We live in Reno about 30 miles northeast of Lake Tahoe. At the outlet of Lake Tahoe where the Truckee River starts there is a six foot dam. When the lake is full the top six feet of water are part of the Reno water supply. When the Lake level goes down six feet from its maximum capacity it is at its natural rim. If the water falls below that level no water from Lake Tahoe goes into the Truckee River. This doesn't happen very often but right now the lake is below that natural rim.
Last week we went up to the dam where the Truckee river starts. There was no water coming out and you could walk across the river bed. It was pretty amazing.
After checking out the empty river we went about 7 miles north to do a hike to an area called Five Lakes. We started near the Alpine Meadows ski area and hiked about 1,000 feet up and 2 miles in to the Five Lakes basin. It was bit cool and breezy but a gorgeous spot for a snack and a break.
A few days later we hiked with Bonnie from Chimney Beach on the east side of Lake Tahoe to Marlette Lake. It was another absolutely gorgeous Fall day, perfect for hiking. The hike was strenuous, six miles and 1,500 feet elevation gain. Although I was really worn out at the end, the views of both Lake Tahoe and Marlette Lake, the Fall colors and hiking with Duke and Bonnie made it a perfect outing.
Marion's Blog 