1. Quick drying layers: "Long Underwear" pants and two or more tops, depending on the weather and time of day. There are a myriad of quick drying fabric blends out there, both natural and synthetic, but they can be broadly identified by the keywords "wicking" and "fast-drying." These fabrics will keep you warm and dry, where your cotton t-shirt absorbs sweat and can leave you in an uncomfortable and possibly dangerous situation as it hinders your body's ability to retain heat.

2. Waterproof outer layers: Especially if the forecast is calling for precipitation, quality waterproof jacket and pants are a godsend. When it comes to waterproof materials, many brands claim it, but few stand up to the true test (Sun-wet Sierra Nevada snow will separate the best from the rest). Although it usually requires a healthy investment, Gore-Tex not only keeps you completely dry but also breathes out moisture created by your body. A shell layer combined with quick dry base la...

Lake Tahoe is an incredible Winter destination for good reason: The region boasts gorgeous landscapes, a bevy of incredible ski resorts, and towns and activities to suit all tastes. Whether you are a holiday visitor or a weekend warrior you'll want to relish every minute of your time here this winter. Here's how:

• Plan ahead. There is much more to a Tahoe visit than the roof over your head! Make reservations at a great local restaurant, get tickets to a concert or book an activity ahead of time. You'll have some great highlights to look forward to and the legwork will be done by the time you head out. Check out the North Shore Events Calendar for great ideas.

• Drive Safely. Check in with the California Department of Transportation ahead of time for road conditions and chain controls. They have a website, app and phone line. Depending on weather conditions, T...

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...