Pine Cone Resort –  Nature & Wildlife

For many visitors, encountering wildlife becomes one of the most memorable parts of a Lake Tahoe vacation. Watching a bear safely from a distance, seeing an eagle glide across the sky, or catching a glimpse of a fox crossing a mountain trail creates a lasting connection with nature that simply can’t be found in a city. Every season offers new opportunities to experience Tahoe’s remarkable ecosystem, making wildlife viewing an adventure that adds excitement, wonder, and appreciation to every visit.

Lake Tahoe Wildlife Safety Tips

• Never feed wildlife. Feeding animals teaches them to associate people with food, making them more aggressive and putting both people and animals at risk.
• Do not leave food in your vehicle. Bears can smell food, drinks, coolers, pet food, trash, and even scented items from long distances. They are capable of breaking into vehicles to reach them.
• Remove all scented items from your car. This includes snacks, beverages, gum, toothpaste, sunscreen, lip balm, air fresheners, and cosmetics.
• Use bear-resistant trash containers. Dispose of garbage properly and never leave trash bags outside.
• Store food securely. Keep food indoors or in bear-resistant storage lockers when camping.
• Keep a safe distance from all wildlife. Never approach, chase, or attempt to touch wild animals, even if they appear calm.
• Keep pets on a leash. Dogs can provoke wildlife and may lead dangerous animals back to you.
• Do not leave pet food outdoors. Pet food attracts bears, raccoons, coyotes, and other wildlife.
• Supervise children around wildlife. Teach children to enjoy animals from a safe distance.
• Never corner or block an animal’s escape route. Always give wildlife plenty of space to move away.
• If you encounter a black bear, stay calm. Back away slowly, make yourself appear large, speak firmly, and never run.
• Never approach bear cubs. Their mother is almost always nearby and will protect them.
• Drive cautiously, especially at dawn and dusk. Deer, black bears, coyotes, and other animals are most active during these times.
• Stay on designated trails. This reduces surprise encounters with wildlife and protects sensitive habitats.
• Respect seasonal wildlife closures and posted signs. These areas help protect nesting birds, sensitive habitats, and animal migration routes.
• Do not attempt to rescue or handle injured wildlife. Contact local wildlife authorities if you find an injured animal.
• Leave no trace. Pack out everything you bring in to help keep wildlife wild and protect Lake Tahoe’s natural environment.