Robin - If you're doing tour of the US then Tahoe is a must see! Beautiful and known for its clear blue water. Donner lake is nice but its smaller but very close to Tahoe on the North Shore side and lots of PCT trail to explore around it. Absolutely one of the most beautiful spots in NorCal. And if you get a chance to run or hike up to the Flume trail. DO IT!! Below is a pic of me and my friend Maggie running the Flume back in May. Really. Need I say more?
Wow thats beautiful! If I had a place like that I'd run even more. Well I'd also probably injure myself from looking at the scenery and not paying attention!