Schmap Lake Tahoe Historical Background

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Lake Tahoe - Historical Background
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Lake Tahoe Home
Schmap Lake Tahoe guide and map

The elevation of Lake Tahoe is 6,229 feet, making it the highest lake of its size in the United States. The water depth measures 1,645 feet at a portion of the lake in the Crystal Bay area. Thus, it is the tenth deepest lake in the world and third deepest in North America, with amazing clarity to depths of 75-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 191 square miles with 71 miles of exquisite shoreline. The Nevada/California border traverses lengthwise, with a greater portion being on the California side. The average snowfall in some areas is 300-600 inches. Melting snow finds its way to the lake via 63 streams entering the basin. Oddly, there is only one outlet, the Truckee River. Because of the huge volume and constant movement of the water, Lake Tahoe never freezes despite the drastic winter temperatures.

Once Upon A Time

Summer vacationers began arriving more than 10,000 years ago when the Washoe tribe camped along the cool lakeshores. One of their favorite places is known today as Camp Richardson. The men of the tribe were skillful hunters and took advantage of the abundant wildlife. The Washoe women were noted for their intricate and artistic basket weaving. This idyllic lifestyle spanned generations of the peaceful tribe, however, it would not last.

Perhaps the first European American to see Lake Tahoe was John C. Fremont whose exploration party was led by Kit Carson in 1844. The Carson Pass or Mormon-Emigrant Trail became the main east to west route from Utah to California. In 1859, with the discovery of the Comstock Lode in Virginia City, the face of the lake would change forever. With mines, towns and the railroad invading the territory, wood was needed to supply building materials. The East Shore, from what is now Incline Village to Glenbrook, became a vast logging empire and the ravages of clear-cutting would remain evident for years to come.

Multitudes of wealthy people were created during the California and Comstock mining days, and many were attracted to the pristine lake. Thus, the start of tourism and the resulting resorts that were soon to dot the lush landscape. The Tahoe Basin managed to remain in relative obscurity until the 1950s when Bill Harrah and Harvey Gross built the first casinos on the South Shore. With their gaming expertise in Reno, they knew how to attract business for their establishments and became mainstays to this day. Harvey's and Harrah's still remain as popular as ever. In 1960, the Winter Olympic Games were hosted at Squaw Valley on the West Shore. With the resulting publicity, the area was soon recognized as a world-class winter playground, as well as the premier summer vacation venue. The Olympic Rings still remain at Squaw Valley Resort and the place is renowned for year-round sporting activities for all ages to enjoy.

The shoreline now bustles with casinos on the Nevada side of the lake. Perhaps, one of the most notable being the Cal-Neva Lodge, famous for hosting the rich and famous. Frank Sinatra, once part owner, and Marylin Monroe were familiar faces here. John F. Kennedy also enjoyed cavorting at this star-studded establishment. Members of the "mob" were reported to have ties to the casino and were often visitors.

Keep The Ecology, Baby!

While it took natural forces millions of years to create this exquisite masterpiece, man has managed to partially destroy the beauty in little more than a century. Through the years, casinos and resorts and the resulting visitors have upset the balance of nature. We are now in an age when we realize our mistakes and are trying to remedy them. The rebuilding and new construction, on all sides of the lake, is harmoniously blended with the alpine surroundings. Comprehensive studies are being done to find ways to restore the area and keep it as nature intended. In October of 2000, the United States Congress and the House of Representatives authorized $300 million to restore the lake. The work will include restoration of clarity that has waned throughout the years, wetland restoration, erosion control and improving the health of the forest.

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Cal-Neva Resort Hotel Casino

If the walls could talk

2 Stateline Road
Lake Tahoe, NV 89402
United States
+1 775 832 4000
http://www.calnevaresort.com

Dreams were made here and dreams were shattered here. Sinatra sang while Marilyn moped. Kennedy kibitzed and the Rat Pack played. The mob met to do whatever it is that mobs do just because they could. Known as the 'Lady of the Lake', the resort has been a favorite since 1926. Make your own history in this classic casino offering non-stop gaming action. Live music is featured in the famous Circle Bar Saturday nights at 8pm. The deluxe accommodations are extremely comfortable with a lake views.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Cal-Neva Resort Hotel Casino photo by Alex Cordiner

Photo: Alex Cordiner

Cal-Neva Resort Hotel Casino photo by D. Campbell

Photo: D. Campbell

Cal-Neva Resort Hotel Casino photo by dk design studio

Photo: dk design studio

Cal-Neva Resort Hotel Casino photo by Ryan Jerz

Photo: Ryan Jerz

Camp Richardson Resort

Relax amongst the pines 1900 Jameson Beach Road
Lake Tahoe, CA 96158
United States
+1 530 541 1801
http://www.camprich.com/ This historic resort is situated on the southwest shore of Lake Tahoe and hidden amongst the pines. You will be pleased to find one of the longest stretches of beach at the lake. The lodging choices include a lakeside inn, duplexes on the lake, more than 40 cabins and an historic hotel. The hotel is beautifully decorated in turn-of-the-century decor. The cabins come with woodstoves or fireplaces and fully stocked kitchens. It is just a short walk to the Tallac Historic Site. Bicycle rentals and miles of bike paths are also close to this facility.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Jason Kohler
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East Shore

Lake Tahoe
United States
A highway runs along the pristine east edge of the lake, overhung by huge boulders, through areas managed by the U.S. Forestry Service. On the lakeside there are many secluded beaches. In the middle of the East Shore, the highway passes the exclusive town of Glenbrook.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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Harrah's Lake Tahoe

Paradise in the pines P. O. Box 8
Lake Tahoe, NV 89449
United States
+1 775 588 6611 / +1 800 427 7247 (Toll Free)
http://www.harrahs.com/ This hotel is often referred to as the Cadillac of gaming resorts. The action-packed casino offers table games including Pai Gow, Baccarat, Craps and Blackjack. The popular slot machines accept coins and tokens from five cents to $500. Comedy nights at The Improv start at 10:30p Monday and Wednesday through Saturdays and at 8p on Tuesday. Enjoy the fantastic view from Friday's Station Steak and Seafood Grill on the 18th floor. All rooms are deliciously decorated and feature two bathrooms, each one with a telephone and television.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Lee Stanford

Harvey's Tahoe

A local favorite Highway 50
(at Stateline)
Lake Tahoe, NV 89449
United States
+1 775 588 2411
http://www.harrahs.com/ In 1944, Harvey Gross built a one-room casino on the south shore of Lake Tahoe. From this humble beginning, it has grown into a superb lodging and entertainment venue. The gaming area is 88,000 square feet of around-the-clock action, it has been voted "Best Place to Gamble" by Nevada Magazine. High rollers will enjoy the Platinum Players Lounge with marvelous views from the 12th floor. Excellent eateries include the award-winning Llewellyn's. Year after year, the 19-floor luxurious hotel receives the Four Diamond Award.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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Incline Village & Crystal Bay

Lake Tahoe
United States
Incline Village, set above Crystal Bay, is the closest resort to Reno, and one of the most well-developed. On the mountains above there is plentiful skiing, and on the lakeside there are all types of outdoor activities. The town itself has plenty of places in which to stay and a variety of restaurants to choose from.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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South Shore

Lake Tahoe
United States
The South Shore is west of Stateline/South Lake Tahoe but couldn't be more different. Instead of spending time in casinos, people enjoy the beach, the sun, and the mountains. Taylor Creek Visitors' Center is nearby, as well as access to the smaller, more secluded lakes south of Lake Tahoe.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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Squaw Valley USA

Fun at 8,200 feet Highway 89 at Squaw Creek Road
Lake Tahoe, CA 96146
United States
+1 530 583 6955
http://www.squaw.com/ The base village at this resort is at 6,200 feet and features wall climbing, an adventure center with rope courses and a giant swing hanging from a 50-foot tree. Take the tram up to high camp at 8,200 feet, and you will reach a mountain-top paradise. Ice skaters can use the outdoor Olympic Ice Pavilion overlooking Lake Tahoe. You can relax at the swimming lagoon and spa ;cable car and swim pass, including a towel and locker. Some rates are discounted at night.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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West Shore

Lake Tahoe
United States
A naturalist's paradise, the West Shore is home to three state parks: D.L. Bliss State Park, Sugar Pine Point State Park, and Emerald Bay State Park. Since it's on the California side of the state line, there's no gambling. Instead, people come here for hiking, fishing, boating, backpacking, and camping, as well as to enjoy the spectacular scenery.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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Other Schmapplets in this city related to "Lake Tahoe - Historical Background"
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe - Neighborhood Guide
Lake Tahoe - Where to Stay
Lake Tahoe - Dining & Drinking
Lake Tahoe - Art & Entertainment
Other nearby cities:
Reno (52 miles)
Sacramento (138 miles)
Yosemite (167 miles)
Napa Valley (222 miles)
Berkeley (241 miles)
San Francisco (247 miles)
San Jose and Silicon Valley (261 miles)
Monterey and Carmel (326 miles)
Las Vegas (558 miles)
Boise (596 miles)

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