Daily Adventures

My Backyard Paradise: Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada

With school out for the summer and my final exams all graded, it was fitting that I spent many days in June down on the east side of the lake. Living in the mountains brings a few drawbacks (few cultural events, shoveling 30 feet of snow off my 23 front steps, etc.) but when I can get out to the trails and the lake I remember exactly why I live here.

One of those drawbacks developed into a stark and frightening reality for some Tahoe residents recently, when a fire started near South Lake Tahoe last month. As residents of the planet Earth, we all know what Mother Nature has the potential to dish out. In the mountains, the big risk is fire. We had an extremely dry winter, and I think it’s going to be a long fire season for everyone in California.

I have been impressed by the support of the community for the victims of this fire. In Truckee we had several collection sites where we donated clothing and supplies for those who lost their homes, and I know communities all over the Tahoe-Reno area were doing the same. I like being where I know my neighbors will help if they can.

As I said, I spent most of June playing in the mountains, from Tahoe’s east shore down to Yosemite. Here are some pictures from my adventures, and my tribute to life in the mountains.

Last day of school "teacher campout" on the east shore.


Sunset view from our campsite

Taking a break on the west shore of Marlette Lake, during a bike ride on the Flume Trail.

The Flume Trail. The best mountain biking in Tahoe!

My running partner, Cap, takes a break on the TRT. We finished 26 miles together that day. It was a great adventure, except for the part where we ran out of water.

View of Marlette Lake with Tahoe behind it, from the TRT.

Swimming in Tenaya Lake, Tioga Pass area.

Vernal Falls, Yosemite Valley.

Andrew and I stand at the top of Half Dome, Yosemite.

While in Yosemite, I completed my longest rock climb to date, 16 pitches! Here is our summit photo from the climb, Royal Arches.

Descending from our climb at Glacier Point apron.