Marriott Timber Lodge South Lake Tahoe CA

A Marriott Vacation Club destinations review about Timber Lodge, South Lake Tahoe, California. I had the pleasure of staying there October, 2015, the first time in 20 years.

I had not visited Tahoe in two decades, so I knew it was going to be a rewarding stay. There were no disappointments in the scenery, entertainment or the accommodations.

The route we took from Los Angeles was Highway 395, one of the most scenic in California. The drive took nine hours with one gas stop and lunch stop in Bishop. If you are not familiar with 395, the drive includes Joshua trees, volcanic cinder cones, small towns with populations less than 3,000, and Mt. Whitney. The highway follows a high desert valley with the Sierra Nevada Mtns. to the left and the White Mtns. to the right.

The more direct route is to fly in to Reno, Nevada.

Views of Highway 395

Hwy 395, CA - Rain ...	Convict Lake - Good...	Drive on Hwy 395 - ...	Mono Lake Basin - M...
Bridgeport	Walker

Arrive in South Lake Tahoe

Marriott Timber Lodge

Once in South Lake Tahoe relax in Marriott's villas with all the amenities; hot spas and a swimming pool always at 84 degrees for your comfort in the high mountains. The villas are in the center of many walk-to conveniences. For example, a supermarket for dinner shopping and taking advantage of the traditional sparkling clean BBQs at all Marriott Vacation Clubs. Or have a hot chocolate and wine near a gas fire in the crisp outdoors.

The villas are smaller than the Oahu KoOlina, but you still get all the attention and features that you are used to with the roomier villas. A walk-in Market Place and DVD rental and concierge for all your questions on what to see in the area.

Have You Visited The Sierra Nevadas in California?

Heavenly Ski Resort

Ski Heavenly - At Your Doorstep

Do not forget about winter skiing. The gondola lifts are outside your door. Pick up your gear and walk to the lift from your villa. No dealing with loading the car and then finding a parking space. Restaurants, shopping, cocktails and outdoor entertainment all surround the gondola of Heavenly Mountain Resort. Skiing for all levels of learning and expertise.

Summertime Activities at South Lake Tahoe

When skiing is closed enjoy nature with short drives around the lake or walking out the door. The concierge desk can help with 20 best hikes in and near Lake Tahoe. One hike is 2 blocks from the Timber Lodge. Others are located at various spots around the Lake. A short drive takes you to the small town of Truckee. In summer, Truckee River family rafting is available for an unguided float down the river.

Hiking Trail One Block from Timber Lodge

Collapsed Cabin from 19th Century

Virginia City, Neveda

The historic Virginia City mining town in Nevada is an hour drive from South Lake Tahoe. We enjoyed the mining town and learned a little history of the people and buildings taking the $5.00 narrated tour ride. Find shopping, eating and antiques offered in 19th century buildings in the colorfully preserved town built during the mining era.

Virginia City Antiques

Virginia City Mining

Like Card Games the Slots or Big Stage Music?

One block north of Timber Lodge, past restaurants and shopping is State Line and Harrah's and Harvey's Casinos. A new Hard Rock Casino has opened in 2015. All have schedules for big stage entertainment. See local bands or one of your favorite hit bands or singers.

Coupled with scenery, activities and the Marriott Timber Lodge Vacation Club you will have much to reflect and talk about when you get back home.

A full list of Marriott's Clubs or the table of contents of my Vacation Club reviews here.

Many Historic Places to Visit Along Lake Tahoe

Sequoia Tree and Historic Home

Updated: 12/27/2017, paperfacets

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Sherry Venegas on 05/24/2017

Derdriu,
I am past the skiing age, but I do know in winter there is alpine skiing a walk from the Timber Lodge door. There is additional alpine skiing around the lake and at points within driving distance of the lake.