North Lake Tahoe on a Budget
Summer Sports, Free Concerts and Restful Cabins in a Mountain Resort
Jul 28, 2009
Visiting the North Lake Tahoe area fits into the family budget where plenty of activities for all ages make a delightful summer vacation. The days are warm, 80 – 90 degrees and the pristine fresh water lake makes a perfect location to relax or enjoy an outdoor sport.
Free Things to Do in North Lake Tahoe
Take a Hike or Walk by the Lake: The North Lake Tahoe region is surrounded by forested hillsides and offers a variety of hiking options from easy to moderate climbs and long distance elevated treks. Many of the beaches offer a sandy or small rock surface and adjoin paved bike paths for a flat and scenic stroll. Be aware of private property and use the street or parking lots if necessary.
Go to the beach: The water along the shore feels comfortable for a swim on a warm summer day. Most of the beaches are free of charge (a few require private access) and parking is generally free. No charge for the sunshine and fresh mountain air. Bring beach chairs and coolers but dogs are often restricted; clean and numerous restrooms are located at most beaches around the lake.
Fish for Dinner: Lake Tahoe anglers enjoy catching a variety of fresh water fish including rainbow trout, lake trout and Kokanee. Dozens of small streams feed into the lake and offer a chance to catch trout for dinner. Fishing from the shore is free but a valid fishing license is required in both California and Nevada. Equipment rentals and fishing tours may be purchased from many of the local tackle shops.
Have lunch in Truckee: Just 13 miles from Lake Blvd. on Hwy. 267, the historic town of Truckee makes a good excursion for a few hours. On Thursday afternoons during the summer months, an outdoor Farmer’s Market, street musicians and arts and craft venues provide free entertainment.
Enjoy a free concert: On Tuesday evenings in Squaw Valley, top rated groups play the blues or soft rock music and get the locals dancing. Tahoe City concerts take place at Commons Beach on Sunday evenings only require a low backed chair or blanket for a spot on the sand to listen to a variety of pop music choices.
Transportation: A free trolley service picks up passengers from many points along the lake and services Squaw Valley to the upscale and scenic Incline Village area. Free service from the Northstar area to Kings Beach makes a great way to explore the ski resorts and then spend a day at the beach.
Low Cost Things to Do in North Lake Tahoe
Bike ride along the shore: One of the best ways to see Lake Tahoe is to rent a bike from one of the many sports equipment shops in Tahoe City. Be prepared to ride south – not north to Incline Village! The bike path follows the shore and meanders through residential areas, forested land, picnic areas and along the lake. The paths are well marked and only travel beside the highway for short distances.
Squaw Valley tram to hike and use the outdoor pool facilities: In the village of Squaw Valley, a cable car travels to the summit of over 8000 ft. where a large outdoor pool, café and changing facilities are located. (Hint: look for fare reduction coupons in the local events newspapers.) Free concerts play on Tuesday evenings at the top of the tram.
Rent a kayak or paddle boat: Many sport equipment shops in Tahoe City and Kings Beach rent kayaks or paddle boats by the hour or for full or half days.
Miniature golf: The warm evenings during Tahoe’s summer season are perfect for enjoying a round of classic miniature golf. The King’s Beach course offers one option and Squaw Valley Village provides another unique course setting that meanders around the shops and restaurants.
Cabins in North Lake Tahoe
After Memorial Day, prices for hotel rooms range from moderate to expensive but there are plenty of ways to save on accommodations. Planning a trip mid-week during June, July, August and early September offers more options than booking a weekend getaway. However, lower cost cabins and motels rooms provide options. Typically, a room away from the lake will cost less.
Rustic Cottage Resort: Built during the mid 1920’s, warm and accommodating cabins offer a reasonably priced place to become absorbed in the beauty of the North Shore or Lake Tahoe. Located across the road from the lake and beach, guests play croquet on the front lawn, enjoy a warm breakfast in the lodge each morning and retreat to a cozy cabin in the woods at night. Reservations can be made by calling (888)7-RUSTIC.
Cedar Glen Lodge: The lake is right out the door from these cozy cabins in Tahoe Vista. A swimming pool, barbeque facilities and picnic tables make a comfortable and affordable place to stay. Find more details by accessing www.cedarglenlaketahoe.com and notice the choice of cabins or hotel style rooms.
Motels in North Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe Inn: Located at the state line to Nevada, inexpensive rooms and lake access are available from this modest motel style property. For anyone wanting to play the slot machines, Nevada casinos are a short walk and a variety of restaurant choices are nearby. Reserve a room by calling (530) 544-1177.
Brockway Springs Resort: A full scale resort motel with a good location in Kings Beach. This is a good choice for a variety of sports including tennis, boating and swimming/spa activities.
The North Lake Tahoe region is a treasured summer resort where a day at the beach with an ice cream cone and a good book is a simple pleasure. From active sports to leisurely activities, the area offers a full spectrum of fun for all age groups and fits well within the family budget.
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