Heavenly Gondola
We took the Gondola ride last month - about 3.5 miles up the mountain at about 65 degrees angle.
I am afraid of heights so sat very still for the 20 minutes ride. But hubby and 11 yr old daughter loved the ride.
But once we were at the observ deck - you could look down with complimentary binoculars - very beautiful scenery. From the observ deck - you could catch another Gondola and there is another 5 min ride to reach the next stop with restaurant, zipline, and hiking trails.
When we went in late June - it was a bit hot. Weather was mid to high 70s at the bottom of the mountain - up the mountain at the hiking trails - so close to the sun - I felt as if it was high 80's low 90's. I still jokingly refer to the hiking trails up the mountains as "The March of Death."
So - if during the week that you go - if weather below is hotter than mid 70's - it might be too hot up the mountain. However, if you don't mind hot weather and pack a picnic lunch - I think that you will have a good time. They have country music and nice tables/benches for you to sit and relax. I would say - we spent about 3.5-4 hrs up there - wandering around. I believe that the last Gondola down in June was 5pm.
Besides the Gondola - I also recommend Thunderbird Lodge (gorgeous), Emerald Bay, and Sandy Beach in Lake Tahoe. Also - ck out Denise M tips on Tahoe in her Home page. The price to attend Thunderbird Lodge is the same as the Gondola. I think that we enjoyed the Thunderbird Lodge a little more. However, if you don't have to choose and would like to do both - it would be fine as well.
We also bought the Entertainment book and received a $32 Free adult ticket on the Woodwind II sail boat tour of Lake Tahoe.
Happy Travels.
Judy
