It’s good for the soul to wander outside the range of cell phone service—or at least act like you did.

“Three months of camp life on Lake Tahoe would restore an Egyptian mummy to his pristine vigor.” Mark Twain, 1872, Roughing It.

Tahoe South has plenty of opportunities for hiking or trail running up glacier-carved granite slopes, finding hidden waterfalls, and discovering alpine meadows painted with wildflowers. Your inner naturalist will be delighted.

The South Lake Tahoe region is crossed with an extensive network of backcountry trails that is sure to lead you to your happy place, though runners looking for paved paths will not be disappointed. For the truly dedicated pavement-pounders, the Lake Tahoe Marathon happens each September.

You could spend a week backpacking through Desolation Wilderness, or just go daytripping with a picnic. Lake Tahoe has hiking trails for the hardcore and weekend warrior alike. You could even get your forest cowboy on, with lots of equestrian trails, including the 165 mile Tahoe Rim Trail.

In winter, show cold who’s boss by strapping on some snowshoes and clambering up the same trails. You’ll be rewarded with snowy solitude and breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe at its most serene.

The best part of hiking or running uphill all day long? Knowing that the way down is way easier—and you’ve earned the right to celebrate with a big meal and a cocktail. Or three.

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