What to do in Lake Tahoe When There Isn't Much Snow? Bike or Hike at Rabe Meadow

The following originally ran in South Tahoe Now on January 21, 2014 as part of a series of stories about winter activities when there isn't much snow:

Since there is a lack of snow through the Sierra Nevada, visitors and locals in the Lake Tahoe basin are enjoying things that are normally reserved for the summer months.

On any day one can find many hikers and bikers on the newly completed trail system at Rabe Meadows as well as on the dirt trail of Lam Wa Tah. The 2.2 mile section of the Stateline to Stateline trail finished last summer allows users to meander through Rabe Meadow to Nevada Beach, through the Nevada Beach Campground and over to Round Hills Pines Resort. While the beach and camping amenities are closed for the season, people are still enjoying the trails, the picnic tables and BBQ pits in the area.

Shoreline Sports has seen a brisk bike rental business this winter. In the past they've been able to rent bikes on Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday periods, but this past weekend was the first Martin Luther King holiday the bike rentals have operated. Bob Daly, owner of Shoreline, said they'll offer rentals when weather permits to accommodate the bikers. "I really hope I'm not renting for President's Week," said Daly in reference to the area's need of snow. When there is snow on the trails and meadow, Daly will rent cross country skis.

To get to Rabe Meadow, the bike trail and Lam Wa Tah Trail, turn off of Highway 50 onto Kahle Drive adjacent to Lakeside Inn, across from the Douglas County Sheriff's Station, LTVA and the Tahoe Chamber offices. There is a parking lot, signage and restrooms at the top of the two trails. Both the paved bike trail and Lam Wa Tah dirt trail lead to Nevada Beach. On Lam Wah Tah you'll pass a willow-lined pond, meadows, a sprightly stream, and stands of pine forest. The several interpretive signs placed alongside the trail provide insights into the natural and human history of the area. This path is dog friendly and has dog waste bags along the way. There is also a picnic table adjacent to parking, a perfect spot to enjoy before or after a ride or walk.

The bike path that leads through the campground to Round Hill Pines Resort is clear of snow and an easy trek. You might come across a tiny patch of ice here and there in the shade.

Shoreline Sports rents bikes 7 days a week. If nobody is at the Kahle Drive store, call the phone number on the door, 888-877-7669, and someone will be down there in just minutes (from their Kingsbury Grade location).