Winter and summer sports meet in beautiful surroundings in Lake Tahoe, which straddles Nevada and California. The large freshwater lake is completely surrounded by the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Tourism and Lake Tahoe skiing is the biggest source of income here. Ski resorts, casinos, restaurants and water activities keep the area busy throughout the year. Snow conditions are ideal for novice and advanced skiers and the clear, unpolluted lake ensure that visitors return.
The Heavenly Mountain Resort, situated at Stateline, Nevada is the largest skiing area in both Nevada and California. It is also the highest ski resort in Tahoe, rising to 10,067 feet. Snowmaking equipment enables the resort to have a long season and this Lake Tahoe skiing runs from November to the middle of April.
Squaw Valley resort, near Tahoe City, grew in popularity after it hosted the 1960 Winter Olympic Games. It is noted for its high speed chair lifts and it has the only Funitel in America, which is a state of the art aerial transport system. Some of the runs are very steep, attracting expert skiers.
Kirkwood, California is the location for the Kirkwood Mountain Resort, a favorite destination for Lake Tahoe skiing and snowboarding. The large resort enjoys above average snowfall and it has a good instruction program for children. Summer tourists come too and use the mountain bike trails and go hiking.
During summer, the lake becomes very busy with Lake Tahoe skiing and other sports. In addition to water skiing, permission is given for jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing and kayaking. Sailing is also popular and scuba divers love the clear water conditions. Several companies run boat cruises with guides and there are many boat launching ramps and marinas. Some cruises offer boating and dining packages with discounts at local eating places. Numerous lakefront restaurants line the lake and some have buoys and docks.
Water enthusiasts, who want a change of scene from Lake Tahoe skiing can go rafting over the rapids on the Truckee River. This is an exhilarating adventure and advance booking is recommended, as it is so popular. There is the opportunity to take a break from vigorous sports and chill on one of many beaches. These all have restrooms and picnic and barbecue areas and some also have playgrounds. Events on the lake include sailboat races and firework displays. The Lake Tahoe skiing and other activities all have a spectacularly scenic backdrop.
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