Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Lake Tahoe and Truckee communities appeal to travelers to wear masks to help keep businesses open and outline how to prepare in advance to make the most of time in the mountains this summer
Ahead of the July 4 weekend, the communities surrounding Lake Tahoe and Truckee are asking visitors planning travel to the region to adhere to mandates from the governors of California and Nevada to wear masks in order to keep businesses open amid an increasing number of positive COVID-19 cases across the country. The communities are also sharing six ways visitors can plan ahead and enjoy a socially distanced holiday weekend in the mountains.
Although annual holiday events, parades, and fireworks displays have been canceled in response to the pandemic, Tahoe-Truckee is still expected to be a popular place for travelers to spend the holiday weekend. Mid-week travel continues to be encouraged by destination officials and advance booking of experiences and lodging is highly recommended.
Here are six ways to enjoy Lake Tahoe-Truckee this summer and beyond:
1. Know Before You Go. To help travelers navigate current information across state and county lines and plan ahead, “Know Before You Go” details have been compiled by North Lake Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe, and Truckee specific to their regions. Visitors are also encouraged to call hotel properties and other businesses directly for clarity on their individual policies and guidelines.
2. Spread out on over 40 public beaches. Explore little known hidden gems, find out how to get there and which beaches have exactly what you’re looking for. Learn about Lake Tahoe’s beaches at tahoepublicbeaches.org, and about lakes, reservoirs, and rivers in Truckee at truckee.com.
3. Go for a hike. Venture out and consider seeking out some of Tahoe-Truckee’s less traveled trails. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll for the whole family or a longer trek with steep switchbacks and stunning views, there’s something for everyone. Find the perfect hike in North Lake Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe or Truckee.
4. Explore on two wheels. Whether you prefer paved paths or dirt trails, Lake Tahoe and Truckee have an extensive trail network for cycling enthusiasts of all experience levels to enjoy. From the new Tahoe East Shore Trail to paved trails that surround the lake and the Truckee Legacy Trail, to mountain bike trails throughout the region, make a plan and ride in North Lake Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe or Truckee.
5. Get on the water. Whether you want to get on Lake Tahoe or Donner Lake, there are plenty of ways to experience the region’s high alpine lakes. Kayak. Standup paddleboard. Wakesurf. Water ski. Parasail. Jet ski. Explore the Lake Tahoe Water Trail. Human-powered or not, the options are extensive. Rental operators and experiences are linked on destination websites: North Lake Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe or Truckee.
6. Hit the links. Lake Tahoe and Truckee are home to some of the finest golf courses in the High Sierra. Gather your family foursome and schedule a tee time at one of the area’s courses. Find a variety of mountain courses on destination websites: North Lake Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe or Truckee.
Curious to try other outdoor adventure activities like the Tahoe Via Ferrata, Treetop Adventure Parks, or Heavenly’s Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster? Advance reservations are recommended. In addition, reservations for watercraft inspections are also opening ahead of the holiday weekend. Appointments can be scheduled June 26-30. For July 1-5, inspections will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The appointment reservation system will resume for inspections July 6 onward. Appointments can be scheduled at www.tahoeboatinspections.com.
Fire safety remains a top priority for the region and many restrictions went into effect June 1. This includes the suspension of all solid fuel recreational fires and open burning. Campfires continue to be the leading cause of wildfires in the Tahoe Basin; it is important for visitors and residents alike to know that open-flame devices and all fireworks, including sparklers and firecrackers are not permitted.
Other rules and regulations are changing fast, but one thing remains the same – whether recreating at the beach, on the trail or elsewhere in Tahoe and Truckee, visitors are reminded to help Take Care of Tahoe by packing out and securing trash, cleaning up after dogs, not leaving cigarette butts behind, or allowing any kind of pollutant into the lake. Visitors are invited to learn how to keep Tahoe and each other healthy and safe at takecaretahoe.org.
As Tahoe-Truckee area businesses continue to reopen, travelers are strongly encouraged to help slow the spread of COVID-19 by following the recommendations of health experts and wearing a mask in any indoor public space, and outdoors when social distancing cannot be maintained—including while at area businesses, on trails, public lands, and other recreational areas. Regional officials also advise visitors to be aware that different requirements may exist as six counties, a city, a town, two states, and the federal government all govern the Tahoe-Truckee region.
