Lake Tahoe: Facts & Information

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Lake Facts & Information

Lake Tahoe is full of astounding facts. It's the second-deepest lake in the United States, for example, and the 15th deepest in the world. Other info about tourism, recreation, and geology is just as interesting. You can find lots of information at any of Tahoe's visitors' centers. Read More

Lake Tahoe is nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It straddles the border of Nevada and California. The lake is renowned for its clear water and beautiful views. You'll also find various ski resorts, guided tours, state parks, and recreational opportunities.

Here's some further info about Lake Tahoe: At more than 1,645 feet deep, Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in the nation, and the 15th deepest in the entire world. It's roughly 22 miles long and has a width of 12 miles. Most of the lake's shoreline is protected by state or national forest services. Two-thirds of the lake lies in California; the rest is in Nevada. The lake was formed by geologic faulting a couple of million years ago. The same processes that created the lakes created the many mountains around the lake, the tallest of which, Freel Peak, is almost 10,900 feet tall. After the lake formed, glaciers scoured and shaped it.

These days, the lake is a hub of recreation and tourist activities. It boasts 12 ski resorts and endless backcountry skiing, hiking, mountain biking, and camping opportunities. The lake is also extremely popular for water sports like jetskiing, sailing, yachting, and kayaking. Visitors also come to the lake to gamble: It's legal on the Nevada side. For more facts and information about Lake Tahoe, check out any of the lake's Visitors Centers.