In this installment of Full-Time Travel’s My Hometown series, wellness expert Nora Tobin—who’s partnered with big-name travel brands like The Ritz-Carlton, Marriott, and United to architect their health and wellness programs—shares her favorite ways to spend time in beautiful Lake Tahoe. From must-hit hikes and spa treatments that channel the essence of the Sierra Nevadas to where to catch the best sundowner in town, here are her insider picks for a weekend in the Big Blue.  

My hometown is special because it is nestled between the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range and The Lake of the Sky. At an elevation of 6,225 feet, surrounded by rooted pines and wildflowers, Tahoe holds elemental, joyful energy that everyone can feel. From the dramatic hikes and pristine ski runs overlooking the ethereal water to boating through Emerald Bay and beach days at Baldwin, every aspect of Lake Tahoe feels extraordinarily special. 

The community of Tahoe has always been a family. Walk into any coffee shop or neighborhood restaurant, and you'll feel like you've known the crew for years. Everyone who grew up in Tahoe is so grateful to be able to share this wonderful place with all who come to visit. We all share an essential understanding of the importance of preservation and strive to care for this delicate land while enjoying all it has to offer. 

When you are on the South Shore, you need to get a rum runner at The Grove (formerly known as the Beacon). While your head might not feel fantastic the next morning, it is certainly an experience to sit out on the deck alongside the lake, listen to live music and enjoy a blended beverage (or two!). If you are on the West Shore, head to Sunnyside for their burger and ask for extra secret sauce. I also love to get turkey sandwiches from Sprouts Cafe and head to the lake for picnics. 

When friends visit my hometown, I take them on a hike up to Angora Lake, about a 30-minute walk above town. It’s a spectacular freshwater lake surrounded by granite cliffs, which, if you’re feeling really brave, you can jump off of into the water. There’s an excellent team that runs a general store up there where you can get ice cream, freshly squeezed lemonade, and kayaks to paddle across the lake. 

Another incredible hike I always recommend is from Emerald Bay to Bliss Beach. As you walk through the towering pines, you come across a beach that could be in St. Barts. The fine white sand and turquoise water lend themselves to an afternoon swimming under the mountain sun.  

If you are looking for something even more adventurous, check out the climb up Mount Tallac. The 12.5-mile route is in the desolation wilderness with breathtaking views. As you hike along the ridgeline above Fallen Leaf Lake, you'll experience the serene beauty of the untouched wilderness. Once you reach the summit, the views open up to all of Lake Tahoe—and  I definitely recommend taking a break to enjoy a PB&J where the sky meets the water. 

The best outdoor activity in the summer is anything on the lake. Whether you enjoy a sunset cruise, wake up early to water ski on the glassy surface of the lake, or go for a swim off the lakeside beaches, there is nothing like the feeling of summer in Tahoe. 

The best outdoor activity in the winter is anything in the mountains. If you love to ski or snowboard, I'd recommend spending a few days carving the powder at Heavenly, my home mountain. Ridge Run has some of the best panoramic views of the deep blue lake that you’ll find anywhere.

When you're in the mood for some "me time," head to The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe for their Journey Through the Forest treatment. The indulgent experience combines native essential oils, forest air, full body exfoliation, and deep tissue massage to release tension while stimulating the immune system.   

A place that holds a special place in my heart is Edgewood Golf Course. The course is sentimental to my family and one of my favorite places on the lake. In the 80s, my parents pulled strings with friends who ran the restaurant to get married there—an epic party I wish I could have attended! Today, the spectacular course hosts a celebrity golf tournament every year and never disappoints in the food and beverage department. If you’re on the turn, go for the tri-tip tacos at Brooks' Bar and Deck. For a special occasion, enjoy the breathtaking views from Edgewood Restaurant and order the lobster agnolotti.  

Something only locals know about my hometown is that autumn is magical. The majority of visitors come in the winter and summer, so they miss out on this wonderful time of year. There's something exceptional about biking through the aspens as they change color, watching the kokanee salmon run at Taylor Creek, and experiencing an early snowfall with a fire roaring in the fall. 

Don't end a trip to my hometown without taking a few moments to immerse yourself in nature, breathe deeply, and simply enjoy the power of this place.