Thank 49ers, Raiders for wide-open spaces at Loon Lake

If you love to camp, boat, fish or hike, now is the time, and Loon Lake can be the place.

Owners of kayaks or inflatables should put them on their car, truck or RV, tie on their hiking boots, and take off.

And while you’re at it, send a little note of thanks to your favorite football team.

Loon Lake is located high in the Crystal Basin, the front country of Tahoe that extends along the high west flank of the Sierra.

Football traditionally takes center stage at this time of the year to the point that it affects outdoors participation. With schools back in session, families and college-age students are staying home, too.

That leaves hundreds of destinations with few people. Loon is a great example.