By Kathryn Reed

CAMP RICHARDSON – Apparently for rich San Franciscans, Lake Tahoe’s winters were too harsh. Instead of embracing the elements and the beauty, they boarded up their homes, packed their belongings and went to the flat land for most of the year.

Of course, those who summered on the shores of Lake Tahoe in the first half of the 20th century didn’t have all the modern conveniences we have today.

And had those with last names like Pope, Baldwin and Heller decided to reside year-round at what is now known as the Tallac Historic Site, it’s possible the winter experience would be much different in the 21st century. Maybe it would still be privately owned.

Sue and AJ at Kiva Beach.

Today, it is so incredibly tranquil. Few people seem to venture to this part of the South Shore in winter. It’s almost like a ghost town.

Sure, the buildings are closed up – just like when it was privately owned. But there is still plenty to see. The U.S. Forest Service has done a great job in putting up signs telling about the history of this site.

(Most of the buildings are open in the summer.)

A gateway to history.

Nineteen buildings are dispersed on what were three estates. The 74 acres are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Restoration work continues on the buildings and grounds.

Imagine what it would have been like a century ago to live here. Imagine the summers back then compared to today. Same lake, same trees, same beach – but a different time makes for a different world.

One of our favorite cross country ski outings is to park at the Beacon restaurant, then glide along the snow-covered beach toward Taylor Creek.

On a blustery December Saturday we hit the point that would take us to Baldwin Beach and decided we didn’t need to go farther. Instead, we headed back along the beach a bit until we could get onto the trail that would lead us through the Tallac Site.

Tallac Historic Site is rich in history and beauty. Photos/LTN

That’s the fun thing about this trek – which is good on skis, snowshoes or boots – it can be a loop. It’s a bit present day, a bit yesteryear.

And with the Beacon the start and end point it makes for a good spot to get something to drink and/or eat.

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Getting there:

From South Lake Tahoe, go north on Highway 89 toward Emerald Bay. At Camp Richardson, turn right at the lodge. Drive down to the Beacon parking lot.