You need to be physically fit to properly experience the Reno/Lake Tahoe area. Why? Some of the most amazing biking and hiking trails in the nation are concentrated into this one area.

To get started, try the Truckee River Trail, a scenic and leisurely ride along 14 miles (22.5 kilometers) of paved trails through downtown Reno and Sparks along the crystal clear Truckee River. Exquisite views of Lake Tahoe, pine forests and Tahoe City reward those who bike the two-lane paved trail running from Squaw Valley USA along the Truckee River and the west shore of Lake Tahoe. Tahoe City is a quaint lake town with unique shops and restaurants - certainly ample compensation for your efforts in getting there. Several area ski resorts turn their runs into single tracks, offering chairlifts and trams to alleviate the difficult assents.

Hikers can ascend to the top of Mt. Rose, Lake Tahoe's third highest peak, enjoying expansive desert views and a diverse array of alpine flora along the way. The hike climbs 2,000 feet (609.6 meters) over six miles (9.66 kilometers), but at the top you can expect to see the other three of the Tahoe area's four highest peaks: Freel Peak, Jobs Sister and Jobs Peak; on a clear day you may even catch a glimpse of Lassen Peak in California, 115 miles (185 kilometers) away.

The Tahoe Rim Trail winds for 150 miles (241.4 kilometers) through national forest, wilderness, and state park lands bordering Lake Tahoe, accommodating hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians. Only expert bikers should attempt the Flume Trail, which begins at 7,000 feet (2,133.6 meters) and climbs to 8,157 feet (2,486.25 meters). Those who finish must then tackle the three-mile (4.8-kilometer), 1,500-foot (457.2-meter) descent into Incline Village. Experienced mountain bikers may also want to try Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, a steep drop of almost 1,500 feet (457.2 meters) in less than six miles (9.66 kilometers).

So don't give up on that fitness program. A world of adventure at Lake Tahoe awaits those able to embrace it.