Unless you or someone you're traveling with is particularly sensitive to poor air quality (asthmatic, elderly, infant, etc...) I wouldn't completely write off the trip. I live just north of the lake and the last few days have been wildly variable for smoke in the area, even across a relatively small area. Saturday morning I could barely see a half mile from my house, while the the east shore of the lake near Spooner Summit was clear blue skies. I generally avoid outdoor activity in the bad smoke, but I've had no problem getting out for a hike/run the last couple of days. If you have a little bit of flexibility in your schedule, I'm sure you'll still be able to have a great trip.
Originally Posted by
nomad420
You are in luck, as this is now declared a national disaster (well not the Tahoe area and this may cause a potential problem) you can apply for reimbursement through their coverage. I would just be more general and say your "Northern California" vacation was effected by the fires.....I used it for a hurricane abbreviated trip two years ago. Took about 60 days to get credited but it works. I would just say the disaster affected your plans. Obviously this is what I did when I applied for hurricane coverage. I suspect you won't be the only one calling about this.
Ultimately, if OP does want to cancel, this is probably the best way to do it. Be a bit vague and they might be willing to work with you. If not a refund, you may at least get credit to use for a later booking.