One drawback is the occasionally bothersome cloud of gnats and midges that might be encountered along the paved walkways. To reach the lookout, don't bother looking for signs. At Crystal Bay, Nevada, turn up Reservoir Road between the Tahoe Biltmore Lodge and Casino and the old Tahoe Mariner casinos, then turn right at the firehouse and continue up the hill until you reach a point where a steeper U.S. Forest Service road doubles back to the left above you. Follow this for one-quarter of a mile, beyond the green metal gate, to the parking lot. If the gate is closed, park and walk the distance.
Admission is free.
Just hop on Heavenly's tram for a quick lift some 2,000 feet above the lake, where you can fully appreciate the grandeur of Tahoe and its snow-capped mountains. There's a decent restaurant at Monument Peak, as well as a spacious outdoor deck. The best time to arrive is just before sunset, when the light is magical and the paddlewheel cruiseboats are chugging back and forth to Emerald Bay. The Complete Guide is available from the Adventurous Traveler Bookstore. Click here to visit Foghorn Outdoors Article copyright Foghorn Press .