We stuffed the trunk, filled with our travel bags and headed out in the early morning. It was already 85 degrees in Nevada City so we were thankful to be heading up to the majestic place known as Lake Tahoe, where the weather was a perfect 72 degrees. A mere 45 minute drive from us, we couldn't escape the heat fast enough. Along the way, we used a more traditional method of planning our trip – with only a map and personal experiences. We were excited to spend a summer weekend in Tahoe, even if for only 2 days. And while most people think of Lake Tahoe for world-class skiing, the recreational offerings of summer are unsurpassed. We still have 50 days of summer left so winter can wait!

As I was driving, I was made aware of many facts about where we were going by my fellow travel companion and good friend, Aja. Both California and Nevada share Lake Tahoe as the border between the two states cuts right down the middle. The lake is the largest alpine lake in North America, it is about 1,600 feet deep and sits high in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Lake Tahoe has some of the clearest waters in the world, so clear you can see to a depth of anywhere between 70-100 feet. There are excellent photo opportunities everywhere you turn here so you'll want to make sure you have your best camera and camera equipment. Lake Tahoe IS deep in the rugged Sierra Nevada Mountains and be it winter or summer YOU WILL GET WET, so I recommend something water resistant like a sturdy leather bag. The 10” Napa Safari Camera Bag is the perfect size and the water will just bead right off. It seems to take a liking to being in the sand and sun – just like us.

Photo: Highway 89

We turned off in Trukee and headed toward the lake on Highway 89. I'd say this stretch of road is one of the most awe-inspiring in the world. As soon as you enter the area high above the bright sapphire waters, you will feel small compared to the lake, mountains, trees and big sky above. The road lingers a bit off shore, but still maintains gorgeous views of this small inland sea. After a breathtaking drive, we ended up at the Eagle Falls Trailhead. A relatively easy, short hike up makes it perfect for anyone. We got to the top and below us was a view of the lake, Emerald Bay, and the surrounding mountains. We sat atop a flat granite boulder in pure bliss. The air was clear, a cool mountain breeze blew around us and I thought this is what heaven must feel like. We dined on a picnic-style, late lunch using our handy totes we brought with us and then hiked up a little more to be presented with the most amazing waterfall – about 60 feet high - Eagle Falls.

Photo: Eagle Falls and Emerald Bay

After the short hike down we began our journey. It was getting late so we stopped in South Lake Tahoe, or known to locals as "South Shore", to find a place to stay. We thought, why not combine a little night life action on our trip? Stateline, South Shore's bordering city in Nevada, was the perfect place. High-rise casinos offer some of the best of the best in dining and accommodations. We stayed at Harrah's Lake Tahoe because it boasted some of the best views of the surroundings. A short elevator ride down and we were having a blast with a little gambling and cocktails – not overdoing it, of course.

Photo: Stateline, Nevada and Lake Tahoe Golf Course

Morning came too soon and we were off again, making our complete circle around the entire basin. We drove around the Nevada side of the lake, up Highway 50 to Highway 28 to the Northwest - a place called Sand Harbor, which features long sandy beaches and pristine waters. My friend surprised me with a short hike from there to a secret beach where we were really able to soak up the sunshine and cool, sunny weather. For those of you who want an all around tan, or to be seriously one with nature, sans clothing, the beach is appropriately called Secret Cove. If that is understandably not your cup of tea, Sand Harbor contributes to an exceptional swimming and lounging experience.

Photo: Sand Harbor

After a splendid day full of swimming, hiking and lounging we headed back to our own little paradise “down the mountain”. We stopped in King's Beach for down-home American fare at Jason's Beach Side Grill and watched the sun set over the mountains in the west. This was the perfect weekend vacation and it was simply second to none. Of course, two days isn't merely enough time to savor even a quarter of things to do in Tahoe during the summer, so here are a few sites to check out to help plan your perfect vacation, however long or short you want to make it: Tahoe Vacation Guide. For Parks and Hiking: www.parks.ca.gov, www.parks.nv.gov, and For places to stay: Best Hotels Lake Tahoe

Here are some additional links from Copper River Bag Co for your perfect Tahoe Vacation:

• Map of Lake Tahoe
• Drivemode - App for Road Conditions in Tahoe and Beyond
• Toiletry Dopp Kit - for all your travel necessities
• Trailheads for hiking enthusiasts of Lake Tahoe
• Restaurants for all of the Lake
• Some Fun Tote Bags - for all your beach adventures