You're not going to believe this, but after having lived in northern CA for 27 years I finally went to Lake Tahoe for the first time ever -- only to do this ride. It was gorgeous, but the traffic can be a pain. The only way I would ride these roads is with an organized group. They did a terrific job with signs warning the motorists and law enforcement really did put out a great effort. They nailed some really dangerous drivers.

Highly recommend it. Good way to see the Lake. Also, we got a condo so it was easy to stay away from the smoke.