August 15 Grand Opening Planned for New Kings Beach Visitor Information Center

Mon | Jul 22, 2024

August 15 Grand Opening Planned for New Kings Beach Visitor Information Center

The thriving Kings Beach community will soon be home to a permanent, year-round Visitor Information Center. Designed to serve as a hub for visitors and the business community, the facility will house an educational video exhibit created by the UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center, a retail component where local makers and artisans can feature their works, and a well-informed staff happy to give tips and insights in-person to all who enter and to connect visitors with the local business community in support of the region’s economic health. Additionally, there will be a satellite office for the North Tahoe Chamber.

A North Tahoe Chamber Mixer and Grand Opening celebration is planned for Thursday, August 15 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. that will be open to the public.



Following the grand opening event, the new Visitor Center will be open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

The new Kings Beach Visitor Information Center is located at 8611 North Lake Blvd. at the intersection of SR-28 and Racoon Street. Learn more about North Lake Tahoe’s Visitor Centers at http://www.northtahoecommunityalliance.com/visitor-center/.

NTCA Seeks Volunteer Members for TOT Advisory Committee

Tue | Jun 11, 2024

NTCA Seeks Volunteer Members for TOT Advisory Committee

The North Tahoe Community Alliance is seeking two more candidates for the newly formed TOT Advisory Committee. The committee merges the responsibilities of the former TOT and CAP committees and streamlines efforts to direct the roughly $10M of Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) revenues generated by overnight stays in local hotels and short-term rentals in North Lake Tahoe. 

The NTCA is currently seeking applicants for:

  • One additional member who represents workforce housing with knowledge or background in housing planning, construction, and/or financing, with experience or knowledge navigating regulatory frameworks and developing community consensus around housing projects.
  • One additional representative who could represent the Donner Summit area of Placer County.

Applications are now closed.

Applications will be accepted from June 10 – July 10, 2024. The NTCA Board of Directors will seat the two additional committee members at their August 7, 2024 meeting.

The TOT Advisory committee is comprised of 13-15 regional business and community representatives who will recommend TOT funding for projects and programs aligning with community priorities of the TOT-TBID Dollars at Work Program. Committee members will provide valuable input and help guide the work of the NTCA. Committee positions require a two-year commitment, with typical committee meetings taking place once per month and lasting 1-3 hours per meeting.

Learn more about the committee and the application process here. For questions on the application process, or to request a paper application, please email [email protected].

Honoring Influential Women in North Lake Tahoe this Women's History Month

Fri | Mar 8, 2024

Honoring Influential Women in North Lake Tahoe this Women’s History Month

In honor of Women’s History Month, NTCA is highlighting influential women and their contributions to North Lake Tahoe. Learn more about these incredible women here on our blog or follow along with the series on Instagram.


Dat-So-La-Lee, Champion of Washoe Basketry

Dat-So-La-Lee (1829–1925), American name Louisa Keyser, was more than a basket weaver; she was a cultural icon and trailblazer for the Washoe people, leaving her mark not only on her homeland but also on the serene beauty of Lake Tahoe. Born as Dabuda near Sheridan in Carson Valley, Dat-So-La-Lee’s intricate baskets, known as degikup, captured the essence of Washoe heritage.

Despite facing numerous challenges and personal losses, Dat-So-La-Lee’s dedication to her craft never wavered. Her baskets, sought after for their exquisite craftsmanship and storytelling symbolism, found their way to museums across the nation, including the Gatekeeper’s Museum in Tahoe City.

From her classical weaving phase to her innovative designs, Dat-So-La-Lee’s legacy continues to inspire generations, reminding us of the rich cultural tapestry woven into the fabric of Lake Tahoe’s history. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s honor the pioneering spirit of Dat-So-La-Lee and recognize her invaluable contributions to Washoe culture and heritage.

Photo: Gatekeeper’s Museum


Anne Brigman, Trailblazer of the Sierra Nevada

Anne Brigman (1869–1950) was not just a photographer; she was a fearless pioneer who shattered gender norms in the male-dominated field of photography. Against societal expectations, she boldly ventured into the rugged landscapes of the Sierra Nevada, armed with her camera and a vision. Through her lens, Brigman captured the raw beauty of nature and the human form, challenging the conventional portrayal of women in art. Her daring self-portraits, often set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sierra, celebrated the strength and resilience of womanhood. Brigman’s trailblazing spirit continues to inspire generations of women to fearlessly pursue their passions and carve their own paths.

Photo: Gatekeeper’s Museum


Myrtle Huddleston’s Aquatic Triumphs

In 1931, Mrs. Myrtle Huddleston made waves as the world’s champion endurance swimmer among women, showcasing unparalleled determination and resilience. Despite taking her first swimming lesson just five years prior, Mrs. Huddleston achieved remarkable feats, including swimming 36 miles across Catalina Channel in 20 hours and 42 minutes and winning the ocean championship at Del Ray Beach, Fla., with a swim lasting 31 hours and 18 minutes.

Venturing to Lake Tahoe, Mrs. Huddleston faced the challenges of high altitude and icy mountain spring waters, yet remained undeterred. Clad in an unassuming one-piece bathing suit and coated in grease, she embarked on a 16-mile swim from Glenbrook, Nev., to Tahoe Tavern, Calif. Despite encountering misdirection, strong winds, and physical discomfort, Mrs. Huddleston’s unwavering resolve propelled her forward.

 After 23 grueling hours in the water, Mrs. Huddleston emerged triumphant at Tahoe Tavern, her son Everett cheering her on from a rowboat. Though fatigued and tested, she deemed her Lake Tahoe swim as the pinnacle of her aquatic achievements, a testament to her indomitable spirit and unparalleled tenacity.

Photo: openwaterswimming.com


Tahoe City Women’s Club

This Women’s History Month, we are reminded of the great work done by the Women’s Club of Tahoe City established in 1927. Among the causes taken up by the group were the purchase of fire fighting equipment (years ahead of an organized fire department), the founding of a local lending library and aid to those in need within their community.

Funds for their projects were raised chiefly by the raffling of handmade quilts and holding community dances. These women banded together in the name of charity and certainly left their mark on the history of North Lake Tahoe.

Photo: Gatekeeper’s Museum
Enter to Win WinterWonderGrass tickets and Palisades Tahoe lift tickets

Fri | Mar 1, 2024

Enter to Win WinterWonderGrass tickets and Palisades Tahoe lift tickets

NTCA is giving away two 3-day VIP WinterWonderGrass Tahoe tickets and two 3-day Palisades Tahoe lift tickets!

To enter:

  1. Follow the NTCA Instagram channel, @northtahoecommunityalliance and the WinterWonderGrass Instagram channel, @winterwondergrass.
  2. Share our giveaway post on your Instagram story.
  3. Post an @mention tagging one or more friends using their Instagram handle on the designated NTCA Instagram post related to the giveaway. Tagging more than one person guarantees only one (1) entry.

One entry per Instagram profile is allowed during the sweepstakes period.

Entries will be accepted from March 4, 2024, at 12:00 A.M. (PST) through March 21, 2024, at 11:59 P.M. (PST).  NTCA will choose a winner at random and announce on the NTCA Instagram channel on March 22, 2024. Winner will provide their name and email address to NTCA for digital tickets/ticket codes.


North Tahoe Community Alliance WinterWonderGrass Giveaway Official Rules

B&P Code Section 17539.15(k)(2) states,
(2) “Official rules” means the formal printed statement, however designated, of the rules for the promotional sweepstakes appearing in the solicitation materials. The official rules shall be prominently identified and all references thereto in any solicitation materials shall consistently use the designation for the official rules that appear in those materials. Each sweepstakes solicitation shall contain a copy of the official rules. 

No purchase necessary to enter or win.   

SWEEPSTAKE PERIOD: Entries will be accepted beginning March 4, 2024 at 12:00 A.M. (PST) through March 21, 2024 at 11:59 P.M. (PST).  Entries submitted before or after this period will be disqualified.  SWEEPSTAKE SPONSOR: North Tahoe Community Alliance at 100 North Lake Blvd. Tahoe City CA 96145. HOW TO ENTER: Entrants must follow the NTCA Instagram channel, @northtahoecommunityalliance and the WinterWonderGrass Instagram channel, @winterwondergrass, share the NTCA giveaway post on their Instagram story, and post an @mention tagging one or more person(s) with their own Instagram handle on the designated NTCA Instagram post related to Giveaway.  ELIGIBLITY: (1) entry per Instagram profile is allowed, during the sweepstake period. Tagging more than one person in an @comment will not guarantee additional entries. Sponsor reserves the right in its sole and unfettered discretion to disqualify any entry that it believes contains obscene, offensive or inappropriate content, that does not comply with these Official Rules or that is not consistent with the spirit or theme of the sweepstake.  All entrants must be legal residents of one of the 50 United States and 21 years or older. Employees, directors, contractors and officers of Sponsor, their respective parents, affiliates, subsidiaries, distributors, advertising and promotional agencies or other companies associated with the promotion of the Drawing, as well as the immediate family (spouse, parents, siblings, children, and their respective spouses) and household members of each such employee are not eligible.  Entrants must have a valid email address and it is entrant’s responsibility to update Sponsor of any change in email address. Sweepstake Sponsor is not responsible for incorrect email addresses, server issues, winners moving or relocating or issues with lost or stolen mail, coupons or delivery. Expenses not specifically included in prize description and all taxes are the sole responsibility of the winner. Prize is awarded “as is” with no warranty or guarantee, either express or implied outside of manufacturer’s limited warranty. No transfer, assignment or substitution of a prize permitted, except Sponsor reserves the right to substitute prize for an item of equal or greater value in the event an advertised prize is unavailable. PRIZE: Winner wins TWO 3-day VIP WinterWonderGrass Tahoe tickets and TWO 3-day Palisades Tahoe lift tickets.  Winner will be chosen by Sponsor at random and announced on Instagram on March 22, 2024. Winner will provide their name and email address to NTCA for digital tickets/ticket codes. USE OF WINNER’S NAME, LIKENESS, CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE and/or PRIZE INFORMATION: Except where prohibited by law, entry into the sweepstake constitutes the winner’s consent to the use by North Tahoe Community Alliance of winner’s name, likeness, voice, lithographical data, city and state of residence and entry materials including original photos in programming or promotional material, worldwide in perpetuity or on a winner’s list, if applicable, without further compensation. Sponsor is not obligated to use any of the above-mentioned information or materials but may do so and may edit such information or materials, at Sponsor’s sole discretion, without further obligation or compensation. GENERAL:  Participation in the sweepstake constitutes entrant’s full and unconditional agreement to and acceptance for these official rules and the decisions of sponsor, which are final and binding.  This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with Instagram. The entrant is providing information to Sponsor and not to Instagram. No information provided will be given to or sold to a third party.

Support Local This Valentine's Day

Mon | Feb 12, 2024

Support Local This Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s Week! Whether you’re looking to show your love with flowers and chocolate, want to try a new experience with your Valentine or your friends, or are looking for an upbeat, fun evening, here are five ways to support local businesses this Valentine’s week.

Flowers

Wyld Peony recently opened a storefront in an elegant new retail space. Stop by their store in Incline Village for a beautiful arrangement!

Chocolates

Tahoe City Chocolates, located in Boatworks Mall, offers handmade chocolates, candies from all over the world, delicious ice cream, classic confections and more.

Gifts

Chickadee Art Collective offers handmade gifts from local artists. They also offer Adult Art Classes on Tuesdays at the North Tahoe Event Center through March 12.

Experiences

Lost Sauna Co. Wellness Series at the North Tahoe Event Center offers sessions each Sunday in February from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Learn the benefits of breathwork, cold plunges, and saunas. Each session focuses on a guided breathing technique in the Lakeview Room, followed by a group cold plunge in Lake Tahoe, and then a lakeside sauna session.

Food and Drink

Stop by Alibi Ale Works in Incline Village for dinner, beer and trivia. This week’s Wednesday trivia falls on Valentine’s Day! Trivia begins at 6:00 p.m. You can also stock up on your favorite beers to take home.

For more local business options, check out the North Lake Tahoe Business Directory. Plus, learn more about what the North Tahoe Chamber does to support our local businesses!

Explore the New Vision for the North Tahoe Business Community at one of the 2024 Collaborative Membership Roadshow and Chamber Launch Parties!

Thu | Jan 11, 2024

Explore the New Vision for the North Tahoe Business Community at one of the 2024 Collaborative Membership Roadshow and Chamber Launch Parties!


The Tahoe City Downtown Association (TCDA), North Tahoe Business Association (NTBA), and the North Tahoe Chamber (NTC) are excited to unveil an exciting new vision to support the North Tahoe Business Community.

Join these organizations at an upcoming roadshow to discuss the launch of the NT Chamber and membership efficiencies with the business associations in areas such as marketing, programs, economic development, community vitality, and advocacy.

This partnership has paved the way for innovative initiatives that the TCDA, NTBA and NTC are thrilled to share with the community, as well as hear feedback on how we can better serve our businesses and community. 

We extend our sincere appreciation for your participation and eagerly anticipate working hand-in-hand to shape a bright and prosperous future for our business community.

North Lake Tahoe Holiday Happenings 2023

Mon | Dec 18, 2023

North Lake Tahoe Holiday Happenings 2023

Are you looking to celebrate with and support the North Lake Tahoe community or give back through volunteering? Learn more about this year’s holiday events.


2023 Tahoe Truckee Toys for Tots | Through December 13

Make the holiday season bright! Your donation of new toys or dollars stays local from Truckee to Incline Village and around the lake. Drop off new, unwrapped toys in the collection boxes at dozens of local businesses and organizations, including the Tahoe City Visitors Center at 100 N Lake Blvd. in Tahoe City.

Learn more or sign up to receive toys


Holiday Tree Lighting | December 1

On Friday, December 1 from 5:00-7:00 pm, visit the North Tahoe Event Center in Kings Beach for the Holiday Tree Lighting hosted by the North Tahoe PUD. Enjoy photos with Santa, local live music, crafts, soup, cocoa, face painting and more!


Holiday Maker’s Market | December 2

The Tahoe Backyard and Chickadee Art Collective present the Holiday Maker’s Market on December 2 from 12:00-4:00 pm. Stop by the Tahoe Backyard in Kings Beach for great shopping, lively music, local artists, fresh eats from Mountain Lotus Provisions, free coca at Chickadee Tahoe, carolers, beer specials from Bear Belly Brewing Company and more!

Learn More


Light Up the Streets

North Tahoe Business Association invites members, community, and visitors to participate in giving North Lake Tahoe an extra holiday glow! Feeling festive and eager to decorate? Use that holiday spirit and enter NTBA’s Holiday Lighting Contest. Business owners and individuals alike are encouraged to participate in this fun contest. Check out the categories and learn how to enter below. Entries must be received by December 15, 2023.

Light Up The Streets


Tahoe Nutcracker | December 15-17

The Lake Tahoe Dance Collective production of Tahoe Nutcracker premiered in 2019 and is set in the ballroom of the Tahoe Tavern on Christmas Eve one hundred years ago. The performance features two principal dancers from the New York City Ballet and the production will feature some new costumes and setpieces.

Get Tickets


Ornament Workshop at Bear Belly Brewing Company with Chickadee Art Collective | December 15

From 6:00-8:00 p.m., get crafty with Chickadee Art Collective and Bear Belly Brewing and explore a variety of DIY ornament stations for you to make 6+ ornaments to give away or keep for yourself. $35 per person includes one beer and all the supplies you’ll need to make a bunch of rad ornaments.


Tahoe City Holiday Market | December 16 & 23

Stop by the indoor market from 3:00-8:00 p.m. at the Boatworks Mall in Tahoe City to support local artists and crafters! Stroll the beautiful lake-side Boatworks Mall with a glass of wine, beer or cocoa from Tahoe Wine Collective and visit the Boatworks Mall shops for a festive afternoon.


Tahoe Wine Collective Holiday Cookie Decorating Workshop | December 16

Get in the holiday spirit at the Tahoe Wine Collective with a Holiday Cookie Decorating Workshop! Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this workshop is perfect for everyone. Learn new techniques, unleash your creativity, and create edible masterpieces that will impress your family and friends. 

Learn More


Final Fall Harvest Market | December 21

Support our local farmers at the last farmers market of 2023 at Boatworks Mall. Stop by from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. for fresh produce, meats, fish, dairy, baked goods, and gifts from local artisans. Support local businesses and enjoy your holiday shopping! 


Cozy Up at the Tahoe XC Lodge | December 18-23

Stop by the Tahoe XC Lodge after a winter walk and warm up with some complimentary hot chocolate or hot cider by the fire. There may even be some cookies ready!

The lodge and retail shop will be open to pick up season passes or peacefully relax by the fire before kicking into full gear this winter. It’s the perfect opportunity to drop off your skis for some fresh wax before the snow starts to fly. 


10th Annual Holiday Bazaar at Tahoe Flow Arts and Fitness | December 23

Tahoe Flow Arts & Fitness presents its Annual Holiday Bazaar on December 23. The market kicks off at 3 p.m., followed by performances at 6 p.m. This event is a fundraiser for our Youth Scholarship Program, performing arts education, and community entertainment programs.

Get Tickets


Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade | December 24

Gather family and friends for a Christmas Eve tradition at Granlibakken Tahoe as skiers illuminate the ski hill with torches followed by Santa and his elves arriving on the vintage Tucker Sno Cat from 5:00-6:00 p.m. Holiday gifts are handed out to children and complimentary cookies winter beverages are served at our historic ski hill.

Dress warmly and enjoy treats and a fireplace in the Ski Hut. There is no cost to attend, so spread the word and bring your loved ones!

Learn More


Christmas Pageant & Candlelight Service | December 24

All are welcome to the Olympic Valley Chapel at 444 Shirley Canyon Road on December 24, 2023, at 5:30 PM for a Christmas Pageant and Candlelight Service. Costumes and refreshments will be provided.

Learn More



Thanksgiving and Small Business Saturday Events


Sierra Community House | November 21-22

Sierra Community House offers special food distributions for the Thanksgiving holiday including a turkey and fixings. Services are free and everyone is welcome. You can register onsite and no qualifying documentation is required.

  • Truckee Drive-Through: November 21, 4-5 pm
    • Sierra Community House, 12116 Chandelle Way
  • Kings Beach Walk-Up | November 22, 3-4:30 pm
    • Sierra Community House, 265 Bear Street

For more info call (775) 545-4083 or email [email protected]


Tahoe Community Thanksgiving Celebration | November 23

Join for a free Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday, November 23 from 1-5:30 pm at the North Tahoe Event Center. Donations are welcome: new unwrapped toys, cans of food for Sierra Community House, donation of $2 per person or $5 per family, a potluck dish to share with others, or volunteer to help.

For more info call (916) 764-6488 or email [email protected]


Small Business Saturday | November 25

Kings Beach Holiday Walkabout

Support your local shops on Small Business Saturday! On Saturday, November 25 from 10 am – 7 pm stop by participating Kings Beach businesses to shop and enjoy special offerings, discounts, Christmas cheer and community. Shops include:

  • The Robin’s Nest
  • Jackpot Thrift
  • Pistol Annie’s Flea Market
  • Brockway Art & Culinary Antiques
  • Hot Diggity Dog & Cat Pet Store
  • Lady Luck Skate Shop
  • KB Print & Frame
  • Wellbeing Gifts & Massage
  • Chickadee Art Collective
  • KB Nails
  • Ace Hardware

#ShopSmall Week and Small Business Saturday in Tahoe City

On November 25, stop by Tahoe City for the “Holiday Hop”, a town-wide Small Business Saturday extravaganza, centered around Boatworks Mall. This festive event will be taking place from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm, with the grand tree lighting ceremony at around 5:30 p.m. Fun is in store for the whole family, including crafts for kids and small business collateral to promote shopping small throughout the season. And, of course, Santa will be there for photos, along with a photo booth to capture your holiday memories. To make the day eve

Events Receive Funding in First Round of 2024 Sponsorship Funding

Mon | Nov 13, 2023

Events Receive Funding in First Round of 2024 Sponsorship Funding

At the recommendation of the volunteer Chamber Advisory Committee, the North Tahoe Community Alliance (NTCA) Board of Directors awarded $192,000 in sponsorship funding, generated by the North Lake Tahoe Tourism Business Improvement District (NLT-TBID), to six events scheduled to take place in North Lake Tahoe in 2024. Scoring and funding prioritization were based on how the events contribute to and benefit economic health, community vitality and environmental stewardship. Each event’s traffic management and sustainability plans were also evaluated, with organizers responsible for identifying and outlining how they will mitigate the impacts of tourism on the community and environment.

The six events that received funding for 2024 include:

In early December, the NTCA will begin accepting applications for funding support of events coming to the community between May 1 and July 30, 2024. Submission criteria and the application process will be outlined soon, with a mid-January date the deadline to submit.


LEARN MORE
New Tennis and Pickleball Facility at the North Tahoe Regional Park and More Fall/Winter Programming

Tue | Oct 31, 2023

New Tennis and Pickleball Facility at the North Tahoe Regional Park and More Fall/Winter Programming

The North Tahoe PUD recently announced the opening of the all-new Tennis and Pickleball Facility in the North Tahoe Regional Park. Three new tennis courts and six new pickleball courts are now open to the public. This project was supported with grant funding from the NTCA, the Placer County Park Dedication Fund, and the NTPUD Capital Improvement Plan Budget. Check out the NTPUD’s new webpage for details on facility hours and court rental fees.

Have you signed up for fall and winter programs yet?

NTPUD Residents: Check out the Fall/Winter 2023 Activity Guide and sign up!

TCPUD Residents: Online registration for Fall/Winter Recreation Programs and Winter Sports Park Reservations for the Tahoe City PUD opens on Thursday, November 2 at 12:00 PM. Check out the activity guide and get ready to sign up!

Lake Tahoe Stewardship Plan Draws National Attention

Mon | Oct 23, 2023

Lake Tahoe Stewardship Plan Draws National Attention

The multi-jurisdictional development of the Lake Tahoe Destination Stewardship Plan and efforts to educate visitors about how to help take care of Tahoe has drawn the attention of national media outlets, including CNN Travel and Comstock’s in recent weeks.

Yes, Tahoe Has a Tourism Problem
Moonshine Ink
Megan Michelson 
October 12, 2023

Saving Lake Tahoe
Comstock’s
Ashleigh Goodwin
September 11, 2023

The monster that feeds and eats away at Lake Tahoe
CNN Travel
Kimberley Lovato
September 7, 2023


In addition, in early August, NTCA president and CEO Tony Karwowski, Travel North Tahoe Nevada president and CEO Andy Chapman, and Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority CEO Carol Chaplin penned the joint op-ed you’ll find below. This op-ed was recently published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune.


To Take Care of Tahoe, Everyone Has a Role to Play.

By Tony Karwowski, Andy Chapman, and Carol Chaplin

Recent news stories have highlighted some of the impacts of tourism in Tahoe. While some of the efforts underway to help reduce human impacts and shift behaviors are mentioned, those stories rarely emphasize how reliant Tahoe’s economy is on tourism. After all, it is what supports local businesses and puts many of our friends and neighbors to work. Stories about tourism also rarely talk about how everyone has a role to play. Locals — “long-time residents” or “community members”, as one contributing writer recently said, have just as much responsibility as those who visit to change their behaviors and help take care of Tahoe.

For decades, Lake Tahoe’s local economy has relied on visitors and the many businesses that provide lodging, food and beverage service, and year-round outdoor recreation opportunities. Although the region had a robust tourism economy prior to 2020, the pandemic shifted how, when and where people spent time in Tahoe.

According to a report released by Dean Runyon Associates in March 2022, second homeowners came and stayed with greater frequency, and overnight visitation declined in favor of day visits by those located within an easy drive. This is common knowledge at this point, felt by all who lived here prior to and through the pandemic.

What is less understood, however, is that as a result, travel spending declined by nearly 12%. Local job opportunities declined by 16%, and it diminished tax revenues that are used to reinvest in community infrastructure by 12%. The increase in day visit traffic also highlighted the glaring limitations of our existing infrastructure — from transportation to trash.

Lake Tahoe has always been a desirable destination to live, work and play. Visiting Tahoe is perhaps what inspired so many of us to move here. That’s why we continue to do everything we can to make a living and keep calling it “home.” It’s also why there’s agreement that there’s more to be done to take care of this special place, and why our organizations have shifted their efforts from destination marketing to destination management and stewardship.

Lake Tahoe is not a national park, and therefore cannot “close the gates.” The Tahoe Basin is located within National Forest lands that are open to the public, so telling people not to come is not possible. Residents and visitors are equally welcome to recreate in Tahoe and enjoy all the region has to offer. The paradigm shift that’s needed is for everyone — whether you live here part-time, full-time, or are visiting — to help take care of Tahoe. That means practicing leave no trace principles, changing your own behaviors by getting out of the car and making use of paved and dirt trails, using public transportation options or carpooling whenever possible, and supporting local businesses.

An extensive stakeholder engagement and community visioning process began in early 2022 after our community felt the challenges initially brought on by the pandemic. Unlike other communities trying to create similar plans after experiencing similar challenges, the Lake Tahoe Destination Stewardship Plan represents an unprecedented collaboration of 17 regional organizations from different jurisdictions. It includes the formation of the first destination stewardship council that represents the greater Tahoe region, outlines a comprehensive framework, and sets in motion action priorities to better manage outdoor recreation and tourism. Its goals also include ensuring the sustainability and preservation of an iconic natural treasure and its local community. 

Our goal has always been to support our local communities by ensuring a thriving economy that includes tourism. Many of those who visit are already familiar with our destination, so our current messaging is focused on responsible travel and stewardship education. Prior to the pandemic, but even more so now, encouraging people to spend time lakeside in the winter and at the resorts in the summer, as well as travel during off-peak periods, are strategies used to help mitigate human impacts.

There’s not a single solution or a single entity that can solve regional challenges, but the collective, collaborative efforts of many are already making progress.

The TOT-TBID Dollars At Work program is powered by the North Tahoe business community. Thank you to the business owners who created the Tourism Business Improvement District.