The legend of Tahoe Tessie is currently one of the most well-known sea creature legends in the world.  Tahoe Tessie is said to be much like the Loch Ness Monster, who has been spotted by many in Scotland.

In a lake that’s 1,645 feet deep, 22 miles long, and twelve miles wide, it’s only inevitable that there’s something large floating within its waters.  Tahoe Tessie sightings are reported about a half-dozen times per year, and eyewitnesses claim that she’s approximately 60 feet long, with reptile-like features, dark skin, and a long neck.

Lake Tahoe has carried the legend of Tahoe Tessie since the early 1800’s, when Indian tribes began to speak of her existence.  However, it wasn’t until the 1970’s when oceanographer Jacques Cousteau was face-to-face with her on his explorative exploration of the depths of the lake, stirring up the myth of Tessie and quoting, “The world wasn’t ready for what was down there!”

Dozens of scientists, visitors, and residents of the Lake Tahoe area have seen Tahoe Tessie, and all of them were wowed by her large, dark appearance.  Ironically enough, Tessie is said to reside in the east shore of Lake Tahoe, near the nude beaches. 

Read more about the legend of Tahoe Tessie:

>> Tahoe Tessie Story - Unexplained Mysteries

>> The Tahoe Tessie Legend Remains Alive - Tahoe Daily Tribune 

>> Who is Tahoe Tessie? - Reno News & Review 

The beauty of Lake Tahoe draws people from all walks of life, including celebrities, producers, directors, and other people in the film industry who choose to include this natural landmark as the scenic location for one of their films.

Movies that have been filmed at Lake Tahoe in the past include City of Angels, starring Nicolas Cage and Megg Ryan; The Bodyguard, starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner; The Godfather, starring Al Pacino and Marlon Brando; Smokin’ Aces, starring Ryan Reynolds and Jeremy Piven; The Deep End, starring Tilda Swinton and Goran Visnjic; Things Change, starring Don Ameche and Joe Mantegna; and Indian Love Call, starring Jeanette Macdonald and Nelson Eddy, which was actually the first movie ever to be filmed at the second deepest lake in our country, with a release date in the year of 1936.

Also, movies that have shot a scene or two at Lake Tahoe include, Showgirls, starring Elizabeth Berkley and Kyle MacLachlan; and the well-known Rocky & Bullwinkle.  Lake Tahoe is a great backdrop for any artist’s imagination, as it’s stunning and beautiful all year long.  In the summer, the skies are bright blue, the water even bluer, and in the wintertime, the snow sends out a distinct glow over the entire lake that just makes you feel at peace.  It’s a calm and tranquil home away from home, if you will. 

The Sierra’s have always been known for their great snowy winters.  It’s been a few years since Lake Tahoe has experienced a winter like it’s experiencing during this 2007-8 season.  With storms hitting back to back since the beginning of January, the town is continually clearing the roads and walkways. 

As a child growing up in Lake Tahoe the winters were magical.  We would get 4-5 feet of snow and they’d cancel school.  We kids would walk around the neighborhood for hours jumping in the snowdrifts, walking in the tire tracks in the middle of the road and climbing the mountains of snow left by the snowplows.  We would make snow angels and snow forts and snow ice cream. 

As a grown up, the snow is fun and beautiful, but there is work to be done!  Shoveling walkways and roofs, snow blowing, snowplowing and just plain digging out.  The ski areas are keeping their employees busy this year with extra grooming, clearing out the lift stations, and servicing all of the extra guests who are enjoying the great new snow.

Our Operations Manager Lennette Perry had to hire someone to snow blow around the fence in her backyard because the dogs were just “walking” over it.  In the parking lot of Tahoe Valley School in her neighborhood, there is a mountain of snow 25 feet high.  So high, it had to be roped off to keep the children safe.

A few little driving tips for the winter snow.  The berms on the sides of the road are really high this year and can obstruct visibility, so be careful when backing out of driveways or making left turns on or off of the Highways.  Also, try to keep from parking your car on city streets during storms, the city will tow your car and the fines are very hefty.  Listen to the Highway Road Reports before heading over any mountain passes, and keep a shovel, blanket, water and snacks in your car for unexpected delays.

And don’t forget, you don’t have to be a skier, snowboarder or child to enjoy the snow, there is a child in every one of us who’s dying to come to Lake Tahoe and make a snowball.

As the Stateline office manager I am asked frequently by our guests about the best dining options for their family or group.  I've included the most popular "Quick Picks" (I'm an avid football fan) in the list below along with links (if available) for menus and maps. 

3 Picks Nevada Fine Dining

Chart House Restaurant- Steak, Seafood 392 Kingsbury Grade Stateline, NV 775-588-6276

Mirabelle- French 290 Kingsbury Grade Stateline, NV 775-586-1007

Friday’s Station Steak and Seafood Grill @ Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, NV 775-588-6611

3 Picks Nevada Budget Friendly

Thai One On-Thai 292 Kingsbury Grade Stateline, NV 775-586-8424

Timberhouse- American Variety Lakeside Inn & Casino 160 Hwy 50 at Kingsbury Grade Stateline, NV 775-588-7777

New York Pizza – Pizza, Italian Kingsbury Station at 209 Kingsbury Grade Stateline, NV 775-588-0442

3 Picks Nevada Bars and Clubs

Mott Canyon Tavern & Grill 259 Kingsbury Grade Stateline, NV 775-588-8989

Fox and Hound 237 Tramway, Upper Kingsbury Stateline, NV 775-588-8887

Vex @ Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Hwy 50 Stateline, NV 775-588-6611

Football season is in full swing and ski season is just getting rolling.  Any season is great to stay with Lake Tahoe Accommodations. It’s easy to enjoy a fantastic and relaxing getaway in one of the most beautiful places in the country. We have that special place that you’re looking for whether it be near the lake or a cozy mountain hideaway. Many of our homes offer spacious living rooms with large screen T.V.'s for your football viewing. Don't miss the game…or the vacation! Call 800-250-8013 or visit our website to book before Halftime!

Every October when the crowds leave and the nights get cooler I start anticipating the winter. There is nothing better than the feel of the snow rushing under my snowboard. Hard pack, fresh powder, perfectly cut corduroy, it doesn't really matter. As long as I am out on the mountain with the crisp cool air and the push of gravity making me smile all the way to the bottom and back to the top again.

Last year was no exception! Even though we didn't mind the extra shoveling and wet clothes, we could have used a lot more of that fluffy white stuff.

I just want every one out there to THINK SNOW! Our resort destination needs it to keep our businesses thriving, our lake needs to stay full, and our wildlife need to have plenty of food in the spring and summer. I need it for that spiritual rush, that adrenaline pumping speed, and for my sanity.

So please, think snow. Do a little dance, make a little snow, and let’s have an epic winter!!!

Although the first flakes of snow fell only two days ago in the Lake Tahoe Basin, the bears are still weeks away from hibernation. Two hungry and curious cubs visited our Stateline office just last week I snapped the photo above from my window. The bears munched on berries for about an hour before they headed back up the mountain looking for their mom.

The bears have been very active this year. Dry conditions in the mountains and the recent fire have brought about more human/bear encounters. Our office staff will provide instructions on securing your garbage, and we recommend that coolers and other food containers not be left outside your rental at any time. Please refer to the following website for tips on what you should do if you encounter one of our furry friends during your stay: www.tahoewildbears.org