California Travel Planning Guide

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California Travel

Travel California and experience the endless waterfalls and smooth walls of Yosemite, the rugged Eastern Sierras, and the pristine Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe

Beautiful lake. A dozen ski resorts. Active community. Lively nightlife.

127 Adventure Vacation Ideas. Go
127 All Inclusive Vacations. Go
Ski resorts, a huge lake, and casinos. What more do you need to be entertained? Go
35 Bed & Breakfast or Inns. Go
12 Mountain Biking Rentals and Tours. Go
45 Boat Rentals and Tours. Go
18 Discount Travel Deals and Specials. Go
19 Cabins. Go
31 RV Rentals and RV Parks. Lake Tahoe RV parks offer RV and tent campers a wide variety of amenities. For basic services, check out state parks and national forest campgrounds. Go
45 Canoe & Kayak Rentals and Tours. Go
6 Climbing Guides and Outfitters. Go
27 Condos. Go
3 . There are cross country skiing options all around Lake Tahoe. Cross country skiers can take their pick from groomed tracks at ski resort nordic centers or discover winter hiking trails in national forest. Go
1 . Go
275 Restaurants, Bars and Cafes. Go
Go
5 Eco-Friendly Activities and Accommodations. Go
5 Family Vacations. Go
23 Fishing Guides and Shops. Go
15 Golf Courses. Go
33 Vacation Ideas for Reunions, Retreats, and Groups. Go
6 Guides and Tours. Go
1 Hiking Guides and Tours. Go
127 Holiday Vacation Ideas. Go
22 Vacation Rentals. Go
1 . Go
6 Horseback Riding Outfitters. Go
120 Hotels. Go
15 . The huge body of water that makes Lake Tahoe is any boaters dream with great sailing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and just cruising. The Truckee River is great for floating and fishing. Go
11 Lodges. Go
281 Lodging Options. Go
2 Luxury Vacations. Go
1 Motorcycle Rentals and Tours. Go
The Vikingsholm Castle and Watson Cabin are two nearby historic sites that are worth checking out. Go
Lake Tahoe is surrounded by forests and wilderness and you'll find great trails and campgrounds around every corner. The area is home to some renowned trails. Try the Tahoe Rim Trail or the Tahoe Flume Bike Trail. Go
10 Vacation Packages. Go
Some of our favorite nearby state parks include Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe Nevada, Grover Hot Springs, and Washoe Lake. Go
Basic campgrounds can be found at a handful of state parks along the lake or within nearby national forest land. Go
5 Dude Ranches and Guest Ranches. Go
11 Resorts. Go
127 Vacations for Romantic Getaways and Honeymoons. Go
19 RV Parks. Go
12 RV Rentals . Go
127 Vacation Ideas for Singles. Go
4 Ski In Ski Out Lodges. Go
6 . Lake Tahoe has more options for skiing than any other location. Ski with the pros at Squaw, take the family to Northstar, or learn the basics at Sugar Bowl. Go
50 . Skiers and boarders can spend days at Lake Tahoe ski resorts. Every resort is unique, so take some time to explore a few of them. Go
9 . Snowboarders flock to Lake Tahoe. From terrain parks to wide open powder fields, snowboarders will find a wide variety of options. Go
9 Snowmobiling Rentals and Tours. Go
3 Snowshoeing Rentals and Tours. Go
127 Vacations Ideas for Students. Go
47 Summer Guides and Outfitters. Go
6 Summer Packages. Go
127 Vacations Ideas. Go
64 Wedding Planners and Services. Go
127 Western Vacation Ideas. Go
13 Whitewater Rafting Outfitters. Go
1 Wilderness Outfitters. Go
13 Winter Guides and Outfitters. Go
4 Winter Packages. Go

Mammoth California

High Alpine Lakes and Mountains in the Eastern Sierras.

33 All Inclusive Vacations. Go
Yosemite is at the top of our list, but you'll also enjoy a scenic drive along June Lake Loop, hiking in Mammoth Lakes Basin, and winter activities at Mammoth Ski Resort. Go
2 Bed & Breakfast or Inns. Go
Go
4 Discount Travel Deals and Specials. Go
24 Cabins. Go
26 RV Rentals and RV Parks. RV and tent campers can find a variety of amenities at nearby RV parks, but don't miss and opportunity to camp within Yosemite National Park. Go
9 Climbing Guides and Outfitters. Go
17 Condos. Go
3 . Cross country skiers will love the groomed trails at the Tamarack Lodge. Go
Go
24 Restaurants, Bars and Cafes. Go
1 Dog Sledding Rides. Go
Go
1 Family Vacations. Go
15 Fishing Guides and Shops. Go
4 Golf Courses. Go
7 Vacation Ideas for Reunions, Retreats, and Groups. Go
9 Guides and Tours. Go
1 Hiking Guides and Tours. Go
16 Vacation Rentals. Go
Go
10 Horseback Riding Outfitters. Go
6 Hotels. Go
13 . Lakes and rivers are what make the Mammoth Lakes area popular. Check out the crazy tufas on Mono Lake and then head to the hills and discover a series of lakes and streams in every direction. Go
11 Lodges. Go
109 Lodging Options. Go
4 Luxury Vacations. Go
3 Motorcycle Rentals and Tours. Go
The Eastern Sierras are vast and intimidating. Mount Whitney, the tallest mountain in the lower 48s is a must-see, but the Minarets and the Ritter Range are spectacular as well. Go
9 . Take a scenic drive to Bodie Ghost Town and take a step back in time. If you're a skier, make sure to check out the Mammoth Ski Museum and to see a little natural geological history in person, set some time aside for the Devils Postpile National Monument. Go
6 . Mammoth is surrounded by national forests and you can easily get lost in Ansel Adams and John Muir Wilderness areas. Don't miss a soak in one of the nearby natural hot springs. Go
7 Vacation Packages. Go
The east entrance to Yosemite National Park is easily accessible from Mammoth. Make sure you set aside some time to discover the granite rock walls and many waterfalls of this park. Go
1 . With Yosemite right around the corner and the easily accessible Inyo National Forest, there are many camping opportunities near Mammoth Lakes. Go
3 Dude Ranches and Guest Ranches. Go
9 Resorts. Go
13 RV Parks. Go
12 RV Rentals . Go
7 Ski In Ski Out Lodges. Go
1 . Mammoth Mountain and June Mountain pull in a the crowds from Southern California and for good reason. Go
25 . Skiers and boarders can practice their turns at both Mammoth Mountain and June Mountain ski resorts. Go
6 . Both Mammoth and June Mountains have fun terrain parks and wide open groomers that will suit any snowboarder. Go
2 Snowmobiling Rentals and Tours. Go
Go
68 Summer Guides and Outfitters. Go
2 Summer Packages. Go
33 Vacations Ideas. Go
17 Wedding Planners and Services. Go
10 Whitewater Rafting Outfitters. Go
8 Wilderness Outfitters. Go
4 Winter Guides and Outfitters. Go
5 Winter Packages. Go

Yosemite National Park

Massive granite walls, stunning waterfalls, endless trails.

18 All Inclusive Vacations. Go
1 ATV & Off-Road Rentals and Tours. Go
7 Bed & Breakfast or Inns. Go
2 Mountain Biking Rentals and Tours. Go
2 Discount Travel Deals and Specials. Go
5 Cabins. Go
14 RV Rentals and RV Parks. Take your pick from 13 campgrounds within Yosemite National Park or stay in a nearby RV park. Make your reservations early. Go
4 Climbing Guides and Outfitters. Go
1 Condos. Go
4 . Great cross country ski trails both inside and outside of the park. Go
Go
5 Restaurants, Bars and Cafes. Go
1 Eco-Friendly Activities and Accommodations. Go
7 Family Vacations. Go
5 Fishing Guides and Shops. Go
3 Golf Courses. Go
4 Vacation Ideas for Reunions, Retreats, and Groups. Go
10 Guides and Tours. Go
4 Hiking Guides and Tours. Go
5 Vacation Rentals. Go
Go
1 Horseback Riding Outfitters. Go
3 Hotels. Go
14 . Lakes, Rivers, and Waterfalls are everywhere in Yosemite National Park. Make sure to hike to the base of Yosemite Falls and take a float trip down the Merced River. Go
4 Lodges. Go
33 Lodging Options. Go
1 Luxury Vacations. Go
4 Motorcycle Rentals and Tours. Go
From Half Dome to El Capitan, the mountains of Yosemite are inspiring no matter where you stand. Go
Make some time for history in Yosemite by visiting the Yosemite Chapel, the Yosemite Museum & Indian Village, the historic Ahwahnee Hotel, and Park Cemetery or take a step back in time on the Yosemite Mountain Train in Sugar Pine. Go
1 . Wildlife like black bears and deer make their presence obvious no matter where you go and for some of the best views of the park, head to Glacier Point or the Bridalveil Falls Trail. Go
Go
Yosemite National Park appeals to any nature lover. Kids will enjoy the valley trails and refreshing rivers while hikers can spend days in the backcountry. Go
There are 13 campgrounds within Yosemite National Park. 7 of these allow reservations while the rest are first come first serve. There are a number of campgrounds outside of the east entrance to the park as well. Go
Go
Go
2 RV Parks. Go
12 RV Rentals . Go
3 . Dodge Ridge and Badger Pass Ski Resorts are the closest ski areas to Yosemite National Park. Go
9 . Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy the slopes at nearby Dodge Ridge and Badger Pass Ski areas. Go
9 . Boarders can enjoy 2 terrain parks at Badger Pass and 3 parks at Dodge Ridge. Go
3 Snowshoeing Rentals and Tours. Go
31 Summer Guides and Outfitters. Go
Go
18 Vacations Ideas. Go
3 Wedding Planners and Services. Go
5 Whitewater Rafting Outfitters. Go
3 Wilderness Outfitters. Go
5 Winter Guides and Outfitters. Go
Go

Lisa did it:

Lake Tahoe is great for sailing, boating, water skiing, wake boarding. Although the winds can pick up, a day on the lake is hard to beat.
More on Lakes, Rivers & Falls in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Lisa's good word:

Lake Tahoe is great for sailing, boating, water skiing, wake boarding. Although the winds can pick up, a day on the lake is hard to beat.
More on Attractions in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

The Merced River runs right through the park and is a great river for float trips on raft or inner tubes. Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls are accessible via hiking trails below Half Dome.
More on Lakes, Rivers & Falls in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa loves it:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa wants you to go:

Families can head to Tahoe and rent a house or condo for a vacation. Kids and parents will love the variety of ski resorts and there are tons of kid friendly activities in the area. Head to King's Beach for a day in the sun.
More on Family Vacations in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Lisa's little secret:

Tubing down the Truckee makes for a great summer afternoon outing.
More on Boating in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Lisa's two cents:

Tubing down the Truckee makes for a great summer afternoon outing.
More on Summer Activities in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Lisa's little secret:

Sailing, fishing, wake boarding, water skiing are all great on Lake Tahoe.
More on Boating in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Lisa suggests:

Sailing, fishing, wake boarding, water skiing are all great on Lake Tahoe.
More on Summer Activities in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Lisa's tidbit:

Most of the major ski resorts in Lake Tahoe offer California all inclusive vacation packages, with lodging, dining, and lift tickets. These packages are great for the non-planner.
More on All Inclusive Vacations in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Lisa's good word:

Park entrance passes only cost $25/week per vehicle. You'll have to buy food and drinks ahead of time to save some pennies, but you can easily travel to Yosemite on a budget with many nearby California travel deals.
More on Budget Vacations in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa's little secret:

Yosemite is a great place for kids. There are plenty of easy hikes on the valley floor. There are also fantastic daily ranger programs. Make sure you kids take part in the Junior Ranger program as well.
More on Family Vacations in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa's been there:

There are hiking trails galore in Yosemite. From easy boardwalk trails in the valley to strenuous backcountry trails, you can spend anywhere from 30 minutes to 10 days hiking in Yosemite.
More on Hiking in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa loves it:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa's two cents:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa wants you to know:

One of the most beautiful weddings I've been to was in Tahoe. The ceremony was held at the top of a chairlift at Squaw and the reception was on the deck of Sunnyside restaurant on Lake Tahoe.
More on Wedding Vacations in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Lisa's two cents:

There are some great restaurants right on the water, but also in Truckee. Sunnyside has the best deck seating.
More on Dining in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Lisa suggests:

From sky diving to wake boarding to mountain biking to hiking to skiing, there is so much to do in Lake Tahoe. Complete it with some nightlife and a little gambling at the state line.
More on Adventure Vacations in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Lisa loves it:

There are 13 campgrounds in Yosemite. Some can be reserved while others are available on a first come first serve basis. Campgrounds can get busy but once you have a site, you'll love staying inside the park boundary.
More on Public Campgrounds in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa wants you to go:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa crushed it:

While Lake Tahoe is all about adventure and the great outdoors, the towns of the area have nightlife and bars too, especially at the many casinos at state line. You can find live music, late night dining, and gambling.
More on Singles Vacations in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Lisa suggests:

Spring break is one of the busiest times at Lake Tahoe. College and high school students come here for a week of spring skiing and hanging out.
More on Students Vacations in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Lisa crushed it:

Discovering the east side of the park was a real treat for me. Driving up and over Tioga Pass makes you feel like you are really out there. It's amazing how few people explore the east side of the park.
More on Motorcycle Tours in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa's two cents:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa's little secret:

You can enjoy a number of sites within Yosemite on cross country ski trails. Mariposa Grove and Glacier Point are great places to strap on your skis and head out for a winter hike during your California winter vacation.
More on Cross Country Skiing in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa's been there:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa's two cents:

There a so many California ski resorts around Lake Tahoe that it's hard to go wrong. Squaw Valley is at the top of my list, but I've also had some fun days at Northstar and Sierra at Tahoe. I learned how to ski at Sugar Bowl.
More on Skiing in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Lisa's good word:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Lisa's been there:

There seems to be waterfalls around every corner and bend in Yosemite. Yosemite Falls are the most obvious, viewable and easily accessible from the valley floor.
More on Lakes, Rivers & Falls in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa's good word:

There seems to be waterfalls around every corner and bend in Yosemite. Yosemite Falls are the most obvious, viewable and easily accessible from the valley floor.
More on Attractions in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa loves it:

In the heart of the summer I spent a day with some friends floating the Truckee River. We put in just down stream from Tahoe City and floated to River Ranch Lodge where we dried off over a beer on their patio.
More on Lakes, Rivers & Falls in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Lisa's two cents:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Lisa suggests:

Backcountry trails in Yosemite are endless. You can escape the crowds no matter which direction you head. Head even further in the Eastern Sierras on the John Muir Trail or the Pacific Crest Trail.
More on Nature in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa's tip:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa wants you to know:

The smooth granite rock of Half Dome and El Capitan tower over Yosemite Valley. Whether you gaze up from below, climb them, or scramble up the north side of Half Dome, these mountains of Yosemite are not to be messed with.
More on Mountains in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa's two cents:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa loves it:

Vast valleys, granite peaks, and cascading rivers make this California national park unique. It gets busy in the summer, but you can still find great trails and ways to escape the crowds in Yosemite.
More on Parks in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Lisa's good word:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan gives props:

Trolling for salmon and lake trout while cruising the lake in comfort, or stretching your legs and your fly line on the Truckee River? There's no question that Lake Tahoe is a top California fishing destination.
More on Fishing in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan knows:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan did it:

Lake Tahoe offers a huge variety of California all inclusive resorts, lodging and amenities. Ski, golf, and casino packages make this a great year-round destination.
More on All Inclusive Vacations in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan raves:

There are several California whitewater rafting companies offering river trips on the Truckee River between Lake Tahoe and Reno. This white water river stretch features class 2 and 3 rapids.
More on Summer Activities in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan crushed it:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan raves:

There are several whitewater rafting companies offering river trips on the Truckee River between Lake Tahoe and Reno, great for any California summer vacation. This white water river stretch features class 2 & 3 rapids.
More on Summer Activities in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan knows:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan raves:

From easy strolls on manicured pathways along the lake to rugged treks in the Sierras, there's perfect California hiking trails for all at Lake Tahoe. A great short, but steep hike leads to Vikingsholm Castle at Emerald Bay.
More on Hiking in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan suggests:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan's tip:

You don't have to be a golfer to know that Lake Tahoe is a serious California golf vacation destination. There are dozens of golf courses in the Reno/Tahoe area. The views from some of the courses on Lake Tahoe are amazing.
More on Golfing in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan's tidbit:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan's been there:

Lake Tahoe is naturally a great place to explore by water, but don't overlook the Truckee River and the smaller lakes in the immediate area for fun California kayak adventures!
More on Canoe & Kayak in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan suggests:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan's tip:

Imagine a leisurely float down the middle of the Yosemite Valley. Talk about scenic! Rafts and gear may be rented within Yosemite National Park.
More on Summer Activities in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan crushed it:

Lake Tahoe IS boating. Outside of surfing, most water sports are available on Lake Tahoe, served by numerous marinas. Scenic tours are also available to indulge in the lake's beauty from the water.
More on Boating in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan wants you to know:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan loves it:

Anyone driving over Tioga Pass and/or into the Yosemite Valley will find their head spinning from the views! The roads wind up, over, and down into some of the most incredible mountain scenery you will ever see.
More on Motorcycle Tours in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan loves it:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan knows:

Some of the country's top rafting is available on California's Merced and Tuolumne Rivers, which flow from Yosemite. California white water outfitters are available to take groups on day trips and overnight excursions.
More on Summer Activities in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan wants you to go:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan's good word:

Yosemite is home to the famous John Muir Trail, and the Pacific Crest Trail passes through it. It simply offers a great variety of California hiking trails, most passing by a gorgeous waterfall, lake or mountain vista.
More on Hiking in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan's little secret:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan's tip:

A large part of Lake Tahoe's appeal is the view from the road that loops around it. Donner Pass and the other routes over the Sierras are pretty incredible too. California motorcycle ride can be chilly in fall and spring.
More on Motorcycle Tours in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan suggests:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan gives props:

Yosemite is close to major California cities and airports, making it a convenient place to visit. Plan a camping trip or stay and dine at affordable locations outside the park. Hiking around and enjoying the scenery is free!
More on Budget Vacations in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan's been there:

Groups need tourism infrastructure, in the form of resorts, amenities, and a variety of activities, attractions, and entertainment to keep everyone busy. Lake Tahoe is hard to top!
More on Group Vacations in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan gives props:

From small, luxurious inns to ritzy casinos, and all sorts of options in between, Lake Tahoe has what it takes to piece together a luxurious getaway in a spectacular setting.
More on Luxury Vacations in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan raves:

The Ahwahnee Hotel within the park was pretty darn impressive! We also enjoyed Tioga Pass and the east side of the Sierras, including Mono Lake and especially June Lake Loop in the fall!
More on Lakes, Rivers & Falls in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan's been there:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan raves:

Families need a variety of activities and entertainment. Lake Tahoe is simply great for outdoor family adventures, learning, and entertainment. Plenty of lodging options help make perfect California family vacations possible.
More on Family Vacations in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan knows:

Lake Tahoe is popular for California destination weddings. Breathtaking scenery, numerous venues, and local amenities all add up. Chartering a boat for the event. Or a casino night for the bachelor/bachelorette parties.
More on Wedding Vacations in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan crushed it:

Climbing, hiking, backpacking, rafting, fishing, snowshoeing, skiing... Yep, Yosemite has adventure!
More on Climbing in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan's two cents:

Due to the huge variety of outdoor activities available around Lake Tahoe, in both summer and winter, anyone can find plenty of adventure here!
More on Adventure Vacations in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan's tidbit:

What's more romantic than sipping wine with a great meal from a deck (or even a boat deck!) overlooking beautiful Lake Tahoe? There are tons of great California romantic getaways and luxury lodging options in the area!
More on Romantic Vacations in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan's good word:

There is no shortage of dining establishments in and around the towns perched on Lake Tahoe. You name it, you'll find it. Reno is nearby as well!
More on Dining in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan's two cents:

Anyone who's been to Yosemite knows how amazingly beautiful the place is. Now... imagine seeing it draped in snow, surrounded by alpenglow in Yosemite Valley, or even a full moon snowshoe trek!
More on Snowshoeing in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan's tidbit:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan knows:

Lots of trails and lots of snow mean great California snowshoeing. Anyone who can hike can snowshoe and enjoy winter in a place like Lake Tahoe, as a great alternative to skiing!
More on Snowshoeing in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan did it:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan's two cents:

We spent Thanksgiving near Reno and enjoyed moderate weather with easy escapes into the mountains for skiing. For a white Christmas, Lake Tahoe's variety of skiing and lodging options are ideal for holiday vacations.
More on Holiday Vacations in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan loves it:

Affordable Reno Nevada flights and accommodations provide a great way to enjoy the city's casinos and nightlife with day trips to Lake Tahoe for spring break skiing.
More on Students Vacations in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan's little secret:

Yosemite and the Sierras are known as a nature-lover's paradise. Yosemite provides an excellent shuttle system and it's just a short trip from major California metropolis areas, making it a smart choice for a green getaway!
More on Ecotourism Vacations in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan's good word:

Lake Tahoe's many casinos, nightlife spots, music and entertainment venues are all excellent opportunities to get out and socialize, when you aren't playing around in the great outdoors. Reno is nearby for even more fun!
More on Singles Vacations in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan did it:

Camping becomes crowded in places right around Lake Tahoe, but there are plenty of public and private options to choose from. For true California camping getaways, look to the Sierras and surrounding National Forest areas!
More on Public Campgrounds in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan suggests:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan's good word:

Cross country skiing California is one of my favorite winter activities. Many miles of trails (some groomed) exist in Yosemite for x-country ski adventures, starting at Badger Pass. What a great way to see the park!
More on Cross Country Skiing in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan's good word:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan gives props:

Many cross-country skiing locations. Resorts have Nordic centers and Royal Gorge Resort is all about California cross country skiing. We hiked around Spooner Lake in the fall - the groomed trail must be a treat in winter!
More on Cross Country Skiing in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan suggests:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan's tidbit:

With numerous mountain resorts available in one small region, and plentiful snow, the snowboarding challenge may really be the choice of which one to visit with your snowboard?
More on Snowboarding in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan wants you to go:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan's tidbit:

Yosemite National Park is the jewel of the Sierra Mountains. Not only are these big California mountains, but the glaciers carved deep into the Yosemite Valley, creating one of the most grand mountain corridors anywhere.
More on Mountains in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan's been there:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan's two cents:

Lake Tahoe is THE lake as far as I'm concerned. With such natural beauty and water activities, it's no wonder people refer to Lake Tahoe as "Big Blue." Plenty of smaller California rivers, lakes, creeks and falls are nearby.
More on Lakes, Rivers & Falls in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan's two cents:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan wants you to go:

Witnessing Lake Tahoe's bright fall foliage, the big blue waters, and the salmon running up the creeks was something we'll never forget!
More on Lakes, Rivers & Falls in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan gives props:

Witnessing Lake Tahoe's bright fall foliage, the big blue waters, and the salmon running up the creeks was something we'll never forget!
More on Attractions in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan gives props:

Yosemite has the best collection of waterfalls in the US. The park's lakes and rivers are backed by incredible, glacially carved granite vistas. Visit during late spring / early summer when melting snow cranks up the flow!
More on Lakes, Rivers & Falls in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan knows:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan's tidbit:

Recreation areas around Lake Tahoe and in surrounding mountains provide one large park-like experience. Visit California national parks like Yosemite and Lassen Volcanic parks for a great tour of the region.
More on Parks in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan suggests:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan's been there:

With the huge lake, Sierra Mountains and large forest areas nearby, you'll find plenty of California nature to explore. This is balanced with popular towns and ski resorts that dot the lake and nearby peaks.
More on Nature in Lake Tahoe >>

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan's little secret:

Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan wants you to know:

California tent camping in Yosemite is popular for a reason. There are few places to pitch a tent like this! For fewer crowds, visit the park and camp somewhere else in the Sierras, or go backpacking.
More on Public Campgrounds in Yosemite National Park >>

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan knows:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan's two cents:

Yosemite is one of my Top 5 favorite National Parks. Breathtaking!
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Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan loves it:

Yosemite is one of my Top 5 favorite National Parks. Breathtaking!
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Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan wants you to know:

Ansel Adams, John Muir and Teddy Roosevelt loved this place. The High Sierras represent the best of our western wilderness areas... and Yosemite represents our best efforts at leaving good things to future generations.
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Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan gives props:

Top Pick: Yosemite National Park

Dan did it:

The Sierra Mountains around Lake Tahoe are impressive, but they aren't quite as striking as those found a little to the south around Mammoth, June Lake and Yosemite National Park.
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Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

Dan's little secret:

Interesting historic sites on Lake Tahoe include Vikingsholm Castle and Thunderbird Lodge. Reno, Carson City, and historic Virginia City offer a variety of California history, with a focus the Gold Rush era of the Old West.
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Top Pick: Lake Tahoe

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