of Truckee and Tahoe City, and South Lake, which includes the city of South Lake Tahoe.

Head to Tahoe for world-class skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Heavenly Mountain, Sugar Bowl, and Kirkwood. In addition to downhill skiing, the area offers snowshoeing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and other winter fun. In the summer, the area is popular for kayaking, boating, stand-up paddleboarding, and jet skiing. The surrounding area is a popular camping spot and offers hiking and biking paths. A range of Lake Tahoe tours are available, from self-driving day tours to boat trips.

• The lake's elevation is 6,225 feet (1,897 meters), and mountain resorts sit even higher, so prepare for the altitude by staying hydrated.

• The sun is strong in the mountains—wear sun protection year-round.

• If you don't have a 4WD vehicle with snow tires, you'll probably need chains in the winter. Mountain passes have checkpoints, and the highway patrol enforces snow chain regulations.

• You can purchase snow chains from licensed vendors who set up on the sides of the roads.

Reno-Tahoe International Airport is the closest major airport to Lake Tahoe. It's about 35 miles (56 kilometers) from Incline Village in North Lake Tahoe and 60 miles (95 km) from South Lake Tahoe. If you're coming by car, take Interstate 80 from San Francisco and Sacramento, US 50 from Sacramento, or US 395 from Yosemite National Park.

Ski season is generally late November–April. Winter holidays and long weekends such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day and President's Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Fourth of July, are the most crowded. There are very few roads through the mountains and around the lake, so traffic can back up. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and a more relaxing environment, though some businesses close during the shoulder seasons.

During the summer, if you've had your fill of lake activities, head to the Truckee River, located between the lake and the quaint, historic town of Truckee. You can spend your time river rafting or exploring the walking and biking paths that run along the riverbank next to State Route 89.

You'll need at least two days in Lake Tahoe, but many travelers stay for a week (or more) to thoroughly enjoy the Sierra Nevada mountain town's many offerings. Outdoor attractions including water sports, hiking, and skiing mix with casinos and lake cruises for a lot to do in Lake Tahoe.

There are many types of tours at Lake Tahoe. The most popular choices include Lake Tahoe cruises covering Emerald Bay or Zephyr Cove, helicopter tours, kayaking tours, and e-bike tours. Day trips from Lake Tahoe to nearby Wild West towns and Yosemite are also available.

If you want to ski or snowboard in Lake Tahoe, visit in winter (ideally February) when there's enough snowpack on the slopes. To experience being on the lake and outdoor activities like hiking, come in May before the summer crowds arrive. Late summer offers the warmest weather.

Brilliantly blue Lake Tahoe is one of the purest lakes in the United States. Its clear water coupled with the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains makes it the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. The large lake straddles between California and Nevada, so there is plenty to explore.

Yes, dogs are allowed at Lake Tahoe, but only in some areas. Privately owned beaches and swimming-only beaches may not allow dogs, so it's best to check before you go. Pet-friendly beaches include Kiva Beach and Coon Street Dog Beach.

There are no entrance fees to get into the towns surrounding Lake Tahoe, but many things near the lake come with a price. For example, some beaches charge entry fees, some hiking areas require permits, and your hotel or rental costs are sure to be high, especially in summer.