"Sierra" means "saw-toothed mountain range" and "Nevada" means "snow-covered." But the name "Sierra Nevada" is often mangled.
Lake Tahoe isn't the only outrageously beautiful alpine lake in the High Sierras — in fact, there are thousands of them, and many are easily accessible.
If you're looking for a Sierra Nevada lake escape but can't deal with the Lake Tahoe crowds, this is the destination for you.