Outdoorsy families on the hunt for vacation rentals jam-packed with natural recreation can book their next trip at Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America.

Families can savor the outdoors in all its glory, including the clear water of the lake, the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains, massive groves of pines and sunsets that take their lucky viewer’s breath away. South Lake Tahoe can entertain the most hard-to-please child, with hot-air balloon rides, helicopter tours and enormous arcades. For families who choose to take advantage of the natural world in its prime, the outdoor activities of Lake Tahoe’s south shore are what brings visitors back year after year. Whether travelers snag hot vacation deals at the enormous lake of the Golden State in the winter or summer, the list of enjoyable activities is endless.

Winter at Lake Tahoe
The ski resorts at South Lake Tahoe attract skiers and snowboarders of all levels with their well-manicured slopes, and those looking for a cross-country tour can cruise through the acres of backcountry trails.

For the out-of-the-box winter enthusiast, opportunities to snowshoe or snowmobile are available at the wide variety of resort rentals in South Lake Tahoe. For an even wilder experience, the winter enthusiast can engage in activities such as human sled bowling or dog sledding.

South Lake Tahoe summer fun
Outdoor activities in the summertime at the pristine West Coast lake can send a lover of the great outdoors into a joyful frenzy, not knowing where to begin. Of course, at the continent’s largest lake, water recreation is a given. Climb aboard a sailboat for a sunset cruise, ride a speed boat at Zephyr Cove, or partake in a family fishing competition in the waters of the lake with 75-feet visibility below.

Hiking through Desolation Wilderness can be a week-long adventure, exploring its subalpine and alpine forest, granite peaks and glacial valleys and lakes. Some of the greatest trails for hiking run parallel to legendary mountain biking courses that can accommodate any skill level.

The Saxon Creek Trail – also known as Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride – is not for the faint-hearted mountain biker. With abundant drops and rock gardens, the experienced biker is sure to enjoy the challenge of the accurately nicknamed wild ride. For those who aim to enjoy the view of the ride more than the sweat flying off their bodies, the Flume Trail Ride may be more suitable. A nearly flat trail, the course sits 1600 feet above the east shore of Lake Tahoe and a half-mile away from the shoreline in some places. In short, the view is spectacular.

In winter, spring, summer or fall, Lake Tahoe has an endless list of activities, events and sights to see that should keep the whole family busy all vacation long.

Heavenly Ski Mountain is one of Lake Tahoe’s greatest resorts for skiing and snowboarding, as it holds over 30 lifts and 91 trails for all levels. For older family members who may grow tired of trekking out in the snow every day, the nearby Horizon Casino, where Elvis gave some of his greatest early Nevada performances, offers top entertainment acts and movie premieres in a state-of-the-art movie theater.

If you choose a timeshare rental at The Lodge at Lake Tahoe, your vacation stay will be minutes away from the mountain and casino, as well as the Tahoe airport, where your very own helicopter tour awaits you.

Running 45 minutes long, the helicopter ride will circle around Emerald Bay and along the western shore of Lake Tahoe past Meeks Bay and Tahoe City. The route will finish up cruising over a favorite hangout spot of the Rat-Pack, the Cal-Neva Resort, with monumental views of Zephyr Cove and the casinos at Stateline.

While the plane ride to your vacation destination may be a scenic view, your helicopter journey above the vast lake will provide you with a view you may never forget.

There are plenty of things to so in Lake Tahoe. Plan your Lake Tahoe Vacation.

Tahoe City presents the 7^th annual Tahoe City Harvest Festival, Saturday, Oct. 9 through Saturday, Oct. 22. The event celebrates the changing of the seasons in one of the most beautiful places on earth and includes fun activities for the whole family.A few events include:

• Scarecrow Sprint & Stroll  October 8th beginning at 11a. and will benefit the Tahoe’s SnowFest!
• Oktoberfest on Oct. 8. Enjoy a live music, a selection of seasonal brews, games and crafts for family, BBQ sausages and wieners, fresh-made fruit desserts and ice cream, and much more.  And that’s not all.  Bocce ball tournaments, youth ballet performances, historic walking tours and even a haunted house.
• Tahoe City Public Utility District Parks and Recreation Department Pumpkin Patch Carnival Oct. 22 This event features food and family fun with games and activities. Families looking for a vacation in the fall should look no further then Lake Tahoe.

Families looking for a vacations in the fall should look no further then Lake Tahoe. The two weeks of festivities will have families going home with smiles on their faces. The festivities will take place at 380 North Lake Blvd, Tahoe City, CA 96145. For more information on the October events in Lake Tahoe, call (530-581-6900). Book your Tahoe Vacation rental today!

Many people who book a Lake Tahoe vacation resort in the winter visit the region for its superb skiing and winter sports, but a growing number of travelers are opting to enjoy cold-weather kayaking instead, reports the New York Times.

Winter kayakers are drawn to the lake for a variety of reasons, not least of which is the fact that the body of water is nearly devoid of people when the temperature drops below freezing. Most importantly, however, these adventurers love Lake Tahoe’s calm, glassy surface and the spectacular views it provides of the surrounding snowy mountains.

The only place to rent a kayak in winter is Tahoe Eco-Sports, an outfitter that provides its customers with waterproof dry suits to keep them warm if they fall into the frigid lake. Once travelers head out on the water, they can see soaring snow-dusted peaks, steaming hot springs and even a group of bald eagles.

“This reminds me of Glacier Bay,” said Anne Krumme, a former Alaska kayak guide. “I mean, serious National Geographic stuff! It’s got to be the only similar experience in the lower 48.”

Is a Father’s Day Getaway Vacation in Your Future?

Perhaps, there are few times in our history when it has been so stressful to be a loving father and provide for a family. Our dads are our heroes. So, why not treat dad to a Father’s Day Vacation Rental? It truly is a great Father’s Day idea. Rather than buying travel gifts for dad, why not book him a golf vacation rental or a vacation rental where he can go and relax. He deserves it, and we all know it.

So, let me throw out a few locations worthy of note? Palm Desert CA, which is near Palm Springs CA, is located in a Valley with 150 golf courses! Yes, that’s correct 150 golf courses, a golfer’s paradise – heaven on Earth for the avid golfer enthusiast. And if mom is coming along, there is a world class shopping district called El Paso, it’s like Rodeo Drive in Los Angeles is the best way to describe it. If this sounds good book a vacation rental at The Westin Desert Willow, the place is awesome. Westin Resorts really out did themselves on that property – it’s a show case – and it has one of the nicest golf courses in the valley on the property.

What about Las Vegas, everyone loves to get away to Las Vegas for a few days – maybe a week would be nice, especially if you are staying at The Polo Towers on Las Vegas Blvd. Do your mom and dad like wine? There are excellent wine tours and wineries to visit in Napa Valley. If you stay at the RiverPointe in Napa Valley, they have all the details ready, all you have to do is show up.

Another great father’s day idea and location tip for a vacation rental would be Lake Tahoe. Lake Tahoe is in season during Father’s Day – well, Lake Tahoe Red Wolf Lakeside Lodge is great any time of the year actually. In the winter there is nearby skiing and snow surrounding the rentals. Close to casinos – gambling, great restaurants, and entertainment. In the Summer Lake Tahoe is spectacular, what a relaxing location destination.

You know, I really cannot think of a better father’s day gift idea, why stick to travel gifts for dad, golf clubs, or the proverbial gift certificate when you can send him to a golfing resort vacation destination or a destination he’ll never forget. Your dad deserves to smile he’s been through a lot. Think on it and make this Father’s Day count.

4th of July Rentals – Your Summer Vacation Resort Rental Awaits!

Have You Made Your Plans for this Fourth of July Yet? Before you do perhaps you might like to know what’s available out there. You might be surprised at the 4th of July vacation rentals and the excellent pricing this year. Are you penciling in time for your summer vacation yet? Why not start with a Disney World Vacation Rental in Orlando Florida, and while you are there you can enjoy their world class Independence Day Celebration with Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and all the exhibits and attractions.

Yes, Disney World can be yours, and the price is right at Sheraton Vistana Villages. That just sounds high class doesn’t it? Indeed, it does, and it is too. Of course, if you’ve already been to the World Class Sheraton Vistana Villages and you want to try a California vacation this year instead, well then let me mention three of the most excellent resort rental location destinations for your 4th of July vacation rental excursion.

First, how about Palm Springs CA, where it is nice and warm – and you can get away dressing scantily clad for the evening’s fireworks. Just check into the Palm Canyon Resort and cruise the town until just after sunset, where the City of Palm Springs puts on the show for you. If you are heat adverse, no problemo! How about over the hill from Palm Springs in San Diego CA. You can stay at the Harbor Vacation Club. And as the name suggests, it’s right on the water, home of the cool San Diego summer breeze. And you should see the fireworks show they put on in that all-American city!

Are you the mountain outdoors type? And really when we get right down to it, who isn’t? Even us city dwellers with concrete under our feet like to get out of the city and into that fresh air once in a while. Even if they plan on filing it up with a little sulfur smell for a couple of hours during the magnificent Lake Tahoe resort area fireworks demonstration. If you stay at the Red Wolf Lodge at Squaw Valley, for this year’s 4th of July Celebration vacation rental season, you’ll know just what I am talking about.

Where are you headed for Valentine’s Day this year? Aside from the teddy bears, flowers, and diamond jewelry, the most important planning on Valentine’s Day is the destination. Here are our 6 favorite Valentine’s Day getaways.

1. Napa Valley, California: You can’t get more romantic than the old world Tuscan charm surrounded by vine-covered hills this Valentine’s Day.
   • Where to Stay: Vino Bello Resort
2. Santa Fe, New Mexico: With snow on the mountains and the vibrant American Indian arts and culture surrounding you, Santa Fe is a perfect getaway to romance your special someone.
   • Where to Stay: Villas de Santa Fe
3. Lake Tahoe, California: If you love to ski/snowboard, you have probably heard of Squaw Valley in Lake Tahoe. This world renowned resort is perfect to get away and be one with mother nature. Bundle up by the fire, enjoy an indoor jacuzzi, and take in the amazing scenery.
   • Where to Stay: Red Wolf Lodge at Squaw Valley
4. Las Vegas, Nevada: Sin City isn’t just for bachelor(ette) parties. Vegas offers everything a romantic couple can possibly hope for. Pamper yourselves at some of the world’s best restaurants, spas, pools, and theatre, and outdoor adventure.
   • Where to Stay: Polo Towers (on the strip)
5. Palm Springs, California: Golf, hiking, hot air balloon rides, horseback riding, tennis are just a few of the fun activities you can do in Palm Springs this Valentine’s day. Not to mention the numerous festivals, music scene, relaxing spas and resorts, and spectacular snow capped mountain views.
   • Where to Stay: Palm Springs Tennis Club
6. Sedona, Arizona: If perfect weather combined with a relaxing luxury vacation is what you are looking for, head to Sedona. Head to the golf courses or luxury spas and indulge in the local shops and art galleries. But don’t forget about the Red Rock surroundings, the perfect color to match your Valentine’s Day getaway this year.
   • Where to Stay: Los Abrigados Resort & Spa

The Top 10 Things To Do In Lake Tahoe

Sure you can Ski in the winter and fish and hike the rest of the year, but we have come up with our top 10 favorite things to do while in Lake Tahoe. You can’t ski and fish everyday, so spice up your trip with some of these other favorites.

1. Tahoe Photographic Tours: Trust an insider to show you the most exquisite views in Tahoe.
   

   http://www.flickr.com/photos/the_tahoe_guy/ / CC BY 2.0

2. Go Hiking: Tahoe is a vast mountain country with plenty of trails for ever skill level. Pack the backpack and get away from the city life to hang out with Mother Nature. Three great trails are the Tahoe Rim Trail, Flume Trail, and Cascades Fall Trail.
3. Lake Tahoe Cruise: Head out on the water on one of many cruises that give you the best view in town. This is especially nice if you have a special event like a wedding or family reunion. A popular cruise is the Tahoe Blue Wave Cruise
   

   http://www.flickr.com/photos/wili/ / CC BY 2.0

4. Horseback Riding: Several stables offer horseback riding and I’ve even heard of some llama riding. This is the perfect way to take and the scenery and relax. I found this website with several horseback riding resources.
5. Historic Sightseeing: The Lake Tahoe area has plenty of historic landmarks to check out. Anything from museums to log cabins and a Scandinavian castle, there is plenty to see in Tahoe. For more info check out Tahoes Best Sightseeing.
6. Bicycle Riding: Just as fun as hiking but you can cover more ground in a shorter time span which allows for viewing of more Tahoe scenery. For a family tour check out the Tahoe Adventure Company.
7. Casinos: Cross over from California to the Nevada side and you are practically in Vegas. From high end luxury casinos with full buffets to low scale casinos where you might hope the slots are a little looser. Don’t forget the live entertainment, dining, and shopping that come along with casinos. The MontBleu Casinois a big hit in the Stateline area.
   

   http://www.flickr.com/photos/sling_flickr/ / CC BY 2.0

8. Dining: It doesn’t matter which part of Lake Tahoe you are in, you will find some great restaurants and cafes. Have some fine dining at a casino or stop by for a bagel and coffee in the morning, either way you will be satisfied. Here are our favorite restaurants in the area
9. Dog Sledding: We all remember the movie “Iron Will” and remember how much we wanted to jump on that sleigh pulled by dogs. Well in Lake Tahoe the dogs are waiting for you to jump aboard. Check out Tahoe Dog Sled Tours for an adventure you will never forget.
10. Snowmobiling: When there is snow on the ground, the most exciting way to get around is on a snowmobile. There are several companies that will rent you a snowmobile but the Lake Tahoe Snowmobile Tours will be sure to show you the time of your life.
    

    http://www.flickr.com/photos/mwichary/ / CC BY 2.0

Food is another main attraction at Lake Tahoe, from quaint pancake houses to fine dining settings. With hundreds of restaurants in Lake Tahoe, there’s something appealing for every taste and budget.

Here are some of the most popular restaurants in the Lake Tahoe:

Christy Hill Restaurant

Tahoe City, California – Located 100 feet above the shoreline of Lake Tahoe, Christy Hill provides diners with a panoramic view of Lake Tahoe and spectacular sunsets with a menu of French influences of roasted wild king salmon, baked eggplant, tenderloin or port, and filet mignon and a selection of fine wines around the world. The San Francisco Chronicle voted Christy Hill “Most Romantic Restaurant. 530-583-8551. Christy Hill Website

Six Peaks Grille

Tahoe City, California – Surrounded by the majestic six peaks of Squaw Valley and the meadows below, this restaurant offers a diverse menu with fresh produce, seafood and steaks. 530-583-6300. Six Peaks Grille Reviews

Evans Gourmet Cafe

South Lake Tahoe, California – Nestled in a romantic vintage Tahoe cabin, entrees include grilled tenderloin of beef, roasted rack of lamb, oven roasted breast of chicken, roast venison loin on pecan and root vegetable hash, breast and confit leg of duck with dried cherry sauce. 530-542-1990. Evans Gourmet Cafe Website

The Soule Domain

North Lake Tahoe, California – The creative American dining experience and a marvelous contrast of old and new heightens your dining enjoyment at The Soule Domain in Crystal Bay. Menu consists of natural, free range and organic ingredients that are locally and seasonally produced. 530-546-7529. The Soule Domain Website

 See Also: Lake Tahoe Winter Itinerary

North Lake Tahoe Itinerary

Winter in North Lake Tahoe means skiing and snowboarding at some of the premier resorts in the country. Home to twelve nationally acclaimed alpine ski resorts, skiers and boarders will want to look into Ski Tahoe North Interchangeable Lift Ticket, which allows them to ski at seven of the twelve ski areas including North Lake Tahoe’s premier ski resorts Diamond Peak, Homewood, Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort and Squaw Valley.

Read about the interchangeable lift ticket at Go Tahoe North. 

In the A.M.

Grab breakfast at the Blue Onion Restaurant. Take transportation from the resort to one of the area’s world-class ski resorts. North Lake Tahoe is home to twelve nationally acclaimed alpine ski resorts. Use your Ski Tahoe North Interchangeable Lift Ticket to access seven of the twelve ski areas whenever they like. North Lake Tahoe’s premier resorts include Alpine Meadows, Diamond Peak, Homewood, Mt. Rose , Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort, Squaw Valley and the Sugar Bowl.

Noon

Eat at the ski resort. Continue alpine skiing or try another Lake Tahoe winter activity, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, ice skating and more. For cross-country ski and snowshoeing trails, visit Go Tahoe North for more information. Wilderness Adventures offers daily, husky driven dogsled tours at the Resort at Squaw Creek and the Sugar Bowl resort. Several ice skating rinks are available in North Tahoe, including the Olympic Ice Pavilion atop Squaw Valley, the Truckee Ice Skating Rink in Truckee and the rink at the Village at Northstar.

In the P.M.

Head to Lake Tahoe’s Nevada side for dinner at one of the casinos. The Crystal Bay Club and Casino, the Biltmore Tahoe Lodge & Casino, the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort Spa and the Cal-Neva Resort all have regular entertainment and great dining venues.

South Lake Tahoe Itinerary

The cool mountain air and emerald green conifers of the South Lake Tahoe area beckon outdoor explorers of all abilities for this season. Skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing are some of the most popular winter sports to do in the Lake Tahoe-area, and the places to do these activities are nearly endless. Find great snow adventures at premier ski resorts including Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort in Lake Tahoe and Kirkwood Mountain Resort in Kirkwood – both offer family fun, difficult terrain, and plenty of other winter activities, including cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Check out Heavenly Mountain Resort, one of the premier ski resorts of Lake Tahoe, and the only ski resort in the country that straddles two states.

In the A.M.

Start with Sunday Brunch at the Riva Grill on the Lake featuring astounding South Lake Tahoe views. Then grab the skis, snowboard and winter gear and head to one of the premier slopes around town. To rent or purchase equipment, stop at Rainbow Mountain Ski and Board Rentals, the area’s premier ski and snowboard rental and service shop, or The Ski Renter at South Lake Tahoe for all your ski or snowboard needs.

Noon

Grab cocoa and sandwiches at the lodge, then head back out to the slopes. If you’re skiing Heavenly, be sure to bring your camera for the aerial tram ride up. The awe-inspiring mile-long flight affords beautiful views of Lake Tahoe and Stateline Village.

In the P.M.

After a long day on the slopes, you’ll want to grab dinner at The Cantina Bar and Grill on Emerald Bay Road, voted the best Mexican restaurant in the area for ten years. Then hit the casinos! Visitors at any of ResorTime.com’s resorts are only a short walk away from Harrah’s, Harvey’s and the Horizon Casino Resort, nightclubs, bars and lounges populate the town and live music can often be found at these venues.

Also Read: What To Do In Winter