You probably know that Lake Tahoe is a great place for skiing, gaming and nightlife, boating and general year-round fun. And you might know that the deep, clear lake surrounded by snow capped mountains on all side is one of the most picturesque spots in the world.
But did you know that it is the largest Alpine lake in North America? Or that Mark Twain called Lake Tahoe, “the fairest picture the whole earth affords”?
There are many interesting actualities about Lake Tahoe that are not widely known, but they should be!
Largest Alpine Lake
Not only is Lake Tahoe the largest Alpine lake in North America, but also it is the second deepest lake in the U.S. after Oregon’s Crater Lake. It is the 16th deepest lake in the world.
Lake Tahoe was created 2 million years ago during the Ice Age after eruptions from the extinct Mt. Pluto formed a dam, capturing snow runoff and rainfall.
Lake Tahoe is fed from 63 tributaries; the only outlet is the Truckee River. If Lake Tahoe were to empty, its 39 trillion gallons would submerge California under 14 inches of water. There is enough water in Lake Tahoe to give everyone in the US 50 gallons of water every day for 5 years. That is an abundance of water! Another titillating notion about Lake Tahoe is that due to its depth (1,645 feet), it never freezes.
Okay, But What Can We Do with It?
Well, you say, that’s all well and good, but what is there to actually do on the water of Lake Tahoe? And the answer is, just about everything! There is boating cruises, water skiing, sailing, kayaking, parasailing and jet skiing. All of this is available for rental, or there are 6 public boat ramps if you have your own vessel. The water’s surface temperature is 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit in August and September, and drops to 40-50 degrees in February and March. So while the cooler side for a lake or river during the summer months, it is warmer than the ocean and lends itself to sun and fun!
And just think, below 600 feet, the water remains a constant 39 degrees Fahrenheit. Brrr.
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