North Lake Tahoe Shows Shades of Fall
Photos by Tom Zikas

Travelers need not head back East to get a glimpse of spectacular fall colors. Every September through October North Lake Tahoe shows off its dazzling red, gold and orange aspens against evergreen landscapes with endless activities to enjoy the brilliant hues of the Sierra Nevada.

After a leisurely drive through the Sierra Foothills via scenic Highways 50, 89, 49 or 20, Lake Tahoe is an oasis of colors, events and activities. The summer crowds have dwindled, leaving the waters calmer and the trails peaceful with breathtaking vistas resplendent with radiant aspens. Ideal trails for viewing fall color include Page Meadows outside of Tahoe City, California; Meeks Bay Trail just north of Emerald Bay on the West Shore; Five Lakes Trail in Alpine Meadows; Ellis Peak Trail in West Shore's Blackwood Canyon; and the Dolder and General Creek Trails in Sugar Pine Point State Park, also on the West Shore. The paved bike path along the Truckee River from Olympic Valley, California to Tahoe City is equally awe-inspiring.

Changing fall foliage can be seen by driving along Tahoe's shoreline with magnificent colors on one side and Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America, on the other. Highway 267 from Truckee, California to Kings Beach, California is also a showcase of stunning hues.

When planning a trip to North Lake Tahoe, make sure to include the area's finest autumnal events. The 21st Annual Lake Tahoe Autumn Food and Wine Festival, September 28 through October 1, is a four-day celebration of culinary delights at venues throughout the area. The Art Bark Fest for pet lovers is September 26-27 and the Village Oktoberfest is September 30, both at the Village at Squaw Valley.

For active excursions, there's the Tahoe Rim Trail Hike-a-Thon September 16; Tahoe-Sierra Century Ride September 23; Tahoe Big Blue Adventure Race September 23; Lake Tahoe Marathon Week September 26 - October 1; Donner Party Hike October 7-8; and Truckee River Day October 16.

North Lake Tahoe is a 45-minute drive from the Reno Tahoe International Airport, two hours from Sacramento International Airport and just over three hours from San Francisco International Airport. For lodging reservations, contact the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association's Lake Tahoe Central Reservations department, the area's largest reservation center, at 1-877-949-3296 or visit www.GoTahoeNorth.com . The North Lake Tahoe Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Information Center also provides recreational activity, dining, retail and special event information. The center is located at 380 North Lake Boulevard in Tahoe City for walk-ins. Their direct line is 530-581-6900.