Outdoors: Kayaking In Slow Motion

Newsweek and Tahoe Adventure Company
By Paul Tolme
Calm-water kayak tours are like a nature hike on water, offering the chance to see wildlife and view landscapes unreachable on foot. Void of running rapids or raging surf, calm-water tours are ideal for first-timers. Here are a few locations where beginners can get their paddles wet.

Lake Tahoe's legendary clarity and aqua-blue color allow visitors to see down 70 feet and draw comparisons with the Caribbean-that is, until you touch the brisk mountain water that flows down from California's Sierra Nevada and Nevada's Carson ranges. Navigate around giant rounded boulders deposited by glaciers and land on a secluded beach for lunch ($85 for a five-hour trip; tahoeadventurecompany.com).


Sunset, Full Moon & Astronomy Paddles Are
Popular Summer Fun at Lake Tahoe


Float in a kayak on the clear blue water at Lake Tahoe while the sun sets the sky on fire!

Watch the stars come out while you skim across the water. Increase your knowledge of astronomy with jaw dropping views. Cap it all off with some hot drinks, snacks and more stargazing on the beach with the Tahoe Adventure Company.

"Sunset and Evening Astronomy Paddles are more popular than ever," says Kevin Hickey, owner of the Tahoe Adventure Company. "If you want a full moon paddle, make your reservations now."

Full moon tours are offered June through October and paddles are possible a few days before or after the actual full moon. When the moon isn't full, the paddles focus more on viewing the stars and constellations.

Several different Kayaking Adventures are available through the Tahoe Adventure Company. All one-day paddling trips cover comprehensive paddling instruction and day paddles include an impressive lunch on a secluded beach.

"You get a unique perspective of the area from a kayak," Kevin explains. "Once we get out on the water, we're away from all the crowds."
Knowledgeable guides point out lake ecology, geology and natural and human history. "The scenery is remarkable," he says.

Depending on the route you choose, you can explore the undeveloped coastline of the East Shore with its picturesque beaches and giant boulder fields or get a glimpse of some of Lake Tahoe's most beautiful water front homes along the North Shore.

Inspiring High Sierra paddles start at $60 with either two or 4 person minimums, depending on the type of adventure.

Also available: Customized Mountain Biking, Hiking, Rock Climbing and Multi-Sport adventures as well as creative Teambuilding Programs and Corporate Events. For more information visit www.tahoeadventurecompany.com, call toll free 866-830-6125 or 530-913-9212. All adventures available with 48 hours notice.


Visitors Love To Adventure With Us