On July 4th, 1776 the Continental Congress declared the thirteen American Colonies as a new nation. To celebrate this occasion the custom has always been to do some sort of patriotic display. Some chose really elaborate displays and others celebrate by appreciating the freedoms afforded years ago. If you are looking for something a bit different to do this Fourth of July here are a few suggestions:
Fireworks over Lake Tahoe
It’s always been known that places like Chicago, New York, and Boston have massive displays of fireworks, but what if you wanted to have a more dramatic backdrop? Well, then the fireworks display at the California-Nevada border might be your best bet. The crystal-clear water of Lake Tahoe plus the Sierra Nevadas will be the most visually arresting display in the country. Be forewarned that over 125,000 visitors check out this display so you need to plan ahead, get there early and bring enough supplies to stay all day.
Where to watch: The fireworks are visible all over each town around the lake. Some popular are Nevada Beach, Chimney Beach and Commons Beach. The adventurous can even watch from the summit of Mount Tallac, but nothing beats being out on the water for the show; book a spot aboard one of the many boating outfits such as The Tahoe Queen, M.S. Dixie II, Tahoe Amore or Tahoe Exclusive Boat Rentals.
Visit a National Park
For those that like to get away on big holiday weekends then why not celebrate the 4th by going somewhere that is truly American such a National Park. In 1872, Yellowstone became the first National Park in the world. National parks were created to make sure that future generations can enjoy them just as much as we do today. Places like Jackson Hole next to Teton National Park and Whitefish just outside the gates of Glacier National Park there is a ton to do after visiting the park.
Get a final bit of Skiing/Snowboarding In
Some of us are real addicts for the white stuff and will ride to the last strip of snow until it’s gone. Fortunately, there are a few resorts still running their lifts:
Timberline –
The classic summer resort on the Palmer Glacier is a hotspot for professionals, up and comers and everyday snow enthusiasts go to get turns in over summer. Don’t worry they are open until September if you can’t make it up there on the fourth.
Woodward (Tahoe or Copper) –
Woodward has always been known in action sports for helping train future pros. Now they’ve gone one step further and created man-made “glaciers” in Tahoe and Colorado. Woodward Copper is open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays and Woodward Tahoe will have its final public session on Saturday July 2nd.
Mammoth –
Mammoth is always known for keeping the lifts running until there is nothing left to ride. With the ample snowfall they had this year they are able to keep the lifts running through July 4th. For more about Mammoth check out our last article found here.
Keep it simple and have a BBQ
It is a time honored tradition to barbecue outdoors on the 4th of July. There was a time when these feasts consisted of wild game being cooked over an open fire. So, why not go old school and celebrate it how our forefathers did in 1776 with some wild game! It’s nutritious, it doesn’t have any chemicals, and most of all it’s truly American. If you don’t feel like cooking make reservations at a place like the Gun Barrel Steak & Game House in Jackson Hole, WY. They are considered one of the best in the country for cooking wild game. Housed in a former wildlife museum and taxidermy, complete with a mammoth stuffed buffalo the menu has items like Buffalo sirloin, slow-roasted buffalo ribs, and seasoned buffalo prime rib.
No matter how you celebrate the 4th, remember what and why you are celebrating and be safe and enjoy time with friends and family.
