Hot summer weekends are finally here and you can jump into the summer season by enjoying Tahoe’s “coolest” attraction. Lake Tahoe is renowned for its cobalt blue waters, providing a clear view of depths up to 75 feet. And hey, what better way to explore its depths than to skim its surface via paddle? Here’s something unexpected: Lake Tahoe is the largest stand up flat-water paddleboard venue in the country!

“Stand up paddle boarding is one of the most scenic and green ways to take in Lake Tahoe,” said Ernie Brassard, president of the 2011 Quiksilver Ta-Hoe Nalu Stand-Up Paddle Classic, August 13-14 in Kings Beach. “You get a completely different perspective of the lake and the surrounding mountains from the water than you do from the trail.”

The sport continues to skyrocket in popularity, as evidenced by a recent increase in Tahoe rental shops and outfitters, as well as festivals taking center stage during the summer and fall months.

A popular event you won’t want to miss is the Jam from the Dam, July 9, which has participants racing six miles from Commons Beach in Tahoe City to the Waterman’s Landing – a new restaurant and stand up paddleboard shop. Like the Ta-Hoe Nalu, it’s a great opportunity for spectators to demo equipment in a fun and festive environment.

Need equipment? Tahoe Paddle & Oar caters to the canoe and kayak audience with rentals available, including wetsuits and life vests, along with on-water lessons. If it’s a lazy Sunday and you want your paddleboards and beaches all in one place, rentals are available at one of Tahoe’s most well-known beaches, Sand Harbor State Park, located outside of Incline Village. Kayaks and paddleboards are a must to explore San Harbor’s hidden coves, cathedral of massive white boulders and lively beach activities. The infamous white sand is also a great picnic spot!

Click here to watch a video!

Experience a multi-day kayak adventure along the Lake Tahoe Water Trail in style September 23-26 or by special arrangement.

This fall, Tahoe Adventure Company is featuring a multi-day kayak and stay package along the West, North and East shores of Lake Tahoe. Guests enjoy the glassy, clear waters with early morning guided paddles spotting local wildlife and learning about the unique natural and human history of this special region. 

By afternoon, they arrive at their lakefront hotel for a hot shower, warm meal, and pure relaxation. The best hotels have been chosen for their comfort and include Sunnyside Lodge, Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort and the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe. After checking in, guests can choose to benefit from a massage, a walk along the beach, skipping stones or simply relaxing by the pool or on the water’s edge.

The four-day kayak adventure is a luxurious way to spend a long weekend, special occasion, or simply a reason to celebrate autumn on one of the most magnificent lakes in the world.  Fall in Lake Tahoe treats us to warm sunny days as well as calm water and is void of crowds.In addition to thorough instruction, guides will inform you about natural and human history topics such as wildlife, geology, ecology, and native peoples. Kayaking is at a leisurely pace, allowing time to see the sites and enjoy the crystal clear water. Each day’s paddle starts after an excellent breakfast, finishes in the afternoon and is suitable for beginners. Evenings are enjoyed with delicious meals at terrific local restaurants with great company.

For more details and the day-to-day itinerary, call Tahoe Adventure Company at 530.913.9212 or  TahoeAdventureCompany.com. Space is limited.

-Written by Pettit Gilwee, special to VisitRenoTahoe

Reno’s Riverwalk District recently charmed its way onto Travel and Leisure’s list of “America’s Coolest River Walks”.  Home of the monthly wine, beer and art walks, it’s a fun and unique attraction in Reno’s vibrant downtown area, and locals will attest to its beauty and popularity.

The Riverwalk through downtown Reno is approximately 1.5 miles long loosely bound by Arlington Avenue Bridge (upstream) and Lake Street (downstream). A 12-mile pedestrian path connects two urban whitewater parks- one in the heart of Downtown Reno that includes Idlewild, Barbara Bennett and Wingfield Parks and the newest whitewater attraction at Rock Sparks in neighboring Sparks.

The $1.5 million park in Reno is more than 2,600 feet long and beckons kayakers, rafters, swimmers and water enthusiasts to test out the class II to III rapids as well as 11 drop pools. The improvements and recent additions in Sparks include riverbank landscaping, shade structures, play structures, parking and better access for people with disabilities.

According to the engineer who designed the park, Wingfield Park Island in Reno has been a historic location for community recreation and gathering since Reno was established. The outdoor venue houses a myriad of attractions and performances year-round. The most popular is Artown during the entire month of July.

Engineers designed both whitewater parks in a way that entices and encourages the entire community to participate in the river. Temperate weather and clean water quality, and of course, the whitewater improvements themselves permit people of any age and skill level to experience the cool, crisp waters of the Truckee River. From a toe-dip in the river to an adventure on a raft or kayak – it’s a day well-spent.

After a day of people-watching, picnicking and soaking in the rays on the Truckee, the Riverwalk district offers a wonderful selection of good eats and drinks – Silver Peak, Spread Peace Café or the Wild River Grille are just a few. Go on and see, taste and feel for yourself!

Tahoe Whitewater Tours: (775) 787-5000, 400 Island Ave. Reno, Nevada 89509

Outside Magazine has named Reno the Best Whitewater Town in the country in its annual “Best Towns” feature. The Biggest Little City’s downtown rafting and kayaking park on the Truckee River was chosen for its prime location, lush surroundings and outdoor amphitheater in Wingfield Park. It’s no wonder the location is home to the annual Reno River Festival, attracting hundreds of world-class participants and tens of thousands of spectators each year.

And that’s not all! Outside Magazine also listed the new Aces baseball stadium, affordable housing and renovated downtown area among other reasons to love Reno, as well as the newest whitewater park at Rock Park in neighboring Sparks.

The year-round downtown Reno Truckee River Whitewater Park at Wingfield offers adventure in the heart of the casino and arts and culture districts.  The $1.5 million park is more than 2,600 feet long and beckons kayakers, rafters, swimmers and water enthusiasts to test out the class 2-3 rapids and the 11 drop pools, providing easy access for kayaking maneuvers with a consistent supply of fresh water. The success of the first element of the Truckee River Whitewater Park was followed by a second installment of whitewater adventure. The City of Sparks constructed a whitewater park at Rock Park. Along with pools for kayaking, tubing and rafting for all skill levels, the improvements include riverbank landscaping, shade structures, play structures, parking and better access for people with disabilities.

The Truckee River also flows through the Reno Riverwalk District, filled with unique shops and restaurants and home to the wildly popular monthly wine and beer walks. The river pathway connects Reno to the beautiful new whitewater park in Sparks. The 12 mile path is perfect for cyclists and pedestrians.

To see Outside Magazine’s Reno listing, click here.

To learn more about the endless water adventures in Reno Tahoe USA, click here.

Dorothy was right. There really is no place like home.

National Geographic released its ultimate, state-by-state guide to the top outdoor hubs in the U.S., selecting only 100 towns. The criteria – the town must offer something for everyone. It’s no surprise Reno, Nevada was selected to be on the list with year-round special events, hiking, skiing, cycling, kayaking, climbing, snowboarding, fine dining…the list could go on. (And it does!)

In the words of NatGeo, “Reno’s hospitality jobs, a refurbished downtown, and a new $1.5 million white water park—all reasons enough to stick around for awhile.” We know that’s why we’re here!

Check out the interactive map to see which other cities and towns made the list. While you’re there, be sure to share your favorite restaurants, hotels and Reno Tahoe adventures with National Geographic!

Eleven lucky fans of Reno Tahoe USA’s Facebook page won a free pair of tickets to the Air Nautique Wakeboard National Championships, presented by ROCKSTAR, July 14-18, 2010. The five-day pro-am wakeboard and wakeskate contest included the top wake athletes in the United States competing for national titles in 20 different divisions . . . and it rocked their socks off. (Click here for video.)  Big thanks to our fans for sharing pictures!

Cheryl Guinan, Reno, Nevada: “I had never been to the WWA event before. What surprised me most was how fun and laid back it was. Everyone was just relaxed and enjoying themselves. It had fun sponsors, nice vendors and some pretty sweet wakeboarding. I plan on going back next year. Thanks to KRZQ for the information and Reno Tahoe USA for the tickets!”

Cory Williams, Reno, Nevada: “This was my third year at the event, and it only gets better every time. I watched some of the women’s wake skate events Wednesday and Thursday – they were pretty incredible. Sunday, however, was intense. The pro finals were awesome. I remember sitting in awe watching Harley’s winning run. All the riders were great, and very approachable. They really enjoy the support they get from fans and were also willing to give a tip or two to us weekend warriors. I will without a doubt be back next year, as will my friends and anyone we can drag along. This is an event that everyone into water sports in the Reno/Sparks/Tahoe area needs to attend.”

Jennifer Seeger, Reno, Nevada: “The south shore of the Marina was base camp for wakeboarding vendors, competitors and enthusiasts wanting to get an autograph from their favorite athlete. Thanks to ALICE @ 96.5 and Reno Tahoe USA, my husband and I were able to enjoy watching the wakeboarders tear it up! This is my second time to the event and I would recommend it to my friends. I will probably go back next year!”

Sarah Smith, Reno, Nevada: “I had never been to the WWA event before, it was fun.  I was kind of surprised at the price, though.  It seemed a bit much for the size of the event. I would recommend this event to a friend – it’s fun over the summer. I found out about the event through the Reno Tahoe USA announcement of a contest on Facebook, where I won the pair of tickets. ”

Walt Suen, Reno, Nevada: “Somehow I’d never made it down to this event before. We loved it. I was really surprised by how easy it was to see, there really are no bad seats. I would recommend this event to a friend. We own a boat and so do most of our friends – it was a great way to see all the new stuff on the market and see what real pros doing what we wish we could! Thanks to the folks @Reno Tahoe USA, we didn’t miss this event.”

Sportsman Channel has announced its Top Sportsman Summer Destinations and lo and behold, the Truckee River is on the list! Hosts of Sportsman Channel spend their days hunting, fishing and shooting throughout North America. That’s their job! So they should know a quality, living body of water when they see one. With summer now officially upon us, Sportsman Channel surveyed its talent, as well as its newly appointed CEO, to create the Top “Sportsman” Summer Destinations List.

The Truckee River came in 4^th place! Here’s what Chad Belding had to say about our river:

Chad Belding of The Fowl Life: “My favorite summer destination is the Truckee River between Lake Tahoe and Reno in the beautiful eastern Sierra Nevada mountains. The river provides some excellent fishing during the summer months and the guides at the Reno Fly Shop are experts on the local water. They know the hatches, the timetables, the riverbeds, and food beds. Bottom line, they know how to get you on the fish. This in addition to these guided trips, being very affordable is what keeps me coming back to this area year after year. I love to either navigate the river on a float trip or by cruising the shorelines in search of some new honey holes. My favorite locations to fly fish on the Truckee River are literally minutes from Downtown Reno Nevada and Lake Tahoe. There is a ton to do after I get off of the river with great food, summertime activities, concerts, sporting events, and of course the mountains. I suggest staying at the El Dorado Hotel Casino in Reno. The Eldorado is a locally owned Hotel-Casino that offers nothing but first class accommodations.” Fishing with Reno Fly Shop Guides – El Dorado Hotel Casino in Reno: www.EldoradoReno.com and www.renoflyshop.com

You said it best, brother!

For a complete list of the top Sportsman Channel summer destinations, click here.

Memorial Day is a day to remember and honor those who have died in our nation’s service. Traditionally, Americans pay tribute to the brave men and women with patriotic parades and, of course, the usual barbecue and family camping trip.

As you’ve likely discovered, spring in Northern Nevada can mean working on your tan or running for cover from the snow flurries. Luckily, the weather is turning around just in time for your holiday weekend in Reno Tahoe USA.

If you haven’t gotten around to planning your weekend, we here at Reno Tahoe USA are making it easy for you.

You’re welcome.

Honor Our Country’s Heroes

Head back in time to Virginia City for a Memorial Day parade at noon on Saturday, May 29 down C St., Virginia City’s main drag. The parade celebrates the heroism and sacrifice of those Americans who have died defending our nation. 

The Carson City Memorial Day Service at Lone Mountain Cemetery is on Monday, May 31 at 1 p.m. The cemetery is located at 1044 Beverly Dr., Carson City, Nevada 89706. Call (775) 887-2111 or click here for more information.

Take your family to the Sparks Memorial Park at C Street and Pyramid way that features a bronze statue in remembrance of fallen firefighters and a memorial honoring Sparks residents who died defending our country.

Powning Veterans Memorial Park, in downtown Reno at 150 S. Virginia Street, has a memorial to Nevada service men and women who have died serving our country in the wars in Kuwait, Afghanistan, and Iraq. The park also features a statue of General Jesse Reno, who died in Civil War action and for whom Reno was named.

The Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery is in Fernley, about 45 miles east of Reno on Interstate 80. To reach the cemetery from Reno, take I-80 east to exit 48. Turn right and follow the signs to the cemetery.

Outdoor Recreation

If you’re heading to Pyramid Lake, the Paiute Tribe says you definitely won’t be alone. Only 35 miles northeast of Reno, Pyramid Lake is the perfect daytrip or quick, weekend getaway for the entire family. The Tribe is expecting a large crowd and wants to remind you that day use, camping and other permits are required for all nontribal members’ access to the lake. Pyramid Lake is also widely regarded as a world class fishery and one of finest places to catch a Lohanton Cutthroat Trout. (Can’t you just hear the grill sizzling?)

For more information about fishing and Tribal regulations please click here.

For additional information or questions about permits for Pyramid Lake, please click here or call the Ranger Station at 775-476-1155.

For a complete list of parks, beaches and camping sites click here.

Black Rock Rendezvous

If you choose to detour from the traditional Memorial Day celebration, take part in the First Annual Great Basin Brewing Company’s Sulphur to Black Rock Bicycle Race on May 30^th. Spend your weekend camping in the beautiful Black Rock Desert with music, kids’ camps, guided and self-guided tours and more.

To learn more click  here.

The RSCVA and the Reno River Festival are giving away (4) – 2 person team entries to the Run Amuck this Saturday May 8.  To enter, simply go toe the Reno, Nevada Page on Facebook and submit your best picture from any of the previous Run Amucks. Enter as many pictures as you like, we will judge each one individually!

On Friday, we will choose the best 4 pictures that have been submitted and they will receive a free entry for a 2 person team to this Saturdays Run Amuck in Reno.

Winners will be announced on this post, as well as the Reno, Nevada Page on Facebook.

TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice 2010 placed San Francisco and Lake Tahoe in the top two spots for Best Destinations in the United States. TripAdvisor is home to over 30 million trusted traveler reviews and opinions.

Here is why TripAdvisor rated Lake Tahoe as the number two spot to visit in the entire country:

“Basking in its 300 days of sunshine, Lake Tahoe is a haven for outdoor fun in every season. Swimming, kayaking and windsurfing are popular in the summer months, while epic snowfall makes for spectacular skiing in winter. For those who prefer indoor fun, there’s plenty of that in Tahoe, too. With 24-hour casinos and a flashy nightlife scene, the area has a tangible Vegas vibe. A sprinkle of bling, if you will. Not surprising, since Lake Tahoe straddles the border between California and Nevada.”

Here is why TripAdvisor placed San Francisco in the number one spot:

“Who cares about a little fog (okay, a lot of fog) when there’s so much to do in San Francisco? By day, explore Fisherman’s Wharf and the Aquarium of the Bay, ride a cable car, and stroll around the Presidio; by night, have a fabulous dinner (at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a tiny place in Chinatown), then hit some of the best clubs on the West Coast.”

How luck are we? We have the option to live and play in #RenoTahoe or San Francisco, just a short drive from one another!