Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo
placeholder article
placeholder article

Brittani’s Break from Boring: Lake Tahoe, CA

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UCD chapter.

B cubed here. Are those bags packed? Yes? Alright, well, grab some snacks and let’s head east as we tackle the stunning city of Lake Tahoe. Please keep your hands and feet inside the vehicle as we pass by all those pine trees.

Known for its skiing and snowboarding slopes, Lake Tahoe isn’t only a winter destination. In summer, this city comes alive with barbecues, water sports, and home of the biggest Fourth of July firework show in the west!

A few fun facts about good ol’ Tahoe. The Washoe tribe first named Tahoe “Dao w a ga” meaning The Edge of Lake. It is fed by 63 different streams and 2 hot springs, so if you pulled the plug out from the bottom of the lake and drained it, expect it to take another 700 years to fill up again. The lake straddles both California and Nevada and has a depth of 1,645 feet! So trying to touch the deepest part is out of the question. Sorry.

What to do:

Gondola at Heavenly: For a pretty penny, you can take the Gondola up and see the breathtaking views from the top. On a clear day, you can take in both the lake and Carson valley. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a hike on the top or hit up the rock wall before you have lunch at Café Blue.

Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival: To go or not to go, that is the question. Whether you’re a fan of the bard or not, seeing those actors in ridiculous costumes will make you appreciate modern day luxury. Plus, who doesn’t want to laugh at the sexual puns and silliness that Willers wrote?

Boat cruise: To fully say you have been to Lake Tahoe, a boat cruise is in the forecast. Pack a picnic and catch the views of the side of the boat. Head over to Sand Harbor and take a dip in the pristine water.

Summer Music Festival: Is music your thing? Tahoe has your fix. Ranging from jazz, county, classical, and pop, everyone will be happy with the lineup as you float away in music heaven.

Casinos: It’s no Vegas, but maybe it’s better that way; more laid back as you gamble your money away (or maybe hit jackpot!). Even better, the casinos and bars on the Nevada side don’t close. There is no last call. The only problem you will have is finding time to sleep.

Biospirit Day Spa: Take the girls and get a soothing massage. They even have pamper parties and what girl doesn’t want to be pampered for a day? If you book within five days, you get five dollars off.

Piping Rock equestrian center: Calling all you horse lovers. Grab your choice of horse as you transverse through the beauty of the forest. From beginner to advanced, this equestrian center caters to any level. Not only will you feel at one with nature, your camera will be overloaded with pictures.

Rafting: Challenge the docile waters on Truckee River and catch some air as you travel down the river. This self-guided, five-mile stretch allows you to take in the serene forest, complete with picturesque mountain views. You may even encounter a baby rapid. Bring some food and take a swim in the pools.

Lakeside Brunch: After an action packed weekend, take some time to sit down and relax at a lakeside restaurant, and drink mimosas as you people watch. Take a stroll to work off your big meal before heading back to reality. 

Jessica is currently studying Graphic Design and Psychology at UC Davis. She hopes to one day move to New York and work for a fashion or fitness magazine. When she is not dreaming about her life in New York, she is either running, watching shows on hulu, socializing or baking cupcakes. She loves anything that will make her laugh, sunny days  and everything purple!