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Lake Tahoe (Washo: dewʔá:gaʔa or dáʔaw) is a large freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada range of the United States. At a surface elevation of 6225 ft (1897.4 m), it is located along the border between California and Nevada, west of Carson City. Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. Its depth is 1645 ft (501.4 m), making it the USA's second-deepest (the deepest is Crater Lake in Oregon, being 300 ft (91.4 m) deeper, at 1945 ft (592.8 m). Additionally, Lake Tahoe is listed as the 26th largest lake by volume in the world at 122160280 acre.ft (37234453.3 km3). The lake was formed about 2 million years ago and is a part of the Lake Tahoe Basin with the modern lake being shaped during the ice ages. It is known for the clarity of its water and the panorama of surrounding mountains on all sides. The area surrounding the lake is also referred to as Lake Tahoe, or simply Tahoe. Lake Tahoe is a major tourist attraction in both Nevada and California. It is home to a number of ski resorts, summer outdoor recreation, and tourist attractions. Snow and skiing are a significant part of the area's economy and reputation. Mountain and lake scenery are attractions throughout the year. The Nevada side also includes large casinos. Highways provide year-round access from Reno, Carson City, and Sacramento. |