Recreation

Discover the Ultimate Outdoor Playground: The Sierra Nevada

Two girls wearing backpacks sit on a mountain. They look toward the horizon at the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains and a lake.

The Sierra Nevada is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of recreational activities for all skill levels. From hiking and camping to skiing and snowboarding, there’s something for everyone.

Explore the Sierra’s Diverse Recreation Opportunities:

Hiking and Backpacking: Embark on epic hikes and backpacking trips through stunning mountain landscapes.
Mountain Biking: Ride world-class trails, from flowy single-track to challenging technical terrain.
Rock Climbing: Scale towering granite cliffs and test your limits.
Water Sports: Kayak, paddleboard, and raft on crystal-clear lakes and rivers.
Winter Sports: Ski, snowboard, and snowshoe in pristine winter landscapes.
Camping: Pitch a tent under the stars and enjoy the peace and quiet of the wilderness.
Fishing: Cast a line in pristine lakes and rivers, and catch trout, bass, and other fish species.
Golfing: Play a round of golf on scenic courses with stunning mountain views.
Horseback Riding: Explore the backcountry on horseback and experience the beauty of the Sierra.
Off-Roading and OHV: Embark on thrilling off-road adventures and explore rugged terrain.

Should You Drive or Trailer a Vintage 4×4 to The Sierra?

A paved road leads through golden shrubs toward snow-dusted mountain peaks beneath a clear blue sky.

Should you drive or trailer a vintage 4×4 to The Sierra? Learn how to choose the safer option before the highway miles cut into your trail time.

HDPE vs. Fiberglass vs. Aluminum: Finding the Right Boat for Sierra Waters

Sierra Nevada waters can be beautiful one minute and demanding the next. A calm mountain lake may have smooth water in the morning, while cold temperatures, rocky shorelines, submerged obstacles, and changing weather can quickly make conditions more challenging. That is why choosing a boat for Sierra waters should involve more than comparing price tags … Read more

What to Do in Shaver Lake This Summer: Trails, Lakes, Fishing & Sierra Adventures

Shaver Lake thumbnail sweatshirts and bikini sunset

There are mountain towns that feel busy. Then there are mountain towns that feel like summer. When I first spotted Shaver Lake on a map while exploring backroads through the Sierra Nevada, it reminded me of the communities I grew up around in Central Oregon. Places built around lake days, trail adventures, campfires, and evenings … Read more

First Time Boating on Tahoe? Here’s What To Know

An aerial view of a motorboat cruising along an island shore in Lake Tahoe, a bright blue sky above.

Planning your first boating trip on Lake Tahoe? You’ll have an amazing time on this pristine, magical lake, but make sure you know and follow these rules.

Climb to Kaiser: Why Cyclists Travel to the Sierra for One of America’s Toughest Rides

Every June, riders test themselves against 155 miles, 16,000 feet of climbing, and some of the most spectacular scenery in the Sierra Nevada. Most visitors experience Kaiser Pass from behind the windshield. They wind through the pine forests above Shaver Lake, stop at scenic overlooks, and marvel at the rugged beauty of California’s high country. … Read more

Why Some ATVs Handle Mud Better Than Others

Two riders wearing black and orange helmets drive their ATVs along a narrow trail through a pine forest.

Not every ATV will make it through a muddy trail. What separates machines that push through from ones that get stuck goes deeper than the engine.

How to Upgrade Your Truck for Outdoor Adventures

A truck driving down a gravel road with dirt leaving a trail behind it. There are trees along the side of the road.

Upgrade your truck for outdoor adventures with smart storage, off-grid power, and gear setups that enhance your comfort and performance on the road.

Stop Rust Before It Starts: Trail Tool Care

Trail gear and various tools spread across a wooden table next to a green backpack and a black cooking pot.

Stop rust before it starts with quick trail tool care. Learn a two-minute post-trip habit that keeps knives, poles, and spikes working when you need them.

5 Best Jeep Trails Near Lake Tahoe: What You Need To Know

A muddy white Jeep drives along a forest trail beside tall pines, as a driver rests an arm out a window.

Looking for the best Jeep trails near Lake Tahoe? Discover the 5 can’t-miss routes, who they’re best for, and simple prep steps to keep your day stress-free.

Sierra Rec Now Podcast: How Connected Communities Is Shaping the Future of the Lost Sierra

The Lost Sierra has long been one of California’s most quietly spectacular regions — vast forests, winding rivers, and small mountain towns that feel a world away from the crowds of Tahoe and Yosemite. In this episode of Sierra Rec Now, I sat down with Greg Williams, the visionary behind the Connected Communities initiative, to … Read more

Trango: Trust, Restraint, and the Meaning of a First Descent

Sierra Rec Now Podcast with Jim Morrison and Christina “Lusti” Lustenberger For most of us in the Sierra Nevada, a “big day” in the mountains might mean a long approach, a steep climb, or timing conditions just right. For ski mountaineers Jim Morrison and Christina “Lusti” Lustenberger, that idea scales to an entirely different level. … Read more

5 Essential ATV Upgrades for Riding in Muddy Conditions

A red ATV drives through a narrow trail, with mud and water splashing all over the sides of the vehicle.

Stock machines struggle when the trails get sloppy. See which modifications turn your quad into a mud-dominating beast before your next trip.

Snow Has Arrived in the Sierra: Where to Snowshoe, Sled, and Play This Holiday Season

Snow has finally arrived across the Sierra Nevada—and for many holiday travelers, that first fresh storm brings both excitement and questions. What if the ski resorts are crowded?What if you don’t ski at all?Where can families go to enjoy the snow without the chaos? In today’s Sierra Rec Now Podcast, host Charlie Pankey shares decades … Read more

Seasonal Golfing in the Sierras: Practical Tips for Spring, Summer & Fall Rounds

Play Sierra golf like a pro! Your spring, summer, and fall guide to mountain course conditions, elevation effects, weather safety and what to pack. The Sierra Nevada mountain range is stunning no matter your reason for visiting! Golfers, if you’re visiting the area, you can look forward to some spectacular playing experiences in a setting … Read more

What First-Timers Need to Know About Mountaineering

Two people are on the side of a mountain, using a rope to climb it. In the distance, there are clouds and some sunlight.

Embarking on your first mountaineering trip? This guide provides key tips on physical prep, essential gear, and the basic skills needed for your climb.

Safety Tips for Off-Roading in the Sierra in the Fall

A view of snowy mountains and a clear waterfront seen through the leaves of orange and yellow autumn trees in the Sierra.

Heading to the Sierra for some fall off-roading? This guide offers essential safety tips for navigating unpredictable weather and rugged trails in your truck.

Prioritize Safety With These Off-Roading Modifications

The corner and side mirror of a white SUV driving on a dirt path toward a snow-capped mountain range.

Equip your vehicle for The Sierra with these essential safety modifications. Find out how to upgrade your rig for a safer off-roading adventure.

Powering Adventure in the Sierra: Dragonfly Energy and the Future of Off-Grid RV Living

By Sierra Rec Magazine When you head into the Sierra Nevada for a weekend of dispersed camping near Mammoth, an overlanding trip down Highway 395, or a snow-filled RV adventure at Blue Lakes, one question always comes up: how do you keep everything powered without the drone of a generator? This week on the Sierra … Read more

4 Types of Terrain You’ll Encounter While Off-Roading

A mountain in the Sierra Nevada before the sun sets. The rock formations differ in the foreground, with an orange hue.

Navigate rocky trails, sandy washes, and steep grades confidently with this terrain guide for off-road adventures in the Sierra Nevada and beyond.

Overlanding in Style: Travoca’s Rigel Cooler & Outdoor Living Gear

Sierra Rec Now Podcast | August 19, 2025| Episode 44 When it comes to outdoor adventures, sometimes it’s the gear that defines the experience. This week on the Sierra Rec Now Podcast, host Charlie Pankey sat down with Stuart Rudolph, co-founder of Travoca, to talk about how one brand is changing the way we think … Read more

Snow in September: Tahoe Games Brings X Games Vibes and Free Concerts to South Lake Tahoe

Tahoe Games Mountain Sports Festival Brings Snow in September & X Games Energy to South Lake Tahoe South Lake Tahoe is about to get its newest signature fall tradition — and it’s like nothing the Sierra has ever seen. The Tahoe Games Mountain Sports Festival is coming September 27–28, 2025 to the Lake Tahoe Outdoor … Read more

Diesel or Gas: Which Is Best for Off-Roading?

A modified and dirty black Jeep Wrangler SUV off-roading on rocky terrain with water surrounded by woods.

Before heading to the Sierra Nevada for off-roading, compare diesel and gas engines. Get the facts on torque, fuel efficiency, and performance at elevation.

Ride Hard. Splash Louder. Cheer Wildly.

The 2025 Downieville Classic Bike Festival Returns August 7–10 If there’s one weekend where dusty singletrack, alpine views, and rowdy Sierra spirit all collide—it’s the Downieville Classic, coming August 7–10, 2025. Held in the historic gold rush town of Downieville, this nationally recognized bike festival delivers more than just epic racing. It’s a mountain town … Read more

Boat Maintenance Tasks You Can Learn To Do Yourself

A man wearing gloves and a short sleeved shirt working on a gleaming black engine on the deck of a boat.

Learning to care for your boat lets you spend more time enjoying yourself out on the water. Check out these boat maintenance tasks you can learn to do yourself.

Pavelski for the Win! NHL Star Eagles 18 to Walk Off with American Century Championship Title

Palelski putting on 18 at American Century championship

South Lake Tahoe, CA — July 14, 2025The Sierra sizzled this weekend—and we’re not just talking about the temps. With Edgewood Tahoe’s greens glowing under the summer sun and fans fanning themselves on the shoreline, hockey veteran Joe Pavelski delivered a tournament moment for the ages: a walk-off eagle on 18 to seal his first-ever … Read more

Carving New Lines: Stewardship in Action at Lover’s Leap

Fifty Volunteers, One Shared Passion, and a Trail Worth Saving By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine, July 2025 Conservation Issue This past weekend, beneath the granite cliffs of Lover’s Leap, the air buzzed with the sound of hammers striking stone, trail tools scraping earth, and voices lifted in laughter and grit. I had the … Read more

The Death Ride Returns to the California Alps This Weekend

For over four decades, the Death Ride has stood as the premier cycling challenge in the Sierra Nevada, drawing riders from across the nation to test their grit, lungs, and legs on the winding roads of the California Alps. This weekend, the tradition continues as cyclists tackle over 14,000 feet of climbing, 103 grueling miles, … Read more

Tahoe Bike Month Breaks Records, Inspires Tahoe Riders to Keep Rolling All Summer

Lake Tahoe’s bike community just proved what many of us know: biking in the Sierra isn’t just recreation—it’s a movement. This June, the 20th Annual Tahoe Bike Month smashed participation records, drawing 511 residents and visitors who logged 10,880 bike trips, pedaled 80,982 miles, and climbed nearly 5.6 million vertical feet. That’s an 18% increase … Read more

2025 American Century Championship

Who’s Playing, When to Go, and How to Watch in Lake Tahoe Edgewood Tahoe Prepares to Welcome Sports Legends, Celebrities, and 70,000+ Fans July 9–13 By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine | June 26, 2025 There’s nothing quite like summer on the South Shore—and if you’ve been here before, you know there’s no bigger … Read more

Exploring the Legendary Cliffs and Climbing Culture of Lover’s Leap

By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine Tucked along Highway 50 just west of South Lake Tahoe, Lover’s Leap rises like a storybook cliff out of the pine-covered canyon. With its towering granite face and layered climbing routes, it draws climbers from around the world—and legends from long ago. But to truly understand what makes … Read more

Archery for Beginners: Tips To Help You Get Started

A woman wearing a green zip-up hoodie stands in front of an archery target. She's aiming a black bow at the target.

Discover the art of archery! Build focus, patience, and skill while enjoying a rewarding activity. Start your archery adventure and celebrate your progress.

Trail-Tested: Lake Almanor Recreation Trail

Ride, Paddle, and Savor the West Shore By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine If you’re searching for a place to slow down, breathe in the high mountain air, and reconnect with the simple joys of outdoor travel, Lake Almanor’s western shore is waiting. Anchored by one of the most scenic and accessible trails in … Read more

California OHV Commission Heads to Tahoe National Forest for Public Tour and Meeting – June 11–12

KINGS BEACH, CA — Off-road enthusiasts, land stewards, and outdoor access advocates take note: the California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Commission is coming to the North Lake Tahoe region next week for a two-day public event that will spotlight off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation and land management across the Tahoe National Forest. Hosted by California … Read more

A Close Call at Tahoe

Lake Tahoe Inspectors Intercept Vessel with Golden Mussels At first glance, watercraft inspections might seem like just another delay on your way to a great day on the lake. But last week’s discovery at the Alpine Meadows inspection station reminds us why these extra steps are so critical: a 65-foot vessel was found carrying golden … Read more

High and Mighty: Your Guide to Climbing California’s 14ers in the Sierra Nevada

By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine – Summer Issue 2025 Where Legends Are Forged: The Allure of Sierra 14ers In the shadow of granite giants and amid the wild symmetry of the Sierra crest, a legacy was carved not just in stone—but in story. For generations, the Sierra Nevada’s 14,000-foot peaks have beckoned explorers, … Read more

Tahoe Bike Month Returns This June

Celebrate 20 Years of Pedal-Powered Adventure: Tahoe Bike Month Returns This June By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine There’s a rhythm that builds in Lake Tahoe when the snow clears and the trails open. It’s not the hum of traffic or the splash of boats—but the steady, joyful whir of bike tires hitting pavement … Read more

TRIBUTARY WHITEWATER LAUNCHES IMMERSIVE GOOGLE STREET VIEW EXPERIENCE OF FOUR ICONIC WHITEWATER RIVERS

LOTUS, Calif. (May 21, 2025) – Tributary Whitewater announces the launch of Google Street View footage capturing the breathtaking beauty and whitewater rapids of the Middle Fork American River, the South Fork American River (Chili Bar section), the Truckee River (near Lake Tahoe) and the Rogue River. This immersive experience, made possible in partnership with Trailview Studios, … Read more

Tahoe Boating Season Launches with Stronger Protections Against Golden Mussels

May 7, 2025 | Sierra Rec Magazine As Lake Tahoe gears up for the 2025 boating season, boaters and paddlers are facing critical new protocols aimed at protecting one of the Sierra’s most iconic and fragile lakes. Starting now, mandatory decontaminations are required for all motorized boats arriving from outside the Tahoe Basin, in response … Read more

Spring Runoff and River Soul: A First Float Down the East Fork of the Carson

Family rafting East fork Carson River green raft

As snowmelt barrels out of the Sierra each spring and surges down into the valleys, something changes. The volume of the Sierra rises. Waterfalls roar, creeks swell, and the entire range hums a deeper, wilder tune. Spring runoff is a season I’ve always cherished — usually with boots on trail, hiking alongside a roaring river. … Read more

Make a Splash This Mother’s and Father’s Day with Tributary Whitewater Tours

Mom and Dad Raft Free on the South Fork American River! Looking for a one-of-a-kind way to celebrate Mother’s Day or Father’s Day this year? Skip the brunch reservations and neckties—Tributary Whitewater Tours is inviting families to trade tradition for thrills with their annual Mother’s Day and Father’s Day specials. On Sunday, May 11 and … Read more