There is something exciting and invigorating about the great outdoors. The fresh air lifts your spirits, the scent of pine trees and fresh flowers calms your mind, plus there is always something new to discover around the next bend. Every now and then, it is important to escape from the concrete of the city and into a thriving wilderness.

One of the best places in the Nevada or California area to enjoy a nature escape is Lake Tahoe. This area is renowned for its rugged natural beauty. As it has been a popular destination for many years, there are several established attractions in the area that make it easy for visitors to get up close with nature in a fun way.

Lake Tahoe is an enormous freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It claims the title of the largest alpine lake in North America. You will be amazed by the clear water. On a calm day, you will see the surrounding mountains reflected in its mirror-like surface. No matter what time of year it is, a visit to Lake Tahoe will invigorate your senses as this area offers a lot of fun both in the winter and the summer.

Visiting In the Summer

The mountain wildflowers are in bloom, the birds are singing and the warm sun is shining. Visiting Lake Tahoe in the summer is a treat and there are plenty of fun things to do. Lake Tahoe is busiest in the summer; the beaches will be filled with people going for a swim in the warm water.

If you want an adrenaline rush, you can go on a whitewater rafting trip down the Truckee and Middle Fork American Rivers. For more adventures, you can visit Action Water Sports in Incline Village, which offers everything from canoe rentals to kayak rentals to 55-foot catamarans. Reserve the boat you want in advance, as rentals are popular in the summer.

If you happen to be in Lake Tahoe for the Fourth of July, you will be able to enjoy one of the best fireworks displays in the Western USA.

Remember that the lake will get crowded on holiday weekends in the summer. If you are looking for a peaceful getaway, plan your visit for the mid-week instead.

Visiting in the Winter

In the winter, Lake Tahoe is a snowy paradise, and is known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding. Some of the major resorts in the area include Alpine Meadows, Sugar Bowl and the Royal Gorge Cross Country Ski Resort.

However, skiing is not the only winter activity here. A popular activity in the wintertime is the family sleigh rides on antique European sleighs. You can even try a dog-sled ride with a team of energetic huskies.

Lake Tahoe is a naturally beautiful outdoor playground, perfect for visiting all year when you want a rejuvenating escape.

About the Author: Joshua Green is a freelance travel writer from California. He loves to visit Lake Tahoe at least twice a year, for camping in the summer and skiing in the winter. When he visits he stays at the Quality Inn Hotel & Suites in South Lake Tahoe California.