North of Lake Tahoe and just off Highway 49 are the Sierra Buttes, a series of jagged volcanic peaks that drain to the east into Upper and Lower Sardine Lakes. Don't ask why they are called "Sardine" when the only fish here are trout. The lower lake is periodically stocked with fish and this attracks fishermen along the shore and in rental boats.

Sharon and I don't have the patience to sit and wait for a fish to bite. In fact, the day we were there, the only real fisherman that we saw catching some trout was an osprey. We saw this bird clear across the lake diving feet first to catch its supper.

What we do like is to take hikes. To get to Upper Sardine Lake you can scramble up the steep slope at the end of the lake (like some of our group did one day), or walk along the old mining trail. All along the way there are nice views of the mountains and the lake below.

After a couple stops to take our breath, we arrived at the upper lake, right at the base of the Sierra Buttes. I remember being here once before in June when the mountain and much of the surrounding terrain was covered with snow. Every season has its own splendor.

We had dinner at the old lodge one night. There were two seatings (six and eight o'clock); but before dinner it was cocktail time inside a covered patio on the lake.

If you like grand scenery and explore the outdoors, you should consider a visit to Sardine Lake.