Native people first lived along Lake Tahoe's shoreline over 9,000 years ago when retreating glaciers blocked most corridors to the lake. Lake Tahoe became the center of traditional Washoe life, and their legends describe every aspect of the landscape. During the spring and summer, all the Washoe people gathered around the lake's shore, where families held blessing ceremonies and renewed their spirit in this sacred place. It was a time to hunt, fish, and gather plants for food, medicine, clothing, and tools, to prepare for the winter ahead, and to play games and socialize with other Washoe families.