nature center + recreation
Discover a one-of-a-kind destination where nature, community, and accessibility come together. Anchored by a 13,934-square-foot Nature Center that doubles as an education hub and public safety resource, the project offers year-round experiences for visitors of all ages. Guests can enjoy 50 unique lodging options—including traditional cabins and treehouses—plus a community park with an amphitheater, inclusive playground, and a scenic pier on Lake Putt for fishing, swimming, and boating. With four-season recreation, extensive trail connections to Tahoe National Forest, and all-terrain power chairs for accessibility, this project creates an inviting space where everyone can connect with the outdoors.
Nature Center
The vision for the 13,934-square-foot Nature Center is to create a welcoming hub where visitors can begin their journey of exploration and connection to the land. Designed to feature educational displays, exhibit halls, and interactive rooms, the center will serve as a space for daytime programming and nature education, helping guests learn about local ecosystems and prepare to enjoy the broader site and surrounding Tahoe National Forest. The Nature Center will also include administrative offices, a cafeteria for shared meals, and recreational equipment rentals, making it both a place of rest and a launch point for discovery across the entire property.
recreations
Discover a one-of-a-kind destination where nature, community, and accessibility come together. Anchored by a 13,934-square-foot Nature Center that doubles as an education hub and public safety resource, the project offers year-round experiences for visitors of all ages.
- Hiking, Backpacking & Snowshoeing
Guests can explore miles of scenic trails independently or join docent-led excursions that highlight the unique ecology and history of the region. In winter, snowshoeing offers a four-season way to connect with the Tahoe National Forest.
- Accessible Trail Access
To ensure inclusivity, the Gateway Park project will provide 3–10 all-terrain power chairs for use throughout the property and adjacent parcels. This innovation allows members of the disability community to experience the full beauty of the trails and natural surroundings.
- Playground & Recreation Courts
The community park will feature a basketball court, multipurpose recreational courts, and a dynamic playground with an obstacle course. Designed with accessibility in mind, it will accommodate children with disabilities and children on the spectrum, ensuring all families can play together.
- Biking
Guests can enjoy both independent rides and docent-led biking excursions. These guided rides will emphasize safe, sustainable recreation while highlighting the project’s connection to the broader Tahoe National Forest trail network.
- Snow Play Activities
From snow sledding hills to backcountry skiing, the project will provide non-motorized winter recreation opportunities, meeting a regional need for family-friendly snow play spaces.
- Water Play on Lake Putt
Guests will be able to experience the lake through activities like swimming, snorkeling, fishing, paddleboarding, and boating. All water recreation will be tied to nature education, teaching visitors how to enjoy the lake responsibly while protecting its ecosystem. Only non-motorized boats rented on-site will be allowed, ensuring safety and environmental stewardship.