Tahoe Bliss

Wellness Weekend

Barefoot with outstretched legs and a glass of Prosecco by my side, I gazed over the top of my magazine at the gentle ripples sweeping across the outdoor pool at The Ritz Carlton, Lake Tahoe last May and was overcome by a state of bliss. Just a few weeks later, I was elated to discover that I was pregnant, and the two experiences have been linked in my mind ever since. Basking in the joy of motherhood, I am sure that this year’s Wellness Weekend at The Ritz will be just as gratifying – for all participants.

Complete with yoga sessions, fitness classes, a nutritious hands-on lunch class, geocaching fitness challenge and cocktail reception, the Wellness Weekend will take place from June 5 to 7, 2015. The Saturday Only Pass costs $150 and the whole weekend schedule costs $225. For details and reservations, visit Ritzcarlton.com/LakeTahoe or call 800.241.3333. A 25 percent discount off of June 5 and 6 lodging and spa services is available for participants. Call (530) 562-3028 or email [email protected] for lodging reservations. Can’t make it? Create your own few days of pampering with hikes, spa services and a day or two, maybe three or ore at The Ritz Carlton (well-located between historic Truckee and Lake Tahoe).

Human Powered Fun

Guided hikes, backpacking trips, women’s-only events and stimulating speakers comprise the primarily free offerings during the Alpenglow Mountain Festival held from June 20 to 28 in Tahoe City. This non-competitive celebration of human powered sports –– designed especially for beginner and intermediate adventurers –– includes gear demos, clinics and films. Connect with others over outdoor events with stunning backdrops.

The Trail Like No Other

The magnificent vistas along the Tahoe Rim Trail are not to be missed. In addition the varied terrain translates to an excellent workout along this 165-mile loop around Lake Tahoe. The Tahoe Rim Trail Association (TRTA) guides two thru hikes. Limited to twelve people, thru hikes are offered July 25 to Aug. 8 and Aug. 22 to Sept. 5. Have two weeks? Do it! Can’t pull away from family, work or life for that long? Explore more than a handful of sections of the trail by taking part in the 2015 Trail Challenge.

“With six featured areas – each highlighting something unique to Lake Tahoe – the Tahoe Rim Trail Challenge includes amazing panoramic vistas, alpine lakes and creeks, wildflower-infused meadows, lush waterfalls, unique geology, rich history and much more. Hike, bike, ride horseback, ski or snowshoe,” shares TRTA’s Shannon Skarritt Director of Membership and Outreach. This summer, TRTA is even offering free guided hikes as part of the Challenge.

Full disclosure: I’m a proud sponsor of the Trail Challenge. If you want to meet residents while visiting, contact me this spring or summer about joining my 2015 Tahoe Rim Trail Challenge team.