With the 10th annual Blue Ribbon Awards upon us, the Tahoe Chamber is taking a look back at the past winners who’ve made each awards ceremony so special. In 2011 the Tahoe Rim Trail Association (TRTA) won the Geotourism Award for sustaining or enhances Lake Tahoe and providing visitors with an authentic experience. We recently got the opportunity to interview TRTA Executive Director, Morgan Steel, about the impressive projects they have completed recently. Those include the Vansickle Trail, reroutes from Martis Peak and Echo summit and the Daggett Summit Project. These feats only give a small glimpse at all the hard work this organization has put forth for the Lake Tahoe community and its visitors.

“The trails inspire and engage community members and visitors to get outside and be active, stay fit, and be healthy,” said Mrs. Steel. With over 400,000 people using Lake Tahoe trails each year, it is undeniable that the paths can bring individuals together from all over the world for the common purpose of enjoying Lake Tahoe’s outdoor recreation and natural beauty.

The Tahoe Rim Trail Association relies heavily on the support of the community. With over 15,000 hours of volunteer help recorded last year alone, much of the support comes from Lake Tahoe locals. Also, over 55% of the funding comes from donations and memberships. TRTA has had a significant part in making the trails in the surrounding area enjoyable for all and their impeccable work ethic speak as to why they were the 2011 Geotourism Blue Ribbon Award winner. For more information on TRTA, please visit https://tahoerimtrail.org/.