Lake Tahoe's pristine wilderness and its resident black bears offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature and witness the beauty of wildlife up close. By practicing bear awareness, such as utilizing bear bins for trash disposal and maintaining a safe distance from bears, we can ensure the safety of both humans and these magnificent creatures. Let's embrace responsible coexistence, protect our natural treasures, and leave a lasting legacy of respect for the wildlife that calls Lake Tahoe home.

Bears have a rich history in the Lake Tahoe region, dating back thousands of years. Native American tribes revered bears as symbols of strength, wisdom, and courage, often incorporating them into their folklore and ceremonies. The bears' presence in the area continues to hold great cultural significance.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, excessive hunting and habitat loss led to declining bear populations across North America, including around Lake Tahoe. Thankfully, conservation efforts and stricter wildlife management regulations have allowed bear populations to rebound. Today, it is not uncommon to see bears and cubs wade into the waters of Lake Tahoe, show up in your backyard, or investigate your car just in case you’ve left a bag of french fries in the front seat. 

Remember: Do Not Approach!

While it can be captivating to spot a bear in its natural habitat, it is crucial to remember that bears are wild animals and should be treated with caution and respect. Approaching a bear, poses significant risks to both humans and the bears themselves. Bears, by nature, are generally shy and non-confrontational. However, if they feel threatened or cornered, they may display defensive behaviors that can lead to dangerous situations. A bear with cubs is an even greater risk. It's important to give bears the space they need to continue their natural behaviors without feeling stressed or provoked.

Keeping Trash in Bear Bins:

One of the key factors contributing to human-bear conflicts is the availability of food sources, particularly from improperly stored trash. Bears have an incredible sense of smell and can detect odors from miles away. To mitigate these conflicts, communities around Lake Tahoe have implemented bear bins—specialized trash containers designed to withstand bears' strength and keep odors contained. When visiting or residing in bear country, it is essential to follow the local guidelines and dispose of trash in designated bear-proof bins. By doing so, we can help reduce the temptation for bears to venture into human-populated areas, protecting their well-being and preserving the natural balance of the ecosystem.

An Ode to Our Tahoe Bears

Head to Tahoe City to meet the Lake’s most prestigious Bear. At nearly 13' tall and 1.5 tons, Penny Bear (Ursa Mater) is a formidable guardian of two cubs and her Heritage Plaza home. When the sun hits her coat of pennies just right, you would swear it's fur. After her 2017 debut at Burning Man, she moved to the lake for a one-year temporary exhibit. Knowing she deserved to stay in Tahoe, locals and visitors alike rallied to raise funds to keep her. A 40k grant from Placer County made up of TOT dollars (the tax charged to all temporary lodging, including Short Term Rentals) was granted, ensuring that Penny Bear would always call Tahoe home. Much gratitude to Steve Miller for discovering the amazing piece and artists Lisa and Robert Ferguson for her creation. She is Tahoe perfection.