30 Fun Things to Do in Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is part of the culture here in Northern California. It’s the place where people escape the summer heat, ski on the weekends, and so much more; it’s the place to go to relax and be in nature. Lake Tahoe and neighboring Truckee are now one of our favorite places to visit as a family, and I’ve compiled lots of ideas for things to do in Lake Tahoe.

Click the map below for a Google Map for the places mentioned in this blog post:

30 Things to Do at Lake Tahoe | This Is My Happiness

Lake Tahoe travel tips

 

What to do in West and South Lake Tahoe

Sugar Pine Point State Park

Ed Z’Berg Sugar Pine Point State Park is one of Lake Tahoe’s nicest natural areas. It hugs nearly two miles of the lake and contains dense forests that make for wonderful hiking and camping.

The Dolder Nature Trail:

For a perfect day hike in Lake Tahoe, try the Dolder Nature Trail, a two-mile loop that begins behind the mansion, passes the lake shore, and winds through the forest. It’s a beautiful, quiet trail full of big trees, ferns, and wildflowers–we even spotted a giant Sequoia next to the lake! (When you reach the fork where it says “Wildlife Area,” you can go either way since it’s a loop–go right to reach the trail along the shore.)

Cost: $10 is the day-use fee for state parks, but it can be used at other parks on the same day

Tour the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion

What to do Lake Tahoe

The Hellman-Ehrman Mansion from 1903 provides an interesting peek into the life of the rich on Lake Tahoe. During the house’s early years, invited guests would arrive here after a long train ride. The tour of both the main mansion rooms and servant areas lasts less than one hour; if you have kids with you, the tour guide will likely tailor some of the information to their interests. Tours run from late May through late September.

Cost: $10 for the tour of the mansion (students are $8 and free for kids 6 and under). Tickets are available for purchase at the Nature Center behind the mansion.

Nature center at Sugar Pine Point State Park

If you have kids with you or if you like animals, save a few minutes to see the free taxidermy exhibit at the Nature Center in Sugar Pine Point State Park. The collection shows animals that are found locally, and honestly, I saw animals and birds that I had never heard of before!

Emerald Bay State Park

Things to do in Lake Tahoe

Emerald Bay State Park includes the Emerald Bay overlook and hiking trails that descend to Vikingsholm, a castle-like house at the shore of the bay, and Fannette Island, the only island in Lake Tahoe. The view from the Emerald Bay overlook (shown above) is a classic Lake Tahoe view, but you may want to include the walk down to Vikingsholm and the tour of this historic house. Be aware that the walk back up is steep, and there are no rides out. Restrooms are available at the bottom of the trail.

This is one of the best things to do in Lake Tahoe, but try to arrive early as this area can get very crowded.

Cost: Free to park at Emerald Bay overlook (but the lot can be crowded), $10 for the state park day use fee (but this can be used at other state parks on the same day), $10 for the tour of Vikingsholm.

Calawee Cove at D.L. Bliss State Park

One of several beautiful places in D.L. Bliss State Park, Calawee Cove is one of my favorite places in the Lake Tahoe area. We arrived in the morning, when the beach was occupied only by some geese. The sandy beach and rocky cove make it a beautiful place to spend a couple of hours. There are restrooms just above the beach. Plus, this is the starting point for the beautiful Rubicon Trail hike (find out more about Lake Tahoe hikes).

Cost: $10 for state park day use (but it can be used at other parks on the same day)

Balancing Rock Trail at D.L. Bliss State Park

Another highlight of our stay was the half-mile Balancing Rock Trail in D.L. Bliss State Park. Beginning at a teepee that represents the history of the Native Americans who once lived in this area, the trail continues up to the Balancing Rock and other massive granite boulders and then down to a stream.

Be sure to pick up one of the brochures in the box at the trail head–it’s clear that the stories that accompany the sights along the trail were written by someone who loves this place and has a great respect for nature.

Look for wildflowers in the summer

What to do Lake Tahoe

One of the activities that my kids and I did during our stay was counting how many different types of wildflowers we could spot. They were a nice addition to our time in nature around Lake Tahoe.

The Heavenly Gondola at South Lake Tahoe

30 Things to do Lake Tahoe

The Heavenly Mountain Gondola is a 2.4 mile ride up above Lake Tahoe. Once at the the observation deck, you can take in a view of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains, or you can continue up to the ski slopes and hiking trails.

Cost: For our family of 4, the gondola ride cost $150. Kids under 5 are free.

The Alpine Village at Squaw Valley

Here you can find shops, restaurants, and activities such as mini golf, wine tasting, and free summer concerts. If you can make it there in the evening, bring s’mores supplies (or buy a kit at the front desk) and enjoy some time at one of the village’s fire pits.

Take the aerial tram to High Camp

What to do Lake Tahoe Squaw Valley

The aerial tram climbs 2000 feet above the Squaw Valley floor, past enormous rocky cliffs, to High Camp. Once at High Camp, visitors can enjoy the overlook of the mountains and Lake Tahoe, swim in the pool or play outdoor games, take advantage of miles of hiking trails with sweeping mountain views, and visit the Olympic Museum; in the winter, there’s ice skating. Note: it can get windy up there, so bring an extra layer and know that your hike may be windy.

Cost: The tram ride costs $34 per adult or $8 for kids over 4 if you book online 24 hours in advance + a few extra dollars if you want to swim and/or rollerskate. The Olympic Museum is free.

Bike along the Truckee River

Just outside the entrance to Squaw Valley are miles of bike trails that follow the Truckee River on Highway 89. There is a bike rental shop at Hwy 89 and Squaw Valley Rd. with bikes for adults and kids (including trailers for toddlers).

Hike the Shirley Canyon Trail

Past the Village at Squaw Valley is the Shirley Canyon Trail, a moderately difficult 4-mile trail. It follows Shirley Creek past waterfalls and wildflowers to Shirley Lake. The trail has some strenuous parts where you’ll need to climb over boulders. I did the first stretch with my kids–we hiked to the first waterfall, threw rocks in the water, and turned around.

For those who are really motivated, the trail continues up from Shirley Lake to High Camp, where you can take the tram back down for free. Dogs are welcome on the trail and in the tram.

Squaw Valley Meadow trail

In the center of Squaw Valley is this green meadow, which is lined by a quiet bike/walking path. It’s especially beautiful in the early evening when the setting sun shines down on the meadow.

Hike at Fallen Leaf Lake

Things to do in Lake Tahoe

At the top of our list of favorite things to do in Lake Tahoe! Fallen Leaf Lake is a much smaller alpine lake just a couple of miles south of South Lake Tahoe. At the entrance to Fallen Leaf Lake Campground, you can begin the hiking trail, which leads by the lake and a view of Mt. Tallac. The .75 mile walk is flat with a wide trail, easy to navigate even for kids.

What to do at North Lake Tahoe and Truckee

Go stand-up paddleboarding

SUP is very popular at Lake Tahoe. There are many places to rent paddleboards, but if you’d prefer, you can rent a kayak instead. The water is calm and clear–it’s no wonder that so many people are out on the lake in the summer.

Cost: Paddleboards can be rented for $20/hour here and at other locations around Lake Tahoe. Lessons are also available.

Relax at King’s Beach State Recreation Area

30 Things to Do at Lake Tahoe | This Is My Happiness

On the north side of Lake Tahoe, the long stretch of sandy beach at King’s Beach is the perfect place to relax in the summer. Families come to play in the water (kayaks and paddleboards are available to rent), but there are also shaded picnic tables, a playground for kids, and restaurants within easy walking distance. Parasailing rides are available for $60-80 (information about water sports equipment rentals here).

Dogs are not allowed on the beach.

Cost: $10 for parking (this is the day-use fee for state parks, but you can use the pass at other state parks on the same day). Kayaks cost $20/hour.

Northstar Village’s free gondola ride to the Ritz

If you want to take a gondola ride but don’t want to pay for the Heavenly or Squaw (see above) ticket prices, try the free gondola at Northstar. Compared to Heavenly and Squaw, the ride itself is less spectacular and there’s less to do at the top. But it’s a nice option for an affordable afternoon activity. Plus, the village itself is fun. Check out the ice skating, fries and beer at Frites, and the restaurants like Tavern 6330′.

Parking tip: Just before arriving in the village, turn right at the stop sign and look for the signs for Guest Parking. Continue to the far end of the lot, where there are stairs leading down to the village. The lot is free. If you come on a day that’s not crowded with skiers, it’s easy to get a good parking spot.

I love Truckee (find out why here) and think it’s a great addition to any stay in the Lake Tahoe area. Plus, Amtrak stops there!

Thursdays in Truckee

Every Thursday evening in the summer, downtown Truckee has a street fair that includes a farmers’ market, live music, kids’ activities, and a beer garden. 5:00-8:30 p.m. June 11-August 20.

The Truckee River Regional Trail

The Truckee River Regional Trail is a fairly new nature trail that runs along the Truckee River. Besides the .8 mile nature trail, there is a disc golf course (bring your own discs) on the hill above the trail plus picnic areas and a very nice skate park at the Truckee River Regional Park. Free.

Donner Memorial State Park

Donner Memorial State Park encompasses the area around Donner Lake, a much smaller alpine lake than Lake Tahoe. Cross-country skiing and snow-shoeing trails around the lake make great hiking trails in the summer (about 2.5 miles of hiking trails total). Picnic tables are scattered throughout the park, so bring snacks.

30 Things to Do at Lake Tahoe

The new Visitor Center houses a small museum of local Native American history and, of course, the Donner story. The Donner Party was one of the pioneer families who became stranded near here in 1846. Outside the center is a self-guided half-mile nature trail (you can pick up a brochure at the center) and the Pioneer Monument. This statue depicts a pioneer family standing on a platform twenty-two feet high, the height that the snow could have been that winter. This is a good choice of things to do in Lake Tahoe with kids.

Cost: $5 for state park day use (but it can be used at other parks on the same day)

Where to stay at Lake Tahoe

With 1700 hotels and rentals to choose from and a best price guarantee, Booking.com‘s Lake Tahoe accommodations is my favorite way to find good deals.


Booking.com

If you prefer the space of a vacation rental, try the many homes and cabins on Airbnb. And you get a $40 credit towards your stay!

After several visits to the area, I’ve chosen a few favorite places to stay at Lake Tahoe:

Rent this house on the west shore:

Where to stay Lake Tahoe

We stayed in this cabin through Airbnb on Tahoe’s west shore recently and loved it. It’s located in a quiet residential area just a few minutes’ walk from the lake (there’s a small beach and private pier that guests have access to). The house is well stocked and comfortable and has two upstairs decks that would be perfect to enjoy on nice days.

Red Wolf Lodge at Squaw Valley:

Squaw Valley is one of the largest ski areas in the U.S. and was the home of the 1960 Winter Olympics. It’s a beautiful area with mountains on three sides. I found it a nice alternative to Lake Tahoe, which is so busy in the summer. Because Squaw is a ski resort, it was quiet and peaceful in the summer yet just a short drive away from Tahoe and Truckee.

The Red Wolf Lodge Squaw Valley has vacation rental condos available each with a kitchen and living area. We stayed in the one-bedroom condo and had plenty of space for our family of four–my kids slept on the fold-out sofa bed. The condos have recently been remodeled and have new furnishings, a fireplace and a balcony.

Unlike most vacation rentals, the lodge had amenities, such as a hot tub, foosball table and DVDs that we could check out in the evenings. The place was perfect for our traveling family. And there’s so much to do within walking distance of the condos (see Squaw Valley below).

Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe

Where to stay North Lake Tahoe

A beautiful resort property on the north shore of Lake Tahoe (just across the state line in Nevada), the Hyatt has its own private beach and access to water sports. The hotel is expensive but is a convenient option, with a full-service spa, several restaurants, beach access and a very nice pool/hot tub area with a separate pool area for families.

Condos at Northstar

I love the Northstar/Truckee area. It’s a bit away from the lake, but if you’re in the mood for winter sports or the small town feeling of Truckee, you’ll enjoy staying here. The condos available for rent at Northstar are a nice choice for families — they’re quiet, comfortable, and clean. A free shuttle service takes you to the Northstar Village, with restaurants, ice skating, a movie theater, and shops, plus a free gondola ride up to the Ritz Carlton. See more: a weekend at Northstar.

Where to shop

Trunk Show, Tahoe City

Where to shop Lake Tahoe

Trunk Show was my favorite shopping find in the Tahoe area. A quirky shop full of “locally made art, jewelry, and stuff,” it gets more interesting and appealing the more you look at its contents. By the time I left, I had picked out art and jewelry that I wanted for myself. We love the fact that everything is made by local artists. Definitely a place to support! 

Ruffles & Ruffnecks, Tahoe City

Children's store Lake Tahoe

In the Cobblestone, the same little shopping center as the above Trunk Show, Ruffles & Ruffnecks is a shop of carefully selected items for children — beautiful clothing, costumes (I bought my son’s next Halloween costume there!), and toys. This is a great place to stop if you have kids or are looking for something to buy for a loved one with kids.

Historic Downtown Truckee Shops

On Truckee’s historic downtown strip, check out Sweets for fudge and candy (dark chocolate honeycomb!), Riverside Studios, Tahoe Oil & Spice, Truckee Variety Co., and Bespoke, another of my favorite Tahoe area shops. Bespoke has mostly one-of-a-kind items made by artisans. The shop specializes in what they call “slow products.” My favorite items are their jewelry, which feels modern yet natural.

Where to eat & drink

Taste wine at Uncorked: Truckee, the Village at Squaw Valley, and Tahoe City

Uncorked is a wine bar and shop that features limited production wines from around the world available for tasting or by the glass. Outdoor seating is available in summer months. Uncorked opens at noon every day.

Jax at the Tracks, Truckee

I love this diner! The diner is actually a vintage 1948 diner that was moved here from Pennsylvania and completely restored. The diner serves what they call “real comfort food.

You’ll find classic American comfort food like a tuna melt, wedge salad, and mac & cheese, plus milkshakes and malts, but the best dish (in my opinion) is the All Day Addiction, a perfect combination of hash browns, ham, eggs, avocado, mixed greens, roasted tomatoes, basil pesto, and balsamic drizzle. YUM! (Note: the last two times I ate here, it wasn’t good. I still love the concept but worry that it’s being poorly managed. If you go, I’d love to hear your impression.)

30 Things to Do in Lake Tahoe | This Is My Happiness.com

Moody’s Bistro, Bar, & Eats in Truckee

Moody’s Bistro, Bar, & Eats is located in the historic Truckee Hotel and is known for its live music.

Trokay in Truckee

30 Things to Do at Lake Tahoe| This Is My Happiness

Trokay is the area’s finest restaurant and is well worth saving for a special night out. Owned by a couple of award-winning chefs who relocated here from New York City, Trokay offers two prix-fixe menus of several courses, or you can order individual items from the menu. One of the owners is a cheesemonger, so the cheese plates are exceptional here.

Best Pies Pizzeria, Truckee

We were looking for a casual, easy meal in Truckee and got just that at this New York style pizza place right on Truckee’s main drag.

Fifty Fifty Brewing Co., Truckee

Where to eat Truckee

We come here for the beer and the food but we find the service slow and food overpriced. Try their award-winning Eclipse barrel-aged stouts or their Session IPA.

Moe’s BBQ, Tahoe City

What a find! This casual restaurant serves Alabama-style BBQ right on the lake in Tahoe City (and, bonus: they have a good beer selection).

Tahoe Mountain Brewing Company, Tahoe City

Tahoe Mountain Brewing Company makes an easy stop for lunch during a day at Lake Tahoe. The food isn’t great, but it’s family-friendly, conveniently located in the center of town, and has a couple of decent beers. Try the Hop Dragon Double IPA or Saison.

Whitecaps Pizza, Kings Beach

This restaurant checked all the boxes for us on a recent stay in King’s Beach. It has a lake view, kid-friendly, good salads, interesting pizzas, and an excellent selection of regional beers.

Have you been to Lake Tahoe? What are your suggestions for things to do in Lake Tahoe?

 

More information about travel in Tahoe:

What to Pack for Lake Tahoe in the Winter

5 Things to Do in South Lake Tahoe with Kids

8 Kid-Friendly Hikes at Tahoe

Why we love Fallen Leaf Campground

48 Hours in Truckee

The Perfect Day Trip to Donner Lake and Truckee

Fodor’s Guide to Northern California

Day Hikes in Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe Guide

36 Hours in Lake Tahoe

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30 Things to Do at Lake Tahoe

Photo credit: Heavenly Gondola: Scott Schiller on Flickr

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52 Comments

  1. I love Lake Tahoe! I’ve been going there every summer since I was a kid. It’s my favorite smell in the world – all that pine – yum! You hit so many great spots for enjoying all that summer has to offer in Tahoe. They also do a great Shakespeare Festival at Sand Harbor and of course there’s live music and gambling if you feel like digging into the casinos. I prefer the fresh air, and there’s plenty of it there!

    1. says: Jenna

      Thanks for the tip! I will check out the festival next year. I also love what you said about the smell! That area is so special.

  2. says: noel

    What a great list, I think I’ve only done about half of this and its been too long since I have visited Tahoe in the summer time. Thanks for taking me there to see some of my favorite spots.

  3. Beautiful photos, everywhere!! That shot with your son fishing is just gorgeous. I’ve yet to see Tahoe, but of course this makes me want to pack my bags. What gorgeous scenery! I’m with you — I think I’d prefer to go in Summer!

  4. says: Murissa

    So gorgeous there! One of our customers we visited on a business trip actually lives in Truckee but works in Rocklin. He’s a sales rep so he covers everything in between. What a beautiful place to call a sales territory!

    1. says: Jenna

      I say this to everyone, but you will love it! I especially feel that about you because you guys like to hike and try outdoor sports.

  5. says: Brianna

    I’ve been wanting to visit Lake Tahoe for a while now. SUP is one of my favorite summertime activities, I can see why its so popular here 🙂

  6. says: Andi

    I enjoy Tahoe in the off season, there is an incredible amount of things to do, I just prefer to do them when it is a little less crowded!

    1. says: Jenna

      Yes, I need to get there more in the off season, too. I was in Truckee last November and loved it because it seemed like we were the only tourists!

  7. says: Jenny

    Great read! Looks like you missed out on Truckee River whitewater rafting…trip have not been running with the current drought, but it’s a fun 1/2 day trip for all ages 7+. The South Fork American River does run regardless of drought!

  8. says: Brad

    The West Coast at its finest. Gambling is also popular out here. You wouldn’t think it, but it’s about a 7 hour drive to Vegas, so you might as well just stay in Lake Tahoe. lol

  9. says: John Peltier

    I’ve lived here since 1990 and all I can say is…you sure got the high points! There’s been quite an explosion of new restaurants recently.
    I’d also like to add Shakespeare at Sand Harbor in the summer. Biking the Flume Trail is also an unforgettable experience, and a one-way shuttle makes the workout easier.

  10. says: Diana

    Hi there. I just found your site through Pintrest. We’ve been to Lake Tahoe only once, but have been planning on going back, and with your info we have even more to do there now!! Thanks!!!

  11. says: Anne Peterson

    We’re visiting in mid-March, hoping to ski but open to other suggestions if the snow isn’t good. Are any of your recommended hikes accessible in March?

  12. Next time you’re in town don’t forget to check out the Venetian Gondola company in South Lake- TahoeAMORE. It’s in the keys and they let you bring as much wine/champagne as you’d like. HIGHLY recommend to go at Sunset.

  13. says: Brad

    Great Blog Jenna. I am a Tahoe local and you listed some restaurants and other activities I haven’t heard of yet. Thanks for the inspiration to try out some new places in my home town.

    Cheers,
    Brad

  14. says: Alison

    Agree with you that Jax’s Diner is not good anymore. Went this season and it did not live up to expectations!

  15. says: Luiza

    Jenna thank you for the tips! Can you add which places (from Where to Eat) are also budget friendly?:)

    1. says: Jenna

      Sure thing! Here are the more budget friendly places to eat:
      Best Pies Pizzeria, Truckee
      Moe’s BBQ, Tahoe City
      Whitecaps Pizza, Kings Beach
      And definitely Sprouts Cafe in South Lake Tahoe

  16. says: Steph

    Oops! I re read it and I saw you wrote cheesemonger. Sorry, I read that wrong so early in the morning! Please delete it. Thank you.:)

  17. says: Alisa Walley

    We will be in Tahoe for the 4th of July (tahoe city area) where is the best place to see the fireworks? Thanks

    1. says: Jenna

      Good question! I haven’t done it so can’t say for sure, but I’d think the beach at Tahoe City would be a good choice. I wouldn’t try driving to other parts of the lake (unless just a few miles) because there will be so many other cars–traffic and difficulty parking.

  18. says: Haley Lewis

    If we were planning to come end of April and camp around the lake, is it easy to bring a dog along? Lots of hikes and beaches he’s allowed on?

    1. says: Jenna

      Great question! I know that dogs are allowed on many trails (they should be leashed) but I don’t know if the rules are different at state parks. Try looking at the sites of the specific places you want to visit to see if there’s a no-dog rule. Have a great trip!

  19. says: Char

    What are two to three things that are an absolute while visiting? There will be four of us for a fairly short weekend conference at the beginning of June and would love to enjoy some sights while there.

    1. says: Jenna

      Hi Char,
      It depends a bit on where you’re staying because the lake is big, but overall my must-dos are these:
      1) hike the Rubicon Trail, which goes from D.L. Bliss State Park to Emerald Bay SP. You can start at either park and hike as much of the trail as you want.
      2) Emerald Bay. It’s gorgeous but also gets crowded so try to get there early in the day
      3) Kayaking in some of the quieter coves. You can ask for suggestions that are close to where you are staying.
      4) If you’re staying on the north side, check out Donner Lake State Park and the museum. So interesting. If you’re on the south side, try Fallen Leaf Lake for quiet paddleboating or the 7-mile hike around the lake.

      Have fun! Tahoe is so beautiful!

  20. says: Heather

    Thanks for the great tips. The link to the cabin (where you stay) that you listed doesn’t load – any suggestions?

    Also, do you recommend going the last weekend in May? I want to ensure there is enough to do with kids and I’m a bit concerned it will be difficult to hike, bike, etc. since there has been so much snow. Are we better to wait until June-August?

    1. says: Jenna

      Hi Heather, I just tried the link and it loads for me. Here it is again: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/19508149?wl_source=list&wl_id=6461807&role=wishlist_owner&adults=1&guests=1

      But if it doesn’t load, search for Tahoe Pines.

      May is a nice time of year to go. I haven’t been up there this spring, but I would hope the snow would not be an issue on trails in late May, especially with this recent streak of warm days we’ve had. You might try calling the state parks, like Sugar Pine Point, and asking them what the status of the trails is. I also think late May would be smart because summer vacation will not have started yet and it might be less crowded. Have fun!

  21. says: BK

    Great collection of things to do. It will be our first time at lake Tahoe and with a toddler too!! We are hoping we will have things to do since there is a prediction of 1-3in snow and some light rain Saturday through Monday this coming week.

    Any tips for packing this time of the year?
    Gondola ride, Truckee, emerald Bay and a drive around the lake are on my list to do. I hope the weather will permit it!!

    1. says: Jenna

      The weather right now is crazy! We have had such a cold and wet winter/spring, but this week’s storm is especially strange. Truckee is a nice place to hang out because there are some little galleries and cafes and shops that you can go in when the weather isn’t good. Pack decent waterproof boots and a warm coat and try to get out for a hike when it’s not raining/snowing. If you drive by Sugar Pine Point SP on your way to Emerald Bay, check out the mansion and the little visitor’s center with the taxidermied animals (which my kids loved when they were little). Another nice place to wander (if you’re in the area) is the Tallac Historic site https://valhallatahoe.com/visiting-tallac-site/

  22. says: Patrick mc coy

    Hi Jenna,
    A fantastic read.my name is Patrick and my wife and I are going to lake tahoe on sept 5th.we are traveling from Ireland to San francisco.Just to let you know your blog has made us even more excited.Just hope the weather is better than here (lol).

    1. says: Jenna

      Hi Patrick! September 5 should be a lovely time to be here. It’s still very hot in the valley (between the mountains/Tahoe and the coast) but both Tahoe and San Francisco should be beautiful at that time of year. Let me know if you have any questions! 🙂

  23. says: John

    I went to Moe’s last summer with my family. Food was cold and bland. Might want to rethink that recommendation. Maybe it used to be good but we had an awful experience!

  24. says: Justin

    These recommendations are great! I’ve never been to Tahoe because I’m from the east coast but now that I live in Utah, I’m super close! I need to get there sometime soon.

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