Tahoe Magazine Summer 2013

M A G A Z I N E S U M M E R 2 0 1 3

GET UP STAND UPPADDLEBOARDING ON BIG BLUE GROWING IN POPULARITY

MONSTER TRUCKER CRYSTAL BAY CASINO OWNER

ROGER NORMAN FINDS SUCCESS

CLIMATE CHANGE IT S HAPPENING AT LAKE TAHOE

BUT WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD?

AROUND THE RIMMAINTAINING THE MAJESTIC 165-MILE TAHOE RIM TRAIL

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Paddle Girl final.indd 1 5/10/2013 1:56:59 PM

Its Summer!

Live Your Life

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Its Summer!

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On-Going Events: Mountain Bike Race SeriesDownhill and Cross-Country, Mountain Bike Clinics and Camps, Tahoe Star Tours, STRIDER Adventure Zone, Retro Skate Night and Live Music on the Village Stage

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The Best Views of Lake Tahoe


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A 2.4-mile ride up in the Heavenly Mountain Gondola will leave you breathless as you take in panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. On your way up, stop at the Observation Deck for 360-degree views of the lake, where you can get your photo taken by one of our professional photographers. Once you arrive at the top, grab lunch, ice cream or a cocktail at Tamarack Lodge before heading out on the hiking trails, ranging from beginner to expert.

Visit SkiHeavenly.com or call 1-800-HEAVENLY. Partners inOutdoor Recreation

Available at the Marriott location, across from the Heavenly Gondola530-542-2859 | WWW. RENTBIKES.ORG

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The Best Views of Lake Tahoe

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m a G a Z i n e s u m m e R 2 0 1 3

3 4g e t l o S t f r o m t h e c r o w D

4 0g o i n g t o t h e D o g S Tahoe Magazine is a product of the Tahoe Daily Tribune, north Lake Tahoe

Bonanza, Sierra Sun and Lake Tahoe action. all content is copyrighted, May 2013. Tahoe Magazine strives for accuracy and is not responsible if event details change after publication.

PUBLISHER:Michael Gelbman

EDITORS:Trisha Leonard Kevin MacMillan

CONTRIBUTORS:Simone Grandmain Adam JensenMark McLaughlin Margaret MoranAxie Navas Tim ParsonsBecky Regan Matthew RendaDylan Silver Sylas Wright

LAYOUT & DESIGN:Keigh Cox Rob FairMike Madsen Amy MathiowetzMatt Moore Terri ThomasLaci Thompson

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS:Amy Edgett Lisa BerryKeoki Flagg Simone GrandmainJim Grant Kiwi KameraMargaret Moran Taylor RamboLarry Rosa Dylan Silver

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS:Stacy Collins Peggy CocoresMichelle Geary Gayla GeorgievaSusan Kokenge Michelle MortonCarolyn OConnor Natasha SchueHeidi Treadwell

CIRCULATION:Pat Greenlaw Josh Sweigert

actionlake tahoe

Tahoe Smr working_184pgs.indd 14 5/10/2013 11:53:23 AM

TAHOE magazine 15/DJXQD*URYH'ULYH_(ON*URYH&$

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16 Summer 2013

i n s i d e ta h o e m a g a z i n e

5 2D i S cg o l f

9 4l i v i n g t h e D r e a m

1 2 4D e c k D i n i n g

1 2 6ta h o e b r e w S

1 4 2c r aw f i S h

1 4 6w i l D t h i n g S

O n T H e C O V e R18 tahoe communities

22 the tahoe rim trail

30 tahoes wildflowers

40 going to the dogs

46 ironman

62 Paddleboarding

70 boating on lake tahoe

78 born to be wild

88 Summer gear guides

102 gambling 101

Denise Shutte from Reno enjoys a morning paddle off the magical east shore of Sand Harbor. Photo by Peter Spain Photography / www.peterspain.com. Peter Spain is a Lake Tahoe photographer based in Crystal Bay. His photography specializes in portraits, lifestyle, fine art and weddings. Please view more of his work at www.peterspain.com.

107 Summer music

120 ten lunches for $10 or less

132 moonshine

134 farmers markets

136 Discover tahoes museums

138 climate change

148 campground listings

154 South lake tahoe events

162 truckee & north lake events

176 Directory of advertisers


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18 Summer 2013

C O m m u n i T i e s t o w n S & r e S o r t S

If you live here long enough, you stop seeing the lake as a region. Its because all those little communities surrounding the lake (from the 25,000 people in South Lake Tahoe to the 250 in Carnelian Bay) have fierce local identities they do not want to lose. This guide will help you understand where you are, as you tour the area.

Incline VillageThis luxury village is home to some of the wealthiest people in the world. When you drive through, take Lakeside Drive to view the large estates that border the lake on the northeast side of the lake. Only five miles from the casinos, and 30 miles from Reno, Incline Village offers private beaches to its residents and some guests, and beautiful views of the West Shore.

Kings BeachJust west of Incline Village, Kings Beach sits atop Lake Tahoe. With easy access to Truckee, the casinos and the lake, Kings Beach truly lives up to its name. And its only going to get better. With $48 million in improvements scheduled for the downtown corridor, the future of Kings Beach will see easy access for visitors between the shopping areas and the recreation area, filled with volleyball courts. sandy beaches and barbecue spots. Also, look for the free concerts and art shows this summer.

NorthstarJust north of Kings Beach on Highway 267, halfway between Truckee and the lake, Northstar is an up-and-coming resort area that is filled with summertime activities. Best known for its shopping (jewelry, kids clothing, outdoor gear, you name it) and its mountain biking, Northstar is perfect for an afternoon with the kids. Also home to the $300 million Ritz Carlton, Lake Tahoe, and a multi-million-redeveloped base area, Northstar will play host to a number of fun summer festivals and events.

TruckeeThe town of Truckee is the gateway to the lake. With a rich history of saloons, gunslingers and other Wild West fantasies, it works hard to keep its local charm while playing host to the thousands of guests who stay in the area each year. With nearby Donner State Memorial Park and a downtown shopping area, Truckee can entertain visitors with some time on their hands. In the summer, the town comes out every Thursday in the downtown area to show off area merchants, share stories and hang out as a community.

Squaw Valley Halfway between Truckee and the lake on Highway 89, Squaw Valley USA is best known as a great winter ski resort and home of

the 1960 Winter Olympics. But the little-known secret is that Squaws summers are pretty fun, too. The Tram Car takes visitors up to the top of the mountain to enjoy wonderful lake views, a swimming pool, restaurant, bar and, on occasion, live music. The base area provides shopping and family activities, and plenty of parking.

Alpine Meadows Just a couple miles south of Squaw, Alpine Meadows is a mountain area that offers plenty of hiking, biking and exploring. Paired with a laid-back local feel, Alpine Meadows is worth a stop in the summer. And if you ski, definitely make a trip back for Cornology what the resort calls its science of skiing spring snow.

Tahoe CityOn the northwest side of the lake, Tahoe City is a perfect little hamlet for visitors to enjoy the quiet of the lake while having plenty of entertainment options close by. With good restaurants and easy access to a public beach, Tahoe City has everything you need. Try the free Sunday afternoon concerts on the beach, and the best golfing deal around at Tahoe Citys nine-hole course.

Homewood On the West Shore just south of Tahoe City lies Homewood, a small winter ski resort that hosts concerts and other entertainment in the summer. Homewood is one of the most beautiful places to stay, as it is surrounded by old-growth elm and pine trees, and sits just yards from the lake. And if you get a chance, talk to some of the locals they are the definition of tight-knit community, and you might learn a thing or two from them, especially about our curious bear population.

Tahoma/Meeks Bay This little neighborhood on the West Shore offers luxurious views of the lake, and great access to nearby state parks. Meeks Bay has its own fire station, one of the few developments other than homes in this classic Tahoe vacation spot.

South Lake Tahoe/StatelineThe largest of the cities around Lake Tahoe, South Lake has a large variety of entertainment options. The areas biggest casinos bring in the areas biggest acts (including Lady Antebellum last summer) so if nightlife is what youre looking for, make a trip to South Lake. If you want to stay out of the car, South Lake is a bicycle-friendly designated community, so rent a bicycle and enjoy the regions many scenic rides.

Meyers Just south of South Lake Tahoe, Meyers is a funky town that is home to many locals in the region. If youre looking for a trip off the beaten path, try lunch or dinner in Meyers, and come back telling about the real Tahoe.


TAHOE magazine 19

LakeTahoe

Airport

Sand Harbor

Meyers

To Markleeville

South Lake Tahoe Heavenly

Alpine Meadows

Squaw Valley

Northstar

Gardnerville

Hope ValleySierra-at-Tahoe

North

South

West East

Sugar Bowl

Kirkwood

KirkwoodAbout one hour south of the lake, Kirkwood is a ski resort with plenty of summertime options, including shopping, lodging, biking, hiking and fly fishing.

HeavenlyHeavenly Village also offers shopping selections and gondola rides during the summer, and is perfect for a family. The gondola will take you to gorgeous views of the lake, and the hike back to town is perfect for those who are in shape or want to be.

Zephyr CoveLocated on the southeast part of the lake, Zephyr Cove is a historic area. Businesses nearby offer a slew of fun activities, including cruises aboard the M.S. Dixie or Tahoe Queen, to horseback riding, to kayaking, parasailing or boating.

GlenbrookOn the East Shore of Lake Tahoe, historic Glenbrook epitomizes the idea of rural and lake. Only 150 acres of the town have been developed, leaving homeowners and visitors undisturbed serenity and unique recreational opportunities.

Sand HarborWith a sandy beaches, boat launches, picnic spots and access to world-class biking, hiking and fishing, it is no wonder Sand Harbor is one of the most popular spots on the lake. You can catch the Flume Trail and the Tahoe Rim Trail nearby, while exploring the backcountry between Lake Tahoe and Carson City.


20 Summer 2013

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TAHOE magazine 21

Lake TahoeWeddingLake Tahoe Wedding &

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R e C R e aT i O n h i k i n gR e C R e aT i O n R e C R e aT i O n h i k i n gh i k i n g

wHen iT CoMeS To ReCReaTion, THe 165-MiLe TaHoe RiM TRaiL iS aMong THe BeST of THe BeST anD iTS aLL Due To THouSanDS of voLunTeeRS wHo woRk wiTHouT Pay To Make iT a key PaRT of aMeRiCaS ouTDooR PLaygRounD

By TiM PaRSonSTaHoe Magazine

A TRAILL I K E N O OT H E R

Though I ascended more than 1,000 feet across 5 miles of the Tahoe Rim Trail from Spooner Summit to South Camp Peak, it was the view that was breathtaking.From a windy but comfortable rocky lunchtime perch, I sat directly across from Lake Tahoes Emerald Bay. Starting from the north and turning southward, there was a clear view of the Cal Neva Resort, Squaw Valley, Homewood, Mount Tallac, Pyramid Peak and the Sierra-at-Tahoe and Kirkwood ski resorts.

Farther south I could see the vast the Gondola fi re damage, a 2002 blaze sparked from a tossed cigarette. Th e view of the burned area from here appears more vast than it does from lake level.

Clay Grubb leads a volunteer crew up the path from Van Sickle Bi-state Park toward the Tahoe Rim Trail.

22 Summer 2013


Th e hike back was easy because it was mostly downhill, and someone with a chainsaw had cleared the trail of downed trees I had earlier had to step and climb over. Th at someone was volunteer Clay Grubb, who I spoke to near the halfway point between Spooner Summit and Kingsbury Grade, a spot where my dog found a patch of snow to roll in and cool off .

Grubb said 2011-12 was a windy winter, and a lot of trees fell across the 165-mile Tahoe Rim Trail. John McKenna, whose day job is serving as a Carson City-County supervisor, cleared the other side of the trail that day from South Camp Peak to Kingsbury Grade. Other areas were cleared by the U.S. Forest Service and a volunteer, Jim Buzzsaw Backhus. Th ere was a lot less snow on the rim trail this June compared to 2011 and 2010, and the only areas where the trees havent been cleared is around Barker Pass between Gilmore Lake and Tahoe City.

Grubbs altruism resonated, so the following Saturday I tagged along with about 20 Tahoe Rim Trail Association volunteers at Statelines Van Sickle Bi-State Park.

Im not sure I remember you, but I remember your dog, Grubb said.

Last summer, 664 volunteers labored 11,532 on the Tahoe Rim Trail. Th e Rim to Reno Trail system, which began in October 2010, was completed, linking Renos Th omas Creek Trailhead to the Mount Rose Trailhead. Volunteers will be needed this summer for fi nish work on that trail.

Facts about the Tahoe Rim Trail 165 miles of single-track multiuse trail.

It is open to bikers, hikers, and equestrians.

It passes through two states (California and Nevada),

six counties, one bi-state park, three National Forests,

and three Natural Wilderness Areas.

Th e Tahoe Rim Trail Association was formed as a

nonprofi t in 1981.

Construction began in 1984.

Contributed photo: Tahoe Rim Trail Association When you care enough to build the very best, Oliver Lieder brings love with his labor.

TAHOE magazine 23


Depending on their background, volunteers wore green, blue or white hardhats. Crews worked through mid-October on the Daggett project, which includes a 6.7-mile loop and connects to the Tahoe Rim Trail at Kingsbury North and South trailheads.

Th e Daggett project should be completed this summer. Volunteer workdays will be Tuesdays and Saturdays from June 4 to July 30. Designed by Grubb, the Daggett Summit Reroute changed four miles of pavement into 14 miles of trail.

Th e (Tahoe Rim Trail) loop opened in 2001 but the trail is not fi nished, said Grubb, one of the volunteers who has taken the bad areas and rerouted and rebuilt them.

More than 100,000 hikers and bikers use the Tahoe Rim Trail each year, and there are only 1,275 who are documented to have ever covered the entire loop 165-mile club members. Not only are the trail views singularly spectacular, the summertime temperature is generally moderate and there are neither poisonous snakes nor poison oak. Th e biggest danger for users is dehydration, and Tahoe summers typically are very dry.

Yellowjackets are a concern for the volunteers, Grubb told the group as he gave trail-building advice.

Foundation and fi nishing work is important, he said. Get water off the trail and people on it. ... Th e crew leaders have the fi rst-aid kits and radios.

Computer programer Chris Garcia, a South Lake Tahoe resident, was one of the crew leaders, and he told his team how to handle heavy and sharp tools on the trail: Its better to get sliced than punctured.

Garcias hardhat was as blue as the sky.

Rim Trail: Marmot countryTh e Big Meadow to Echo Summit hike along the Tahoe

Rim Trail is best known for spectacular wildfl owers, but

I was most captivated by yellow-bellied marmots.

Larger, pudgier versions of a prairie dog, the three

marmots I encountered were, respectively, cautious,

brazen and regal.

I startled the fi rst one I saw about a half-mile beyond

Showers Lake. He was on the trail 20 yards ahead and

his red tail swayed as he waddled to a safe place under

a big rock. He poked out its his head and peered back at

me but retreated when we made eye contact.

From there I crossed the cirque with its miracle mile

and I waded through every color of wildfl ower which,

at its tallest, was chest high. Horse dung on the trail was

merely ankle deep. Th e view looking south from the

peak at elevation 8,900 feet beneath Little Round Top

was majestic. I took in the glacier and volcanic-sculpted

granite from a stand of wind-blown and snowpack-

shaped cedars which looked like the talking trees from

Th e Wizard of Oz.

Th ats when the second marmot appeared. He was

inspecting my backpack and a bear-proof food container

I recently purchased from Lake of the Sky Outfi tters.

When I returned to my pack, the marmot stood his

ground, seemingly annoyed. If I reached for my pack

with him there, I thought, I would have had to put my

hand within a foot of its head.

Acting indignant, I asked, What are you going to do,

bite me?

Responding with a cool air of indiff erence, the marmot

wriggled a few feet away, but stuck around just to make

sure, I suppose, that I reclaimed custody of the pack.

After I spent the quietest night I can remember sleeping

in a hammock under the stars, I resumed my hike at

sunrise. It was about 7:30 a.m. on a switchback when

I saw marmot No. 3 sunbathing on a massive bolder

overlooking the Lake Tahoe Airport runway and beyond

it was a spectacular view of azure Lake Tahoe. He must

have been king of the marmots.

While the king of the marmots was away, a pair of hikers checked out the view from his lofty perch. Contributed photo: Tahoe Rim Trail Association

24 Summer 2013


Th e blue helmets are the master trail builders who are referred to as the Jedi, Grubb, who has the same deadpan delivery whether hes joking or serious.

Like the others, Garcia became hooked after his fi rst day as a volunteer.

I feel very privileged to live here, he said. Its good exercise and I like giving back to the community. I get a sense of accomplishment.

Kate Herbert drove from Kings Beach to volunteer.

You get a little dirty, but its not so bad, she said.

On National Trails Day a week earlier, Chris Strohm, a former South Tahoe Public Utility District board member and competitive distance runner, oversaw a crew of 100 build 4,500 feet of the Gondola Water Line Trail. Th e Van Sickle connection trailhead is just south of Harrahs Lake Tahoes parking lot. A 15-minute hike rewards trail users with a lake view.

I spent a thousand hours training and running the trails; now Im making them and having just as much fun, Strohm said. You never look at a trail the same way. Van Sickle was very di cult.

Strohm used his third roto hammer, having worn out two others on the Daggett project. Numerous $200 drill bits were used.

Up the trail, Grubb stopped the group at a stream crossing. Next to a sign which read Please dont move rocks or logs, someone had done just that.

His ignorance is only exceeded by his arrogance, Grubb said. Somebody built a dam.

While an unidentifi ed hiker had used a large rock for a stepping stone, he had also created what would have been a a fl ood zone at times of a high stream fl ow.

Jedi Oliver Lieder and white hat Robert Johnson used a massive steel bar to deal with the rock after the rest of the group moved ahead.

We have volunteers of all ages and ability levels and everyone can contribute, said Morgan Fessler, a TRTA trails director. You can do some maintenance work. Maybe just clearing some brush out of the way. People who want to bulk up can come out and move rocks around and build trail that way as well. And if youre not able to be a volunteer out building trail, we are always looking for volunteers in our (Incline Village) o ce. We have people stopping by all the time looking for information. We can always put folks to work.

Th e TRTAs slogan is A trail like no other, but longtime volunteer Phil Brisack, who used to have a Hallmark card store, suggests: When you care enough to build the very best. A former Navy man, Brisack gets credit for inspiring Grubb, a retired Marine.

Grubb was jogging on the trail near Kingsbury Grade when he came upon Brisack and two others who were cutting out a tree.

Whats it take to become a volunteer? Grubb asked.

Brisack, who wore a Navy shirt noticed Grubbs Marine shorts, replied, If you have a strong back and a weak mind, then you are overqualifi ed.

Grubb took the bait.

Hes been making me pay for it ever since, Brisack said. He has been the man on this Daggett project. Hes the reason were building this trail.

Th e last couple of volunteers to head up the trail were Mike Maddox and Tim Casagrande. Th ey were tasked with maneuvering a cumbersome wheelbarrow full of tools up the mountain.

Two descending hikers passed the volunteers, and one said, Good work, man. We appreciate it.

More about the Rim Trail 49 miles of the TRT overlap the Pacifi c Crest National

Scenic Trail.

Maps with information about camping, biking and

more about the TRT are available online at www.

tahoerimtrail.org or can be picked up at 948 Incline

Way, inside the Donald W. Reynolds Community

Non-Profi t Center in Incline Village.

To become a Tahoe Rim Trail Association volunteer,

visit www.tahoerimtrail.org or call 775-298-0239.

Th e trail was completed in September 2001.

Additions and improvements are ongoing.

Marlette Lake is adorned with golden aspens in autumn. The lake is on the trail between Spooner Summit and Mount Rose. Contributed photo: Tahoe Rim Trail association

TAHOE magazine 25


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TAHOE magazine 27


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TAHOE magazine 29


THe HunT iS on foR Lake TaHoeS wiLDfLoweRS By DyLan SiLveRTaHoe Magazine

A long Lake Tahoes shores and up into the higher reaches, there are tiny colorful treasures hidden everywhere. Some of them are bright amethyst, others are ruby red. They are the regions hundreds of species of wildflowers.

For me, its like finding little treasures and capturing a special moment in the spring and summer, says local wildflower expert Lisa Berry. Theyre so beautiful. I want to acknowledge their presence because they wont last long.

Berry spends the spring and early summer traversing the areas many trails on the hunt for that perfect flower. There are dozens of different hikes that lead to meadows full of color, or past hidden gems, blooming alone for just a short period of the year. Youve just got to know what youre looking for and when to go.

The Sierra wildflowers have such a narrow window, Berry says. You never know what youre going to find.

There are more than 700 species of wildflowers in the Sierra Nevada. Berry has seen and catalogued more than 400.

Though most flowers can be identified by obvious traits like color and size, some are best remembered for more eccentric characteristics. The steers head, a light pink and white blossom, is shaped very much like a steers head. The swamp onion smells like onions. The death camas lily is toxic and can be fatal if eaten.

The best way to distinguish different blossoms is get a good guide, know what youre looking for and just get out there. Whether youre an expert hunting for the rare sugarstick or a beginning wildflower watcher just looking for a spot of color, here are a few hikes that offer glimpses of Lake Tahoes most colorful bounty.

In B lo o m

The trail to winnemucca Lake near Carson Pass can be covered in wildflowers. Photo: Lisa Berry

Hike: Carson Pass TrailDirections: From South Lake Tahoe take Highway 50 west and turn left on Highway 89. Continue over Lu-

ther Pass to the stop sign and turn right on Highway 89.

Parking lot will be on your left at the top of Carson Pass.

When to go: Spring (snow permitting) to mid-summer.What flowers: From rarities like the phantom orchid to slopes painted by paintbrushes, the elevation change

of this hike offers a variety of species. This is one of the

most well-known wildflower hikes in the region.

R e C R e aT i O n h i k i n g

Lisa Berry hosts a series of wildflower hikes through

Lake Tahoe Community College each summer. For more

information, check out her website, sierrawildflowers.org,

or LTCCs website, ltcc.edu. Also check out Roger

Rosenbergers website, wildflowerhikes.com for even

more information on guided wildflower walks.

Wildflower Hikes

30 Summer 2013


TAHOE magazine 31

The alpine lily is a common and beautiful find around Lake Tahoe. Photo: Lisa Berry

The explorers gentian is one of more than 900 species in the gentian family, and one of several gentians found in the Sierra Nevada. Photo: Lisa Berry

Hike: Fallen Leaf LakeDirections: From South Lake Tahoe, head north on Highway 89. Turn left on Fallen Leaf Lake Road. Park

in one of the many turnouts or in the parking lot.

When to go: Early spring to late summerWhat flowers: The many miles of trails around Fallen Leaf Lake offer all the typical flowers you will find at

lake level: camas lilies, purple velvety stickseed, mari-

posa lilies, larkspurs, lupines and pussypaws, and

many others.

Hike: Shirley CanyonDirections: From North Lake Tahoe, head toward Squaw Valley on Highway 89. Enter the resort and turn

right onto Squaw Valley Road. Follow the road, staying

right, until it meets with Squaw Peak Way. The trailhead

is marked at the second juncture of Squaw Peak Way

and Squaw Peak Road.

When to go: Spring to mid summerWhat flowers: From the mountains base to its higher elevations, a variety of flowers can be seen. Though it is a

more difficult hike, the rewards can include rarities.

Hike: Paige MeadowsDirections: From North Lake Tahoe, head south on Highway 89. Turn right on Pineland Drive. Stay left at the

fork. Look for a logging road on left. Follow the logging

road, bearing left at the sign to Paige Meadows.

When to go: Spring to late summerWhat flowers: Camas lilies can grow in such numbers that the series of meadows resemble blue lakes. For an

overwhelming amount of color, Paige Meadows is a

good bet.

Never pick or disturb wildflowers

Be careful where you walk. Some species are

incredibly small, close to the ground and delicate.

Wildflower tips


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TAHOE magazine 33

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34 Summer 2013

ThoUgh A PoPULAr DeSTiNATioN, LAKe TAhoe STiLL hAS iTS ShAre oF hiDDeN SPoTS

Lake Tahoes 72 miles of shoreline and the mountains that make up its basin are full of nooks and crannies. Th ough the area receives millions of visitors each year, some of these spots are, believe it or not, still somewhat secluded. Heres a few places worth checking out not just for their beauty, but also for their serenity.

lost from the crowd

UPPer TrUCKee MArSh SKUNK hArBor

By DyLAN SiLverTAhoe MAgAziNe

The Upper Truckee Marsh is full of shallow water trails in the spring. Photo: Dylan Silver Skunk harbor is a bit of a walk, but the reward is glittering. Photo: Dylan Silver

In the spring and summer, theres almost always a crowd around the Upper Truckee Marsh, but not of people. Th e sprawling entryway of Lake Tahoes largest tributary is home to thousands of bird species and a vacation home to many more that migrate through the area.

Th ough racket the birds drum up doesnt exactly allow for peace and quiet, the variety of calls does make for some interesting eavesdropping. In the spring, gaggles of geese with tiny hatchlings traverse the shallow waters. Yellow-headed blackbirds hop through the tall grasses in search of mates. And magpies ogle themselves in the mirror-smooth waters.

As the snow melts and the streams fi ll with runoff , the marsh becomes a maze of tiny water trails. On a paddleboard, one might fi nd themselves sneaking up on beaver or gliding through a garden of lily pads.

Th e meadow runs through the middle of Lake Tahoes most populated area, but along the sandy beaches youd hardly know it. A large section of the beach is closed due to being habitat to the endangered Tahoe Yellow Cress. Please respect the fences and signage of the area.

Directions: Heading west on Highway 50 in South Lake Tahoe, turn right on Tahoe Keys Boulevard. At the stop sign, turn right onto Venice Drive. Park near the end of the road. A trail runs along the Upper Truckee River to the lake.

Down a dusty Forest Service Road, Skunk Harbor is an easy retreat from the crowds who like to stick to spots with easier access. But fewer people doesnt mean this spot is any less spectacular.

About two miles from the highway, two perfectly carved coves reward the hikers who make the trek with great swimming and sunbathing. An old stone cabin and the remnants of an ancient pier mark an old timber operation and make for some cool scenery.

Boaters often anchor in the protected cove for overnight stays. If its a little too crowded at the waters edge, another option is to take a left where the road forks on the way down and walk into Prey Meadows, which is home to many species of wildfl owers in the spring.

Directions: From South Lake Tahoe, take Highway 50 east. Turn left onto Highway 28. Approximately four miles from the turn, youll see a green metal gate on your left. Park in the turnout immediately after the gate. Do not block the gate. Walk the dirt road toward the lake. Stay to the right at the fork if heading to the lake.

lost


eMerALD BAyALohA LAKe

Lake Aloha is tucked into the mountains to the west of Lake Tahoe. Snow can last year round near the alpine locale. Photo: Dylan Silver

The east shore of emerald Bay hosts miles of trails and some pristine, rarely visited beaches. Photo: Dylan Silver

Hidden in Desolation Wilderness, just to the west of Tahoe, is another sprawling lake. Th is one has crystal clear water, granite shores and exceptional mountain views. But, unlike Lake Tahoe, it receives few visitors.

Th e U.S. Forest Service limits the number of people in Desolation Wilderness at any given time. A visit to Lake Aloha is sure to be just that desolate in an enjoyable way.

Th e lake is accessible by several trails, all with their own dazzling scenery. In the shadow of Pyramid Peak, the countless coves, channels and islands separated by shallows make for many world-class campsites.

Be aware that Lake Aloha is at an even higher elevation than Lake Tahoe. Th e air is drier. Th e snow can last year-round. Th e weather can be diff erent. And the landscape is more exposed. Pack for variable conditions.

Directions: Trails to Lake Aloha start from Glen Alpine Road near Fallen Leaf Lake, Echo Lakes Road near Echo Lakes or from Highway 50 near Horsetail Falls. For more detailed information and a permit to stay in Desolation Wilderness overnight, visit the U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit at 35 College Avenue, South Lake Tahoe, or give them a call, 530-541-2600.

Th is little slice of heaven is probably one of the better known bays in the world, or at least one of the most photographed. But the majority of people stay near the highway and dont venture down to the shore. Emerald Bays south side is wonderfully uncrowded and off ers rocky shallows for swimming and several sandy spots just big enough for a few towels.

For great hiking and a diff erent perspective on the inlet, miles of trails wrap along the undeveloped southern peninsula. A subtle white buoy marks a sunken barge, often explored by scuba divers. Th e tip of the spit is a great place to relax and watch the sternwheelers come and go.

Th en theres Vikingsholm, the castle-like granite home built by Lora J. Knight, and its tiny accompanying tea house perched on Fannette Island, the only island in Lake Tahoe. Th e magnifi cent Scandinavian architecture constructed with few nails or spikes is worth a look, even if you have to brave a crowd.

Directions: From South Lake Tahoe take Highway 89 north. Two parking lots, one on the right near Eagle Falls and one on the left, as well as many pullouts are available for parking.

TAHOE magazine 35


r e c r e at i o n B E A C H E S

Everyone at Tahoe has his or her fa-vorite beach. Find yours from the list below or for a full list and map, visit www.aboutlaketahoe.com/beaches.

BALDWIN BEACH: South Lake Tahoe beach off Highway 89 about 1 mile north of Fallen Leaf Lake. North or South beach. Tallac Creek meets Lake Tahoe at North beach. No dogs.

BURNT CEDAR BEACH: Incline Village saves its beach space for residents, but there are day passes for guests. Sweeping paths meandering past restful benches, barbecues, the snack bar and heated pool. Outdoor tiki bar. Lakeshore Drive, 1.4 miles east of the Hyatt and Country Club Drive.

CAMP RICHARDSON: South Lake Tahoe, off Jameson Beach Road, adjacent to historic Camp Richardson resort, between Tahoe Keys and Emerald Bay. Marina for boat launch. Bar-becue area.

CARNELIAN BAY BEACH: Between Gar Woods and Sierra Boat Co. on North Shore. Dogs legal. Restrooms, benches and footpaths. Mostly rocky beach, picnic tables available.

CAVE ROCK BEACH: Find this beach off High-way 50 on the southeast side of the lake, near Zephyr Cove. Public. Dogs are allowed in park, must be on a leash, not allowed in the beach area. Parking fee. Boat launch fee.

CHAMBERS BEACH: 1 mile south of Home-wood on Highway 89. Access is limited to foot or bicycle traffi c only. No public parking.

CHIMNEY BEACH: Highway 28, tucked away on Nevadas East Shore, just East of Sand Har-bor. Very limited roadside parking. Small park-ing lot as well for free parking. Accessed via hike down from highway. No public facilities. Barbecues available.

COMMONS BEACH: Playgrounds, soft green grass, mini-climbing wall, picnic tables, barbe-cues. No dedicated parking, no dogs allowed. Located directly east of the Wye intersection (Highways 28 and 89) on Highway 28 in down-town Tahoe City.

EL DORADO BEACH: South Lake Tahoe beach, close to Lakeside Beach in proximity and description, this area is public.

HIDDEN BEACH: Highway 28, tucked away on Nevadas East Shore between Incline Vil-lage and Sand Harbor. Very limited roadside parking. Accessed via small hike along high-way. No public facilities.

HYATT REGENCY LAKE TAHOE: Private beach for hotel guests in Incline Village. Boat, jet ski and other rentals are accessible from Ski Beach and the Hyatts Beach.

INCLINE BEACH: Reserved for Incline Village residents, temporary renters or homeowners association. Day passes for guests. Outdoor tiki bar. Lakeshore Drive, just west of Ski Beach. 775-832-1100.

KINGS BEACH STATE RECREATION AREA: On Highway 28 in Kings Beach on the North Shore. A large, free sand beach with paid state parking ($10). Boat, jet ski and other rentals are available. Barbecue areas, kids park, and public restrooms.

KIVA BEACH: South Lake Tahoe beach just north of Camp Richardson. Dogs allowed. Public beach. No barbecues.

LAKE FOREST BEACH: At the foot of Bristle-cone off Lake Forest Road 1.5 miles east of Ta-hoe City with picnic tables and fi re pits.

LAKESIDE BEACH: South Lake Tahoe. Mem-bers only, but that includes Park Avenue area hotels, motels and the casinos. No dogs. No fee. No barbecues. Th e water is not as clear on this part of the lake, due to the infl ow of the up-per Truckee River into the lake nearby.

MOON DUNE BEACH: Across from from Rus-tic Cottages Motel in Tahoe Vista on the North Shore. Small sandy beach with picnic tables and fi re pits. Roadside parking.

NEVADA BEACH: Big and windy, its 0.7 mile long and in some cases 300 yards wide, in Stateline on South Shore. Some camping near-by, and a favorite among kiteboarders. Th ere is a parking fee.

NORTH TAHOE BEACH: Directly across from Safeway in Kings Beach. Some parking, grassy areas, volleyball court, picnic tables.

PATTON BEACH: Small stony beach adjacent to Sierra Boat Co. Marina and the Kayak Cafe in Carnelian Bay. Limited parking, picnic tables.

Lifes a beach

36 Summer 2013


TAHOE magazine 37

POPE BEACH: South Lake Tahoe, first beach off Highway 89 as you head toward the West Shore. Excellent for families. There is a parking fee. No barbecues. No dogs.

REGAN BEACH: South Lake Tahoe, just west of El Dorado Beach. More of a lakeside park than a traditional beach. Good place for a group picnic without all the sand.

ROUND HILL PINES/LAKESIDE PARK: South Shore, between Nevada Beach and Zephyr Cove. More of a lakeside park than a traditionalbeach. Good place for a group picnic without all the sand.

SAND HARBOR: Highway 28, 2 miles east of Incline Village. Tahoes most popular and per-haps most beautiful beach. Limited parking. Pay to park. Walk-in entrance fee. No roadside parking. No dogs.

SECLINE BEACH: At the end of Secline Street in Kings Beach, just south of the junction of Highway 267. Very limited parking, undevel-oped rocky beach with access to lawn areas, picnic tables and fire pits.

SKI BEACH: Reserved for Incline Village residents. Day passes for guests. Boat ramp, barbecue ar-eas, kids climbing structures, slides and swings and volleyball courts. Lakeshore Drive, across street from Hyatt.

SKYLANDIA BEACH: Off of Lake Forest Road 0.5 mile east of Tahoe City with picnic tables and fire pits. Stony beach.

SPEEDBOAT BEACH: Also known as Bucks Beach. At the bottom of Speedboat Avenue, off of Highway 28 just past the CalNeva on the California side. Small sandy beach, very limited parking.

TAHOE KEYS: Located near the Upper Truck-ee River and in the middle of the South Shore, this area is popular for its unique geography and landscape. Better place to hike around and explore than lounge.

TAHOE STATE RECREATION AREA: Highway 28 on the eastern edge of Tahoe City, adjacent to the Boatworks Mall, $5 to park.

TAHOE VISTA RECREATION AREA: Highway 28 at National Avenue, in Tahoe Vista. Picnic tables and fire pits, boat launch fee.

WEST END BEACH: On the west end of Don-ner Lake in Truckee. Shaded picnic and bar-becue areas for families. Free parking available along Old Highway 40.

WILLIAM KENT BEACH: On Highway 89, 2.5 miles south of Tahoe City. Camping, picnic ta-bles and fire pits, small sandy beach.

ZEPHYR COVE: From Stateline, head east on Highway 50 for about 3 miles. Party beach with 1 mile of sand. No dogs allowed. There is a fee.


38 Summer 2013eskaton.org | 866-ESKATON

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40 Summer 2013

r e c r e at i o n d o g S

A hound-mix named Topaz leaps after a stick near dog-friendly Kiva Beach on Tahoes South Shore. Photo: Axie Navas / Tahoe Magazine

o mountain adventure is complete without your canine counterpart, so weve compiled a list of the top Tahoe activities you can share with your dog. From hiking through Desolation Wilderness to gourmet dining on the beach, weve got you and your pup covered.

There are hundreds of hikes around the Lake Tahoe Basin, most of which are dog-friendly to a certain degree. The U.S. Forest Service allows domestic pets in Desolation Wilderness, but they must be leashed at all times and youre responsible for cleaning up after them. The same rules apply on all national forest land.

If you do venture into the wilderness with your dog, proper paw-wear is essential. Many of the trails around Tahoe traverse granite fields that can shred a dogs pads if youre not careful. The hike to Lake Aloha that starts at Lower Echo Lake is particularly bad. The South Shores Dog.Dog.Cat. located at 4000 Lake Tahoe Blvd. sells shoes for dogs, as does the Pet Station, with locations in Incline Village, Tahoe City, Truckee and South Lake Tahoe.

If your dog turns into a whirling dervish whenever you try to strap booties to his or her paws, try Vaseline. Coating a pups pads with the jelly can help prevent an injury and keep you from having to schlep a canine deadweight down the mountain.

Youve spent the week hiking and are ready for some quality time with the couch and the remote control. But all the miles that left you limp and sore havent phased your dog.

Thats when you resort to the dog park a gated haven where your dog can romp and run until he or she is exhausted, while you catch some rays on a park bench.

South Shore offers a medium-sized enclosure in the Bijou Community Park located at 1099 Al Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe. Theres a small-dog area in addition to the main park, both of which are entirely fenced in and have running water.

Your pup can swim at the Regan Beach Dog Water Park located at the intersection of Nevada Avenue and Lakeview Avenue in South Lake Tahoe, or at the dog-friendly Kiva Beach near the Taylor Creek Visitor Center. Make sure you bring a leash neither the water park nor the beach are gated.

If youre on the North Shore, swing by the Tahoe City Dog Park located at 211 Grove St., Tahoe City. The 165-foot-long gated park boasts trees, benches and drinking water, but make sure your Chihuahua can play with the big dogs theres no separate area for small pups.

And in Incline Village, the communitys wide-arching Village Green, located next to the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, is the perfect place for dogs to play and meet other pups.

How to Make your Lake taHoe SuMMer Canine FriendLy By Axie NAvASTAhoe MAgAziNe

to tHe


TAHOE magazine 41

If youre ready to eat but loathe leaving your dog in the hotel room, try the handful of restaurants around the lake that allow dogs to dine with you.

Doggie dinners in Tahoe City on the North Shore include The Blue Agave and Rosies Cafe, both restaurants that allow well-mannered dogs on the outside patio. Brockway Bakery located at 8710 North Lake Tahoe Blvd., Kings Beach, sells custom-made dog treats, while the nearby Char-Pit located at 8732 North Lake Tahoe Blvd., Kings Beach offers a doggie patty and outdoor seating.

South Shores The Brewery at Lake Tahoe located at 3542 Lake Tahoe Blvd., has a large patio in the summer where they allow dogs. The Blue Angel Cafe on Ski Run Boulevard serves lunch and dinner on their pooch-friendly porch.

Axie Navas is a reporter for the Tahoe Daily Tribune newspaper in South Lake Tahoe. She can be reached at [email protected].

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Dog-friendly beaches are aplenty throughout the Tahoe/Truckee region just be sure the canines (and humans) are obedient.

We love our animals at Lake Tahoe and Truckee, and many of our various recreation areas, restaurants and businesses are dog-friendly. But theres a certain level of responsibility our dogs humans must possess. Here are the two most important rules to follow:

Nothing is more unsightly and disturbing to our environment than a pile of dog droppings lining a hiking trail or disc golf course. Many recreation areas at Tahoe have plastic bag stations for your convenience, but bring your own just to be safe.

While some dogs are well-behaved, others can be a bit more rambunctious. On- and off-leash laws vary throughout the Tahoe region, so its best to be prepared and carry a leash to avoid any unneeded canine confrontations.


42 Summer 2013

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46 Summer 2013

Truckee resident Jim Meskimen, 69, will compete in the first-ever ironman Lake Tahoe on Sept. 22, where he and nearly 3,000 participants will swim 2.4 miles in Lake Tahoe, bike 112 miles and run 26.2 miles along the North Shore/Truckee region.

Photo: Margaret Moran / Tahoe Magazine

aMong tHe tHouSandS PreParing For tHe FirSt-ever ironMan Lake taHoe tHiS SuMMer, one 69-year-oLd LoCaL iS Looking to deFy tHe oddS

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t the steady pace of a jog, Jim Meskimen maintains a tight form during a spring-like day run, keeping his elbows close to his body while swinging his arms conservatively in time with his

gray sneakers making contact with the ground each step preparing him for this summers Ironman Lake Tahoe.

Training is the commitment part, said Meskimen, 69. Youve got to commit to the training. The race itself, thats what youve done all the training for that becomes the fun part.

During the first-ever Ironman Lake Tahoe triathlon this September, Meskimen, a Truckee resident, and nearly 3,000 participants from all over the world ranging in age from 21 to 77 will test their endurance by swimming, biking and running all in one day.

Competitors will start the morning of Sept. 22 with a two-loop, 2.4-mile swim in the clear, cool waters of Lake Tahoe off the Kings Beach State Recreation Area. Athletes will then hop onto their bikes for a two-and-one-third-loop, 112-mile ride along the North Shore resort triangle, ending the bike course at Squaw Valley.

From there, competitors will run a relatively flat two-loop, 26.2-mile marathon course that travels the Squaw Valley Bike Path and Truckee River Bike Trail, finishing at the Village of Squaw Valley.

Its going to be a very hard race, said Andy Chapman, chief marketing officer for the North Lake Tahoe Chamber/ CVB / Resort Association, the host destination sponsor of Ironman Lake Tahoe. Its the highest elevation of any (Ironman) race. Swimming at 6,200 feet is going to be

By MArgAreT MorAN | TAhoe MAgAziNe


TAHOE magazine 47

difficult for many people, but I think thats one of the reasons it sold out so quickly people are very anxious to test themselves in this event.

One of those people is Meskimen, who is driven to test his will, determination and physical capabilities, pushing them beyond his limit.

The biggest challenge will be, I think as many of them are will be mental, he said. Just to persevere, assuming that there are no injuries, accidents, breakdowns, bike crashes, blood left on the pavement.

Adding to the difficulty of the race will be the cutoff times for each leg. According to the Ironman website, the swim course will close two hours, 20 minutes after the mass start; the bike course 10 hours, 30 minutes after the start; and the run portion 17 hours after the start, with the finish line cutoff at midnight.

Meskimen said he has a race-accomplishment checklist, the first to finish within the time requirement, and the last to win his age group of 70 to 74. The USA Triathlons Age-Up policy states that all athletes will race their age as of Dec. 31, at which time Meskimen will be 70.

Winning that can be tough because men my age, you dont find too many guys who are just stepping into it for the first time, he said. Theyre all seasoned guys or women, so thatll be no easy quest.

The top age group finishers will qualify for one of 50 slots in the 2014 Ironman World Championship in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, while top finishing professional athletes will have access to a $75,000 purse.

But qualifying for those prizes isnt the goal for most competing in the race, Chapman said.

Quite frankly, 90 percent of people are doing it to finish, to receive the medal and to be called, You are an Ironman at the end, he said. Thats a big deal for most of the people doing it. Theyre not doing it for their time. Theyre not doing it for Kona. Theyre just doing it for their own personal win.

... continued on next page

A competitor nears the finish line at ironman Texas on May 19, 2012. Photo: Larry rosa / www.enduraPix.com

Ironman Lake Tahoe

North Lake Tahoe/Truckee

Sept. 22, 7 a.m. to midnight

Kings Beach State Recreation Area for swim course; the intersection of Highway 89 and Highway 267, intersection of Highway 267 and Highway 28, and downtown centers for the bike course; and the Village at Squaw Valley for the run course.

Limited. One-way traffic at certain areas particularly intersections along the North Shore resort triangle during the bike leg of the race.


48 Summer 2013

Crossing the Ironman finish line is a mixed bag of emotions, said Meskimen, who knows from personal experience, having completed three Ironman races between the early 80s and early 90s and several other triathlons over the years.

Youre counting down the miles, especially when you get into the single digits, he said. That countdown pulls you in. Youre absolutely euphoric that you finished it, but youre like, Oh, God, Im glad thats over.

Another motivator to finish is knowing friends and family are watching from the sidelines, Meskimen said.

My wife and family, they make up signs and things like that, so its always fun to see them out on the course, he said. It helps break it up and motivates you to keep going. Theyre there to support you, and its another reason why you dont want to cave in.

I say cave in because you dont want to use the word quit.

Approximately 10,000 people, from competitors to their family and friends, are expected to descend onto Lake Tahoe as a result of Ironman.

(There) is a big support effort by the people who are supporting their athletes, Chapman said. Theyre cheering them on, etc. because its a big life event for a lot of people. Theyve (participants) worked hard to shed the pounds or to come back from a heart attack, whatever the story is, so theres a big support crew with everybody there at the end.

Competitors tend to arrive to the race site before friends and family, sometimes weeks if not months in advance, Meskimen said.

Typically, you want to go over there two, three weeks ahead of time, so you can acclimate yourself to the heat and humidity and ride the course, run the course, get to know everything, he said.

Since time, effort and money are involved in participating in Ironman, Meskimen said he selects his races based on their locations, opting to travel to places where he and his wife would like to vacation.

Lake Tahoe has a great allure and a great pull for vacationing folks, and people like to come here, said Chapman, adding that World Triathlon Corporation, which owns Ironman, is eyeing Ironman Lake Tahoe as one of its premier destination races.

And, as with any vacation, people spend. Its anticipated Ironman Lake Tahoe will generate between $8 million to $10 million annually for the local economy, from lodging, food, purchases and other visitor expenditures, Chapman said.

We do a lot of triathlons up here, he said. We do a lot of running events and all these type of things, but the Ironman brand is very powerful. Ironman is the cream of the crop.

A competitor races during the bike leg of an ironman triathlon. in September, North Lake Tahoe will host the first full-distance ironman in California since 2001.

Photo: Larry rosa / www.enduraPix.com

Ironman ...from previous page


TAHOE magazine 49

Getting Ironman to come to Lake Tahoe involved a nearly year-and-a-half, detailed bid process, fi lled with race logistic questions and multiple site visits, Chapman said.

Th e organizers were a little concerned when we were fi rst bidding on it about this the run is relatively fl at, Chapman said.

Yet, ultimately, Lake Tahoe beat out bids from two other California locations and one in Oregon to host, said Ironman Lake Tahoe Race Director Keats McGonigal.

North Lake Tahoe was selected due to the natural resources beauty as well as the ability of the team in place to assist in the production of a world-class event, he said. WTC is thrilled to be hosting an event in Lake Tahoe. Th is event will be an anchor for our event portfolio in California.

Th e last full-distance Ironman held in California was in 2001 in Oceanside on the Camp Pendleton Marine base, before becoming a 70.3-mile distance Ironman, McGonigal said.

Ironman has wanted a full-distance race in California for a few years, he said. Th ere is a large population of triathletes in the state, and it makes sense for us to bring this event to California. At the same time, the logistics of the event require careful selection of event sites.

Chapman said Ironman is a good fi t for the region, one that focuses and embraces human-powered sports.

We fully anticipate it (Ironman) to be here for many more years, Chapman said, based on the races length of stay at other host locations. If a community embraces the event and the competitors embrace the event and everything works well, this is a very long-term relationship.

Margaret Moran is a reporter for the Sierra Sun newspaper in Truckee and Tahoe City. She can be reached at [email protected].

Swimmers head out en masse at the 2010 Ford ironman world Championship in kailua-kona, Hawaii. ironman Lake tahoe will offer 50 age group slots to the 2014 ironman world Championship in kailua-kona.Photo: Larry rosa / www.enduraPix.com

i SAy CAve iN BeCAUSe yoU DoNT WANT To USe The WorD QUiT.

JiM MeSKiMeN, A 69-yeAr-oLD TrUCKee reSiDeNT CoMPeTiNg iN ThiS SUMMerS iroNMAN LAKe TAhoe


Tahoe Magazine Summer 2013

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