3 off the beaten path NorCal Lake destinations

Lake Tahoe gets all the attention. But Northern California has plenty of serene and beautiful lake destinations that are easily accessible yet less crowded.

Mono Lake

Mono Lake is simply put - stunning. This is not a water-sport lake. Instead, it is a desert lake with high salt levels resulting in a unique eco-system that attracts lots of migratory birds. The lake also features unusual limestone columns - Tufa towers which create a surreal and dramatic landscape.

Convict Lake

Looking for a lake destination with intrigue and character? Convict Lake combines dramatic and unnaturally natural good looks with an exciting past where a group of escaped convicts fled to this lake. To top it off, Convict Lake is a popular destination for trout fishing. Some lakes really do have it all.

Donner Lake

Donner Lake is Lake Tahoe's less well-known neighbor. When you are craving a mountain lake, but don't want to deal with the crowds, Donner Lake is your destination. It's within an hour of Lake Tahoe and hence just as accessible with great public access options.

Wherever your travels take you this Spring and Summer, don't forget to pack your Airthreads linen shirts so that you can Relax, unwind and feel free.