There’s no better way to enjoy the present than by studying the past, and when your journey to North Lake Tahoe takes on a historical hue, this guide will help direct you to the places of most interest! Giving our guests a peek into our rich and storied past, travelers will never look at that gorgeous body of water the same again as we lead you to castles and smart homes and help you walk in the footsteps of those who made this beautiful region the popular place it is today. And as the sun sinks behind the mountains that surround Lake Tahoe, we’ll lead you back to the comfort and luxury that is an integral part of our Tahoe Signature Properties vacation escapes!
When Tragedy Strikes
Lake Tahoe offers more than the tragic story of cannibalism and survival, but the story of the Donner Party is a fascinating one that has been told time and time again. Donner Memorial State Park is the site of that dreadful event and a monument honoring their story stands tall and strong against a backdrop of pine trees and the lake visible in the distance. Located at 12593 Donner Pass Road in Truckee, it should be one of the first steps of your historical journey.
The Emigrant Trail Museum
It’s no secret that times were tough for early settlers as they battled harsh weather conditions, meager food supplies, and the dangerous grizzly bears that once roamed freely in the area, and the Emigrant Trail Museum located in the Donner Memorial State Park tells their stories well. Explore the exhibits set up inside the wood, stone, and glass museum and when you are finished, follow the trails that lead around the park and discover a better understanding of the trials and tribulations those brave souls must have faced.
Fannies Are Funny
History doesn’t always have to be serious and severe; sometimes it can be lighthearted and make you giggle, and the Historic Fanny Bridge, located in Tahoe City, will make you do! The bridge gets its name because that is what passersby see when they cross over this historic bridge—a bunch of fannies attached to people leaning over the railings staring at the beauty that lies below. Built in 1920, the fish that swim through the Truckee River are visible from above, giving visitors something fun to watch during their time on the bridge.
Gatekeeper’s Museum
Comprised of two buildings both built of wood and stone, the Gatekeeper’s Museum, located at 130 W Lake Boulevard in Tahoe City, is tucked away into the woods, blending into the trees as if to hide from anyone who might come by unexpectedly, but this is not a place to avoid. Offering a peek into the complex history of the Lake Tahoe region, the artifacts and exhibits held inside its walls will thoroughly fascinate those who visit. Watson Cabin, which is a part of the museum, is a beautiful example of the craftsmanship of our early settlers. Built by Tahoe City’s very first constable back in 1908, the materials used to construct the building are all locally sourced: logs that have been hewn from the trees in our forest, stones gathered in walks through the forest, and even the deer horns that decorate the outside once adorned the heads of the deer that helped feed and clothe hungry settlers. Inside is where you will find the artistry of Indian baskets, artifacts, and memorabilia that tells the tale of the 1960 Winter Olympics, and more stories told about the native black bear. Everything you ever wanted to know about the North Lake Tahoe area is displayed inside the walls of two buildings, giving visitors a thrill from their first steps inside the doors.
Lake Tahoe
A visit to our town wouldn’t be complete with exploring all the lake it was named after has to offer, including the history of how it was made. As you dip your toes in the crystal clear waters, take a moment to look around. Can you tell that this lake was formed over 25 million years ago, created by the sinking of the valley around the mountains and the shifting of the land during the Ice Age? If you listen closely, you may hear the long-ago murmurings of the native Washoe tribe who lived on the shores of the lake over 10,000 years ago. Stretch your imagination even further and smell the fires burning, hear the cries of newborn babies, and imagine the land as it must have looked then. History is all around you at Lake Tahoe, and your journey to the lake is destined to be a dream come true!
Thoroughly Modern and Completely Comfortable
Just when you think it can’t get any better than this, you pull into the drive of your luxurious and modern Tahoe Signature Properties vacation escape. Pause at the doorstep, letting the anticipation build; you know that the next few days or so of your life are destined to be another dream come true. Reserve your getaway today!
