At the junction of the state of Nevada and California, Lake Tahoe, a turquoise blue gem, is nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Bordered by breadfruit forests, this popular destination offers a variety of summer and winter activities. With an area of approximately 500 square kilometers, Lake Tahoe is classified as the largest alpine lake in North America and the second deepest lake in the country. Ideally preserved and protected, the lake has a very high water quality, making it one of the purest in the world. Built along its shoreline, the cities are divided by state, South Lake Tahoe on the California side and Carson City on the Nevada side. Rich in history, the first inhabitants of the region, the Washoe Indians, gave the lake its name. More recently, in 1960, the Winter Olympics put Lake Tahoe on the world stage and helped establish it as a world-class resort. The lake offers a wide range of activities for tourists as well as beautiful walks. The Tahoe Rim Trail loops around the lake and is part of the Pacific Crest Trail, while Emerald Bay State Park offers beautiful scenery. Fannette Island and Vikingsholm Castle are not to be missed. In addition, the Lake Tahoe Scenic Drive offers unique landscapes, towns and villages. Finally, the Heavenly Gondola takes you to the top of the world and overlooks the lake and mountains from its observation deck.