Lake Tahoe is a gorgeous year–round resort areas straddling the California/Nevada border. In the summer visitors enjoy all manner of water sports and activities and in the winter they hit the slopes for some great skiing. The southern shore of Lake Tahoe is a bit of a cheesy tourist trap, but if you’re there to gamble then that’s where you’ll find the casinos, including Caesars Tahoe. The North shore is where Tahoe city lies, and it’s a good place to make a base of operations to enjoy the rest of the area.

To enjoy the water to the fullest, try kayaking, power-boating, jet skiing or taking the Emerald Bay Cruise from the Ski Run Marina. Chartered fishing is popular on Lake Tahoe, and Tahoe Sport Fishing runs the largest sport-fishing fleet on the lake. Rafters can find good white water rapids among the Lake Tahoe area rivers, such as the Truckee or the Yuba.

There are many state parks to enjoy in the Lake Tahoe area. The DL Bliss State Park features the 6-mile Rubicon hiking trail and the beautiful beaches in Emerald Bay. The Lake Tahoe/Nevada State Park has the Sandy Harbor Beach in the summer and miles of cross-country skiing in the winter.

Winter sports are a prime attraction at Lake Tahoe. There are a number of fine ski resorts in the nearby mountains, like Kirkwood, Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley USA. More passive winter travelers may like to sit back and enjoy a ride in a one-horse open sleigh, or tour the Vikingholm Scandinavian Mansion.

Camping in and around Lake Tahoe is available at several locations. Camp Richardson has cross-country skiing trails in the winter and a full service Marina in the summer. Guests at High Camp ride a cable car 8,200 feet above sea level to enjoy the sites skating rink, heated swimming pool and other facilities. Want a serious hike at Lake Tahoe? Try the 150-mile Tahoe Rim Trail on for size.