Do you know anyone who has swum the length of Tahoe – without a wet suit?
Trekked thousands of miles a year, year after year - solo?
Earned the “triple crowner” title for completing the Appalachian, Continental Divide and Pacific Crest trails?

It’s time to hear from these inspiring adventurers!
Tahoe Trips and Trails presents “The Mind, Heart and Soles of Thru-Hikers,” an engaging evening at the Cedar House Sport Hotel with proceeds benefiting the Pacific Crest Trail Association. Highlights include hearing from Bill Parnell, Justin Lichter, Nancy Huber, Larry Hillberg, Henry Shire and Liz Thomas.

Buy tickets in advance and you just might walk away from the night with a gift certificate for dinner at Stella (everyone who purchases in advance will be entered into a drawing).

IF YOU GO
Tuesday, June 17
5:30 refreshments | 6 p.m. Welcome by Tahoe Trips and Trails' owner Patty Baird
followed by funny film about the PCT and panel discussion with inspiring hikers
Cedar House Sport Hotel in Truckee
Ticket link

On May 20, freelance photographer and journalist Nicole Dreon wowed an audience of fifty at The Cedar House Sport Hotel in Truckee. CA. Comparing her zest for adventure with Joan Wilder, from Romancing the Stones, Dreon shared entertaining stories from her enviable lifestyle connecting with and photographing people and places around the world. Having recently returned from Morocco and Senegal, Dreon’s incredible images in the #HowDoYouTahoe speaker series featured the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles across the Sahara Desert, rolling dunes, children and mothers as well as local surfers enticed by the waves made famous in ‘Endless Summer.’

Patty Baird, owner of The Cedar House and Tahoe Trips & Trails, was on site to welcome guests and encourage all those present to tap into their own spirit of adventure during the event which raised funds for Adventure Risk Challenge, the life enhancing outdoor leadership and literacy program for teens.

“I was thrilled to receive the news of last night's success. $1,000 will absolutely help us this year,” shared Sarah Cupery Ottley, Director of Adventure Risk Challenge. “We are in desperate need of new sleeping bags and have only hit dead ends in seeking in-kind donations…so, very likely, thanks to you all [Tahoe Trips & Trails], our participants will be warmer and drier in the backcountry this summer.”

Next up: “The Mind, Heart and Soles of Thru-hikers”
Love outdoor adventures and connecting with like-minded folks? Wonder what it's really like to be a triple crowner – someone who has hiked the complete Pacific Crest, Appalachian and Continental Divide trails? Then don’t miss “The Mind, Heart and Soles of Thru-hikers” on Tuesday, June 17 at The Cedar House Sport Hotel. The event, complete with a short film created by PCT thru-hikers and engaging panel of avid adventurer, is designed to make you laugh, think, connect and completely enjoy an evening out. Tickets, $20, are available at TahoeTrips.com.

Should you buy in advance?
Why, yes! You’ll be entered into a drawing for dinner at Stella.

Look no further for outdoor adventure concierge services and inspiring hiking trips. Patty and Jeff Baird deliver through Tahoe Trips and Trails (TTT) out of The Cedar House Sport Hotel, named the place to stay in by Outside. .

“When you’re looking for something out of the ordinary or even want to prep for an international trek, join us at altitude,” invites Jeff Baird who spends every day on a trail whether it’s covered in dirt or snow.

TTT's mission is to unveil remarkable experiences.

“We get the most out of any big adventure, such as trips to Kilimanjaro, Nepal or Machu Picchu, when we are physically at our prime or close to it. You will enjoy that dream adventure so much more if your body and mind are ready for the challenge,” shares Baird.

“The Bairds inspire people to explore the exotic in Tahoe – from short and peaceful to physically demanding and epic,” shares Lisa Krueger, a recent guest.

For those who simply cannot wait for the summer trips, self guided treks plus weekly Tahoe Teasers are available this spring. Detailed itineraries and trip registration are available at TahoeTrips.com.

Featured Offerings

Self-guided, Pacific Crest Trail and Donner Summit, CA
Present – October (Begins at $89 per day)

Soul Fire: Tahoe Camp for Women, Lake Tahoe, CA
July 7-11 (Call (800) 581-4453 for reservations)

Hiker’s Paradise, Lake Tahoe, CA
July 13-18, Aug. 10-15 ($2,195)

Backpacking 101, Lake Tahoe, CA
July 18-21, July 25-28, Aug. 8-11, Aug. 29-Sept. 1 ($775)

Tahoe and Yosemite Trekking
July 29 to Aug. 5, Aug. 5 to 12, Aug. 15-22 ($2,650)

Best of the West Hiking Trip, Zion and Bryce National Parks, Utah
Sept. 7-15, Sept. 28-Oct. 6  ($3,295)                          

Registration: tahoetrips.com or (800) 581-4453

With seven featured haunts and more than two-dozen outstanding performers, the adults-only Historical Haunted Tour uncovers stories long untold for a night that will not soon be forgotten in the Sierra Nevada railroad town nestled between Sacramento, CA and Reno, NV. Lake Tahoe residents and visitors begin the walking tour at Moody’s Bistro Bar & Beats. From there and beyond, they will be immersed in engaging tales performed by talented characters at intriguing historic sites including the location of present day business and organizations -  BeSpoke, Bluestone Jewelry, the Chamber Depot, LaGalleria, Masonic Lodge, Tahoe Oil & Spice and The Truckee Hotel.

New for 2014

• Individual tickets will be available early this year - July 1. Sign up for the Tour newsletter at the Contact Us tab at truckeehistorytour.com to be among the first to know when tickets become available. Event lodging partners are offering special deals for those who book a trip this summer.
  
• Groups can purchase one of five remaining $1,000 VIP packages to secure a specific time and hauntingly enchanting good time. The exclusive VIP Tour includes glasses of wine and complimentary raffle tickets for everyone in the VIP group plus a special tour guide for up to 16 people.
• Event partners are offering lodging deals for those who book rooms this summer. Rooms for Oct. 16 and 17, 2014 at The Truckee Hotel range from $59 to $129 (plus tax) and include a complimentary bottle of “haunted” wine for Historical Haunted Tour attendees. The Hampton Inn & Suites Tahoe Truckee is offering attendees discount room rates ranging from $129 to $199 (plus tax) with a complimentary bottle of wine. Visit truckeehistorytour.org for details.

“Truckee’s Historical Haunted Tour offers all attendees an incredibly fun night out and not-to-miss creative fundraising event,” shares Christina Stoever-Young, Truckee’s Historical Haunted Tour producer and sponsor. Stoever-Young  attributes much of the tour’s success - doubling in capacity every year and selling out in advance - to the incredible dedication of business sponsors and volunteers. Truckee’s Historical Haunted Tour has raised more than $31,000 since 2009. This year’s event will feature a treasure-packed raffle that celebrates unique work by artisans and  travel packages.

Tour sponsors to date include Tahoe TV, Atypical Design, The Cedar House Sport Hotel, Moody’s Bistro Bar & Beats and the event’s producer, Sunshine Tahoe. The incredible dedication of regional businesses and passionate volunteers contribute to the tour’s success. Proceeds benefit Trails and Vistas the organization that produces an annual September Tahoe art hike, another highly artistic event that attracts fans from near and far.

The Tour takes creative license to haunt, embellish and entertain. That's part of what makes it such a good time! Visit truckeehistorytour.org for more information.

PHOTO CREDIT: Rob Retting

Tahoe City Downtown Association’s 10th anniversary celebration aboard the Tahoe Gal!

WHAT: Light appetizers, cash bar, cruise on Lake Tahoe and live music by classical guitarist Lucas Arizu and cabaret-style vocals by Tahoe native Kendal Naughton (daughter of “American Werewolf in London” David Naughton)
WHEN: Wednesday, June 4, 2014, 5:30 to 8 p.m.
WHERE: 952 North Lake Boulevard, Tahoe City
COST: $30 advance and $35 day of
TICKETS: VisitTahoeCity.com

Up to 100 guests will join TCDA for light appetizers and a boat cruise during the “only in Tahoe City” experience on June 4. There will be The Tahoe Gal will leave from the pier behind the Lighthouse Center promptly at 6 and return at 8 p.m.

With expectations of an early rafting season, businesses throughout Tahoe City are ready to welcome guests from near and far. Tahoe City boasts award winning dining, independent shops and a variety of hiking and biking paths plus lodging that allows guests to leave the car parked and enjoy the best of Tahoe City on foot.

Along with members and partners, TCDA supports Tahoe City’s signature summer events including Farmers Markets (Thursdays from May 22 to Sept. 25), the Tahoe City Solstice Festival (June 19 to 22), Concerts at Commons Beach (Sundays from June 22 through Sept. 7), the Lake Tahoe Dance Festival (July 15 to 17), and a Fourth of July Street Fair and Firework display.

 “The upcoming events are really worth a trip, but more than that, every single day in Tahoe City offers something worthwhile,” says Davis. For the most up to date information on events, follow TCDA at Facebook.com/DowntownTahoeCity.

For the best of Tahoe City lodging, dining, shopping and activities, go to VisitTahoeCity.com or call (530) 583-3348.

PHOTO CREDIT: Jerry Harding

Yesterday Tahoe Trips and Trails announced the “#HowDoYouTahoe” campaign which includes on-site inspirational speakers, active guided hiking and backpacking trips plus self-led treks on the Pacific Crest Trail and Tahoe Rim Trail.

“Traveling changes you,” says photographer and journalist Nicole Dreon who will kick off the HowDoYouTahoe speaker series at The Cedar House Sport Hotel on May 20. “Sometimes you realize it right away, other times it kicks in down the road.”

Captivated by the prospect of changing how African women are depicted in mainstream media, Dreon set out to record a different view through her experiences meeting and photographing women athletes. In addition to being able to tell the stories of inspiring athletes, Dreon made self-discoveries. Taking solo trips around the globe is nothing new for Dreon who has had the "itch" to travel since a young age and, as a professional photographer and journalist, has captured the essence of place and individuals.

"You've just got to go,” advises Dreon.

“‘Just go.’ It’s a phrase we often hear when tossing around ideas of life list trips,” shares Tahoe Trips and Trails owner Patty Baird who recently returned from a trek in Japan and is getting ready for her next trip. “The #HowDoYouTahoe speaker series is specifically designed to inspire action and break down barriers that might prevent people from just going.”

On Tuesday, May 20, connect your adventurous spirit with like-minded people at The Cedar House Sport Hotel in Truckee, CA. The community is invited to experience an adventure through Dreon’s lens: Hear how she has navigated, explored and thrived during solo treks.

Adventure Risk Challenge (ARC) is cosponsoring the “The Spirit of Adventure” and the majority proceeds from of ticket sales will benefit ARC. Everyone who purchases a ticket in advance will be entered into a drawing for dinner at Stella (value: $200). For more information and tickets (space is limited), visit the Tahoe Teasers tab at TahoeTrips.com.

More in the #HowDoYouTahoe speakers series

The Mind, Heart and Soles of Thru-Hikers | Tuesday, June 17
Co-sponsor and beneficiary –  Pacific Crest Trail Association
 “The Mind, Heart and Soles of Thru-Hikers,” will feature an inspiring film that spotlights the zany characters who have answered the call of adventure from the Pacific Crest Trail. Following the hour-long film, hear from a panel of experienced thru hikers. This session is expected to last until 8:30 p.m.

Beer + Gear: Spotlight on Ultra-light Backpacking | Tuesday, July 22
Co-sponsor and beneficiary – Pacific Crest Trail Association
How can you lighten your pack to record levels? After an exciting 33-minute film, gain insights from a leader in the outdoor gear market, Glen Van Peski, Founder of Gossamer Gear. There will be ample time for questions and comments, and, attendees won’t be disappointed as the evening wraps up with a drawing for door prizes from Gossamer. Gossamer Gear’s ultra-light products have been featured in Backpacker, Outside and National Geographic Adventure magazines. This session is expected to last until 7:30 p.m.

All events begin with refreshments and socializing over delectable appetizers prepared by Stella and a cash bar from 5:30 to 6 p.m. The Cedar House Sport Hotel is located at 10918 Brockway Road in Truckee. Tickets, $20/person, are available at TahoeTrips.com.

“Our mission is to inspire authentic and positive connections to the natural world and one another. We accomplish this as an active lifestyle hotel with a strong environmental consciousness. Experience our ‘Tahoe’ - one that is rooted in fresh mountain air, pure water and irresistible trails.” – Patty Baird

America’s leading active lifestyle brand honored The Cedar House Sport Hotel through Outside’s Travel Awards announced today. The 2014 Travel Awards celebrate the top destinations, companies, products and travel providers that inspire people to participate in an active lifestyle. The Cedar House offers 40 boutique rooms that embody eco-simplicity with a luxurious twist, an on-site event center and an award-winning restaurant called Stella. Adventure concierge and guiding services offer the ultimate outdoor getaway.

“We designed The Cedar House Sport Hotel as a year round base camp for outdoor adventure,” shares Baird, owner of the Truckee, CA based hotel located minutes from Lake Tahoe and world-class hiking, biking and skiing. "In fact Tahoe Trips & Trails, our in-house adventure guiding and concierge company, has just launched a new line of summer 2014 treks and backpacking trips. Discover your next adventure at TahoeTrips.com.”

The Cedar House  was honored as the place to stay in Tahoe which won Best Lake. “Lake Tahoe is also hardly a secret, but there’s a way to get your own slice of the Sierra oasis…stay near Truckee at the Cedar House Sport Hotel. The owners have plotted out new custom escapes, providing the gear, food, maps, and guide,” shared Outside.

Outside tapped its global network of correspondents who traveled across America to Belize, Switzerland, Italy, and beyond to identify the best new adventures, stunning lakes, gorgeous lodges and hotels, family vacations, secret getaways, high-tech airports, and foodie hotspots. The result is more than 50 spectacular trips, plus the best travel apps, tour guides, gear, tips for traveling green, and advice for traveling solo. The entire list of honorees will appear in Outside’s April issue (on newsstands March 18), and is posted online at www.outsideonline.com/travelawards.

“Whether you’re looking to go big for an expedition, splurge on a luxurious paradise, or plan an epic family trip, Outside has unearthed fifty travel gems that will inspire you to renew that passport,” said Outside Editor Chris Keyes.

The Cedar House has also been recognized as a leading destination by US News & World Report, Travel & Leisure, Food & Wine magazine, Trip Advisor and WoodWorks California. Visit cedarhousesporthotel.com.