Stand-up paddleboarding with a pet, hiking amid jaw-dropping scenery and indulging in a delicious meal or a relaxing massage are among the things two hospitality industry locals would choose to fill a perfect summer day in Tahoe.
Marlena Boldt; Director of Resort Sales; The Ridge Tahoe; South Lake Tahoe
I like to wake up in the summertime with the windows open so I can hear the birds and smell the sweet alpines. My first stop is Zephyr Cove Beach, where I take my dog stand-up paddleboarding. She sits on the bow of the board while I gently glide through the crystal clear and calm morning waters.
Then I grab a big breakfast at the Red Hut Cafe by my house. After the food settles, I take an hour-long hike behind the Forest Suites Resort at Van Sickly Bi-State Park and soak in the views of the lake.
Afterward, I might get a relaxing massage at Elevation Spa at the Ridge Tahoe followed by joining Chef Stephen Moise for his Evening with The Chef cooking series, during which he guides guests through preparing a three-course meal with wine pairings.
The end of the day might also be spent barbecuing on the deck and lounging at the beach with friends. And if I’m feeling lucky, I might play a little craps at MontBleu and actually win.
Steven Holt; Market Director, Public Relations; The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe; North Lake Tahoe
I’d start the morning by taking a short drive to downtown historic Truckee to enjoy breakfast at the renowned Squeeze Inn, voted best breakfast in Truckee/North Tahoe and Reno. After that, I’d stroll around downtown Truckee to window shop at the local novelty and retail stores.
Then I’d grab my hiking shoes and daypack and head to the Martis Peak Fire Lookout trail, a popular segment of the Tahoe Rim Trail accessible from Highway 267 between Truckee and Kings Beach. The short hike amid local flora and fauna ends at a wooden fire-lookout building that provides wonderful panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and its peaks, Boca and Stampede reservoirs, Donner Lake and distant mountain ranges of the Sierra.
Afterward I’d lunch on California cuisine and a Wet Woody cocktail at Gar Woods Grill & Pier in Carnelian Bay while enjoying great views of Lake Tahoe.
Then I’d treat myself to a signature organic massage at The Ritz-Carlton Spa.
I’d wind down the day on a Lake Tahoe sunset cocktail and dinner cruise, enjoying the evening under the clear sky and stars.