LYFE IN TOW

From Yosemite, I was right back on 395. At this time, I met my friends Chris and Allison in Mammoth Lakes (see post #26). The next stop was Lake Tahoe, then on to Lassen Volcanic National Park.

I had never been to Lake Tahoe and have heard so many positive things. I decided to check it out for myself, and when I did, I was not disappointed. Lake Tahoe is incredible.

It was right after the Fourth of July weekend, so camping locations were sparse. I reserved a spot for two nights near Truckee, CA. The campground was subpar, but my priority was the location. I was close to Tahoe City, a town on the northwest portion of the lake, and sort of reminded me of Cape Cod. Starting there, Addie and I took a leisurely drive around the lake. Per some recommendations and some minimal research online, we had a few places we wanted to stop.

Stop #1 was Emerald Bay. Emerald Bay is an area of Lake Tahoe which includes a state park. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed in the state park (boo), but the friendly ranger recommended a hike across the road where dogs are allowed - Eagle Falls. It was a bit touristy and definitely not a “serious” hike, but it was worth it for the views and some exercise.

The next stop we made on our drive around the lake was Cave Rock, on the lake's Nevada (eastern) side. This short .9-mile hike (roundtrip) granted us phenomenal views of Lake Tahoe.

We hopped back in the car with Sand Harbor Beach as our next destination. Well, we arrived, and…no dogs allowed (during peak season). Ugh. This wasn’t going to stop me from seeing this picturesque area of the park that many people recommended to me. I drove by the main entrance and pulled off the road after a mile or so. We found a pathway to the water and made our way down through bushes and rocks. It was worth the small “primitive” hike and an excellent way to wrap up our day visiting Lake Tahoe.

The following morning, Addie and I packed up our campsite and made our way into the little town of Truckee, CA. I loved it here. Right along the railroad (now Amtrak, but in the past the Transcontinental Railroad), this town is probably most known for its history around the Donner Party. In the present day, this mountain town hosts little shops and restaurants along the main strip, which Addie and I fully enjoyed before hitting the road for Lassen Volcanic National Park.