In 1909, Arthur Jost built a small pier and hotel at the water’s edge five miles south of Tahoe City in a sheltered section of lake under the shadow of Ellis Peak. He called his friendly resort “Homewood, and all the name implies.”

Today, the location’s real charm rests along the 21 miles of its shoreline, with bike paths and beaches in the summer months and, in winter, Homewood Mountain Resort (one of Tahoe’s “secret” ski destinations). West Shore also boasts the newly refurbished 1960 Winter Olympic Cross Country ski trails at Sugar Pine Point State Park, complete with an Olympic display at the Carriage House. Nothing beats the thrills found at the historic sledding hill at Granlibakken Resort. Homewood Mountain Resort has always retained an air of adventure and has been a favorite lair for hardboiled skiers from near and far, who are attracted to the resort’s treeprotected runs, nostalgic atmosphere and views that encompass the dramatic panorama of Lake Tahoe shoreline. After an unforgettable day of skiing, feed your craving for a casual pizza with a pie from locals’ favorite West Side Pizza.

Summertime is magical on the West Shore. Bike paths along the Lake deliver one breathtaking view after another. For the more adventurous rider, the Tahoe Rim Trail can be accessed by Granlibakken Resort or the Truckee River, and from here can take mountain bikers to the spectacular Paige Meadows. Stunning beaches provide the perfect venue for picnics and relaxation.

Spectacular scenery is only a part of the West Shore’s enchantment. From the stately Ehrmann Mansion at Sugar Pine Point in Tahoma, to the beaches of Meeks Bay, to Eagle Rock and the Emerald Bay trailheads, gateway to Desolation Wilderness, to the grandeur of D.L. Bliss State Park, the West Shore is an exciting elixir of recreation and relaxation. If you are looking for a glimpse of some of the classic wooden boats that Tahoe is famous for, visit the Tahoe Maritime Museum and explore the rich history of these spectacular yachts.

And if you wish to become a part of this spectacular scenery, create your own adventures afloat with a kayak or paddleboard from West Shore Sports. For an appealing retreat at day’s end, the warming ambiances of the West Shore Café and Sunnyside Resort are both lively choices for those sunset quenchers or for diners just starting the evening.
 

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