Adventure Mountain - Premier Tubing Destination in South Lake Tahoe

***Updated 3/1/2024

 *Base Elevation:

7,400 Feet at the top of Echo Summit

*40 Acres

*Up to 18 Machine Groomed Sledding/Tubing Lanes

(dependent on snowfall)

Location:

Nebelhorn, Hwy 50 Echo Summit 

South Lake Tahoe, CA 96155

*Website

*Instagram

*My Instagram REEL of Adventure Mountain & Pretty Odd Wieners

Adventure Mountain is a premier tubing resort in South Lake Tahoe that my family and I have been enjoying for years.

Picture a day filled with laughter as you zip down massive snow slides, feeling the crisp wind against your face & your spirits soaring.

There are plenty of lanes for tubing, including a gentle section for the little ones, making it fun for the whole family.

With ample snowfall, it's the ideal spot for snow play, surrounded by a picturesque winter landscape.

The mountain has a cafe for dining & a store stocked with essentials, from bibs to snow boots.

Just a ten-minute drive away lies Pretty Odd Wieners, a beloved local hot dog food truck (located in the Shell gas station parking lot) that's been around for ten years. Every visit to the area warrants a stop here for some of the most delicious and unique hot dogs around.

I was fortunate to encounter the owner of the truck, Brian (featured in my reel), who was as cool as his creations (thanks for entertaining my kids' craziness).

What sets his hot dogs apart?
*Unconventional toppings - pork belly, Mac n cheese, & cream cheese.
*Fusion styles - Hawaiian, Chicago, Mexican, Cali, & Seattle influences.
*Alternatives - elk, boar, bison, Italian sausages, & vegan choices available.

You really can't go wrong with anything you choose.

Tubing is always a blast. Pair that with delicious food made with care, & you've got yourself the makings of a perfect day.

Snow tubing not only provides a thrilling outdoor adventure but also encourages everyone to embrace and appreciate the wonders of winter, fostering a lifelong love for outdoor activities in the snow and creating cherished memories amidst a winter wonderland.

When to Visit

-Adventure Mountain can get busy on weekends.  I suggest visiting on a weekday or getting there early before the resort opens.

Parking and Capacity

- If the entrance road is blocked off, it means Adventure Mountain is at capacity. They periodically open up access every hour, but entry is not guaranteed. Standing by the blocked roads is not permitted as it's located next to a busy highway.  Tube Tahoe is a nearby alternative if Adventure Mountain is unavailable.

Fees

-Per vehicle fees at the gate and per person fees for tubing at the gift shop

-Kids tube for free on Tuesdays & Wednesdays, limit of 2 per paying adult

Weather and Road Conditions

Ensuring favorable weather conditions and safe road conditions is key for a hassle-free trip. I recommend checking AccuWeather for upcoming forecasts. Personally, my family prefers temperatures above 35°F with minimal wind. For further details, please check out my Winter Travel Guide.

The baby slopes can be found closest to lodge.

Know Before You Go

-Be prepared for some walking uphill, as Adventure Mountain lacks a magic carpet.  Consider the needs of yourself and everyone in your party.

-Slopes cater to various skill levels, with gentler runs near the cabin suitable for kids, while steeper ones are located closer to the entrance of the park

-The lodge's current status can be checked on the website.

-For your convenice, the resort has a small shop that offers essential gear like snow boots, gloves, and beanies.

- Children under 36" inches must be accompanied by an adult.

-No outside food allowed.  I'm guessing they won't mind those that bring in food for special dietary needs.
-Purchase tickets & sign waivers at gift shop. Collect tubes at the slopes.
-Food available for purchase at the resort
-Feel free to pass over at the top to the line of your desired slope.
-Snow gear is essential for staying dry & warm.  Sometimes, snow may get caught in the tubes and melt.
-Eye protection and sunblock (especially on a sunny day) are essential
-Adventure Mountain is the best value for the money spent.
-Throughout the years, I've witnessed adults enjoying the resort even without kids.

-A set of extra clothes for each in your party may come in handy

Tube or Sled?

-For safety reasons, no outside tubes and sleds are allowed.  For convenience, the resort supplies two sizes of tubes.

Nearby Trips

-BOA Vista Orchards, open year-round, is a genuine apple orchard nestled in Apple Hill, an area comprised of 50+ farms. Located just an hour away, it includes a farm store stocked with an array of apple products, pantry essentials, kitchen tools, and beverages such as cider and wine. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas and stunning vistas while exploring the orchard's grounds.

Alternatives

-Tube Tahoe is a more kid-friendly resort with less crowds and fewer lanes.

Gabriella Viola is a Lake Tahoe content creator who produced a fantastic video showcasing free tubing spots.

Categorized Under "Outdoor Winter Activities" and "Lake Tahoe"

Photography

©Katherine Fung,

All Rights Reserved.

*All opinions are my own

*Information subject to change

Animal Ark- A wildlife Sanctuary with Beautiful Animals and Beautiful Grounds

1265 Deerlodge Rd, 

Reno, NV 89508

*Location 30 minutes North of Reno

*Website

*Instagram

Animal Ark operates on limited hours during winter and opens fully from late March to late October.

Located in the picturesque foothills of Red Rock, NV, Animal Ark spans 38 acres and serves as a sanctuary for disadvantaged, disabled, orphaned, or unwanted animals. The sanctuary provides these animals with ample space and a nurturing environment, all made possible by the dedicated efforts of workers and volunteers.

During my visits, I've encountered knowledgeable staff and volunteers eager to educate visitors and observed their nurturing relationships with the animals. 

Animal Ark actively engages the community through resources and educational initiatives, including videos and field trip opportunities.

The sanctuary hosts various special events throughout the year, such as the Cheetah Run, fall festival, summer camps for kids, holiday celebrations, and breakfast buffets enjoyed by their animal residents, all of which are enjoyed by many.

As one of my top ten places in Reno, Animal Ark contributes significantly to making the city the "Biggest Little City." I appreciate their commitment to animal welfare, community education, and providing a beautiful environment and engaging events for visitors.

When to Visit:

- Summer can be hot, so it's best to visit early morning when animals are most active before the heat sets in.

- Witness morning feedings by checking the schedule or calling ahead.

- During summer, essential items like a water bottle, hat, and sunscreen are a must.

- Spring sometimes offers the chance to see baby animals; call for details.

- Look out for food trucks during special events.

- The Ark's hours are limited in winter, fully open from April to October; verify before planning your visit.

Weather:

- Check the weather forecast beforehand and dress appropriately, as it can get windy and cold.

- Wear proper footwear as pathways may become muddy when wet.

Membership:

- Consider becoming a member for year-round visits, supporting the animals, and enjoying exercise and fresh air.

- Options include membership, animal adoption, and donations to help with animal care costs.

Volunteer:

- If you love animals and want to gain experience or contribute to the community, volunteering at The Ark is a rewarding opportunity.

Landscape:

- The Ark offers a natural setting with about a mile of walkways, including a dirt path leading to the parking lot and a small hill section.

- Interpretive signs and beautiful grounds with diverse plants make for an enriching experience.

- A nearby playground and picnic tables provide additional amenities.

Learn:

- Docents are available throughout the day to answer questions about the animals, which include bears, wolves, owls, turtles, raccoons, cheetahs, and birds of prey. 

Getting Around:

- Golf carts are available for those needing assistance; check availability by calling.

- Jogging strollers are suitable for navigating the dirt paths.

Shop:

- Explore the gift shop offering jewelry, clothing, toys, books, souvenirs, snacks, ice cream, and drinks.

Pets:

- Service animals are welcome, but other pets are not allowed on the premises.

Categorized Under "Outdoor Attractions" and "Museums & Zoos"

***Information subject to change

Photos

©Katherine Fung,

All Rights Reserved.

Perenn Bakery - Take your Taste Buds Abroad to Paris Eating the Finest Pastries in Town

20 St Lawrence Ave, Reno, NV 89509

Directions

New location-The Village at Rancharra(gorgeous)

7700 Rancharrah Pkwy, Ste 110, Reno, NV 89511

Updated post to come

Website

Large Orders Online

(775) 451-7722

More Reviews on Yelp

Instagram

I've been trying to come up with a line to start this review, but I'm having a hard time, so I figured, why not put all of them.

1.  Why am I only finding out about this bakery just now?
2.  It's places like Perenn that make me so proud of Reno and it's movement toward Foodie Heaven.
3.  When typing "best bakeries in Reno" on Google, why doesn't Perenn Bakery pop up?  Turns out that there's room for Google to improve.
4. You need to visit this bakery right now!
5.  Want to treat yourself or someone you love? This is the place to go.
6.  Perenn Bakery brings you the whole experience, exciting all the senses, with super fresh, gorgeous hand-crafted pastries and breads, a fancy & charming rustic bakery seating out in front, and, most importantly, unique and beyond delicious-tasting food.

They're even staying in the game with every other aspect of business, including social media, online ordering & bulk ordering, and catering. Ordering opens at 2pm (closing time) for next-day pick-up. At pick-up, no need to wait in line, just let them know.

Perenn has a professional website, gorgeous, drool-worthy photos on Instagram, check in with their guests regarding opinions, offer giveaways, and keep close ties with the holidays/seasons, offering holiday/seasonal-themed goodies and meal kits.

Their pastries alone will win me over and everything else is the big fat cherry on top, which is much appreciated.

As I'm typing this review, I'm on their site adding items into my cart for pick-up tomorrow curbside.  

Have you watched LOST?  Do you know that line where Jack tells Kate, "We need to go back! (to the island)"  That's how I felt when I had my last bite of Prosciutto & Gruyere Croissant.  Luckily, I know how to go back, which is what I'm doing first thing in the morning.

NOTES:
-local business that uses local, high quality ingredients
-If you are a butter lover, you will be a Perenn lover
-vegetarian friendly, not gluten free friendly. Breads are dairy free.
-priced a little more than the usual but totally worth it due to the best quality ingredients and just the best tasting food.
-The kind female worker with the beanie that boxed my pastries was down-to-earth friendly and answered my questions patiently. Cashier was also super friendly.
-don't forget to join their rewards program. Free croissant? That's a steal.
-They have the fanciest pastry box ever.
-There was a guy behind me that knew this was my first visit and told straight-up how I was 100% going to enjoy the pastries.  Yes, their pastries will get you raving to customers right in the same building.
-The chocolate croissant will get you talking in a French accent.  Quality chocolate. Flaky and well balanced.
-They bake everything fresh daily, so come early if you want to get a chance to taste their best-selling pastries or order online ahead of time.
-Their flaky croissants can get a little messy, so If you're trying to eat them in the car, best put a box right below.
-Fancy food calls for fancy drinks and chips.  Yes, they have them. Coffee, chips and assorted sparkling beverages available (Aura Bora is a unique brand that has flavors like cactus rose, lavender cucumber- no sugar)
-They sell merch.
-Midtown is not the best with parking, but there are spaces out in front across the street and nearby neighborhood parking available
-boulangerie/viennoiserie-type bakery-that means lots of milk & butter and in-house baguettes. Yes, they're fancy enough for these fancy classifications.
-If someone gave me a gift card to Perenn Bakery, this would be the only time I would share my pastry, and it would be with them. Gift Cards available in store and online.
-OMG for Avocado Toast!!! I never say OMG, but will make an exception for their toast. Bread-perfection, avocado-perfection, toppings perfection! Just the right balance with fats, acids, starches and magic.
-my last visit, I went for another box (6 minimum) to try all the other goodies. And every.single.pastry.was.bomb! Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie, Chocolate Croissant, Cinnamon roll, Kouign- Amann, Cardamom Twist, Earl Grey cookie.  Yum in every single bite from start to finish.
-I saw a tub of cookie dough in their drink case.
-you can buy a jar of their homemade chili crunch and everything else on their website.

I am now on a mission to try every single item at this magical bakery.  Do you have a favorite bakery in Reno?  I am always ready to try new things. 

Categorized Under "Good Eats"

Photos

©Katherine Fung,

All Rights Reserved.

Krispy Kreme Grand Opening in the Sparks-Reno Area

Attention all Krispy Kreme Fanatics

Yes, your doughnut wishes have been answered. A new location in the Reno-Sparks area will be opening soon!

Where?

75 Los Altos Pkwy, Sparks, NV 89436

Grand Opening:

March 16, 2021

March 21: Krispy Kreme will randomly surprise 120 guests with a "Celebration Dozen Ticket" that provides one free dozen original glazed donuts every month for a year.

Hours:

Monday-Sunday from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m

Drive-thru will open at 5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily

It's no secret how amazing Krispy Kreme donuts are, but if you are one of the very few that have not yet had a piece of this heavenly donut, you are in for a treat.

Seven reasons you must try a Krispy Kreme Doughnut:

1. Taste

When you have a perfect-tasting doughnut, is there any other reason to not get one?

2. Freshness

They make their doughnuts in-house on the daily. If you want to see with your own eyes, they have a window for viewing the whole process. Yes, they have nothing to hide. They flaunt their feathers like a peacock.

3. Coffee

If you have perfect doughnuts, why wouldn't you have a good cup of coffee to go with it? Ethically sourced coffee is a plus.

4. History

The company started in 1937. Food tastes better, aged with experience.

5. Nostalgia

Krispy Kreme sparks nostalgia for the "good old days," when life was more simple and enjoying a doughnut was done every morning with a neighborhood friend on the front porch.

A lof of their charm comes from their branding; everything has been kept true to its history. Until today, Krispy Kreme has been using the same logo it first began using in 1955 and every shop is modeled in an old-fashioned "diner" kind of way.

6. Variety

Krispy Kreme is constantly switching up their flavors according to season and trends. Though I can happily eat their classic hit everyday (their glazed doughnut), people that seek different options will appreciate their effort.

7. Convenience

Open super early and open late night with a drive-thru available.

Notes:

*If you haven't heard yet, Doughboy's Donuts is a local favorite, including this local. Located in South Reno at 57 Damonte Ranch Pkwy, Reno, NV 89521. Krispy Kreme sparked my love for doughnuts and Doughboys kept that love going.

*Krispy Kreme helps out the community with fundraising opportunities. For the pandemic, they've made it possible to raise funds in a contact-free and digital manner. Visit their website for more details.

*If you're adventurous, try making a burger using one of their doughnuts as a bun.

*Krispy Kreme doughnuts pair well with In-N-Out burgers. Yes, I'm not surprised either!

Categorized under News and Announcements

Tube Tahoe - Stunning Views, Fresh Air, and A Tubular Time

Two not so steep lanes (left) and  two steeper lanes (on right with orange netting)

Tube Tahoe was born during the pandemic, aiming to supply a fun spot for everyone to safely have fun outdoors.

3021 US-50

South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

(530) 600-2304

*Website

*Liability Waiver Form (save some time and fill out before your visit)

*Frequently Asked Questions

*Instagram 

Business Snapshot

Tube Tahoe is a family-friendly tubing business in South Lake Tahoe that opens up in the winter and features beautiful views of Mt. Tallac and Echo Summit.  Here you'll find nicely groomed lanes, friendly service, a grocery store and food truck next door, and lots of tubuler fun.  Equipment is included and tubing is on a first come, first-served basis.  This business stands out with their long lanes (around 500ft.), limited crowds (fees may have something to do with this), views, and rad service.  Workers help guests onto their tubes, making this spot ideal for families.  If you're looking for steeper runs, this may not be the place you're looking for.  They hold free days for special needs families. You can follow them on Instagram for updates.

Check in at this building.

VIT (very important tuber) Season Pass

Click on "Book Reservervations" on homepage and click on "purchase tickets" to see this option. Rates as of 1.2023 

During the pandemic, my family made a trip out to our usual tubing spot-Adventure Mountain, but they were at capacity.  

I asked the worker out on the road if he knew of another tubing place around and he referred me and my family to Tube Tahoe.  

I was pleasantly surprised to find that it was close by (12 minutes).  

I'm glad that Adventure Mountain was at capacity since we were presented with another place to explore and try out.  

The four slopes at Tube Tahoe were perfectly groomed, with kind workers at the top to help hold the tubes in place before take-off.  

This was extremely helpful, allowing for my two little ones to be able to go on their own without me and my husband's supervision.

Me and my family had a great time at TubeTahoe.  Though it was different from our usual snow adventure —less crowds and fewer slopes — it was a welcome change as me and my family love to discover and explore new places.

If you're wondering, Adventure Mountain is also a great tubing resort, with more lanes (18 in prime weather), a snow play area, and a building that has a small shop and eatery area that serves fast food.  This resort caters both to smaller children and adults as some of the slopes are on the steeper side.  If you plan on visiting this resort, make sure to get there a bit before they open to avoid crowds and to secure a parking spot. 

Free Fun Day for Special Needs Families, 2023

---

"We are excited to host a Free Fun Day for Special Needs Families from near and far. Come visit us this Sunday, January 22nd from 9am – 4pm and check-in at the ticket shop! We will have two tubing lanes designated for this event. We will also be hosting this event on February 12th and March 19th, 2023, if you can’t make it this Sunday!" -source

Thanks so much for being awesome, Tube Tahoe! 

They have a small shop just in case you forget something.  Snacks available for sale.

On A Budget?  No Problem.

There are plenty of areas around Lake Tahoe that are open to the public free of charge (snow permitting).  Check out this video made by YouTuber Gabriella, showing you where to find them. 

Notes

-50% discount for South Lake Tahoe locals with ID

-no magic carpet. must walk up to get to the top

-their tubes were so comfortable compared to the ones at Adventure Mountain

-Google maps brought me to the wrong address. Instead, use the Holiday Market grocery store address. 

-Check the weather ahead of time so that you can dress appropriately. Check road conditions to make sure they are clear for travel. 

-Tube Tahoe is conveniently located right next to a grocery Holiday Market, gas station, and Pretty Odd Weiners

-the views of the surrounding mountains were breathtaking

-their store has all of the essentials- sunblock, winter gear, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses

-outside sleds are not allowed for safety purposes

-there are no places to have picnics except for car or nearby places

-compared to Adventure Mountain, you are not allowed to play with snow in the surrounding areas

-there are a couple of mini slopes at the bottom that me and my kids had fun playing around

-walkway up to the slopes are not as steep as the ones at Adventure Mountain, making them more kid-friendly

-different rates for weekdays vs weekends. Check website for current rates. They charge per person

-first come first served

-helmets not required

-minors under 42" must ride with an adult

-can book for parties after the holidays

-if you're looking for another short road trip nearby, BOA Vista Orchards, a family favorite, is open year-round and the whole Apple Hill opens during Fall. One hour away. 

Pricing as of 1/9/2023

Please check website for current rates

Delicious dogs from Pretty Off Weiners next door after a full day of fun.

Pretty Odd Weiners 

from Website (as of 1/9/2023)

Monday 10:00am - 6:00pm

Tuesday 10:00am - 6:00pm

Wednesday 10:00am - 6:00pm

Thursday 10:00am - 6:00pm

Friday 10:00am - 6:00pm

Saturday 9:00am - 6:00pm

Sunday 9:00am - 6:00pm

Categorized under Lake Tahoe, Seasonal/ Holidays and Outdoor Winter Activities

*All opinions are my own.  Information subject to change.  Please check in with business for the latest information.

Photos

©Katherine Fung,

All Rights Reserved.