Outdoor enthusiasts who want to leave civilization behind them and walk the path less traveled will be delighted to find Spooner Backcountry, a widespread recreational area that forms part of the Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park.

Here you can lose yourself in over 12,000 acres of forested open space where vehicles are off-limits and hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding rule.

There are several scenic (and usually very quiet) trails to follow, including the Tahoe Rim Trail that traverses the crest of the Carson Range.

At the center of the wilderness lies Spooner Lake where you can picnic or try some catch-and-release fishing. You can stay at one of the rental cabins or enjoy primitive back-country camping.

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