Find the perfect way to play in and around the country's largest alpine lake.

Dig your toes into the warm sand and soak up the alpine sun next to turquoise-blue waters. Splash, spray, and laugh as you bounce along on an inflatable pulled by a speedy ski boat. Don a mask and search for crawdads and trout hiding in the shadows. Finding ways to have fun in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe is only limited by your energy and imagination. Marinas dot the lakefront, with rental outlets for everything from kayaks and canoes to zippy personal watercraft, ski boats, and even elegant sailboats. For a truly special evening, consider boarding one of the lakes historic paddleboats, where you can dine onboard while you watch the sun set over the Sierra crest. For details on rental locations, marinas, and boat rides, visit the website of the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority.

SnowFest is the largest winter carnival in the west, featuring over 60 events celebrating life in the High Sierra. It's a 10-day flurry of parades, parties, fireworks, entertainment, food, children's activities and fun for everyone. Come see the Dress-Up-Your-Dog Contest, the Gar Woods Polar Bear Swim, Rahlves Banzai Tour, Wacky Winter Bowling, and the ice cream eating contest. Play bingo. Eat at the Luau or the Mardi Gras Party. Watch the dog pull, the torchlight parade, fireworks and laser show. There's a snow palace and ice carving, plus snow sculpting and parties. Join in the fun!