As we batten down the hatches for the winter season and prepare for another fun season at our favorite Lake Tahoe ski resorts, it's easy to forget about one of wintertime's greatest activities: snowshoeing. Although it is often overshadowed by its high-octane compatriots, snowshoeing is a vastly popular sport, with roughly 5.5 million participants in the U.S., according to Snowshoes.com. Yet a crowd of people is the last thing one finds when out in the woods for a snowshoe excursion, and such is the glory of the sport. Here are the other reasons to love it:

• Snowshoeing is an incredible workout, burning 400-1000 calories an hour. A quick, high intensity jaunt before or after work is a great cure for the winter fitness lull.

• No pricey pass necessary! Find a snow-covered park or golf course or head out on your favorite trail. Be observant of posted signs and private property.

• Equipment is relatively inexpensive and eas...

Living and traveling in the Lake Tahoe region provides an enormous benefit: outdoor recreation. With a diverse, impeccably maintained network of land and water trails, Lake Tahoe invites us to take advantage of its beauty. In our pure enjoyment of these stunning surroundings, however, it is easy to lose sight of the great impact that our feet, boats and bike tires have on these fantastic recreational passageways. Scores of volunteers from organizations such as the Tahoe Rim Trail Association, The League to Save Lake Tahoe, and the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation take on projects every year that make it possible for us to use these great resources. Erosion, invasive species, pollution, human impacts and a host of other issues constantly threaten these outdoor areas that we hold so dear, but with careful attention and dedication we can keep these ...

We are entering prime leaf-peeping season! The end of September through the month of October is the best time to enjoy the fall foliage in Lake Tahoe. Golden aspens earn their name this time of year, when their amber leaves make a striking contrast with the rich green of neighboring pine and fir trees. For a scenic drive, take Highway 89 from Truckee to South Lake Tahoe, following the Truckee River Canyon upstream to the lake and continuing south along the stunning West Shore. Pulling over at Emerald Bay is a must, where you can take in the contrast of turquoise water, green conifers, and vibrant foliage. Or, take a trip to Spooner Lake on Nevada's East Shore, where lakeside Aspen groves make a peaceful setting.

Curious about what really causes the leaves to change colors? Blake Engelhardt, botanist with the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, told Lake Tahoe News...

Labor Day has come and gone, the Lake is quiet and Autumn is in the air. Although thoughts may be looking forward to Winter, this is the best time of year for locals to get a great deal on paddle gear. Understanding that a kayak or stand up paddleboard is a significant investment, we are offering great deals on our rental fleet to get lake-lovers out on the water. Give us a call and come check out our used inventory at the Tahoe Vista Recreation Area. We carry Ocean Kayaks, including the stable yet maneuverable Malibu Two, Malibu Two XL, Scrambler 11 and Scrambler XT Angler editions. We have a variety of SUPs available as well, including the BIC Sport Ace Tec 11'6, which is a stable, durable board that all skill levels can enjoy. SUPs range from $600-$700 and kayaks from $100-$550. All kayaks are sold with a back band seat, and paddles are also affordable, ranging from $40-$60. We will be open on weekends at the Tahoe Vista Recreation Area and during the week by appoin...

The crazed summer months in Lake Tahoe are slowly calming down, which means it is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the lasting warm weather. After all the back-to-school shopping is over, locals and last minute summer vacationers should kick back and enjoy the good weather that the Secret Season in Lake Tahoe brings us.

Get Out on the Water
Before we know it the lake will get that look about it, you know, the one that gets the teeth chattering even if you are bundled up and inside. Take advantage of the warm end of the summer sun and get out on the lake while it's still nice! Whether it's a stand up paddleboard adventure with the whole family, or a kayak excursion on the glassy lake, make sure you make time for some end of the season exploring on the lake!


With a few more dates for upcoming full moon and star gazing kayak tours, make sure to hop on a galactic adventure while it's still...