South Lake Tahoe

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You might say South Lake Tahoe is equal parts Disneyland and Las Vegas — fitting, since it sits on the border of California and Nevada.

This section of the lake is the most candid about exactly what it is: a playground. From its anchor ski resort, the whimsically-named Heavenly, to the Scandinavian castle on the shores of the just-as-whimsically-named Emerald Bay, to its unabashedly retro casinos, the south shore is more about fun than frills. In short, for those who seek their thrills off the slopes, it's best to head south.

Spring
Emerald Bay Cruise

Get a dose of nostalgia aboard an old-fashioned Mississippi paddle wheeler, as you cruise the shores of Emerald Bay on the southwestern stretch of Lake Tahoe. Don't miss the Vikingsholm Castle, a Swedish-style mansion built as a summer home in 1929.

Summer
Bliss State Park

Open to visitors only from June through September, the highlight of Bliss State Park is the Balancing Rock, a naturally occurring, sculptural formation of granite — 130 tons, to be precise — resting on a solid stone base.

Fall
Oktoberfest at Camp Richardson

Between sips of beer and samples of schnitzel at the annual Oktoberfest celebration, take the time to soak in the history of Camp Richardson. The land operates as a resort today, but it was once home to the Washoe Indians, before operating as a timber mill in the late 19th century.

Winter
Snowmobiling and Carriage Rides

Fear you're not nearly coordinated enough to get down the ski slope in one piece? Even non-skiers can get a taste of the powder: Snowmobile tour outfitters let you navigate your way through miles of open trail territory, while carriage ride operators offer relaxing sleigh rides.