When Northern Californians mention “The Lake,” you know they’re talking Tahoe. September is “tweener” season at Big Blue, a time when locals breathe deep, tourism drops off and visitors in the know snag mega-deals on lodging. It’s also a great time to swim and hike with your dog—not just at Lake Tahoe itself, but at nearby splash spots, as well. Where to dip toes and paws? Our Tahoe-area “A” List follows.
Take a dip on your next trip at dog-friendly Tahoe beaches including Nevada Beach (the dog-welcoming strip of sand at the boat-in picnic area at the strand’s far end is where you want to go); Zephyr Cove (dogs not allowed on the sandy part of this popular resort’s beach, but the two of you are welcome to explore the rocky area on the north end); Kiva Beach, the best-known shoreline area on the lake’s south shore (stay leashed or risk a citation); Regan Memorial City Beach (leash or unleash at your discretion); and Obexer’s General Store in Homewood, where you can grab lunch and chow down while throwing balls to your water-crazy dog.
Other DogTrekker favorites in the vicinity of Tahoe include Fallen Leaf Lake, second-largest body of water in the Tahoe Basin; and Echo Lakes, a pair of gorgeous blue pools tucked into a granite basin near Echo Summit on Highway 50.
