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 possible!

Star Tours:
There is only one more date for getting out on a kayak and viewing the splendor of a Lake Tahoe night sky from the middle of the lake. Join in on the fun and learn about the glorious sky on Sept 7.

Full Moon:
The full moon shining down on the calm waters of Lake Tahoe might be one of the most spectacular sights, and it is even better on a kayak! With one more summer full moon tour left, don't miss out on this opportunity to see the sky from a different perspective. The last chance to see this spectacular sight is Sept 19.

Explore on Land
From mountain biking to rock climbing, the Secret Season is the perfect time to plan those last minute summer adventures. With winter weather just around the corner, Lake Tahoe visitors and locals should be getting out in the summer sun while it's still around. Try your hand at rock climbing, or explore Lake Tahoe on mountain bike.

With so many outdoor things to do in Lake Tahoe, the Secret Season provides the perfect amount of everything: sunshine, time off, and opportunity for adventure! So grab your kids, your sweetheart, your grandma or your dog and get outside to enjoy the lasting warm weather and quiet end of the summer season in Lake Tahoe!

The Tahoe Adventure Company has grown immensely since its quaint beginnings ten years ago. Owner, Kevin Hickey went out on a limb ten years ago with a few kayaks and a passion for showing people the beauty and history of Lake Tahoe. Over the years the business has flourished. They now offer a variety of tours on the lake as well as around the Tahoe Basin. The wide array of tours can accommodate folks who are looking for their first outdoor adventure as well as those seasoned veterans to the outdoors. In addition to all the great tours they have a wonderful beachfront rental location at the Tahoe Vista Recreation Area. Here they offer both stand-up paddle board and kayak rentals. This summer they have made another huge stride by fostering a partnership with the Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe. It is an honor to partner with a company that has a worldwide reach. If you are planning to stay at the Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe during your visit you will be able to take advantage of our daily trip offerings as well as a weekly stand-up paddle board demo in the backyard of the property. Check us out at http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/LakeTahoe/SummerRecreation/Default.htm

Come join us Monday August 12, 2013 for an amazing evening of kayaking and star gazing during the height of the Perseid meteor shower. Our expert astronomer Tony Berendsen will guide you through the sky. As you kayak along the North shore during sunset keep an eye out for Saturn. It will be near the moon in the evening hours providing a nice prelude to the late night Perseid show. The Perseid meteor shower comes to the Northern Hemisphere when the weather is warm. At the peak of the shower it is common for viewers to see between 50 and 100 meteors an hour. Our clear mountain air and limited light pollution make Lake Tahoe a great destination to view this naturally occurring phenomenon. Ask Tony to show you Perseus the Hero constellation as the shower will mainly radiate through this section of the sky. The meteors are fast and bright leaving persistent trains as they fly through the sky. Don't forget to bring some warm layers and a comfy blanket because temperatures will drop if you choose to stay for the height of show, which will occur during late night and early morning hours. Click here for more information and to book your tour.

Lake Tahoe is a hot summer spot that promises summer fun for the whole family, but before you throw all your swim suits into your suitcase and hop on a flight to Tahoe, check out these top tips for a lake vacation free of stress, altitude sickness, and sun burns!

Prepare for the High Altitudes
Some spots in Tahoe can reach 10,000 feet, and if your body's not used to it, you could be in for a big unpleasant surprise! High altitudes can cause altitude sickness, which often include symptoms such as nausea, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fatigue. To ward off potential uncomfortableness, pack nasal spray, moisturizer, and plenty of water.

Hydrate
Because of those high altitudes, and the fact that you're most likely engaging in physical activity while in Tahoe, focus on staying hydrated. And we mean with water! Be careful if you plan on drinking alcohol in Tahoe because the alcohol can have a stronger effect on those drinking cocktails at high elevations.

Slather on Sunscreen
You should always wear sunscreen to protect your skin, but be especially diligent about it in Lake Tahoe. The lake is situated in the mountains, which can make you more susceptible to the sun, so apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to avoid roasting like a lobster while on your vacation!

Bring Layers
You might need nothing more than a bikini or swimming trunks during the warm summer days in Tahoe, but temperatures certainly drop at night. Pack a jacket or sweater, along with a pair of pants, to keep you warm in the case the evenings turn chilly.

Bring Your GPS
The locals mentally break up Lake Tahoe into several different areas, including the North Shore, Incline Village, and the South Shore. While it's possible to drive around the lake, map out your trip and destinations ahead of time to avoid any backtracking.

Brace Yourself for the Crowds
Lake Tahoe is an undeniably popular tourist destination especially in the summer months, so prepare yourself for the crowds. Book your hotel far in advance to ensure you receive your top pick, and the same goes for tours and restaurant reservations. Secure a spot at these popular locations ahead of time for a stress-free trip.

Check out the Tours
Why risk the chance of getting lost or missing out on a must-see attraction? Book a Tahoe tour with a guide and experience the scenery by air, land, and water! Witness the beauty of Lake Tahoe from up in the air in a helicopter, or take to the waters on kayaks, jet skis, and fishing charters. There's also numerous grounds tours such as hiking and mountain biking, where you can find some of the best sightseeing spots in the area. For multisport tours, book with Tahoe Adventure Company for your choice of exciting "human-powered" activities such as kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, paddle boarding, and backpacking!

Ten years ago, Kevin Hickey started the Tahoe Adventure Company with a few kayaks and years of outdoor guiding experience already under his belt. Over the years, his passion for human-powered adventure has established Tahoe Adventure Company as one of the area's premier tour companies. A strong emphasis on education, including natural and human history, has remained a strong component of each and every tour. Knowledgeable guides, some of whom have been with Tahoe Adventure Company for all ten of its years, provide the type of fun and interest elements that leave guests with a lasting connection to the Tahoe area. A high-quality experience has ruled since Tahoe Adventure Company's inception, from gourmet deli spread lunches on the beach to custom-planned multisport trips. The repertoire, however, has expanded to include such offerings as a tour of legendary Thunderbird Lodge and an Astronomy Kayak tour featuring renowned Astronomer Tony Berendsen. A beach location at Tahoe Vista Recreation Area has provided a launch point for tours as well as a venue for Tahoe Adventure Company's full service rentals of kayaks and stand up paddleboards. Finally, Tahoe Adventure Company's shop in downtown Truckee has what you need to get out on the water, including locally made Lakeshore paddleboards.

Tahoe Adventure Company invites you to celebrate 10 years with us this summer! Keep an eye on our "Anniversary Specials" page for great discounts. Contact us to plan a tour that will enrich your Lake Tahoe experience, whether you are a longtime resident or are visiting just for one day!

Spring has sprung! Due to the early decline in snow cover this winter, most trails are snow-free earlier than usual. Mountain bikers are enjoying this early season, getting bikes tuned up and tackling trail maintenance. Although the majority of trails around Lake Tahoe are clear, snow patches still remain in spots, so be prepared before you head out. Learn what to expect by reading updated trail reports.* Remember, if you come upon a fallen tree or snow patch be sure to stay on the trail in order to maintain the integrity of the trail.

Mountain biking is an incredible way to explore the landscape. Last weekend I was pleased to find the Emigrant trail in great condition with wild shrubs and flowers blooming! As we closed in on the Stampede Reservoir the trail became increasingly narrow with obstructed views-tons of fun to ride but potentially dangerous for two way traffic. We had to stay alert and make sure that others knew we were on the trail, yielding to riders coming up hill.

If you don't have the equipment for a mountain biking adventure or you are looking for a knowledgeable guide to introduce you to the area, check out our Mountain Biking offerings here

Feel free to give us a call, too, at 530-913-9212.

*The Tahoe Area Mountain Bike Association (TAMBA) website provides weekly updates on trail conditions: TAMBA

People often ask us about the best time to visit Lake Tahoe. We normally answer that anytime you can get here is the best time! However, if you are able to visit the Truckee Tahoe area in September, you will experience the best season for adventures of all sorts. Kayaking, paddle boarding and other water sport activities are still in full swing. Mountain biking and hiking trails are clear. The fall colors are starting to emerge and you just may have your chosen hike or mountain bike ride to yourself. So, anytime is a great time to visit the Truckee Tahoe area as there are endless activities and things to do, year round. If you are looking for a local to show you around, check out one of our custom guided Mountain Biking, Hiking or Multisport adventure tours and experience the best of Fall in Tahoe!

Please visit TahoeAdventureCompany.com for detailed information or call 530-913-9212.

Tahoe Adventure Company and Gar Woods have teamed up for an exciting Kayak and Lake Front Dining experience! Join TAC as we launch from our Tahoe Vista beach location and head to Gar Woods Grill and Pier for a special price-fixed lunch. Enjoy lunch on Gar Woods famous pier with a refreshing beverage before starting your fantastic journey in the sun back to Tahoe Vista. Our kayak tours cover comprehensive paddling instruction, and allow our guests to experience the area from the unique perspective of a kayak. We point out ecology, geology, and natural and human history along the way. Click TahoeAdventureCompany.com for detailed information or call 530-913-9212.

The Truckee Land Trust to protect the Royal Gorge! Royal Gorge and its 3,000 acres of magnificent meadows, peaks, forests, streams and lakes are now be in the hands of the Truckee Land Trust who have made the preservation of this land a number one priority. Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing Trails abound in this High Sierra playground.

Please donate to the Truckee Land Trust to assist in the conservation of this property. Thousands of acres of important Sierra habitat and trails for hiking, biking, and winter activities will now be protected!

Tahoe Adventure Company (TAC) offers many custom Mountain Biking tours throughout the Tahoe basin and Truckee. The greater Tahoe area has trails with amazing views and brilliant history for all ages and abilities.

This season, TAC is introducing the Truckee Historical Bike Ride. This ride starts off in downtown Truckee, highlighting the wild west stories of the town. Riding along the Truckee River, bikers will learn about the significance the railroad and river served in the development of Truckee and food transport in America. Remnants of old settlements along the river are still visible. This ride is great for the whole family.

Tahoe Adventure Company plans custom bike trips that showcase Tahoe's beautiful scenery and impressive trails. Whether a beginner or experienced biker, TAC will organize a challenging and exhilarating ride. Their professional and knowledgeable guides offer biking tips as well as discussions about the local natural and human history.

TAC holds extensive permits for various trails throughout the Tahoe basin and Truckee. Trails range from a mellow ride along the river to technical trails for the seasoned rider.

Combine your mountain biking adventure with a morning kayak, hike or an afternoon sail on Lake Tahoe. Multi-sport options are endless and are a great way to see the Tahoe/Truckee area from different perspectives. Tours include all gear, professional guide, natural and human history discussions, permit fees, deli lunch and cold beverages.

Visit Tahoe Adventure Company on Facebook and TWITTER for the latest deals, specials and trip information.

For more information about adventure tours, rentals, and sales, Please visit TahoeAdventureCompany.com for detailed information or call 530-913-9212. Tahoe Adventure Company is located at 10200 Donner Pass Road in Truckee.