Petra & Zach

August 7, 2021 • Webber Lake, CA

Petra & Zach

August 7, 2021 • Webber Lake, CA

Things To Do 1

Hikes

In and Around Truckee

Truckee is located in the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains, with lots of amazing hiking opportunities for adventurers of ALL levels (we promise). Below you'll find some of Zach and Petra's favorites.

Mount Judah Loop - 5 mile loop, moderate / intermediate; 1,228' accent

https://www.hikingproject.com/trail/7020317/mt-judah-loop

The Mt. Judah Loop is a popular route that provides excellent panoramic views of surrounding peaks and ridges as hikers climb to Donner Peak and across Mt Judah. This moderately difficult trail has generally gentle grades with a few steeper sections to keep your heart rate up. There are stunning views of Donner Lake from the top.

Fun fact: Roller Pass was a significantly difficult section for pioneer emigrants on their route to California. The steep slopes of the pass required each covered wagon be pulled up one-at-a-time by long chains and double teams of oxen.

Truckee River Legacy Trail - 0-6 miles, paved path, easy

https://chamber.truckee.com/list/member/truckee-river-legacy-trail-truckee-5536

The Truckee River Legacy Trail is s a wonderful resource to the Truckee community that connects downtown Truckee with the Glenshire neighborhood, while travelling along the banks of the Truckee River. Offering lots of sunshine is a 6-mile paved Class I bike path starting at the Truckee River Regional Park. This beautiful path winds along the Truckee River with a bridge over Martis Creek and is a popular trail for bikers, runners, dog walkers and families.

Martis Valley Loop - Duration: 0-5 miles, easy

http://blog.tahoemountainsports.com/martis-valley-trail/

The Martis Valley Loop Trail has spectacular mountain views and is relatively flat for Tahoe. This is a great trail for running especially if you aren’t used to the altitude or want to run with a friend while chatting and it’s a perfect family hike. Take young kids to get them excited about hiking and families from out of town. You can run it, hike it or bike along the outer loop called Tompkins Trail. There’s a lot of water for dogs, some picnic tables to stop and enjoy lunch, and bridges and boardwalks that make it fun and interesting. The light in the valley is fantastic early morning or at sunset so try to hit it at one of those times.

Around Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is said to be the unofficial 8th Wonder of The World, and for good reason! It's simply breathtaking. One of the best ways to appreciate Tahoe is by foot, and there are many that are great for all experience levels. Below you'll find some of Petra and Zach's favorites.

Eagle Rock Loop: 0.8 - 1.5 miles there and back, easy (spectacular views!)

https://www.hikingproject.com/trail/7053005/eagle-rock-loop

The trail up to the viewpoint really is just 0.8 miles out-and-back from the parking lot, but you can make it a bit longer if you want to by making a loop. From the viewpoint, hikers will enjoy stunning views of Tahoe (some of the best, seriously)!

Rubicon Bay Trail: 0-12 miles, easy / moderate

https://www.hikingproject.com/trail/7020209/rubicon-trail-out-and-back

Starting at DL Bliss State Park on the West Shore of Lake Tahoe, right off the very inviting beach (plan to swim upon your return!), the trail goes up and down over high rocky cliffs with big drops to the impossibly blue water far below. You'll pass the ruins of a 100-year old lighthouse and navigate short sections of trail that are carved right out of the cliff. Some sections have chain links you can hold on to, but most people won't need them. Most people turn around after 1 or 2 miles, but the beauty continues. The trail will dip down to lake level, and occasionally head into the forest (off the lake), but the scenery remains gorgeous all the way to Emerald Bay. Regardless of how far you hike, be sure to drive the extra few mile south on HWY 89 to Emerald Bay and see the iconic view, it is WELL worth the extra time in the car!!

Vikingsholm Trail - Emerald Bay: 0.9 miles, easy / intermediate

https://www.hikingproject.com/trail/7020490/vikingsholm-trail

This exceedingly popular trail connects the very crowded parking area to the popular beach at the head of Emerald Bay. The beach is beautiful, the trail is easy, and Vikingsholm is fun to visit (an old castle on the shore of Lake Tahoe)... but don't expect to be alone! This is a very popular spot for tourists and visitors to see, so expect to have some trouble finding parking, unless you're there very early in the morning. Bring your patience, the view is worth the parking hassle you may encounter along the way.

Eagle Lakes / Falls: 2 miles there and back, moderate / advanced

https://www.gotahoenorth.com/listing/eagle-falls-eagle-lake-trail/

This steep trail leads back into the heart of Desolation Wilderness ( day use permit is required and can be attained at the trailhead), passing by several lakes along the way. Eagle Lake is only 1 mile and a popular destination for day-hikers looking to picnic lunch or take a swim. Be sure to check out Eagle Falls on your way up!

Five Lakes Trail: 0-5 miles, moderate

https://thetahoeweekly.com/2016/07/five-lakes/

The Five Lakes Trail climbs through multicolored granite and volcanic rock formations, then delves into a deep forest of firs and pines to reach Five Lakes. Still have energy in your tank after the 2.5-mile climb? Continue past the lakes another 1.5 miles to find true seclusion at Whiskey Creek in the heart of the Granite Chief wilderness.

Water Activites

Truckee

Here you'll find some of our favorite beaches around Truckee, and where to rent equipment if needed!

If you're interested in renting kayaks, paddle-boards, etc. we'll provide links below:

Rentals -

https://www.donnerlakemarina.com/

https://www.tahoesportshub.com/

Donner Lake

https://chamber.truckee.com/list/category/lakes-reservoirs-rivers-2054?q=&st=0#results

There are a few ways to experience Donner Lake. There is a public beach on the east side (closest to town), in the State Park, called China Cove. You can also go to what the locals call 'Dogs Beach', which is immediately after the entrance to the State Park and you'll see lots of cars parked on the side of the road. There's a trail through the woods and any of the beach stretches along there are public and don't require you to pay the $5 fee to park in the State Park. Don't forget to check out the Donner Memorial Museum, which shows the history of the Donner Party, a big part of the Truckee history. https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=503

Another great option are the public piers along the north side of the lake. You'll see cars parked along the side of the road, and signs with numbers, such as 'Dock 3, Dock 20', etc. Any of these docks are available for public use, and we love to take a picnic lunch and enjoy a sunny spot for the afternoon. https://chamber.truckee.com/list/member/donner-lake-public-piers-truckee-5513

Truckee River

https://chamber.truckee.com/list/member/truckee-river-truckee-5547

Fed by the waters of Lake Tahoe, the Truckee River flows past Tahoe City and past Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley, parallel to Hwy 89S until it curves to the east and flows through downtown Truckee, then on through downtown Reno, finally ending at Pyramid Lake. When the river is high enough, the Truckee River is a popular rafting and tubing area, one of our FAVORITE actives!

You can float the river in two sections: first, and most popular, is from Tahoe City to River Ranch. This stretch is pretty mellow, and takes several hours. A nice lazy river, and booze cruise if so desired. You can rent a raft, or purchase a tube (our recommendation) and relax and enjoy. https://truckeeriverraft.com/

The second option, is from Truckee to the Glenshire Bridge. This is a more 'rowdy' option, with rocks that make it a bit more involved. Still mellow, you just have to pay attention and keep your bum up so you don't get bumped on rocks! https://californiathroughmylens.com/floating-truckee-river

Lake Tahoe

North, West, and East Shores of Lake Tahoe Offer some of the most amazing beaches with spectacular views. We've listed a few of our favorites below, but if you have time, we also recommend you take the 2-3 hours to drive all the way around Lake Tahoe, it's spectacular way to view the lake in all of its beauty. Be sure to make the drive clockwise around the lake, as that will ensure you're on the lakeside of the road the whole drive.

Rentals:

West Shore Sports - This is the company that Drew manages, and they have 3 convenient locations around Lake Tahoe

Tahoe City Kayak - A friend's business, with a few rental locations around North Lake Tahoe

North Shore - Commons Beach

http://www.tahoepublicbeaches.org/tahoe-city-commons-beach/

Commons Beach is a great spot for the entire family. This four-plus-acre park is located on the lake in downtown Tahoe City. Commons Beach is popular for sunbathing, swimming and picnicking. Group picnic sites and children's playgrounds are located within a large lakefront grass and sand area. Rent kayaks, bicycles, or paddle boards from our friend Andy at Tahoe City Kayak.

North Shore - Skylandia Beach

http://www.tahoepublicbeaches.org/skylandia-state-park-beach/

Skylandia State Park & Beach is a 24-acre California State Park. It is located 1.5 miles east of Tahoe City on Lake Forest Road. Skylandia Park provides bike trails, hiking trails, and picnicking. The park also features a beach, pier and swimming area.

East Shore - Sand Harbor

http://parks.nv.gov/parks/lake-tahoe-nevada-state-park

With 55 acres of long sandy beaches, rocky coves, shady forested areas and panoramic lake views, Sand Harbor offers visitors unparalleled opportunities to enjoy Lake Tahoe. Sand Harbor is three miles south of Incline Village on State route 28.

West Shore - Sugar Pine Point

https://www.tahoepublicbeaches.org/beaches/sugar-pine-point/

Off Hwy. 89, one mile north of Meeks Bay. Rent paddle boards or kayaks from West Shore Sports, the company that Drew (Zach's brother) is the manager for, right on the beach at Sugar Pine! Hike on the trails with views of the beautiful Ehrman Mansion. Sugar Pine Point State Park contains one of the finest remaining natural areas on Lake Tahoe. With nearly two miles of lake frontage, the park has dense forests of pine, fir, aspen and juniper.

West Shore - Meeks Bay

http://www.tahoepublicbeaches.org/meeks-bay-beach/

The Meeks Bay shoreline is popular for its beautiful scenery, sprawling clean beaches and easy access. The area offers a high concentration of recreation opportunities including camping, swimming, biking, boating and hiking into the nearby Desolation Wilderness. Meeks Bay Beach is located on National Forest land.

Entertainment

Truckee Summer Events

Wednesday - Free Music in the Park

https://www.tdrpd.org/Calendar.aspx?EID=148

Every Wednesday from June 19 to August 28, hosts a community gathering with great music in the amphitheater located at Truckee Regional Park. Bring a picnic dinner, BYOB, a blanket or chair, and enjoy a lovely concert in the park.

Truckee Thursdays

https://www.truckeethursdays.com/

Truckee Thursdays is a feel-good event that beckons the community to enjoy some exuberant downtown summertime energy. Offering a stage with live music; a food court with an eclectic selection of eats; children’s activities; a beer garden; and a wide variety of artisan vendors, it’s no wonder this lively weekly event is on both locals’ and visitors’ must-do list. In addition, attendees will find sidewalk sales and other activities hosted by downtown merchants, offering the opportunity to reacquaint with all Historic Downtown Truckee has to offer year round!

Drive up Historic HWY 40

https://www.sierranevadageotourism.org/content/california-u-s-highway-40/sie53a2264898e90274c

Across Donner Summit, the old highway 40 is the last historic incarnation of the Emigrant Trail that brought emigrants to California on the wagon trains. In many spots the old trail became the Lincoln Highway then the Victory Highway, and then Highway 40. You can sit at Donner Pass on Old Highway 40 and see the various routes still existing of all those roads next to the first Transcontinental Railroad. We recommend taking leg 4 - Truckee to Donner Summit, and beyond to Cisco Grove if you so desire a bit of a longer jont.

Brews, Jazz and Funk @ Squaw Valley - August 8th and 9th

https://squawalpine.com/events-things-do/brews-jazz-and-funk-fest

Breweries from throughout the western states showcase their best brews in The Village at Squaw Valley while fantastic bands bring the funk, making this fun-filled event one of the most popular in the Tahoe region. AND you can bring your canine companions to party down with you! $10.00 entry donation per day benefits the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe Summer Events

Sunday FREE Concert on Commons Beach - Tahoe City

https://concertsatcommonsbeach.com/

Enjoy live music every Sunday at 4pm on Commons Beach in downtown Tahoe City. Locals and tourists alike frequent the beach for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, sunbathing, picnicking… and, of course, every Sunday in the summer for the 12-week Concerts at Commons Beach concert series. Bring picnics, blankets, and low-back chairs for a perfect lakeside evening. Local food and drink vendors sell beer, wine, soft drinks, sushi, bbq foods, ice cream, and more. Come early and enjoy the lakeside ambiance with friends and family.

Dining

Truckee

There are lots of great options to eat in Truckee, and while pre / post dining, we recommend strolling through Old Town Truckee and enjoying the lovely shops and galleries in our town. Use this link to find out more: https://www.truckee.com/truckee-chamber-commerce/

Breakfast

Squeeze In - https://www.squeezein.com/

Marty's Cafe - https://martyscafetruckee.com/

Jax on the Tracks - http://jaxtruckee.com/

Coffee Shops

Coffee Bar - https://www.coffeebar.com/

Dark Horse - https://www.darkhorsetruckee.com/

Zuri - https://thezuricoffee.com/

Lunch

Full Belly Deli - https://eatfullbellydeli.com/

Burger Me - http://www.realfreshburger.com/

Wild Cherries - https://www.wildcherriescoffeehouse.com/