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September 2024

Lake Tahoe Scenic Overlook | Mt Rose Hwy, Incline Village, NV road trips, driving tours

Lake Tahoe Best Road Trips and Walking Tours | South Lake Tahoe, Zephyr Cove, & More

/ / Cities, Roadtrip Driving Tour, Things To Do, Travel Blog, Walking Tour

Lake Tahoe is a place that truly captures your soul. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the beauty and energy of this beautiful alpine paradise never get old. As we travel here at least twice a year, Lake Tahoe surprises us with its vastness and serenity. It’s not just a lake; it’s an experience. Depending on the season, there are countless things do do in Lake Tahoe and surrounding areas. After you are done exploring Lake Tahoe, be sure to check out our Reno Tahoe Area Travel Guide and Road Trip info on Reno, Virginia City, and Truckee. Lake Tahoe Best Road Trips and Walking Tours Lake Tahoe is a magical place, the energy here is like no other location that we have visited. See the top stops around the Lake below. There’s something almost magical about Lake Tahoe and the areas around it. See our complete Travel guide on what this area has to offer! When you’re out on the water, it feels like the horizon stretches forever, almost like floating in the ocean. Words barely do justice to how incredible this place is. When you’re out in the middle of the lake, it feels so big, it’s like you’re floating in the ocean. It’s hard to put into words just how incredible it really is. What Makes Lake Tahoe So Special? Lake Tahoe is Located on the Border of California and Nevada in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, 30 minutes outside of Reno, NV, and Carson City, NV (Capital of Nevada). Just under 2 hours away from Sacramento, CA (Capital of California. It is actually really close proximity to both the capital cities of Nevada and California. How Big is Lake Tahoe? Is it the Biggest and Deepest Lake in America? According to Keep Tahoe Blue’s Website: Lake Tahoe is the largest Alpine lake in North America. It is 1,645 feet deep, 22 miles long, 12 miles wide with 75 miles of shoreline. It is the second deepest lake in America, next to Oregon’s Crater Lake. Eight million people live less than a half day’s drive from the Basin. Did you know Lake Tahoe is in both California and Nevada? California is on the Left/West Side of the Lake, and Nevada is on the Right/East side. The border of the two states is in the lake. This is the map of our 2-hour drive around Lake Tahoe 4K Video. Check out the Interactive map we created below, click on the location to see the associated video tour! Use our map of Lake Tahoe trip itinerary to all the best locations, follow the link here. Lake Tahoe area is one of the best places for road trips. How many miles is it around Lake Tahoe by car? Lake Tahoe is a 72 Mile Drive around the lake and will take you 2-3 hours to drive around the full lake (not including stops along the way). Featured Lake Tahoe Road Trips- Be forewarned, Lake Tahoe and surrounding areas are some of the most beautiful places on this earth, prepare to stop and stop often to experience all that Lake Tahoe has to offer 🙂 Starting on the border of California and Nevada in South Lake Tahoe, CA/Stateline, NV, Watch our 4K Videos highlighting both directions around the lake, 2 hours per drive, totaling 4 hours. All Videos and Pictures Below were created by us, Sandtastic Travels, all Videos are available on our YouTube Channel! Best time to Visit Lake Tahoe Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit really depends on what you’re looking to do. Whether you’re chasing snowy peaks for winter sports or crystal-clear waters for summer fun, Tahoe has something special in every season. Winter Season: A Snow Lover’s Dream 🏔️ (Video: Scenic Winter Drive through South Lake Tahoe) For those who love winter sports, December through February is prime time. Lake Tahoe boasts 13 to 15 ski resorts (depending on who you ask), and with almost 300 inches of annual snowfall, it transforms into a snowy wonderland. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or simply sipping hot cocoa by the fire, Tahoe’s winter magic doesn’t disappoint. Top resorts like Heavenly, Squaw Valley, and Northstar offer something for all levels. Not a skier? No worries! There’s plenty of snowmobiling and ice skating to enjoy, too. It’s the perfect spot for a cozy winter getaway. Spring, Summer, and Fall: The Outdoors at its Best 🌞 If snow isn’t your thing, Lake Tahoe’s warmer months—from May through October—are perfect for outdoor adventurers. As the snow melts, Tahoe’s hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and beaches take center stage. The water may be cool, but it’s crystal clear and perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, or just lounging by the shore. Popular spots like Kings Beach, Zephyr Cove, and Sand Harbor are great for family picnics or beach days. And if you’re into hiking, trails like the Rubicon Trail or Eagle Falls offer stunning views and a true taste of Tahoe’s natural beauty. Whether you want to soak in the sun or enjoy the colors of fall, Tahoe’s got you covered. When’s the Best Time for You? If you’re into winter sports, plan your visit between December and February. But if hiking, swimming, and soaking up mountain views are more your style, late spring through early fall is your window. No matter where you go, Tahoe’s beauty is bound to impress. Lake Tahoe’s Top Locations Explore Both California and Nevada’s Lake Tahoe’s best Road Trips, Walking Tours, and Hidden Gems with us as we drive all the way around the lake highlighting the top locations in stunning 4K Video. Also, see beautiful images in the posts below highlighting each location separatley. Lake Tahoe offers some of the most spectacular scenery and diverse activities. Join us on Lake Tahoe scenic road trips and walking tours. Begin your Lake Tahoe adventure in South Lake Tahoe, known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches. Explore Stateline, Nevada, home to Harrah’s

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Virginia City BW

Step Back in Time: A Walking Tour of Virginia City’s Historic Landmarks

/ / Things To Do, Travel Blog

Travel back to the 19th century with a visit to Virginia City, located 30 minutes outside of Reno. Once a booming mining town, Virginia City has preserved much of its original charm with wooden sidewalks and no commercial businesses in the city limits. Virginia City Walking Tour Start at the Virginia & Truckee Railroad Depot, where you can imagine the hustle and bustle of a bygone era. Stroll along C Street, the main thoroughfare, lined with historic saloons, shops, and museums. Visit the Mark Twain Museum at the Territorial Enterprise, where the famed author began his writing career. The wooden sidewalks and period architecture transport you to a time when Virginia City was at the heart of the Silver Rush.  Take a tour of an old Silver Mine.  There are year-round attractions in Virginia City including 8 Annual Parades, Hot August Nights, Camel and Ostrich Races, and so many more, see the event brochure here > I think Dr. Who might be visiting Virginia City 🙂 Virginia City Drive Through Town As you drive through this town, its strange that all the modern cars are parked along the road. You feel like you should be riding a horse or heading down the street in a horse drawn carriage. All 4K Virginia City Videos – Walking and Driving > Virginia City, Nevada [4K] Walking Tour Virginia City, Nevada 4K Drive video! [4K] Drive – Carson City, NV to Virginia City, NV [4K] Drive – Virginia City, NV to Reno, NV      

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Reno, Nevada BBQ, Brews and Blues Festival - N Virginia St Reno, NV

15 Best Things to Do in Reno, Nevada | With Video | Your Ultimate Guide

/ / Cities, Roadtrip Driving Tour, Things To Do, Travel Blog, Walking Tour

Reno: The Biggest Little City in the World: Start your adventure in Reno, Nevada – often called “The Biggest Little City in the World.” Reno’s historic downtown is a vibrant mix of old and new. Reno is beautiful! I remember visiting Reno back in 2008 and it had some sad neighborhoods. While some areas have a way to go, overall there have been a lot of improvements and revitalizations. See some of the epic sites covered in our 1-hour walking video tour below as we discover the Best Things to Do in Reno. Begin your tour at the iconic Reno Arch, a symbol of the city’s rich heritage. Wander through the Truckee River Walk, where you’ll encounter charming shops, lively cafes, and the picturesque beauty of the river. Don’t miss the National Automobile Museum, showcasing vintage cars that tell the story of America’s automotive history. As you walk, the assembly of modern art installations against historic buildings creates a unique urban setting. Reno, Lake Tahoe area is such a variety of terrain, from desert to mountains to forests all within 1 hour. Reno, Nevada [4K] Walking Tour – Riverwalk South Virginia St and Downtown The Row Reno’s Strip Full 4K 1 Hour Reno Walking Tour Video >>> Detailed Summary of Reno Walking Tour 4K Video with Chapters and Timestamps [1:33 – 3:52] Leaving Silver Legacy – S. Virginia St. S. & The Reno Arch Start your journey at the Silver Legacy and head south on S. Virginia Street. Shortly, you’ll reach the iconic Reno Arch, a symbol of the city’s vibrant heritage, and the entrance to El Dorado. 0:00 Preview 1:33 Leaving Silver Legacy – S. Virginia St. S. Silver Legacy Hotel Room Tour Video >>> 3:52 Reno Arch & Entrance to El Dorado [7:00 – 9:55] Club Cal Neva & City Plaza Park Continue your walk past Club Cal Neva and arrive at City Plaza Park. Here, you’ll find the mesmerizing Space Whale sculpture, the “Believe” sculpture, and the historic street clock, all capturing Reno’s artistic spirit. 7:00 Club Cal Neva 9:55 City Plaza Park – Space Whale – Believe Sculpture – Historic Street Clock [13:54 – 15:25] S. Virginia St. – Truckee River Bridge & Pioneer Theater Stroll along S. Virginia Street to the Truckee River Bridge. Nearby, the Pioneer Theater Auditorium stands as a cultural landmark, named after donor William E. Price in 1967. 13:54 S. Virginia St. – Truckee River Bridge 15:25 Pioneer Theater Auditorium – William E. Price – Donor 1967 [17:50 – 20:42] Powning Veterans Park Memorial & Washoe County Courthouse Visit Powning Veterans Park to honor the veterans, then admire the architectural beauty of the Washoe County Courthouse. 17:50 Powning Veterans Park Memorial 20:42 Washoe County Court House [22:45 – 28:30] WWII Memorial & Riverwalk District Reflect at the WWII Memorial before exploring the vibrant Riverwalk District along the Truckee River. This area is perfect for a leisurely stroll with its scenic views and charming spots like The Eddy, a collaborative community space. 22:45 World War II Memorial 23:48 Riverwalk South Side of Truckee River – Riverwalk District 28:30 The Eddy – Collaborative Community Space [32:05 – 32:58] Trinity Episcopal Cathedral & Wingfield Park Discover the historic Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, followed by a visit to Wingfield Park, an island in the Truckee River that offers picturesque views and serene walks. 30:03 Riverwalk South Side of Truckee River – Riverwalk District 32:05 Trinity Episcopal Cathedral [40:11 – 49:08] Riverwalk North Side & Returning to Silver Legacy Continue your walk on the north side of the Riverwalk District Located along the Truckee River, Reno’s Downtown Riverwalk is a buzzing area for diners, shoppers, joggers, and even swimmers. For nightlife, there are several music-packed, street-closing events. And after we head back north on S. Virginia Street. Pass by landmarks like the Reno Arch and the impressive Whitney Peak Climbing Wall. 32:58 Wingfield Park – Island in Truckee River 40:11 Riverwalk North Side of Truckee River – Riverwalk District 45:20 S. Virginia St. Heading North to Silver Legacy 49:08 Reno Arch & Whitney Peak Climbing Wall [50:25 – 56:48] El Dorado, Silver Legacy, and Circus Circus Complete your tour with a visit to the El Dorado Resort Casino, Silver Legacy Resort Casino, and Circus Circus Reno. Don’t forget to check out our other videos and subscribe for more adventures! 50:25 El Dorado Resort Casino 53:20 Silver Legacy Resort Casino 55:32 Circus Circus Reno & Silver Legacy 56:48 Check out these videos! Subscribe for more 🙂 The Great Reno Balloon Race Picture this: September in Reno, Nevada. The air is crisp, the sun is just about to rise, and a sense of excitement fills the atmosphere. It can only mean one thing – The Great Reno Balloon Race is back! Largest FREE Hot Air Balloon Show in the World! This annual spectacle of vibrant hot-air balloons is a must-see event that draws people from all corners of the globe. In this blog post, we’re thrilled to take you on a virtual journey through the enchanting moments of The Great Reno Balloon Race 2023. The Great Reno Balloon Race is a tale of soaring dreams and boundless imagination. It all began in 1982 with a modest fleet of just 20 balloons. Today, this event has become a magnificent display featuring over 100 hot-air balloons. It’s a heartwarming testament to the enduring love for aviation and the joy of ballooning. The Glow Show: Painting the Night Sky Right before the Dawn Patrol, there’s a spectacle that’s nothing short of mesmerizing – the “Glow Show.” Pilots light up their balloons, turning them into glowing lanterns against the dark canvas of the night. The effect is enchanting, resembling a sky full of softly illuminated paper lanterns. Imagine waking up before dawn to witness a sky filled with colorful balloons gracefully taking flight. This breathtaking moment, known as the “Dawn Patrol,” is the official kick-off of the race. It’s a magical scene as these magnificent balloons ascend into the early morning sky,

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