The Lake Tahoe Water Trail Committee released a new edition of its “Lake Tahoe Water Trail Map & Guide” earlier this summer, and if you haven’t picked up a copy, you need to get one.
The map is a waterproof and tearproof map of Lake Tahoe and Fallen Leaf Lake that was specially designed for kayakers to help them navigate on their own around the lake. The map is an ingenious idea and features GPS waypoints, put-in points (including boat ramps, marinas and spots to put in by car) and a list of local sites of interests. But, probably the most useful information is the guide that lists lodging, boating, camping, picnicking, dining and other useful information to aid in your trip around Lake Tahoe.
While originally designed with kayakers in mind, any one that spends time on the water will find this map a great tool to have with them.
The map is wonderfully detailed with lake depths and cleared marked shorelines, with both public and private lands clearly marked. I have a collection of Tahoe maps, and this is one of the best-produced and most useful maps I’ve ever seen.
As I was reading my copy of the map recently (and, I love to read maps), I marveled at the amount of time and energy that has been devoted to this particular guide. The Lake Tahoe Water Trail Committee, a group of paddling advocates, has compiled 294 places to help kayakers navigate the lake from public beaches and campgrounds to restaurants and lodging that can be accessed by the lake.
There are also historical points of interest including the Thunderbird Lodge, Tallac Historic Site, Sugar Pine Point State Park and many others. They also include a list of local outfitters accessible by water in case you need supplies and interesting points like the underwater barge in Emerald Bay or the Lakefront Wedding Chapel in South Lake (I guess in case you decide to be wed during your trip around the lake).
The map features a point with a color-coded key. On the back is detailed information on each site including a key that will tell you if there’s a pier, fuel, lodging, camping, restaurants, restrooms, local transit, outfitter, showers, phones and much more. As well, they provide local emergency information and contact information for local visitor’s centers to help you on your trip.
The maps retail for $10.99 and are available at most local outfitters and bookstores. For more information on the map of the Lake Tahoe Water Trail Committee, visit www.laketahoewatertrail.org.
Zebra & Quagga Mussels
The Committee also includes information on the map about the zebra and quagga mussels, two invasive species that the TRPA is trying to keep from infecting Lake Tahoe. These mussels can be transported from infected waterways to Lake Tahoe, causing significant damage to clarity and will clog and damage boats and municipal water systems.
These mussels can survive for weeks in standing water or on any wet material from kayaks to PFDs, wet suits, clothes, shoes and other equipment. The most effective way to prevent their spread is to clean, drain and dry anything that has touched the water. If kayakers launch at a public boat launch, they are required to have an inspection, which is provided free for all non-motorized vessels. If you’re not sure about your equipment, please take the time to have this free inspection done. (There’s a fee for motorized vessels.) For more information on the mussels, visit www.protecttahoe.org. To find a local inspection site, see the list of public launches on our Marina chart in this edition.
Lodge to Lodge Kayak Tours
Tahoe Adventure Company is offering the first Lodge to Lodge Kayak Tour along the Lake Tahoe Water Trail from Sept. 24 to 27 and from Oct. 1 to 4.
The tours feature a multi-day kayak and stay package along the West, North and East shores of Lake Tahoe. Enjoy the glassy, clear waters with early morning guided paddles spotting local wildlife and learning the unique natural and human history of this special region.
In addition to thorough instruction, guides will inform participants 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 breakfast, finishes in the afternoon and is suitable for beginners. Evenings are enjoyed with delicious meals at local restaurants.
Space is limited. For details, call Tahoe Adventure Company at (530) 913-9212.
Emerald Bay trip
Truckee-Donner Parks and Rec. and Tahoe Diver’s Conservancy is offering a trip on Sept. 11 to Emerald Bay to visit one of the sites where the Tahoe Diver’s Conservancy is working to eradicate invasive species in Lake Tahoe.
Learn about zebra and quagga mussels, New Zealand clams, curly leaf pondweed, millefoil and other species that are threatening the Lake. Participants will be able to observe conservancy divers at work on the site. The trip is 9 a.m. to noon and is limited to 14 people. The cost is $52 per person. The trip, without divers at work, also will be offered on Oct. 2. To register, call (530) 582-7720.
Kayak Safety Class
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary wraps its series of safety classes with a Kayak Safety class on Oct. 10. The class will include an introduction to kayaking, selecting a life jacket and protective clothing, recommended safety equipment, cold water hazards and more. This class is $30 per person and will be held at the Coast Guard Station in Lake Forest. To register or for more information, call Jerry Gilmore at (530) 587-3334.
