lake tahoe visit guide

We Are Travel Girls

A Community Created To Inspire, Connect, Educate & Empower Female Travelers

CALIFORNIA , LAKE TAHOE , NORTH AMERICA , UNITED STATES · January 29, 2021 Last Updated on March 16, 2024

THE ULTIMATE LAKE TAHOE GUIDE

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may receive a small commission when you make a purchase using our link.

Lake Tahoe is stunning. As a travel writer, I’ve traveled extensively over the last ten years, and I have yet to find a mountain destination anywhere in the world that has everything Lake Tahoe has to offer while also being so strikingly beautiful. 

Located on the California-Nevada border, northeast of Sacramento, Lake Tahoe is a popular destination for adventure lovers, families and anyone wanting to reconnect with nature in the great outdoors.

Known for its crystal blue water, beautiful beaches, excellent hiking and world class ski resorts, Lake Tahoe attracts over 2.7 million visitors annually and has been consistently ranked in the top five best places to visit in California, top five best adventure vacations in the U.S.A., and it was rated “America’s best lake” by USA Today.

I lived in North Lake Tahoe for a winter season during college and taught skiing and snowboarding at Northstar Resort, and recently I remodeled a vacation home in Carnelian Bay.

From my experience being somewhat of a local, I put together this Lake Tahoe guide to help you make the most of your visit to this incredible destination!

Where To Stay In Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe offers an array of cute cabins and luxury vacation homes  on both the north and south shore.

I personally prefer to stay on the north shore in Carnelian Bay or Tahoe City when I visit Lake Tahoe. This area is gorgeous and I love being close to the lake while also having access to all the great restaurants in this area.

As I mentioned, I also recently purchased and remodeled a cabin in this area with beautiful lake views – @LakeTahoeCabin . We took this entire 1970s cabin down to the studs and reimagined it with high-end finishings, appliances and decor. All the bedrooms are en-suite and offer sweeping lake views.

The location of our cabin is ideal, walking distance to the lake, a short drive to public beaches, Northstar Resort, Palisades Tahoe Resort, golfing, and close to an array of excellent restaurants. My Lake Tahoe Cabin is the perfect luxury vacation rental for your next family or group getaway to North Lake Tahoe!

• Location:  Carnelian Bay
• Sleeps: 10+ guests
• Size: 4 bedrooms + a loft / 5 beds / 4.5 bath
• Price: Lake Tahoe Cabin

I also put together this list of the 20 Best AirBnBs in Lake Tahoe so you can quickly and easily look through the best rental options for large and small groups on the north shore and the south shore!

Best Hotels In Lake Tahoe

If you prefer to stay at a hotel, there are a handful of good hotel options in the Lake Tahoe area. Here are 12 top-rated hotels in Lake Tahoe:

• Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe – Featuring ski-in/ski-out access at Northstar California, this luxurious Lake Tahoe resort offers a spa, 2 outdoor swimming pools and 3 restaurants. Along with a gas fireplace, all rooms include a flat-screen TV, a seating area and a private, marble bathroom. Every room has modern furniture and lodge-inspired accents.
• Northstar California Resort – Just 10 minutes’ drive from Truckee, the Northstar California Resort is a family-friendly, ski-in/ski-out accommodations with a recreation center, multiple restaurants, an ice rink and easy access to all the amenities in Northstar Village. 
• Edgewood Tahoe Resort – Edgewood Tahoe Resort is located on the lake, in South Lake Tahoe, on the Nevada side of Stateline, and offers 5-star accommodations featuring an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center and a beautiful terrace overlooking Lake Tahoe.
• Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe – Located on the Nevada side of the north shore, in Incline Village, Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe is a top-rated resort on a beautiful beach with great dining and an excellent spa.
• The Landing Resort & Spa – Located near Heavenly Village Ski Resort in South Lake Tahoe, The Landing Resort & Spa offers free transportation to the Heavenly Village and Casinos. Spacious guest rooms here feature a stone gas fireplace, a Keurig coffee machine, and a refrigerator. 
• Gravity Haus Truckee – Enjoy the custom comforts of a boutique hotel that embodies the authentic mountain experience, Gravity Haus is conveniently located in Truckee close to Northstar Resort and Palisades Tahoe Resort.
• Cedar Glen Lodge – Located on the North Shore in Tahoe Vista, Cedar Glen Lodge offers affordable accommodations with a cozy cabin vibe. 
• The Jeffrey Hotel – The Jeffrey Hotel is an affordable hotel, with modern decor, located in Lakeside Park, a neighborhood in South Lake Tahoe.
• Heavenly Village Condos – Offering direct access to Heavenly Ski Resort, Heavenly Village Condos are a great choice if you plan to ski at Heavenly Resort in the winter or hike or mountain bike at the resort in the summer.
• Sunnyside Lodge – Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge is located in a great location in Tahoe City, on the lake. Some of the rooms offer lake views and breakfast is included in your stay.
• Grand Resort – Located at Heavenly Resort, offering access to all the amenities there including a heated pool, tennis courts, barbecue grills, foosball table, golf and more.
• Bally’s Lake Tahoe Casino and Resort – Good spot to stay in South Lake Tahoe if gambling is your priority.
• You can also check Expedia for the best Lake Tahoe hotel prices

North Lake Tahoe Versus South Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is one big, beautiful lake, but it is often referred to by its two different regions – North Lake Tahoe and South Lake Tahoe. 

Both regions are beautiful and have many similarities as far as having great rental options , access to the lake, beautiful beaches and world class ski resorts. But North Lake Tahoe and South Lake Tahoe are also very different. 

North Lake Tahoe aka Tahoe North

North Lake Tahoe is the quieter side of the lake and is arguably the most beautiful region.

North Lake Tahoe is made up of small cities and cute mountain towns including: Incline Village; Sunnyside/Tahoe City; Kings Beach; Carnelian Bay; Crystal Bay; Tahoe Vista; and Truckee, and there is world class skiing here at Squaw Valley, Northstar and other north shore resorts.

Truckee has a population of just over 16,000 people and is located about 12 miles north of the lake. Truckee  used to be a mining town and still exudes old school rustic charm and a slow paced lifestyle. In fact all of North Lake Tahoe embraces a low paced, relaxed vibe so much so that locals here often refer to it as “Tahoe Time.”

North Lake Tahoe is more pristine, less crowded and feels more connected to nature compared to South Lake Tahoe. But the south shore also has some unique pluses to offer.

South Lake Tahoe aka Tahoe South

South Lake Tahoe is basically the Las Vegas of Lake Tahoe. South Lake Tahoe is on the Nevada side so if you like to gamble this is the region you should stay in as there are an array of casinos to be found here along with a bustling nightlife!

The south shore of Lake Tahoe includes South Lake Tahoe, Meyers, Stateline, Zephyr Cove, Glenbrook, Emerald Bay, and the Markleeville and Kirkwood areas. South Lake Tahoe is the largest city around Lake Tahoe with a permanent resident population of just over 21,000 people.

There is world class skiing on the south shore at Heavenly Resort along with an array of great restaurants, bars, and shops. If you prefer to have all the amenities of a big city during your mountain vacation, then South Lake Tahoe is for you. 

Subscribe to We Are Travel Girls

Join 8 million+ readers, get travel tips, event invites, trip discounts and more!

How To Get To Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is an ideal destination because it is easily accessible by car from everywhere in California. Tahoe is just a 3.5 hour drive from San Francisco and 7.5 hour drive from Los Angeles.

If you opt to fly you can fly into the nearby Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) and rent a car at the airport. From the Reno Airport it is an easy 45 minute drive to Truckee, a 50 minute drive to Incline Village, a 1 hour drive to Tahoe City and a 1 hour drive to Carnelian Bay.

Almost anywhere in North Lake Tahoe can be reached by car from the Reno Airport in an hour or less, and you can drive to South Lake Tahoe from the airport in about 1 hour 25 minutes. 

Ubers are also available from Reno Airport up to Lake Tahoe but they are pretty pricey. If you book an Uber be prepared to pay around $120 for a standard UberX or around $200 for an Uber Black. 

Things To Do In Lake Tahoe

There is so much to do and see in Lake Tahoe! These are some of the top activities in North Lake Tahoe and South Lake Tahoe that will keep you busy during your stay here. You can also check out my guide, 30 Things To Do In Lake Tahoe , for an extensive list of Tahoe activities.

• Hiking – There is great hiking all around Lake Tahoe. If you’re looking for a moderately easy hike in North Lake Tahoe try  Tahoe Rim Trail to Picnic Rock Viewpoint  which takes about 45 minutes and offers incredible views at the top! Check out All Trails for a list of the best hikes in South Lake Tahoe and the best hikes in North Lake Tahoe .
• Biking – In the summer months there is world class mountain biking at many of the ski resorts, and there are also bike paths that run along the lake, so you can enjoy biking through the mountains or around the lake with your family. 
• Ice Skating & Rollerblading – The Village at Northstar Resort has an outdoor rink that is used for ice skating in the winter and rollerblading in the summer. This is a great place to let your kids play while you enjoy cocktails rink side. 
• Boating – I highly suggest renting a boat and spending a fun day out on the water exploring Lake Tahoe’s beautiful coves and beaches. 
• Water Skiing & Wakeboarding – Lake Tahoe is an excellent lake to water ski or wakeboard or inner tube! You can book a private customizable water sports excursion  to enjoy a fun-filled day on the lake.
• Beach Day – If you don’t rent a boat but still want to be on the water you can drive to one of the many public beaches and enjoy a fun beach day lakeside. In the summer months parking can be hard to find at the public beaches so go early.
• Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Kayaking and paddleboarding are both great ways to get out on the water, explore the lake and get some exercise.  You can book a private kayaking or paddleboarding tour.
• Swimming – Lake Tahoe’s average surface temperature in the summer is 63°F, and can drop to 53°F just 18 inches below the surface. For young children who will likely want to spend hours splashing in the lake I suggest bringing a wetsuit. They might not need it but it’s nice to have just in case. 
• Happy Hour Cruise – Enjoy a relaxed experience on the lake by taking a happy hour cruise . 
• Emerald Bay State Park – This inlet along the southwest shore of Lake Tahoe is known for its colorful granite cliffs and stunning panoramas. Carved millions of years ago by passing glaciers,  Emerald Bay State Park is a must-see. To avoid the crowds and parking hassle, I suggest booking a private Emerald Bay boat tour .
• Donner Memorial State Park & Museum – This park offers hiking, camping, fishing, boating, the Emigrant Trail Museum & a historic monument.
• Float The Truckee River – In the summer months you can float the Truckee Rivers! Start in Tahoe City at Truckee River Raft Co. and end at River Ranch Restaurant & Lodge . The company takes the rafts from you at the end and returns them while you take a shuttle back to the point of origin. To save money, you can also just buy individual inner tubes at the gas station across the street from the raft rental places, but then you also have to make sure you have 2 cars; leave one car at the end point and one at the starting point. It’s about a 3 hour raft ride, slow and mellow.
• Art Walks & Art Tours – In the summer months there are art walks and art tours in North Lake Tahoe and South Lake Tahoe. These events are being updated constantly so do a quick internet search to find art events in the area you are staying.
• Gambling – There are lots of spot to go gambling in Lake Tahoe. If you want to stay where you can gamble try Border House at Crystal Bay Casino on the north shore or  Bally’s Lake Tahoe Casino and Resort on the south shore.
• Golfing – There are an array of great golf course courses in Lake Tahoe including  Incline Village Championship Course  in North Lake Tahoe and Edgewood Golf Course in South Lake Tahoe. Here’s a list of the top 10 golf courses in Lake Tahoe .
• Miniature Golf – There are several miniature golf courses in Lake Tahoe. We golfed at Magic Carpet Miniature Golf Course in Carnelian Bay which was very fun! There is also a miniature golf course in Kings Beach and a Magic Carpet Miniature Golf Course in South Lake Tahoe.
• Helicopter Tour –
• Tahoe Parks & Playgrounds – There are great parks and playgrounds in Lake Tahoe! Check out North Tahoe Parks and Tahoe South Parks for details. 
• Balloon Ride – Take balloon ride offering amazing views with Lake Tahoe Balloons . 
• Snowshoe and Snowmobile – In the winter months you can snowshoe or rent snowmobiles.
• Sledding and Tubing – Visit Adventure Mountain Lake Tahoe,  South Lake Tahoe’s premier machine groomed sledding, tubing, and snow play destination!
• Private Yacht Charter – If you really want to live it up in Lake Tahoe you can charter a 45-foot private yacht .
• Skiing and Snowboarding – Lake Tahoe offers world class skiing at 16 different resorts! Se below for more information on hitting the slopes in Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe Ski Resorts

Lake Tahoe offers some of the best ski resorts in the United States and arguably some of the best ski skiing in the world. When it snows in the Sierra Nevada Mountains it doesn’t just snow a few inches, it usually dumps, leaving Lake Tahoe covered in multiple feet of new, fresh powder. 

Lake Tahoe also typically has sunny weather offering “spring skiing” conditions most of the winter. So when it’s not snowing it is usually sunny and nice out. 

There are 16 ski resorts in the Lake Tahoe area offering something for everyone. Here is a list of all of the resorts organized by region. 

North Lake Tahoe Ski Resorts

• Northstar Resort – Close to Truckee, Carnelian Bay, and Kings Beach, this upscale ski resort is one of the best resorts in Lake Tahoe. It offers 14 lifts and an array of excellent beginner and intermediate terrain along with a new, upscale village where you can dine, enjoy drinks and find sports shops and boutiques. 
• Palisades Tahoe Resort – Close to Tahoe City and Truckee, was the host site for the 1960 Winter Olympics, covers 3,600 acres with 30 chairlifts and the only funitel in the U.S. Excellent, beginner, intermediate and advanced terrain and is one of the best resorts in Lake Tahoe.
• Alpine Meadows Resort – Located in Alpine Meadows, California. Near the northwest shore of Lake Tahoe, it offers 2,400 acres of skiable terrain, 13 different lifts, and a vertical drop of 1,802 feet, terrain for varied skill levels, multiple lodges and a terrain park.
• Sugar Bowl Resort – Medium-sized ski area known for its significant advanced terrain, high annual snowfall and being one of the closest ski areas to San Francisco. Sugar Bowl’s terrain is 17% Beginner, 45% Intermediate and 38% Advanced.
• Diamond Peak Resort – Located in Incline Village, Nevada. Near the northeast shore of Lake Tahoe, this medium sized resort has 6 chairlifts, 30 runs, open glades, and tree skiing on its 655 acres of terrain and offers sledding and a kid’s zone.
• Homewood Mountain Resort – Several ski and snowboard runs along with terrain parks, 2 lodges and on-mountain dining options.
• Boreal Mountain – Boreal Mountain Resort is a ski area in Soda Springs, near the Lake Tahoe area of California. It has nine chairlifts and offers night skiing until 9 pm.
• Tahoe Cross Country Ski Area – Groomed cross-country ski area with lake views and a cozy lodge for light bites and equipment rentals.
• Granlibakken Ski & Sled Hill – Enjoy family fun here skiing, boarding and sledding.
• Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort – Small ski resort with 4 ski lifts and 14 trails, in Truckee, California 4.5 mi northeast of Donner Pass. 
• Donner Ski Ranch – Family-friendly ski resort with 6 lifts in the Lake Tahoe area that features a wide variety of terrain, inviting skiers and riders of all abilities.
• Soda Springs Mountain Resort – Family-friendly winter sports resort, offering lessons, sleigh rides and a vast play area for kids.
• Mount Rose – Closest ski resort to Reno, Nevada. Located about 30 miles south of Reno, in the Carson Range. Mt. Rose has the highest base elevation of a Tahoe-region ski resort at about 8,260 ft and the summit is 9,700 ft.

South Lake Tahoe Ski Resorts

• Heavenly Mountain Resort – Sprawling Lake Tahoe resort offering skiing, snowboarding & biking as well as lodging and eateries over 4,800 acres. This is one of the biggest and best ski resorts in Lake Tahoe with 97 runs and 30 lifts that run across both California and Nevada. 
• Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort – Tahoe’s third-largest ski area with 2,000+ acres of slopes & 200+ acres of backcountry trails, located in Twin Bridges, California 12 miles south of South Lake Tahoe.
• Kirkwood Mountain Resort – Kirkwood Mountain Resort is a year-round resort in Kirkwood, California south of Lake Tahoe that focuses on skiing and snowboarding in winter and hiking and mountain-biking in summer.

Where To Eat In Lake Tahoe

There are an array of great restaurants on both the north shore and south shore of Lake Tahoe. Here are my suggestions on where to eat in both regions!

Tahoe North Restaurants 

• Old Post Office Cafe – Breakfast and brunch in Carnelian Bay. I love their huge breakfast burritos! 
• Gar Woods Grill & Pier  – Restaurant, bar and pier in Carnelian Bay. Pricey but a great place for lunch, dinner or drinks right on the lake and also a good spot to get on your rental boat in the summer.
• Za’s Lakefront Bar & Grill  – Excellent pizza, burgers, pasta and salads, excellent (casual) outdoor dining on the lake in Tahoe City. This is my go-to restaurant when I’m in Tahoe!
• Christy Hill  – Fine dining on the lake in Tahoe City.
• Lone Eagle Grill – Fine dining in Incline Village, Nevada.
• Bite Restaurant – Excellent tapas restaurant in Incline Village.
• Azzara’s – Great Italian food in Incline Village.
• Truckee Tavern & Grill – Excellent American cuisine and cocktails in Truckee.
• Trokay – Fine dining in Truckee offering upscale seasonal new American fare and wine pairings. 
• Truckee Food Shop – Made to order sandwiches and to go food including Fish N’ Chips and Fried Chicken Boxes.
• Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge – Great places for cocktails and lunch or dinner on the lake in Tahoe City!
• Bridgetender Tavern – Casual, fun spot for drinks, lunch or dinner on the river in Tahoe City.
• River Grill & Bar – This is a lovely spot to have drinks or a nice dinner on the river. I ate here recently with my husband and daughter and absolutely loved it. The food is excellent, their cocktails are great, they have a good wine selection and the service is top-notch.

Tahoe South Restaurants

• Scusa Italian Restaurant – Traditional Italian cuisine served in a warmly-lit dining room or on the heated outdoor patio in South Lake Tahoe.
• Himmel Haus – Festive hangout in South Lake Tahoe offering lots of German & Belgian beers, area-sourced Bavarian dishes & live music.
• Empanash – Traditional handcrafted Argentine Empanadas in South Lake Tahoe
• Cold Water Brewery & Grill – House brews join California-style pub fare in a contemporary space in South Lake Tahoe.
• Cafe Fiore – Cozy wood-paneled eatery in South Lake Tahoe offering a lengthy wine list & Italian menu with signature eggplant crêpes.
• Bert’s Cafe – Casual daytime eatery serving all-day breakfast, burgers & sandwiches in old-school surroundings in South Lake.
• Lake Tahoe Pizza Company – Cozy pizzeria in South Lake Tahoe with rustic decor serving homemade pies on wheat, white & corn dough since 1973.
• Sprouts Cafe  – Counter-service health-food cafe preparing homemade soups, wraps, burritos & smoothies.

When Should I Visit Lake Tahoe?

One of the best things about Lake Tahoe is that it is a great destination to visit year-round!

In the summer months of June, July and August the temperature is usually in the mid to upper 70s Fahrenheit making these months an ideal time to spend your summer getaway on the lake.

In the winter months of December, January, February and March the average temperature is around 45 degrees Fahrenheit. From mid-December to mid-March there is typically excellent snow coverage making this an ideal time to go on a ski trip to Lake Tahoe.

Summer and Winter are high seasons in Lake Tahoe so if you want to avoid the crowds and get better prices on Tahoe vacation homes I suggest visiting during a late spring or early fall.

In May the weather is usually in the mid 60s Fahrenheit, and in September (my favorite month in Tahoe!) the weather is typically still in the mid 70s Fahrenheit so you get to enjoy warm “summer” days without the crowds! 

Lake Tahoe Ultimate Guide Wrap Up

I hope my Lake Tahoe Guide has inspired you to visit this amazing destination. It’s truly a very special, one-of-a-kind destination that should be on your bucket list.

Lake Tahoe itself is one of the most beautiful, sparkling blue lakes you will ever see in the United States. And as of June 2023, the lake is also the clearest it has been in over 40 years! Apparently, the lake is even more pristine this year than usual because of tiny zooplankton that eat up particles that can make the water cloudy.

So if you’re thinking of booking a Lake Tahoe trip, now is a great time to do it. Happy travels!

We hope that this article has helped inspire you to visit Lake Tahoe. If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Go to our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

Subscribe to get access to our FREE eBook with tips for saving money when you travel!

Read More About California 

• 30 Thing To Do In Lake Tahoe
• The Best AirBnBs in Big Sur
• 10 Essential Stops on a Highway 1 Road Trip
• The Best AirBnBs in Big Bear
• 15 Best California Girls Getaways

Book Your Stay In Lake Tahoe 

• Lake Tahoe Luxury Cabin
• Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe
• Northstar California Resort
• The Lodge at Edgewood Tahoe
• The Landing Resort & Spa
• Gravity Haus Truckee
• Explore the best AirBnBs in Lake Tahoe
• Find the best hotel prices in Lake Tahoe

We Are Travel Girls Co-Founder Vanessa Rivers Connect with Vanessa Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest |  YouTube 

This article may contain affiliate links, if you purchase something using one of our links we may receive a commission. Please see our Disclosures for more information.   

You’ll Also Love

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

• Travel Girls Getaways
• DESTINATIONS
• TYPE OF TRAVEL
• TRAVEL RESOURCES
• AMBASSADOR PROGRAM
• TRAVEL GIRLS GIVING

Get Access To The Travel Resources Library

Subscribe to receive free access!

• Work With Us
• TESTIMONIALS
• DISCLOSURES
• TERMS OF SERVICE
• PRIVACY POLICY
• ACCESSIBILITY

COPYRIGHT © 2023 WE ARE TRAVEL GIRLS

Exclusive Member of Mediavine Travel

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Destinations A-Z

This Is the Largest Alpine Lake in North America — and It's Perfect for Visiting Year-round

How to plan the perfect visit to Lake Tahoe no matter when you visit.

Best Time to Go

Things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

Lake Tahoe, located in the Sierra Nevadas in northeastern California, is the largest alpine lake in North America. The deep blue water, mountains, pine-scented air, rocky shoreline, and clear skies, all located 6,225 feet above sea level, make Lake Tahoe a prime year-round destination. In winter, snow sports attract visitors to ski resorts, and in summer, an abundance of outdoor activities, including swimming, boating, hiking, camping, biking, and nature walks, call to active travelers.

Two states share Lake Tahoe. A north to south vertical line divides the lake, with the eastern third in Nevada and the western side in California. In addition to the state line, an imaginary east-west boundary creates North Lake Tahoe and Tahoe South, a distinction to help travelers when planning a visit. The gateway for most visitors arriving by air is Reno-Tahoe International Airport, located about 60 miles northeast of Lake Tahoe. The Reno-Tahoe Territory and Reno, Nevada are destinations in themselves.

Pacific Standard Time Zone (adjusted seasonally to Daylight Savings Time)

Lake Tahoe is a popular vacation destination throughout the year, with skiing and snowboarding in winter, beaches and boating in summer, and crisp, clear weather in spring and fall. From about the end of November through late March, ski resorts welcome snow sports fans who undoubtedly believe that winter is the best time at Lake Tahoe. Summer visitors who head to the shore, marinas, resort pools, golf courses, and campsites come for the warm weather, sunshine, and clear waters of the lake. Spring and fall are ideal for hiking, biking, and scenic drives around the lake.

Lake Tahoe comprises three main areas; South Lake Tahoe, North Lake Tahoe, and Reno-Tahoe. Here is what you need to know about each destination.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe (also referred to as Tahoe South) includes the city of South Lake Tahoe on the California side, which is the largest city around the lake. Downtown features shopping, restaurants, bars, and a pedestrian-friendly Heavenly Village. On the Nevada side of Tahoe South, there's nightlife, dining, entertainment, and four casino resorts.

North Lake Tahoe

With its stunning granite boulder coastline, the north shore includes small cities and towns in both California and Nevada. Described as a quieter, nature-focused area, North Lake Tahoe offers casinos, entertainment, and a wide range of places to stay.

The area, also referred to as the Reno-Tahoe Territory , encompasses mountains, meadows, urban cities, old-west style towns, casinos, and outdoor activities. The city of Reno, " The Biggest Little City in the World ," offers casinos, restaurants, nightlife, museums, and year-round events.

Need more? Here are a few fun facts about Lake Tahoe:

• The scenic drive around the entire lake covers 72 miles.
• Lake Tahoe's tap water has been named the best tasting water in the country.
• The 1960 Winter Olympics were held in Lake Tahoe at Squaw Valley, now called Palisades Tahoe , out of respect for Native American women.

From Reno-Tahoe International Airport, North Lake Tahoe Express provides year-round scheduled service to the North Lake Tahoe-Truckee region with local connections. South Tahoe Airporter offers door-to-door transportation to South Lake Tahoe hotels and residences. RTC 's bus service goes to downtown Reno and Carson City, where travelers can connect to buses for other destinations.

Tahoe Truckee area Regional Transport provides bus service in the North Lake Tahoe region. Tahoe Transportation System manages several bus routes in the South Lake Tahoe area.

Most major resorts offer free shuttles to and from the slopes during ski season. Check with your accommodations for schedule and availability.

Edgewood Tahoe

Address: 180 Lake Parkway Stateline, Nevada 89449 Phone: 888 881-8659 Website

This five-star shorefront resort features a world-class spa, stunning lake views, sandy beach, upscale and casual dining, heated outdoor pool, and a championship golf course and is home to the annual American Century Celebrity Golf Championship. During snow season, onsite ski butlers deliver snowboarding and ski equipment to guest accommodations, and the ski shuttle takes skiers to nearby Heavenly Mountain.

The Landing Lake Tahoe Resort & Spa

Address: 4104 Lakeshore Boulevard South Lake Tahoe, California 96150 Phone: 530 541-5263 Website

With a lakeside location, spa, heated outdoor pool, and semi-private beach, The Landing is ideal for year-round visitors. The Landing is just minutes from Heavenly Village for skiing in winter and sightseeing Gondola rides in summer. Guests can dine on California cuisine at Jimmy's restaurant in private dining alcoves, some of which come with their own fireplaces.

Zalanta Resort at the Village

Address: 4101 Lake Tahoe Boulevard South Lake Tahoe, California 96150 Phone: 866 331-6944 Website

Luxurious two, three, and four-bedroom residences feature gourmet kitchens, spacious living areas, private balconies, fitness center, pool, and hot tub. Just steps from the Heavenly Gondola, Zalanta is also conveniently located for shopping, restaurants, ice rink, mini-golf, movie theater, live music, and Stateline casinos.

Basecamp South Lake Tahoe

Address: 4143 Cedar Avenue South Lake Tahoe, California 96150 Phone: 530 208-0180 Website

Located in the heart of South Lake Tahoe, a five-minute walk to the lake and the Heavenly Gondola, Basecamp is a boutique hotel with 73 rooms, including a mountain view suite and family room that accommodates up to eight guests. There's a Courtyard, Picnic Deck, and Beer Garden with cornhole, table tennis, and fire pits for roasting s'mores.

Harrah's Lake Tahoe

Address: 15 Highway 50 Stateline, Nevada 89449 Phone: 800 427-7247 Website

The 18-story, 512-room hotel offers two full floors of luxury suites in addition to deluxe standard guest rooms with soundproof walls, blackout curtains, and lake or mountain views. There's plenty to do with an indoor pool, spa, and 24-hour casino with table games, slots, video poker, and more.

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

Address: 13031 Ritz-Carlton Highlands Court Truckee, California 96161 Phone: 530 562-3000 Website

This luxury resort, located about 15 minutes from the lake, offers guest rooms and suites, and slopeside residences as large as three and four bedrooms. The ski-in/ski-out family-friendly destination includes fine dining, a casual café, bars, and Highlands Spa, for relaxing treatments — perfect after a day of skiing or hiking. In summer, guests can shuttle to the exclusive Lake Club for boating and water activities.

Northstar California Resort

Address: 100 Northstar Drive Truckee, California 96161 Phone: 800 466-6784 Website

This family destination sits on more than 3,000 acres, with 19 lifts, a cross-country center, ice skating, fat tire biking, and a 2,280 ft. vertical drop of alpine terrain for winter sports. In summer, it's a perfect place to enjoy the outdoors with swimming, golf, hiking, and more. The resort also offers a variety of places to stay, including private homes, condos, and lodges in a range of prices for every budget.

Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino

Address: 111 Country Club Drive Incline Village, Nevada 89451 Phone: 775 832-1234 Website

Set among tall pine trees and the Sierra Nevadas, this waterfront resort features spacious guest rooms, suites, and private waterfront cottages. The resort offers a casino, spa, sandy beach, year-round lagoon-style pool, and various restaurants and lounges, including beachfront dining in summer.

PlumpJack Inn

Address: 1920 Squaw Valley Road Olympic Valley, California 96146 Phone: 800 323-7666 Website

This pet-friendly lodge-style resort near the north shore features 55 guest rooms and suites, upscale and casual dining, and is steps away from the Palisades Tahoe Aerial Tram with ski-in/ski-out access in winter. The onsite Inn Shop offers convenient ski and snowboard equipment rentals. In summer, there's an outdoor swimming pool and complimentary cruiser bike rentals, as well as nearby trails for hiking and mountain biking.

Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort

Address: 6834 North Lake Boulevard Tahoe Vista, California 96148 Phone: 530 546-9500 Website

Views of the lake, patios, plush furnishings and spacious suites equipped with conveniences like refrigerators, microwaves, and coffeemakers make this lakefront boutique resort a popular family escape. One-bedroom forest-side cabins with private decks are also available. A stay at the resort includes access to hydro-bikes, paddle Boards, kayaks, fire pits, BBQ grills, hot tubs, and hiking trails.

Atlantis Casino Resort Spa

Address: 3800 S. Virginia Street Reno, Nevada 89502 Phone: 775 825-4700 Website

This luxury resort is set in the heart of south Reno's entertainment district. It has various rooms and suites featuring city views, a casino, spa, salon, fitness center, a year-round indoor pool, and a seasonal outdoor pool with cabanas. The Atlantis Fun Center offers arcade games, music, and prizes. Dining venues include a steakhouse, sushi bar, deli, cocktail lounges, and casual spots.

Peppermill Resort Spa Casino

Address: 2707 S. Virginia Street Reno, Nevada 89502 Phone: 866 821-9996 Website

Guests can find a variety of accommodations at this accommodation, including the Peppermill Tower Suites, Spa Suites, and Tuscany Tower rooms with mountain and city views, private foyers, and hand-painted Italian art. Dining venues include Bimini Steakhouse, seafood at Oceano, cocktail lounges, and casual cafés. The plush casino has classic games and Sports Book, and there's nightly live music for entertainment.

Edgewood Restaurant

Address: 180 Lake Parkway Stateline, Nevada 89449 Phone: 855 681-0119

Stunning lake views are the backdrop for luxury dining with an extensive wine list and entrees from prime beef to Smoked Elk Loin and Pan-seared Branzino. The service is excellent, and the elegant room is gorgeous at sunset.

Address: 1169 Ski Run Boulevard South Lake Tahoe, California 96150 Phone: 530 541-2908

This intimate restaurant serves generous portions of classic and modern Italian entrees. The menu includes creative pastas like Fettuccine alla Calabrese, with artichokes, pine nuts, olives, and broccoli, along with seafood and traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina.

Ciera Steak and Chophouse

Address: 55 US-50 Stateline, Nevada 89449 Phone: 775 588-3515

Steaks, chops, seafood, and vegetarian entrées are served in an elegant atmosphere along with an extensive selection of wines and champagnes. The restaurant offers Prix Fixe options in addition to menu items like lobster tails, Alaskan king crab, and Filet Oscar.

Christy Hill

Address: 115 Grove Street Tahoe City, California 96145 Phone: 530 583-8551

Set just 100 feet above the shoreline with spectacular views of Lake Tahoe from every table, Christy Hill serves Modern American cuisine with Mediterranean influences. Diners can start with shared plates of house-marinated olives or Country Pork and Pistachio Paté and go on to enjoy entrées that include California Black Cod and Moroccan Spiced Lamb Loin.

Lone Eagle Grille

Address: 111 Country Club Drive Incline Village, Nevada 89451 Phone: 775 886-6899

Seasonal high-Sierra cuisine is served with views of Lake Tahoe in a setting that includes panoramic windows, wood beams, stone fireplace, and lodge-style decor, with al fresco dining during warmer months. Menu items include Linguini Bolognese, Bone-in Niman Ranch Pork Chop, and Angus Beef Short Rib, with excellent dessert and wine choices.

Cottonwood Restaurant & Bar

Address: 10142 Rue Hilltop Road Truckee, California Phone: 530 587-5711

Set in a historic 1928 ski lodge, Cottonwood serves atmosphere and delicious farm-fresh food for dinner and weekend brunch. Small plates, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and entrées like New Zealand lamb, Braised Pork Shank, and Vegan Meatloaf are on the menu, along with Kids' menu favorites.

Fourk Kitchen

Address: 4991 S. Virginia Street, Suite B Reno, Nevada 89502 Phone: 775 870-1000

The concept created by owner Paul Jansen is unique: four nights a week, Wednesday through Saturday, there's one 24-person seating for a four-course dinner. Happy Hour starts at 5:30, dinner at 6:15, and the cost is $49. The menu changes monthly with items like Porcini Mushroom Ravioli with Roasted Garlic Pesto, Roasted Chicken Breast, and Tres Leches Chocolate Espresso Mousse.

The Grill at Quail Corners

Address: 6520 S. McCarran Boulevard Reno, Nevada 89509 Phone: 775 827-6262

Open for lunch, dinner, and happy hour, this family-owned spot offers a wide array of appetizers, salads, pizza, seafood, and traditional entrees like Steak Frites, Cedar Plank Salmon, and Cioppino.

Von Bismarck

Address: 805 South Wells Avenue Reno, Nevada 89502 Phone: 775 622-3687

German and Eastern European dishes are the focus of the menu that includes Schnitzels, Berliner Curry Fries, and house fermented sauerkraut. There's a wide selection of German beers and wines from Germany and Austria.

Winter sports — skiing, snowboarding, sledding, cross-country skiing, ice skating, snowmobiling, and fat-tire biking — bring in visitors from November through April. Ski resorts for all skill levels and budgets are located in North Lake Tahoe and Tahoe South.

For summer visitors, dozens of beaches line the shores of Lake Tahoe, including Pope Beach, Sand Harbor, Baldwin Beach, El Dorado Beach & Boat Ramp, and Kiva Beach, to name a few.

Hiking: Hiking trails for a wide variety of fitness levels attract visitors and locals to Tahoe South and North Lake Tahoe or look for day hiking ideas at Tahoe Rim Trail .

Camping: Campgrounds are available in North Lake Tahoe and Tahoe South. State Parks with campgrounds in the Lake Tahoe area include Emerald Bay State Park , Washoe Meadows State Park , Lake Valley State Recreation Area ,

Golf: In summer, visitors have their choice of courses in North Lake Tahoe , Tahoe South, and Reno .

Sand Harbor State Park offers picnicking, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, swimming in summer. The park also hosts the annual Shakespeare Festival .

Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena at Harvey's features world-class entertainment in a beautiful landscape from about July - September.

Casino Gambling and Entertainment: Gambling is legal n the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe and in Reno. Casinos are located in North Lake Tahoe , Tahoe South, and Reno .

Explore Lake Tahoe History at local museums and exhibits, many open only during summer months:

• Gatekeeper's Museum , once the home of the Watermaster of Fanny Bridge in the early 1900s. Watson Cabin Museum, built in 1908, and the Marion Steinbach Basket Museum, featuring handmade Native American baskets.
• Vikingsholm , now located in Emerald Bay State Park, was one of the first summer homes at Lake Tahoe, built in the 1860s. The building is open from June - September.
• Lake Tahoe Historical Museum houses artifacts from pioneers, trappers, traders, miners, pioneers, and the Washoe, the area's first inhabitants.
• The Tallac Historic Site offers guided tours of a 1920s home.

The Shops at Heavenly Village

Address: 1001 Heavenly Village Way South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

More than 40 shops in an outdoor setting offer clothing, accessories, jewelry, art, winter sports equipment, gifts, toys, and candy. There's an ice rink, 8-plex cinema, live theater, and dining spots featuring pizza, burgers, sushi, desserts, ice cream, and more.

Boatworks at Lake Tahoe

Address: 760 N. Lake Boulevard Tahoe City, CA 96145 Phone: 530 288-4999

Accessible by land and water, Boatworks features a variety of shops offering clothing, accessories, jewelry, wine, home furnishings, candy, souvenirs, and toys. There's a stunning view of the lake from the shopping area and from two waterfront restaurants.

Chateau at the Village

Address: 4125 Lake Tahoe Boulevard South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

Shop for clothing, souvenirs, Lake Tahoe gifts, toys, metal art, and resort wear. Old West-style gear and cowboy-themed footwear and accessories are featured at Bonanza Boot & Leather, and several restaurant options include Ace High Saloon and McP's Taphouse Grill.

Shayden Summit - Reno

Address: 13925 South Virginia Street Reno, Nevada 89511 Phone: 775 853-7800

This major shopping mall includes a luxury movie theater with stadium seating and plush lounges, several restaurants, boutiques, and major retailers including Apple, Dillard's, Lucky Brand Jeans, Old Navy, and Pottery Barn.

Downtown Truckee in North Lake Tahoe features a wide range of shops for buying and browsing, from clothing and accessories to art, sports equipment, jewelry, gifts, and gourmet foods. Choose from coffee, pizza, burgers, seafood, baked goods, or a brewery stop during your shopping trip.

Incline Village on the north shore in Nevada is home to hotels, restaurants, casinos, lakeside mansions, Lake Tahoe State Park, and Sand Harbor. The large town attracts visitors to beaches in summer and ski areas in winter.

Truckee is a mountain town about 30 minutes from Lake Tahoe's north shore. Its western history and culture are still on display, and its downtown is a popular shopping area. In town, the Donner Monument commemorates the famous Donner Party pioneers.

Tahoe City on the lake's west shore features restaurants, bars, beaches, and access to the Truckee River and Lake Tahoe Dam.

Kings Beach is located on the north shore with shops, hotels, restaurants, Kings Beach State Recreation Area, and popular beaches for summer water sports.

On the south shore in Nevada, Stateline is noted for its entertainment and casinos, with the state's legal gambling attracting visitors for many decades. Hotels featuring nightclubs, world-class performers, amenities, and restaurants are located in the Stateline area. On the California side, South Lake Tahoe is home to Emerald Bay State Park and Heavenly Ski resort.

The climate ranges from cold, snowy winters to sunny, clear summers. Snow falls as early as October and continues through April, with December, January, and February receiving the largest amounts, receiving at least 12 inches each month, according to WeatherSpark . Summers are dry with minimal rainfall, and even on warm days, the temperature is significantly cooler at night.

Average low and high temperatures, all reported from the Lake Tahoe Airport :

January: 18°F to 42°F February: 21°F to 43°F March: 24°F to 48°F April: 29°F to 54°F May: 33°F to 62°F June: 37,°F to 71°F July: 41°F to 79°F August: 40°F to 78°F September: 36°F to 72°F October: 29°F to 61°F November: 25°F to 49°F December: 19°F to 42°F

Tahoe South Planning App : for hotels, restaurants, shopping, activities

TART Connect: Tahoe/Truckee Transit (TART) offers information on bus service and reserving curb-to-curb transportation.

Uber : Request a ride in the Lake Tahoe area

Lyft : Request a ride in the Lake Tahoe area

Related Articles

All silver linings here

Don't Just Explore

Dig into all that Lake Tahoe's South Shore has to offer. Natural scenery coupled with non-stop nightlife. Big-name entertainment on the edge of sandy beaches. That's just the beginning of things to do in Lake Tahoe.

Things to Do in Lake Tahoe

When it comes to things to do in Lake Tahoe’s South Shore, you can shred down the mountain from 10,067 ft. at Heavenly Mountain Resort’s peak or you can dive into the depths of Lake Tahoe. It’s more than 1600 ft. deep, making it one of the deepest lakes in North America. Needless to say, there’s plenty of things to do in Lake Tahoe above and below the surface.

Make a Splash

Things to Do in Lake Tahoe During Summer

When the snow melts, Lake Tahoe fills and the sandy beaches glisten in the sun. That’s when it’s time to trade in your snowboards for paddleboards and snowshoes for hiking boots. Get ready to wander in Lake Tahoe.

Zip Around and Find a Secret Cove

Come Back With Tales

Trails for All

Ride Bikes, Have Fun, Repeat

Golf Courses from Plebian to Luxury

Water Sports

Endless variety, infinite fun

Stay a While

Lodging in Lake Tahoe

Lakeland Village Resort

South Lake Tahoe Hotels & Resorts

Zalanta Resort at the Village

The Lodge at Edgewood

The Unexpected Side of Lake Tahoe

There’s a lot of history here. While you take in the modern amenities, soak in the Lake Tahoe area the way Mark Twain did. From Zephyr Cove Resort , built-in 1900 in response to the Comstock silver mining boom to Camp Richardson Resort offering city-folk a lakefront retreat since 1924, to Vikingsholm Castle , another grand estate of the 1920s, we can tell a story or two about life at the Lake in yesteryear.

You’ve got options

More Things to Do in Lake Tahoe

Sometimes, it’s the simplest just to list out all the awesome reasons to visit Lake Tahoe. So, here it is: a list of every amazing, awe-inspiring, adrenaline-rushing things to do in Tahoe.

WHAT LAKE TAHOE HAS TO OFFER

• Breweries & Distilleries
• Family Activities
• Photography
• Winter Sports
• Tours & Attractions
• Accessible Recreation Sites

Come Back Again. And Again.

Things to Do in Tahoe for Every Season

Sure, we’re a little biased, but there’s never a bad time to visit Lake Tahoe. Pick a season, any season. Celebrate summer in the Sierra with a hike to Emerald Bay State Park or make a splash at Pope Beach. Discover why Tahoe winters are legendary for skiing and holiday fun at the Heavenly Village and Ski Resort. If you want to avoid the high season crowds, visit Lake Tahoe in the spring to hit the slopes in sunglasses and a t-shirt, or come in the fall when the mountains are painted in autumn colors and hiking is at its best. Regardless of when you visit, there’s plenty of Lake Tahoe activities.

Eat. Sleep. Sun. Repeat.

Leaf Peeping and Enchanting Sunsets

Wander Where Wifi is Weak

Ski or Swim? Why not Both

Special Offers

Harveys Resort & Casino

The Great Outdoors is calling. Explore the Empire Sale starts now with rooms from $49.00.

Expires July 1, 2024

Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe

Valet & Stay at Margaritaville Lake Tahoe Resort

Expires December 31, 2024

The Landing Resort & Spa

Perks for Planning Ahead Landing Resort & Spa Lake Tahoe

Entertainment under the stars

Summer Concert Series

When visiting Lake Tahoe, definitely bring your dancing shoes along with your gear. Summer’s are even hotter here thanks to both the world-renowned and regional musicians that play the many Tahoe stages.

Lake Tahoe Things to Do—365 Days a Year

No matter the season, there are so many fun things to do in Lake Tahoe, you will be hard-pressed to accomplish it all! However, activities change with the seasons. Here’s our roundup of all the things to do in Lake Tahoe throughout the year, so you can start planning your mountain getaway.

As it lay there with the shadows of the mountains brilliantly photographed upon its still surface, I thought it must surely be the fairest picture the whole earth affords. Mark Twain

Spring is a time for multisports. The days are longer and the snow is melting, but there’s still a lot of snowpack in the mountains. Locals’ go-to activity is spring skiing in a t-shirt and sunglasses and sprawling in the sun at a snow-beach bar. Spring is also perfect for snowshoeing adventures, paddleboarding on the lake without another soul around, or taking a swing at Tahoe’s legendary golf courses. Regardless of which activity you choose, it’s likely you’ll have it all to yourself.

Summer promises legendary, heart-pounding downhill single track and bike paths for social spins. Hike your heart out, dive in and discover the best Lake Tahoe water activities and get your booty to the beaches , or zip by boat to iconic Emerald Bay . Whether you’re in search of a family-friendly vacation, relaxing on a sandy beach on the shore of Lake Tahoe, or an all-out mountain adventure, there are plenty of Lake Tahoe summer activities . The hard part is deciding how you’re going to possibly pack it all in! 

In the fall, temperatures cool down, but things to do in Lake Tahoe don’t. Grab a sweater, some hiking boots, and your friends for a trip to the south shore. Fall is the perfect time to take a swing at the world-class Edgewood golf course and watch the sunset over the Lake. It’s also the best season for hiking and mountain biking – you’ll fall in love with Tahoe’s colorful autumn foliage, mild temperatures, and sunny days. From biking to golfing to hiking, get ready to wander in Lake Tahoe.

When winter rolls around, ski and ride some of the best snow at world-renowned resorts such as Heavenly Mountain Resort , Kirkwood Resort and Sierra-at-Tahoe , and catch a one-of-a-kind view of the lake. Things really heat up after the last chair. Find out how South Lake Tahoe does après ski at local breweries and  bars. Don’t forget to squeeze in sledding , sleigh rides, snowshoeing , snowmobiling , or sliding around on some ice skates.

What are the top attractions to visit in Lake Tahoe (California)?

Some of the top attractions to visit at Lake Tahoe (California) include Emerald Bay State Park , known for its crystal clear waters and stunning views of Eagle Falls and Fannette Island, Heavenly Mountain Resort with its spectacular views of the lake, world-class skiing and snowboarding, and numerous shops and restaurants at Heavenly Village , and the Tallac Historic Site , a restored 1920s resort that offers guided tours and kid-friendly programs.

What is Lake Tahoe popular for?

Lake Tahoe is a popular vacation spot known for its clear blue waters, scenic views, and world-class outdoor recreational activities such as skiing , hiking , boating , and fishing . It’s also known for its luxury resorts and casinos . It’s a famous spot for outdoor enthusiasts and vacationers looking for a picturesque getaway.

What are the top things to do in Lake Tahoe?

There are endless things to do at Lake Tahoe including hiking and exploring the various state parks and scenic trails, skiing and snowboarding at one of the many world-renowned ski resorts, and visiting one of the endless spots Lake Tahoe is known for such as Emerald Bay, Cave Rock , or Zephyr Cove .

Start Planning

Plan Your Trip Today!

Make planning easy with this guide to all the must-see vistas, must-eat dishes and must-experience attractions.

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Where to Stay

Getting there.

Top Things to Do

Best Beaches

Best Ski Resorts

Snow Sports

Top Restaurants

Your Trip to Lake Tahoe: The Complete Guide

Outdoor athletes and adventure-seekers love Lake Tahoe . Skiing and snowboarding steal the show in the winter when a snowstorm can be followed by blue skies perfect for skiing knee-high fresh powder. Nearly every day in the summer is warm and sunny as tourists and locals alike hit the trails and beaches to float, bike, camp, and enjoy the area’s extensive trail systems. Aside from outdoor adventure, the region has stunning vistas, historical towns, and lively social and restaurant scenes that shouldn’t be missed. 

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit completely depends on what you want to do , but September is generally recommended for most non-skiers as it has summery weather and smaller crowds. February and March are best for skiing and July and the first two weeks of August will provide the warmest weather for the beach and outdoor activities. 
• Language: English
• Currency: US dollar 
• Getting Around : Nearly everyone drives around the north shore as the public transportation system can be slow and has limited evening hours. Taxis and rideshares are an option but you may have to wait a few minutes for your ride. On the south shore, you can walk to most businesses and restaurants in Stateline and South Lake Tahoe (around Heavenly Mountain Resort’s base area) and taxis and rideshares are readily available at any time. 
• Travel Tip: Around 2.7 million people visit Lake Tahoe each year  and as such, the towns around Tahoe get extremely crowded on summer weekends in July and August and during three-day weekends in the winter. Try to avoid those periods unless you want to spend hours sitting in traffic. Make sure you have chains and know how to use them if you’re driving a 2WD vehicle in a storm. 

Things to Do in Lake Tahoe

Cold-Weather Activities: Because Tahoe gets an amazing amount of snow (Truckee averages 2024 inches of snow each year  ) the resorts in the area have incredible skiing and riding conditions . Combine that with tall mountain peaks that look onto the lake, and you’ll see why it’s a popular ski destination. There are 12 downhill ski resorts in Lake Tahoe, the highest concentration in the entire U.S.   The major resorts are Northstar California Resort, Mount Rose Ski Tahoe, Diamond Peak, Heavenly Mountain Resort, Kirkwood Resort, Sierra-at-Tahoe, Homewood Resort, Alpine Meadows, Squaw Valley, Sugarbowl, and Boreal. Most ski shops in the area rent snowshoes and cross-country skis, too. 

Warm-weather activities:  There’s not much limit to what you can do in the summer. In fact, sometimes you can even ski in July! There are dozens of beaches along Tahoe’s 72 miles of shoreline and incredibly extensive trail systems, like the Tahoe Rim Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and the Desolation Wilderness protected area trails, just to name a few. For non-athletes, there’s live music, weekend yoga and beer festivals, historical cities like Virginia City, and enough restaurants and waterfront bars to please every palate. 

What to Eat and Drink 

Between North and South Lake Tahoe, you can find just about any international cuisine you’d like. There are many more restaurants on the south shore than the north, but both have plenty of options to ensure you’ll never have to eat at the same place twice. American food is the most common, and locally sourced and organic dishes are quite easy to find. Vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free eaters should have no problem at most restaurants. 

California is known for its beer culture and Tahoe does its part to keep that reputation alive. On the north shore, popular breweries include Alibi Ale Works and FiftyFifty Brewing Co. On the south shore, try some California brews at South Lake Brewing Company, Stateline Brewery, or the Brewery at Lake Tahoe. Expect most restaurants to have fairly extensive California-forward beer and wine menus, too. 

When visiting Tahoe, you’ll either stay on the north or south shore. The north shore is generally more expensive and luxurious, less crowded, and more focused on outdoor adventure and nature. On the south shore, expect more affordable lodging and dining plus better options for nightlife, clubs, and casino entertainment. The lake is split between Nevada on the east and California on the west. If you want to gamble, stay on the Nevada side. Most hotels in Stateline are within walking distance of plenty of bars and restaurants, but you’ll probably need a car on the north shore. Skiers staying in the villages at Northstar, Squaw Valley, or Heavenly Resorts can walk to a variety of restaurants and shops without leaving the resorts. 

Lake Tahoe is about 3.5 hours east of San Francisco, so it’s an easy drive from the city. Otherwise, most people fly into Reno-Tahoe International Airport. The airport is a 35-minute drive to North Lake Tahoe or about 90 minutes to South Lake Tahoe. With heavy snow, the drives can take much longer. 

You can also fly into Sacramento International Airport and drive about 90 minutes to either north or South Lake Tahoe, but both Highway 50 (the route to South Lake) and Highway 80 (the route to the north shore) are subject to closures in heavy snow. 

If you want to drive around the lake or do any sightseeing, you’ll need a car. Almost all visitors to Tahoe rent cars, though much of Stateline (on the south shore) is walkable. If you’re flying in, both Reno and Sacramento International Airports have very convenient car rental desks. It usually only takes a few minutes to pick up your car and be on your way. 

Money-Saving Tips 

• If you’re planning to ski in Tahoe, you’ll usually save 10-15 percent off the cost of the lift ticket if you buy it in advance online. If you’re going to ski more than five or six days, it may be cheaper to buy a season pass rather than day tickets. 
• Choose a flight that arrives very early into the Reno airport. Some resorts will give you a free same-day lift ticket when you show your boarding pass.
• Expect significant price swings at hotels based on seasonality; it’s not unusual for a $159 per night resort to cost $600 or more on a summer weekend. Come mid-week if you can to save on lodging.
• Many festivals at ski resorts are free to attend, so check Tahoe.com in advance to see what’s happening during your stay.
• January is “Learn to Ski and Ride Month,” so most ski resorts offer fantastic packages for first-time skiers. You can get a lesson, rentals, and lift ticket at major resorts for around $70 to $90—an excellent deal when a lift ticket alone costs $130 or more.

The Official Lake Tahoe Bureaus. "Lake Tahoe Fun Facts."

Western Regional Climate Center. "TRUCKEE RS, CALIFORNIA (049043)." 2016.

North Lake Tahoe Visitors Bureau. "General Fact Sheet."

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe

How to Get to (and Around) Lake Tahoe

How to Travel From San Francisco to Lake Tahoe By Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Lake Tahoe Paddlewheeler Cruises

The Best Restaurants in Lake Tahoe

The 10 Best Ski Towns in the US

13 Top Things to Do at Lake Tahoe

The 7 Best Ski Resorts in Lake Tahoe

Nightlife in Lake Tahoe: Best Bars, Clubs, & More

The Best Time to Visit Lake Tahoe

Touring the Lake Tahoe Basin

Reno and Tahoe: Winter Things to Do With Kids

Lake Tahoe Guide: What to Do and How to Get There

The 10 Best Beaches in Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe's Top Casinos

The 28 Best Day Trips From Seattle

• FLIGHT DEALS
• Most Beautiful Drive
• Road Conditions

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Lake Tahoe Itinerary

Last Updated on January 11, 2024

by Sarah Dittmore

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a 2 to 3 days in Lake Tahoe itinerary is an excellent way to see one of the most gorgeous alpine lakes in the country. As the largest lake in the Sierra Nevada and the second deepest lake in the United States, it’s no wonder Lake Tahoe draws visitors from all around the world.

Thanks to dedicated activists and community-wide efforts, Lake Tahoe is considered one of the clearest and cleanest bodies of water in the world. The massive, bright blue lake surrounded by towering alpines and endless forests of pines is truly one-of-a-kind.

This route will help you figure out how to spend a few days in and around Lake Tahoe so that you can enjoy the water, the sights, and the local culture. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Lake Tahoe?

When deciding how many days to spend in Lake Tahoe, it depends a lot on your goals for your time in the area.

But for most travellers, a few days is enough to get to know the town and see some of the highlights that make it such a sought-after destination.

The area can be split into two key sides of Lake Tahoe: South Lake Tahoe and North Lake Tahoe. 2 days in Lake Tahoe will allow you to visit both shores and get to know the shoreline of Tahoe a little better.

For those who want to see what life for the locals is like, 3 days will give you a chance to visit Truckee and see what the mountain lifestyle is all about.

Getting To & Around Lake Tahoe

Tahoe is incredibly easy to navigate, whether you’re driving up from San Francisco or further afield. Once you get to the lake, there’s one road that circles the perimeter and connects you to just about every destination in this itinerary.

It’s a very car-heavy destination and getting there (and around) will be much easier if you bring or rent a car. It also will allow you the flexibility to visit places in the surrounding area, such as Eagle Lake or Donner Lake.

If you need to hire a car when visiting Lake Tahoe, we suggest browsing Rentalcars.com in order to compare prices across a number of different rental companies.

However, Tahoe has made huge strides with its public transport. Tahoe Transportation District (TTD) offers trolley service to Emerald Bay and buses that service Incline Village and Sand Harbor. In North Lake Tahoe, Tahoe Area Regional Transit (TART) has its own app and provides free curb-to-curb service throughout the north shore.

2 to 3-Day Lake Tahoe Itinerary

Whether you spend 2 or 3 days in and around Lake Tahoe, it will never feel like enough. There’s so much to do and see in this slice of paradise, it’s hard to choose.

But if you follow this Lake Tahoe summer itinerary (the best time to visit Lake Tahoe if you want to hike and swim!), you’ll have a chance to take in Tahoe’s unmatched beauty, enjoy some of its hidden gems, and get to know the local mountain town culture.

Day 1 – South Lake Tahoe

Whether you have 2 days or 3, South Shore is a great place to start. Between Tahoe legends and hidden gems, South Lake Tahoe is full of endless ways to enjoy all the beauty and personality Tahoe has to offer.

Heidi’s Pancake House

Start your day off with one of South Lake Tahoe’s most beloved breakfast spots— Heidi’s Pancake House . This Swiss chalet-inspired spot has been a staple for Tahoe breakfasts since 1964 and continues to serve a mouth-watering menu from 7a-2p.

With a massive menu of differently flavored pancakes, French toasts, waffles, crepes, eggs, and omelets, there’s something for everyone.

Vikingsholm Castle

After breakfast, make your way over to Emerald Bay State Park to enjoy the stunning sapphire waters, sandy beaches, and gorgeous hikes that grace Lake Tahoe’s south shore.

When you first arrive at Emerald Bay, you’ll pull up in the Vikingsholm parking lot. Also known as “Tahoe’s Hidden Castle”, this Swedish-inspired masterpiece has been around since 1929. The property was eventually acquired by the state in 1953 and has been an attraction for Lake Tahoe visitors ever since.

Free, public tours run throughout the summer, so stop by for a chance to see what is considered one of the best displays of Scandinavian architecture throughout the United States.

Emerald Bay Beach

After touring the castle, get settled on the golden shores of Emerald Bay Beach. As one of the most photographed places on Earth, it’s a must for your trip.

Part of what keeps Emerald Bay Beach so beautiful is that it’s only accessible via trail or boat. From the Vikingsholm parking lot, it’s a 1.7 mile descent to the actual castle . From there, it’s just a few feet to the shore.

Once there, you can set up for a relaxing day on the beach, jump off the pier and swim in Lake Tahoe’s famously clear waters, rent kayaks and paddleboards for some water sports or hop on a sailing cruise.

In addition, Emerald Bay has been a designated Underwater State Park since 1994, so if scuba diving is your thing, make sure to plan ahead!  

Fannette Island

Lake Tahoe’s only island, Fannette Island is the perfect addition to any Lake Tahoe summer itinerary. In addition to being naturally gorgeous, Fannette Island is home to the ruins of Mrs. Lora Knight’s 1920s tea house.

Once a 16-foot miniature castle with a roaring fireplace and oak-carved furniture, Mrs Lora Knight would ferry guests of Vikingsholm to the island via motorboat for afternoon tea. Today, the stone husk boasts little of the glamor of the old tea house, but it’s a beautiful sight for those willing to make the trek.

The only way to access Fannette Island is via kayak, paddleboard, or boat. If you don’t have your own boat and don’t want to attempt the six-mile round-trip via paddle, there are plenty of places where you can charter a boat in Tahoe .

Inspiration Point

As you depart Emerald Bay and drive back to South Shore, make sure to visit Inspiration Point.

Just three minutes east of the Vikingsholm parking lot, this vista towers 600 feet above Lake Tahoe and offers unbeatable views of Emerald Bay, Fannette Island, and Vikingsholm. The walkways are fairly flat, paved, and accessible so it’s a great spot to hit when you’re tired after a day of playing at Emerald Bay.

Just beware—parking can get intense! Try to avoid sunset hour and be prepared to wait for a spot to open up.

Sunset Dinner Cruise

There’s no better way to end the first day of your Lake Tahoe Itinerary than with a sunset dinner cruise on the M.S. Dixie II. Launching from Zephyr Cove, the cruise is by no means cheap. Still, if it’s within the budget, it’s well worth the expense.

The M.S. Dixie II is one of Lake Tahoe’s two authentic paddle wheelers and the cruise features stunning views of sunset on the Lake.

If you’re lucky and the conditions are right, sunset in Lake Tahoe often features a dramatic rainbow of bright pinks, soft purples, and vibrant golds that paint the surface of the water as it reflects the sky and the best way to see this is on the water.

In addition to the views, the sunset dinner cruise includes a three-course meal and drinks available for purchase. If this doesn’t suit, it is possible to visit a Venetian-style gondola ride on the lake, as well!

Day 2 – North Lake Tahoe  

While North Shore is more known for its epic winter ski resorts and those planning a winter trip to Tahoe , it’s also full of summer activities that could easily fill all 3 days. Still, if you only have a couple of days and are trying to see the highlights of the lake, make sure you plan a day to visit North Lake Tahoe and enjoy some of its unique natural beauty.  

Breakfast at Sugar Pine Cakery

A hidden favorite of North Shore locals is Sugar Pine Cakery in Tahoe City. This locally owned, mom-and-pop bakery is the definition of a hole in the wall, and it couldn’t be more worth a visit.

Every single item they sell is mouth-wateringly delicious. Start your day here for a pastry and a cup of coffee and order one of their incredible sandwiches to pack away for a picnic at Sand Harbor later in the day!

Tahoe East Shore Trail

Ever since it was completed in the summer of 2019, the Tahoe East Shore Trail has become a must for any trip to Lake Tahoe. This 2.6 mile trail from Incline Village to Sand Harbor is a relatively flat, paved walking and biking trail that takes about an hour to complete.

As it hugs the shoreline, you get incredible views of the water the whole way down. It’s one of the most accessible trails in Lake Tahoe and is a great way to enjoy walking the shoreline without wearing yourself out.

Sand Harbor

One of Tahoe’s most famous beaches, Sand Harbor is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon. It can be accessed by the Tahoe East Shore Trail, or you can drive there and park for the day. It’s a beloved spot to lounge on the shore, engage in water sports, scuba dive, do a kayak tour or just play in the clear lake waters!

Make sure to check out their event calendar to see if anything’s going on while you’re in town and if you are visiting in July or August, check out their annual Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival !

Sunset at Hidden Beach

Hidden Beach continues to be one of Tahoe locals’ best-kept secrets and the ideal place to watch the sunset over the water.

The big secret about Hidden Beach is that everything you find on the internet is taking you to the wrong shore. Yes, there is a better-known, sandier shore known as Hidden Beach. It is easily accessible by walking trail and often packed for sunset.

But a small, winding trail off the freeway will take you one cove over to a paradise tucked away from the crowds.

One note to be aware of—as a local secret, Hidden Beach is also one of Tahoe’s few topless beaches. While it’s not often, especially during sunset hour when it cools down, don’t be surprised if you are joined by a topless beachgoer or two.

The easiest way to reach the “real” Hidden Beach is via a small walkway off of Highway 28, just south of the parking lot for Tahoe East Shore Trail, but parking is nearly impossible as there are only a few street parking spots that get snagged pretty early in the day.

More likely, you’ll need to follow the Tahoe East Shore Trail north from Sand Harbor until you reach the well-carved dirt path that takes you to the official Hidden Beach—the sandy one that everyone knows about. Keep going to the next cove over.

The same dirt trail will get you there, just walk past the sandy shore and follow the dirt trail north until it goes down to the water again. You’ll know you’ve found it because of the giant boulders. It does take a bit of scrambling, but once you get settled on the flatter rocks, there’s no better spot to picnic, sip a drink, and watch the sunset.

Chambers Landing Bar & Grill

If you’re staying in South Shore, take the western route around Lake Tahoe so you can hit Chambers Landing Bar & Grill on your way back. The oldest bar on the water in Lake Tahoe, Chambers Landing is a part of Tahoe history.

It doubled as a boathouse, bar, and clubhouse in 1875 and has continued to serve Tahoe residents and guests ever since. The dinner selection is great, but whatever you do, make sure to taste the famous Chambers Punches! 

Day 3 – Truckee / Martis Valley

While your first 2 days were focused on the shoreline, it’s worth expanding your reach on the third day to visit Truckee and Martis Valley. About half an hour north of North Lake Tahoe, Truckee is a quaint California town with a main strip reminiscent of the Old West, but filled with modern boutiques, restaurants, breweries, and more.

Breakfast at Squeeze In

Start your day off right with breakfast at one of Truckee’s most beloved spots: Squeeze In . Full of California vibes, this diner-style hub has a delicious menu, friendly staff, and a fantastic reputation across Lake Tahoe.

Martis Creek Trail

Once you’ve fueled up at Squeeze In, head south to Martis Creek Trail for a gorgeous and relaxed hike. This 4.3-mile loop takes you through the unique landscape of Martis Valley where you can enjoy a very different, but equally beautiful, side of Lake Tahoe’s ecosystem.

The trail is pretty flat with only 203 feet of climbing and takes 1.5-2 hours to complete. It’s a great way to get moving and enjoy Tahoe’s fresh air before heading back to Truckee for a day of exploring the shops and local spots!

Shopping on Donner Pass Road

After your hike, head back to Donner Pass Road to explore the delightful downtown of historic Truckee. You can easily spend a day walking down the main strip, wandering in and out of shops, but there are a few places you don’t want to miss.

Made + Maker is home to both Bespoke and Atelier ; in the front, they sell all artisan goods and carefully curated boutique items. In the back of the store, they have a separate room full of things for the maker—yarns, craft projects, art supplies, and more.

Over at Word after Word you’ll find a truly remarkable bookstore upstairs with a tucked away record store and used books shop in their basement. For a truly Tahoe souvenir, head over to Mountain Arts Collective or Riverside Studios to shop locally made items.

If you’re looking for a coffee break, head just north of Donner Pass Road for a flavored latte at the hip, sunny Coffee Bar or head south for an incredible cup of coffee at the cozy, plant-filled Dark Horse Coffee Roasters .

Dinner and Drinks at 5050

To round out your day in Truckee and wrap up your time in Lake Tahoe, head over to Fiftyfifty Brewing Co for dinner and a beer. This local brewery is beloved across Tahoe, but their pub is located in downtown Truckee and serves classic American grill foods alongside their ever-shifting menu of beers on tap.

Not only is it great food and fantastic brews, it captures the local Tahoe personality and gives you a taste of what life in Tahoe is really about.

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe

The Jeffrey Hotel – This lovely hotel is the perfect mid-range option in South Lake Tahoe. Offering a range of rooms suitable for couples and families, it is located close to the beach and some rooms even have a fireplace!

Black Bear Lodge – This comfortable hotel offers a range of rooms and cottages, perfect for those looking to cook some of their own meals. They can accommodate larger families, with all rooms having a gas fireplace and some coming with a hot tub.

Private Rental – There are plenty of options to suit different levels of budgets for private rentals in Lake Tahoe such as this stunning lakefront condo .

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options near Lake Tahoe!

Lake Tahoe is sacred to locals and adored by visitors. The cobalt waters, emerald trees, and laid-back culture make it the perfect place to relax and find peace surrounded by the beauty of this mountain town.

Are you planning to visit Lake Tahoe? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect Day Trip to Monterey from San Francisco

The Ultimate Big Sur Day Trip Itinerary

13 Best Stops on an LA to San Francisco Drive

About Sarah Dittmore

Sarah is a writer for The World Was Here First. A California native, she loves travelling around her home state as well as visiting places further afield. She has spent over a decade travelling the world and writing stories inspired by the people and places she encounters along the way.

Great info! Regarding the photos on your first page- where are those particular spots?

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

11 of the best things to do in Lake Tahoe

Apr 15, 2024 • 8 min read

From kayaking to skiing, here are the best experiences in Lake Tahoe through the year © Jonas Jungblut / Getty Images

The shimmering beauty of Lake Tahoe  makes travelers stop and stare.

But to fully appreciate this alpine beauty spot, you need to get active. From water sports to winter sports, we’ve hand-picked the best things to do in and around Lake Tahoe. And for days when you don’t want to break a sweat, there are cruises, history and culture galore.

1. Kayak or paddleboard the Lake Tahoe Water Trail 

What better way to experience North America’s largest freshwater lake than by bobbing along its glassy surface? Whether you prefer to SUP or kayak, the Lake Tahoe Water Trail has 72 miles of marked and mapped water routes to explore, including 20 “trailhead” signs for put-in and take-out. You can plot out a day trip from numerous starting points including Emerald Bay and Cave Rock. Sunscreen essential, serenity guaranteed.

Planning tip: Kayak Tahoe can set you up gear at locations in Pope Beach, Nevada Beach, Emerald Bay and Baldwin Beach.

2. Bike the Tahoe East Shore Trail

Though there are four paved bike trails that run parallel to the lake’s shores, Tahoe East Shore Trail is a favorite because it’s an all-in-one Tahoe summer day of bike-riding and beach-hopping easily orchestrated on a budget. There is plenty of parking and the Tunnel Creek Cafe and Flume Trail Bike rentals are conveniently located at the trailhead so you can get gear and protein-packed breakfasts to start you off. The trailhead is located near Incline Village on State Route 28.

The 3-mile trail begins with an 8% incline (and decline), but after that, it gently undulates over rocky coves and past 16 viewpoints with interpretive signs. The southern terminus is Sand Harbor State Park , Nevada’s most popular.

Planning tip: There is a $2 fee per bike to access the lake from Sand Harbor, but there’s no need to pay if you find one of a handful of free lake access footpaths along the way.

3. Catch a festival or local event

With venues as varied as breweries, beaches and casinos, Tahoe attracts world-class as well as home-grown entertainment. Thespians and literary buffs will be hard-pressed to find a finer setting for theater than the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival at Sand Harbor. This summer festival draws crowds of over 33,000 each year to enjoy the lakeside atmosphere with performances taking place under the stars. Costumed revelry continues in late August at the Valhalla Renaissance Faire , which brings jousting and live music to the Tahoe Valley Campground. Winter brings Snowfest , complete with live music, a parade, competitions and ice sculptures in late February or early March. 

Planning tip: If you’re visiting in late spring, keep an eye on ski resort websites for end-of-season hi-jinks. One of the best is the annual pond skimming contest at Palisades, where costumed skiers attempt to launch themselves across a pool.

4. Ride a gondola to heavenly views

A gondola ride with Heavenly ski resort isn’t cheap (adult tickets start at $69 per person), but the views are so expansive and blue that even wilting toddlers and bored teens will be impressed. Each gondola lifts eight passengers in a four-sided glass cabin, granting bird’s-eye views along the way. The observation deck at the top, an incredibly scenic 9136ft (2785m), is ideal for a group photo. 

Planning tip: The gondola runs year-round but check the weather before handing over your credit card. You need a clear day to get big views for your buck.

Ready to plan your trip to Lake Tahoe? Here's our seasonal guide to the best times to visit

5. Spend a sunny day at Pope Beach

The golden sands and crystalline waters of Pope Beach  wouldn’t be out of place in SoCal. With the dreamy backdrop of the snow-streaked Sierra Mountains, its appeal is increased by its accessibility, with concessions, shade and bathrooms. Three miles west of South Lake Tahoe, the parking lot ($10 per vehicle) stretches the length of the beach, so no matter where you park, you'll be close to a short wooded trail that leads to nearly a mile of sandy shoreline. The beach is accessible via the mixed-use paved Pope-Baldwin Bike Path .

Planning tip: The beach has picnic tables and barbecues at regular intervals. But if you don’t want to pack a meal, there are food trucks nearby.

6. Cruise to Emerald Bay at sunset

Emerald Bay and Vikingsholm Castle top many must-see-in-Tahoe lists. The dramatically curved bay secludes the lake’s only island (Fannette), atop of which sits a surprising stone teahouse that seems to rise out of the granite itself. In the nook of that bending shoreline sits another surprising stone structure – Scandinavian in style – an heiress’ mansion known as Vikingsholm Castle.

A pleasant alternative to the hassle of parking at Emerald Bay Park is to take a motorized boat tour, like the 1½-hour Rum Runner cruise from the Camp Richardson Marina in South Lake Tahoe ($75 per adult, rum cocktail included, or $40 for kids). Less intimate and at the higher end of the cost spectrum are dinner and dance cruises with live entertainment aboard the 500-passenger red and white MS Dixie II paddle wheeler. It operates out of Zephyr Cove Resort & Marina just over the southern lake border in Nevada.

7. Hike and bike the mountain trails

Whether you’re a casual hiker or endurance athlete, the mountains surrounding Lake Tahoe are laced with scenic trails – from short and leisurely to long and technical. Family-friendly hikes at Taylor Creek Visitor Center or Fallen Leaf Lake allow nature lovers of all ages to explore Tahoe’s natural wonders in meandering loops and jaunts that are less than a mile long.

The popular Flume Trail , a point-to-point 10–14 miler (depending on where you choose to start and stop), is a favorite with mountain bikers since its moderate ascents earn spectacular views of the east side of the lake. For those seeking a longer dash of adventure, the mixed-use Tahoe Rim Trail offers 165 miles of backcountry exploration around the full circumference of the lake.

8. Experience elite living at Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park

Walk the manicured grounds surrounding the 1902 Ehrman Mansion at Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park for a taste of the serenity enjoyed by the Ehrmans and their guests over a hundred years ago.

With a tour of the Ehrman mansion (adult tickets start at $15), visitors learn how Isaias Hellman built his wealth and acclaim, and how his daughter, Florence Ehrman, ran her summer estate with precision and grace. Stroll the paved, quarter-mile interpretive trail that meanders the shoreline between the North and South Boathouses, and wade through General Creek.

Planning tip:  With 2000 acres of forested paths and 2 miles of shoreline, it is easy to find a private stretch of beach.

9. Marvel at fall foliage and wildlife 

Fall is a sweet spot in Tahoe’s calendar. Hotels are cheaper than during summer or winter, you can find blissful solitude on hiking trails and beaches, and it’s leaf-peeping season. The whole of September is ideal for hiking and cycling, but late September to mid-October is prime time for colorful leaves. There are plenty of spots to admire aspens and willows blushing gold, but the aptly named Fallen Leaf Lake is one of the best. Visions of autumn splendor aside, pack for all weather: snowy squalls can start as early as October.

Fall is also when Kokanee salmon return to the river to spawn. Go watch them amass in silvery shoals and take part in eco-conscious educational activities at Fall Fish Fest .

Detour: For the most photogenic scenery, Hope Valley, 22 miles south of South Lake Tahoe, is awash in orange and yellow each fall. Lace up your hiking boots for the colorful but moderately tough 12-mile out-and-back Burnside Lake Trail.

Here are some other great places across the US to see fall colors  

10. Delight in snow sports at alpine resorts

With an average snowfall of over 400in, Tahoe undergoes a powdery facelift that converts it into a winter terrain park from December to March (though with enough snow, ski season can extend well into May). Proximity to several modern alpine resorts such as Heavenly , Palisades , Kirkwood , Sierra-at-Tahoe and Mt Rose thrills visitors with over 11,000 acres of groomed and powder downhill runs. Trouble deciding? Heavenly has sublime views with an easy-access gondola, while 1960 Winter Olympics venue Palisades has easy greens to steep drops and receives serious snow. Isolated Kirkwood, away from the lake, also collects epic snowfall – it’s the place for devoted snowheads.

For a slower pace than downhill skiing, Kirkwood and Hope Valley have groomed cross-country skiing trails (limber up, it’s tougher exercise than downhill). Five of California’s SNO-Parks are around Lake Tahoe and numerous State Parks offer snowshoe trails, sledding hills and trailhead access for snowmobiling and dog-sledding. Snowball fights are encouraged.

11. Tour Thunderbird Lodge

Thunderbird Lodge National Historic Site in north Tahoe, once the home of George Whittell, Jr, now offers a menu of tours and experiences. From the lion that rode alongside him in his Murphy convertible roadster to a stint in Barnum and Baily Circus (and a possible role in the stock market crash in 1929), George Whittell Jr, otherwise known as “Captain,” was no ordinary heir to the family fortune. However, in the same shrewd fashion of his San Francisco patriarchs who amassed the family's wealth before him, he knew how to strike when an opportunity arose, and acquired 25 miles of Lake Tahoe shoreline from landowners still recovering from stock market losses. 

The Lodge, constructed in 1936, is the opulent expression of his playboy lifestyle. Now a National Historic Site, there are multiple tours through the Lodge, including estate tours (from $75) and wine and cheese tasting (from $125).

This article was first published Aug 20, 2021 and updated Apr 15, 2024.

Explore related stories

Aug 10, 2021 • 7 min read

Lake Tahoe is home to one of the US's most wealthy areas, but that doesn’t mean a visit to the lake’s natural beauty has to be expensive.

Apr 10, 2012 • 6 min read

Apr 14, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 14, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 13, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 4, 2024 • 8 min read

Feb 7, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 17, 2024 • 9 min read

Nov 10, 2023 • 5 min read

Sep 8, 2023 • 8 min read

50 Things to Do in Lake Tahoe, California (From a Regular Visitor)

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

TL;DR: The best things to do in Lake Tahoe vary depending on the season, but our favorites are summer days at Sand Harbor Beach and hiking up to Cascade Falls, winter sports in Squaw Valley, and taking in scenic views year-round. Here are the best things to do by season:

• Spend a summer day at Sand Harbor Beach, hiking to Cascade Falls and Eagle Falls, and whitewater rafting or kayaking out on the lake.
• During the winter, hit the slopes for skiing and snowboarding, snowshoe or cross country ski on scenic trails, and hot tub with mountain views in Squaw Valley.
• No matter the time of year, you can explore charming boutiques in nearby villages, enjoy scenic overlooks from the road, or take the Heavenly Mountain Gondola and Squaw Valley Aerial Tram for spectacular views.

Even though I grew up in California, only a few hours southwest of Tahoe, I didn’t visit Lake Tahoe for the first time until I was 27.

I heard fond anecdotes about Lake Tahoe trips from other friends throughout my childhood, but I somehow missed out on this California rite of passage.

When I finally visited for the first time, I realized what all the hype was about.

The lake was even more beautiful than the pictures made it seem, and the hushed natural scenery was a unique juxtaposition to the casinos and busy streets of downtown South Lake Tahoe.

Once I moved to the Bay Area, I quickly made Lake Tahoe an annual (and sometimes bi-annual trip). In 2020, I even spent a month in North Lake Tahoe to experience more of the lake at a slower pace. 

From those trips and the many hours I’ve spent exploring the Lake Tahoe area over the years, these are my picks for the 50 best things to do in Lake Tahoe. 

Enjoy your time around the most popular alpine lake in California!

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Lake Tahoe in the Summer

Spend the day at the beach.

Heading to the beach is by far one of my favorite summer activities in Lake Tahoe. 

Lake Tahoe has 72 miles of shoreline and a variety of beautiful sandy beaches to enjoy. They’re some of the best places to take in the lake’s clear aquamarine waters.

The water is definitely cold but on hot days in the summer, there’s nothing more refreshing than going for a dip in the freshwater lake.

One thing to note about Lake Tahoe beaches is that parking is always a pain in the summer.  To reduce the hassle of finding a parking spot, I’d recommend going early in the day. 

Two of the best North Lake Tahoe beaches include Sand Harbor Beach  and Kings Beach State Recreation Area . 

Sand Harbor is full of soft white sands and crystalline waters and is a must-visit as the most popular beach in Lake Tahoe. 

A few more of the best beaches in Lake Tahoe that are worth visiting include Meeks Ba y , Zephyr Cove , and Pope Beach .

If you’re looking for a more hidden beach with fewer crowds, head over to Chimney Beach . 

Read my full guide to the best beaches in Lake Tahoe .

Hike One of the Many Trails Near the Lake

While it’s possible to spend all day lounging on the gorgeous Tahoe beaches, there are also a lot of scenic trails to explore near the lake if you want to stretch your legs.

Looking for waterfalls? Cascade Falls and Eagle Falls are both easy to moderate hikes that will take you to 60-90-foot falls.

For a tougher hike, Shirley Canyon Trail is a heart-pumping five-mile hike that features steep inclines, high altitudes, and Shirley Lake.

D.L. Bliss State Park is another great place to hike.

While you’re there, be sure to hike to the highest elevation lighthouse in the US (the Rubicon Point Light) and tackle my favorite trail in Lake Tahoe – the Rubicon Trail . 

For the most epic Lake Tahoe hike, you can either hike part of or the entirety of the Tahoe Rim Trail . This trail takes you around the perimeter of Lake Tahoe and takes several days to complete.

Another option is hiking part of the Pacific Crest Trail around South Lake Tahoe.  You can start as early as Echo Summit and end at Desolation Wilderness or Highway 80.

Enjoy Truckee’s Thursday Night Street Fair

Wondering what to do around Lake Tahoe in summer? 

Summers in Truckee are an absolute delight with temperatures hitting a comfortable high of 70-80 degrees.

Even better are the night adventures to be had on Truckee Thursdays , a weekly street fair that features local and regional vendors, live performances, and a beer garden.

Tour the Tallac Historic Site

The site of two historic homes, artifacts, and exhibits, the Tallac Historic Site is one of the best things to do in South Lake Tahoe, especially for anyone who’s a history enthusiast. 

Run by the Tahoe Heritage Foundation, the Tallac Historic Site includes the Pope-Baldwin Estates that are open for tours during the summer, gardens, the Tallac Museum, and a Vintage Clothing Exhibit. 

If you’re looking to take a step back in time to explore what Lake Tahoe was like over 100 years ago, this is a good attraction to visit. 

Hang Glide or Paraglide over the Lake

Lake Tahoe is approximately 192 square miles of pure blue, which means that any view from the top is going to be mind-blowing. 

So it’s no surprise that one of the best things to do around Lake Tahoe for those who love lofty views is to go flying over the lake. 

Depending on your personal preference for flying high, you can either go hang gliding or paragliding with   Uprising Paragliding .

Whitewater Rafting on the Truckee River

If you’re looking to get your thrills on the water, a good day trip and one of the best things to do near Lake Tahoe is to go whitewater rafting on the Truckee River. 

Truckee River is full of thrilling rapids and peaceful scenery, perfect for a vacation with family and friends.

Tahoe Whitewater Tours , Tributary Whitewater Tours , and I.R.I.E. Rafting Company are the companies that you can reserve a half-day, full-day, or multi-day excursion with.

Or, if you’re looking for something a little less aggressive, you can do lazy tubing down a different part of the Truckee River instead. 

Parasail at Kings Beach State Recreation Area

Located on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe, Kings Beach is not only one of the best places to visit in Lake Tahoe, but it’s also a popular spot to go parasailing with friends.

When you parasail at Kings Beach, you are lifted to heights as far up as 800 feet, giving you a stunning vantage point of the entire lake and then some.

As a bonus, you get to sail for free on your birthday if you fly with North Shore Parasail .

Go on a Scenic Horseback Ride from Camp Richardson Corral

Camp Richardson Corral is a riding school that lets you live out your Pony Express dreams without the threat of harsh conditions.

You can ride through Lake Tahoe National Forest on a guided tour and experience the tranquility of Fallen Leaf Lake and Taylor Creek on horseback.

Camp Richardson Corral also offers hay wagon rides, pony rides, pack trips, and boarding facilities. It’s a fun thing to do in Lake Tahoe for the whole family, by yourself, or as a couple. 

Go Tubing and Wakeboarding

I tried this for the first time last fall and even though I was terrified the whole time, I’ll admit it was a fun day out on the lake. 

There are a number of boating rental spots around the lake where you can rent a boat by the hour with a captain and go tubing and wakeboarding off the back of it. 

Unlike the lazy tubing on a river, tubing in Lake Tahoe is when you attach an intertube to the back of a boat and hold on for dear life. 

The place we went with was High Sierra Waterski School and our captain was great with going as fast or as slow as we wanted. 

You can also test out your wakeboarding skills since most of the boats come with a tube and a wakeboard. Or, if you want a little more one-on-one instruction, you can take wakeboarding or waterskiing lessons with them too. 

This is one of the best activities to do in Tahoe if you’re looking for a challenging water activity and don’t mind getting wet. 

Dinner Cruise on The MS Dixie II Paddlewheeler

Zephyr Cove Resort not only gives you prime access to a mile-long beach, it’s also where you can take a Lake Tahoe cruise on the MS Dixie II Paddlewheeler.

On the cruise, you can purchase fine wines and delicious cocktails on top of enjoying a fresh and locally sourced dinner with stunning scenery against the backdrop of Emerald Bay.

Grab tickets for the MS Dixie II Sunset Cruise here

Jet Ski on the Lake

Thanks to its usually calm nature, Lake Tahoe is a water wonderland where you can swim, sail, and even go jet skiing. 

Several companies such as Tahoe Sports or Action Watersports offer services that allow you and a couple of friends to zip around on jet skis that you can rent for a half-day or full-day.

Jet skiing can cost a pretty penny though so make sure you shop around for the best options.

Visit Vikingsholm

One of the best things to do in Tahoe, or at least the most eccentric, is to visit Vikingsholm – a Viking-inspired castle near Emerald Bay.

Vikingsholm is a tribute to fine Scandinavian architecture and seamlessly blends in amidst the trees. Since tours are only available in the summer, this is one of the best summer things to do in Tahoe. 

Vikingsholm is accessible via a steep one-mile trail after you park near Highway 89 or a less steep 1.5-mile trail from Eagle Point Campground Campfire Center.

Get your FREE California Travel Planner – including printable checklists and my favorite two-week itinerary for the state. 

SUP or Kayak to Fannette Island

If you’re looking for Lake Tahoe summer activities, SUPing or kayaking is an ideal way to explore the lake. 

And one of the best places to kayak Lake Tahoe is to paddle out to Fannette Island in Emerald Bay.

Fannette Island is close enough to the shore to be accessed by SUP or kayak so you can easily explore the island at your leisure.

Just note that there’s nowhere to launch your kayak or standup paddleboard at Emerald Bay, but you can leave from Baldwin Beach and paddle over. There are kayak and SUP rentals at Baldwin Beach as well. 

Once you get to the island, there’s an abandoned tea house perched at the very top of the hill, so be sure to make the 10-minute climb and treat yourself to views of the gorgeous emerald waters.

Visit the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion

Back in the late 1800s, businessman I.W. Hellman bought enough land at Sugar Point to create a summer estate that later became dubbed the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion .

After he passed away, his daughter Florence Hellman Ehrman inherited the property where she and her family entertained visitors for decades.

Today, it’s maintained as a house museum and is a stunning example of Tahoe summer vacation mansions. 

It’s one of the more interesting things to see in Tahoe for those who want to like to explore historic estates. Plus, the surrounding Sugar Pine Point State Park is a fun place to spend a day and go swimming. 

Helicopter or Hot Air Balloon Ride Over the Lake

Looking to get a good Lake Tahoe view from above?

Going on a helicopter ride or hot air balloon ride over the lake can be a magical experience. 

Helicopter rides can be done year-round at the lake, but I recommend them as a summer activity because I think the shades of the lake are more stunning from above in the summer. 

Plus, you can see more of the Lake Tahoe landscape when it’s not covered in snow . 

For helicopter rides, Tahoe Helicopters offers various rides that explore different areas of the lake and last from 10 minutes to one hour. 

The most stunning ride they offer is probably their Lake Tahoe at sunset ride, which lasts for an hour and allows you to see a breathtaking Tahoe sunset from the sky. 

If you’d prefer a hot air balloon ride over Lake Tahoe, Lake Tahoe Balloons offers tours that take you on a calm and scenic ride above the lake. 

Tours leave at sunrise and last for about 45 minutes to an hour, concluding with a champagne toast upon landing.

Note: Hot air balloon rides only run from May through October.    

Rent a Boat to Explore Hidden Coves Around the Lake

One of the best activities in Lake Tahoe for those with a sense of adventure is to rent a boat and explore the hidden coves around the lake by yourself or with a few friends. 

Renting a boat in Lake Tahoe starts at around $160/hour, which isn’t bad if you’re splitting it with a group of friends. 

Grab some Bluetooth speaks, a cooler of drinks, and enjoy a sunny day out on the water doing your own cruise around the lake. You can find boat rentals at most of the main marinas around Lake Tahoe.  

Experience the Tahoe Via Ferrata or Go Rock Climbing

If you’re new to the sport or you don’t have an interest in doing traditional rock climbing, I highly recommend experiencing the Tahoe Via Ferrata in Squaw Valley. 

We did it last fall and it’s basically a guided rock climbing experience that’s reminiscent of a ropes course, no experience necessary. 

Due to it being 2020 at the time, we did a private three-hour tour and spent the afternoon enjoying the lofty views over Squaw Valley while climbing up and over a bunch of rocks.

They’re now offering two or three-hour group tours again, as well as private tours. It’s a very fun way to test your fear of heights and take in some good views along the way. 

If you’re looking to do more traditional rock climbing, Tahoe has a lot of options. You can tackle one of the most popular crags in Tahoe with a few friends or do a guided tour with Tahoe Adventure Company . 

Best Things to do in Lake Tahoe in the Winter

Hit the slopes at one of the many ski resorts .

Although snow levels seem to be getting lower each year, if the snow happens to be good, an obvious must-do in Lake Tahoe is to go skiing or snowboarding. 

Hitting the slopes is one of the best things to do in Tahoe in winter and an adrenaline-induced way to experience a winter wonderland in California.  

A few of the best ski resorts in Tahoe include: 

Squaw Valley Ski Resort

Lake Tahoe is legendary as the best place in NorCal to “shred the gnar,” boasting plenty of luxury ski resorts.

Squaw Valley recently acquired Alpine Meadows, which means you get twice the terrain to cover with the price of one lift ticket.

That, plus its large variety of slopes and less-crowded lifts, makes Squaw Valley a popular choice for daredevil snowboarders and skiers who like to zip down from the mountain top.

Heavenly Ski Resort 

Famed for its unparalleled groomed snow, Heavenly Mountain Resort might be more costly than other resorts in the area, but it makes up for it in a huge variety of runs and terrain.

If you ski or snowboard at an intermediate level, Heavenly will keep you entertained on all of its trails.

Or if you don’t feel up to braving the lifts, you can go off on your own adventure and snowshoe through all that luscious powder.

Northstar Ski Resort 

Not too far from Squaw Valley, you’ll find another North Tahoe ski resort by the name of Northstar . 

With 3,000 acres of skiable runs, Northstar is a good-sized ski resort that offers terrain for all skill levels. 

Although Northstar is known for its luxury accommodation and pricey lift tickets (starting at around $150 per day), it’s also known for its laid-back atmosphere. 

Northstar also has some of the best terrain parks in Tahoe, including one that has a superpipe designed by Olympian Shaun White. 

Read our guides to the best snowboard gloves and the best women’s snowboard pants .

Ice Skate at Heavenly Village

One activity that should be on your winter in Lake Tahoe to-do list is ice skating.  

Heavenly Village boasts an open-air ice skating rink from November to April, so you can enjoy gliding around in the morning before lunch or at night underneath the lights.

Go Hot Tubbing in Squaw Valley

Another one of the best Lake Tahoe winter activities is hot tubbing. If you don’t have one at your accommodation, the next best thing is heading to Squaw Valley. 

There’s no better way to apres-ski (AKA relaxing so hard you turn into a limp noodle after spending all day in uncomfortable ski boots) than hitting the hot tub in Squaw Valley.

The hot tub at High Camp will give you stunning views of the granite peaks while all your muscles relax.

Party at WinterWonderGrass Festival or Tahoe Snowfest!

With so many tourists gathering in Lake Tahoe during the winter, it’s no wonder the city wants to throw as many cool events as possible.

WinterWonderGrass Festival showcases the best of the big-name bluegrass talents like Trampled by Turtles, Greensky Bluegrass, and more.

Tahoe Snowfest , on the other hand,  seeks to celebrate the best of the local community with the intensity of Mardi Gras.

Ski races, ice carving contests, polar bear swims, and pancake breakfasts are some of the many cool events you can participate in during this weeklong festival.

Snowshoe Around Camp Richardson

If you’re visiting Tahoe in the winter, you can go sledding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing on Camp Richardson’s carefully groomed trails .

The Camp Richardson trails take you along the shores of Lake Tahoe and are perfect for any skill level.

This is one of the best things to do near the lake if you want to explore the local trails in winter but you’re looking for a guided experience in the snow.

Snowshoeing is also one of the best cheap things to do in the Lake Tahoe area in terms of winter activities (which can otherwise get very expensive).  

Take a Snowmobiling Tour with Lake Tahoe Adventures

One of the more adrenaline-inducing snow activities in Lake Tahoe is to go on a snowmobiling tour. 

And you can speed through the breathtaking Hope Valley on the back of a snowmobile with Lake Tahoe Adventures .

Helmets, boots, gloves, and, of course, the snowmobile are included in the reservation and you can rent goggles and a snowsuit for an additional fee.

Once you’re feeling adequately suited up to brave the cold, you’ll get to pilot a snowmobile and follow the instructor as he or she takes you on a two-hour adventure through pure alpine bliss.

Go on a Self-Guided Craft Beer Tour

If you’re looking for unique things to do around Lake Tahoe, one of my favorite experiences is exploring the delicious craft beer scene in Lake Tahoe.

There are plenty of options for a self-guided craft beer tour through Lake Tahoe but these would be my top picks:  South Lake Brewing Company , South of North Brewing Co , The Brewery at Lake Tahoe , Lake Tahoe AleWorx , and Cold Water Brewery and Grill .

Cozy Up on a Sleigh Ride

If you’re visiting Lake Tahoe during the holidays, think about hopping on a sleigh ride to cruise in the snow in style. 

If you’re looking for romantic ways to explore the area or an activity that’s good for the whole family, a sleigh ride is one of the more unique things to do near Lake Tahoe. 

The most popular company to go with for sleigh rides in Tahoe is Borges Family Sleigh Rides , which operates rides in both North and South Lake Tahoe.  

Rides go for an hour and include warm blankets, plenty of photo opportunities, and a local guide that recites poems and stories about popular landmarks. 

Take in the Tahoe Landscape While Cross Country Skiing 

If you’re not a fan of downhill skiing or snowboarding but you still want to enjoy being active in the snow, cross country skiing can be a good option. 

You can either choose to go on ‘groomed’ cross country skiing areas at local ski resorts or near larger cities or go off-track to explore backcountry cross country skiing areas.  

A few of the most popular places for cross country skiing in Lake Tahoe include Luther Pass and Hope Valley/ Carson Pass (although this spot is better for more advanced skiers). 

Enjoy an Apres-Ski Happy Hour 

With how popular snowboarding, skiing, and other winter sports are in Tahoe, it’s no surprise that there are just as many ways to enjoy apres-ski. 

After a full day of hitting the slopes and falling in the snow, one of the best things to do is find a cozy spot to relax with a drink in hand and good company. 

A few of the best places to go for a good apres-ski happy hour in lake Tahoe are California Burger Co. , Lake Tahoe Aleworx , Azul Latin Kitchen , Las Panchitas , and Chart House . 

Best Things to do in Tahoe Year Round

Visit donner memorial state park.

If you’re looking for things to do near Tahoe and you’re an American history buff, Donner Memorial State Park is an ideal place to go in Lake Tahoe. 

You might remember how the Donner Party met its tragic fate in the Sierra Nevadas during a brutal winter.

Today, this site has been converted into the Donner Memorial State Park, which is considerably more visitor-friendly than it used to be decades ago.

You can visit the Donner Memorial State Park Visitor Center to check out its history museum or stop by the Pioneer Monument.

Enjoy a Massage at Stillwater Spa and Salon

If you’re looking for relaxing things to do around South Lake Tahoe, why not have a spa day? 

Located at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, the luxurious Stillwater Spa and Salon boasts several services, including an infinity room, dry cedar sauna, and eucalyptus steam room. 

Wrapped in a fluffy robe, you’re in relaxation central. 

Visit the Olympic Museum

After Squaw Valley hosted the Winter Olympics in 1960, the Olympic Museum opened to the general public.

Today, it’s one of the most interesting things to see near Lake Tahoe and home to unique Olympian memorabilia, videos, and news articles.

Talk about a blast from the past and a chance to geek out over your inner hockey/ski/snowboard/skating fanatic. 

Spend the Afternoon in Tahoe City or Downtown Truckee

One of the best things to do in North Lake Tahoe is to spend an afternoon in Tahoe City or Downtown Truckee . 

Tahoe City is a community hotbed filled with locals and tourists who are always looking to unwind and explore after hitting the slopes.

As a result, the amount of places to shop, eat, and check out in Tahoe City is pretty impressive.

For example, the Gatekeeper’s Museum is a great place to learn about the Washoe Tribe, the logging and mining eras, and the establishment of the tourism industry in Tahoe.

After you check out the museum, you can go from village to village to shop around at the charming boutiques.

Or you can head over to downtown Truckee, home to plenty of artisanal boutiques and mom-and-pop shops.

If you have a hankering for olive oil, visit the tasting room at Tahoe Oil & Spice to sample over 50 olive oils, balsamic vinegar, and spice blends.

Explore Heavenly Village 

If you’re sticking around Heavenly Resort then you definitely can’t miss out on exploring Heavenly Village , one of the most vibrant places to see in Lake Tahoe. 

Heavenly Village is home to over 40 shops, a stellar dining scene, and great music.

Let your Stomach Enjoy the Best Foodie Spots

Since South Lake Tahoe attracts so many visitors, it’s no surprise that the dining scene is on point.

Need to load up on carbs before a hard day of hitting the slopes or after enjoying a full day of Lake Tahoe sightseeing?

Grab breakfast at the Getaway Cafe or burgers at California Burger Co.

Feeling Italian? Primo’s Italian Bistro has some great charcuterie and Scusa! Italian Ristorante has hearty portions of pasta.

Otherwise, check out Artemis Mediterranean Grill if you want to treat yourself to some hummus and falafels.

Go to a Magic Show at The Loft

Fill your night with laughter and awe as you watch a Magic Fusion show at the Loft Theatre & Lounge in Heavenly Village.

Blending comedy with magic, Magic Fusion is hosted every night of the week in an impressive 107-seat auditorium.

Not only can you witness some dazzling performances, but you get to wine and dine at the same time. Be sure to buy your tickets in advance if you want good seats.

Ride the Heavenly Mountain Gondola or Squaw Valley Aerial Tram

Heavenly Mountain Gondola  

Hop on the Heavenly Mountain Gondola to ride for 2.4 miles until you reach the observation deck.

From there, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views while enjoying a hot cup of cocoa from Cafe Blue. 

One thing to note is that tickets for the gondola aren’t cheap at $50/person. 

Because of this, it’s best to ride it if you’re going skiing or snowboarding at Heavenly Resort since daily lift tickets include the Heavenly Gondola. 

With that said, it’s also beautiful to experience in the summer because you can see so much of the Lake Tahoe landscape below.  It just depends on if you’re willing to splurge that much for a gondola ride. 

Squaw Valley Aerial Tram to High Camp  

You know High Camp at Squaw Valley is a special place when they choose to host the Winter Olympics there.

The Squaw Valley Aerial Tram is one of the top things to do in the Lake Tahoe area (literally, ha!) and features 360-degree views of the lake.

Similar to the Heavenly Mountain Gondola, the tram isn’t cheap at around $50 per person, but if you’re skiing at Squaw Valley it’s included in the price of your lift ticket. 

Once you arrive at the top, you can indulge in several outdoor activities, including hiking, playing lawn games, roller skating, geocaching, and more. 

Dance the Night Away on the Tahoe Club Crawl

There is truly something for everyone at Lake Tahoe, including the masses of party-going twenty-somethings that bring a lot of energy to Tahoe’s nightlife.

If you’re looking for nightlife activities, the Tahoe Club Crawl is a fun option for those between 21-30.  

The pub crawl takes you through multiple venues (all with welcome shots, duh) and ends at Opal Nightclub, where you can proceed to dance your pants off.

Go Gambling on the Nevada Side of the Lake

Gambling might be a no-no in most of California, but risk-takers can take their chances gambling on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe.

Hard Rock Hotel and MontBleu Resort are ideal for trying your hand at poker, blackjack, slots, and more.

Hopefully, luck will be on your side so you can spend your newly-earned dough on some luxury experiences around Tahoe.

Best Free Things to do in the Lake Tahoe Area 

Take in the scenic views of lake tahoe.

If you’re looking to take in the best of Lake Tahoe scenery, there’s no better way to do this than from the scenic lookout points that are nestled around the lake

This is one of the best free things to do around Lake Tahoe – all you need is a car and an afternoon to hit a few popular lookout points. 

These are a few of the best viewpoints in Lake Tahoe to really take in the natural beauty of the Lake Tahoe area.

• Emerald Bay Lookout
• Stateline Lookout
• Mt. Rose Lookout
• Memorial Point
• Cave Rock Vista Point  

Picnic at a State Park 

Although the state parks around Lake Tahoe charge a day-use parking fee of $10 per vehicle, having a picnic at one of the beautiful state parks is priceless. 

One of my favorite parts about Lake Tahoe compared to other lakes in California is that 80% of the Lake Tahoe basin is under public ownership. 

This means there are a ton of state parks to enjoy on all sides of the lake – eight to be exact (counting both California and Nevada state parks).

Make sure you have cash for the parking fee and head to one of these state parks for a picnic in the sunshine. 

• D.L. Bliss State Park  
• Emerald Bay State Park
• Donner Memorial State Park  
• Grover Hot Springs State Park  
• Sugar Pine Point State Park  
• Cave Rock State Park  
• Sand Harbor State Park  
• Spooner Lake State Park  

Drive Around the Lake  

If you want to go another level up from taking in the most popular scenic viewpoints, driving around Lake Tahoe is a fun way to spend the day. 

The perimeter of Lake Tahoe is 72 miles and takes around three hours to drive around with no stops. 

Of course, you should be stopping a lot with all of those good views, so I’d recommend giving yourself a minimum of five hours up to a full day if you want to have longer stops. 

A few stops around the lake that shouldn’t be missed include:

• Sugar Pine Point State Park (and the Ehrman Mansion)
• The Tahoe Maritime Museum
• Gatekeeper’s Museum
• The Watson Cabin Museum
• Kings Beach
• Crystal Bay
• Sand Harbor Beach
• Spooner Lake
• Cave Rock Vista Point 

If you have enough time, I’d also add on stops at the Olympic Museum, the Donner Party Museum, and Truckee.  

Driving around the lake is one of the best ways to get your bearings and check out the main highlights in Lake Tahoe in one day.

Visit the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum

The Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum is home to many precious artifacts that date as far back as the Gold Rush Era in Tahoe.

Learn more about the Pony Express, Chinese railroad workers, and the Indigenous Americans who once lived in the area from the carefully curated exhibit.

Admission is free but the museum tends to have limited hours and is usually closed from January to May so check their website ahead of time for current hours. 

Visiting this museum is one of the best South Lake Tahoe activities to do if you’re looking to learn more about the history of the area. 

Ride the Free Gondola at Northstar

Available year-round, the free Highlands Gondola near the Village at Northstar takes you up into the air and through the stunning vista that is Lake Tahoe and its surrounding landscape.

Once you arrive at the resort at the top of the mountain, you can go hiking and picnicking in the summertime or play in the powder during the winter.

Backpacking in Desolation Wilderness

If you like the idea of getting away from the crowds and roughing it in the wilderness, Desolation Wilderness is the best place near Lake Tahoe to do just that. 

This protected wilderness area covers close to 64,000 acres and offers plenty of backcountry hiking and camping opportunities for the adventurous traveler. 

If you’re looking to go backpacking in Lake Tahoe, this is one of the best areas to do it. 

In Desolation Wilderness, you can expect to find granite peaks, alpine forests, as well as lakes and valleys that were formed by glaciers. 

Just note that both day and overnight permits are required for entering Desolation Wilderness. 

Day permits can be picked up at the start of trailheads but overnight permits should be booked at least a day in advance on recreation.gov . 

If you’re looking to purchase a backpacking tent, check out my post on the best 4-person tents for camping & backpacking . 

Stand in Two States at Once

Okay, it might not be as cool as standing in four states at once (I’m looking at you, Four Corners Monument), but you can still stand in California and Nevada at the same time.

The 1872 California-Nevada State Boundary Marker sits in South Lake Tahoe and is marked by a simple line across the road.

Head to the marker if you want to enjoy a small detour from the casinos and other Lake Tahoe attractions.

Best Things to do in Tahoe With Kids

Devour the specialty s’mores at northstar.

It’s pretty hard to beat the holy trinity of chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows, but Northstar has s’mores-making down to an art.

During the winter, the Village at Northstar makes complimentary s’mores , some of them simple and some decadent.

We’re talking bacon-wrapped s’mores, s’mores with chili or mint-flavored chocolate, and sprinkle-covered s’mores.

The s’mores alone make Northstar one of the best places to visit in Lake Tahoe in the winter. 

And it’s also easily one of the best things to do in Tahoe with kids if you’re looking for a special treat after a day on the slopes.  

Get an Adrenaline Rush at Granlibakken

A Tahoe resort that doesn’t only focus on skiing or snowboarding. 

Granlibakken features a Treetop Adventure Park that is sure to get your heart pumping.

The Treetop Park has 97 tree platforms, 10 ropes courses, 27 zip lines, and 60 bridges that allow you to navigate from one tree to another with no problem.

If you’re looking for a sporty activity to challenge your family all day, look no further than the Treetop Park.

Go Tubing at Hansen’s Resort

One of the best Lake Tahoe family activities, tubing at Hansen’s Resort never fails to delight kids and adults.

You can either buy an all-day pass or pay an hourly rate to use the tubes and saucers they have on-site.

The Snow Tube Run is approximately 400 feet long, so you’ll have a fun workout running up the hill and tubing all the way down.

Ride the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster at Heavenly

It might seem a little out of place, but hopping on the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster is one of the best Tahoe activities if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush.

This gravity-powered coaster sails through the trees and rock formations and can be booked as part of the Ultimate Adventure Pass or Scout Sampler Pass.

If you’re looking for a little more adventure to spice up your vacation, check out more of Heavenly’s Epic Discovery .

This summer playground features a ropes course, zip lines, and a climbing wall.

Since you can’t go skiing or snowboarding in the summer, these are some of the best Heavenly summer activities for the whole family to enjoy. 

Tahoe City Winter Sports Park

For a fun place to play in the snow for the whole family, head to Tahoe City Winter Sports Park . 

The park offers a sledding hill, cross country skiing trails, a snowshoeing loop, an ice skating rink, fat biking (if you want to try biking in the snow), and plenty of hot chocolate for the kiddos.  

Tahoe City Winter Sports Park is conveniently located right in the heart of Tahoe City and offers a good variety of activities for all ages of kids. 

Tahoe Science Center

Run by UC Davis, the Tahoe Science Center is a unique museum in Lake Tahoe that’s geared for teaching kids about the ecosystem of Lake Tahoe through interactive exhibits. 

The museum is both educational and fun and it can be a great place to visit when the weather is gloomy or if you’re simply looking for a break from the usual Tahoe attractions. 

Besides learning about the ecosystem of Lake Tahoe, there’s also a focus on sustainability efforts and how they’re working on keeping Lake Tahoe blue. 

Docent-guided tours are offered Tuesday through Friday from 1 pm to 5 pm, with tours beginning on the hour. The exhibits are recommended for children who are eight and up. 

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe 

Since tourism is the lifeblood of Lake Tahoe, rest assured that there are plenty of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly to luxury digs all around the lake.

If you don’t feel like staying in a hotel or you’re part of a large group, Airbnb and VRBO cabins are a popular option for short-term rentals as well.

South Lake Tahoe

• 7 Seas Inn at Tahoe
• Grand Residences by Marriott – Lake Tahoe
• Hotel Azure

North Lake Tahoe

• Firelite Lodge
• Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe
• Squaw Valley Lodge

Read our complete guide on where to stay in Lake Tahoe . Or, if you’re more interested in pitching a tent, read our guide to the best campgrounds in Lake Tahoe .

Tips For Visiting Lake Tahoe 

Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination in California that features a diverse mountain landscape, various elevations, and activities for every season.  

It’s also a popular weekend trip from San Francisco , so it makes a difference to plan out your Lake Tahoe vacation before you arrive. 

• Book early and know when the busiest times are to visit – Since there are so many places to visit in Lake Tahoe, it’s good to book hotels and restaurants in advance . Summer edges out winter in terms of popularity, so expect hotel rates to be more expensive during this time, especially Thursday-Saturday and holiday weekends. If you want fewer crowds, plan to visit in the fall or spring.
• Be mindful of the higher elevation – Lake Tahoe is an alpine lake that sits at over 6,000 feet above sea level. The lake’s higher elevation means oxygen is not as plentiful, so hiking and other strenuous activities might take a greater physical toll on your body than anticipated. The sun is also much stronger so put on extra sunscreen and drink a lot of water.  
• Check road conditions in the winter – If you’re driving up to Lake Tahoe in the winter, check the road conditions a couple of days before you make the drive. Roads can get icy and highway checkpoints might require you to put snow chains on your tires before you proceed. If you don’t have them, you’ll be forced to turn around. In the summer, it’s worth it to check air quality ahead of time since forest fires can happen in the Lake Tahoe area.  
• Bring layers – Even if the weather is hot in the afternoon, temperatures can plummet once the sun goes down. Nights can be breezy and cool by the lake. Bring extra layers and a warm jacket to stay warm in the evenings, even if you’re visiting at the height of summer. 
• Plan how to get around – Although there’s public transit in Lake Tahoe, it’s not the most convenient or reliable way to get around. If you’re going to popular spots where parking is a nightmare, by all means, hop on the bus. Otherwise, you’re mostly going to want your own set of wheels to get around the lake, especially for more remote locations. 

Which Part of Lake Tahoe is the Best?

It depends on what type of experience you’re looking for. 

The south part of the lake is a good jumping-off point for seeing some of the most popular sights around Lake Tahoe. 

South Lake Tahoe is also known for its casinos and nightlife, s o if you’re looking for that kind of energy, the south side of the lake is a better option for going out. 

There are casinos in North Lake Tahoe as well, but they’re not as big or as boisterous as what you’ll find in the south. 

North Lake Tahoe is more remote and relaxed and a good place to go if you want a slower pace and fewer crowds. 

If you’re looking for beaches and skiing or snowboarding, both North and South Lake Tahoe have their own set of beautiful beaches and ski resorts. 

This means you’ll be spoiled for choice no matter which side of the lake you base yourself on. It really just depends on what kind of energy and atmosphere you’re looking for.

For a full run-down, check out my guide to North vs South Lake Tahoe . 

How Many Days Do You Need in Lake Tahoe? 

You’ll want to give yourself at least a weekend or 2-3 days in Lake Tahoe. 

This will allow you to get a feel for what the area has to offer and fit in a few outdoor activities while you’re at it.

If you have more time, spending a week in Lake Tahoe will let you experience a good chunk of Lake Tahoe attractions and sights. 

When is the Best Time to Visit Lake Tahoe?

Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination but the lake is busiest during the summer and winter seasons. 

If you’re looking for lower prices and fewer crowds, I’d recommend visiting from March to May or September to November. 

In my opinion, the best time of year to visit Lake Tahoe is in September or October , just after most of the tourists have left and the weather is still gorgeous. 

But I’m also more of a hiker than a skier or snowboarder so I prefer the sunny weather for getting on out on the trails. 

If you’re more interested in snow activities, the best month to visit Lake Tahoe is in March when you can usually catch the tail end of the skiing and snowboarding season. 

In fact, March is probably the best time to enjoy the slopes in Tahoe because it’s less crowded, lift tickets tend to be cheaper, and there’s still usually plenty of snow.

Is it Expensive to Visit Lake Tahoe?

Yes, it can be.  There’s no way around it, Lake Tahoe has become an expensive destination to visit in California due to its popularity. 

With that said, there are ways you can cut down on costs with a visit to Lake Tahoe.  The best way to do this is to visit during the shoulder seasons mentioned above – from March to May or September to November. 

During these times, accommodation prices tend to be lower. Plus, you get the added benefit of fewer crowds. 

Another popular way to visit Lake Tahoe on the cheap is by going up with a large group of at least four or more people. 

This will allow you to split the price of a cabin in a cost-effective way and cuts accommodation prices down by a lot. 

In terms of state parks, most day parking fees will set you back $10 for each park you visit. 

And for ski resorts, lift tickets are around $100 for a one-day pass at the main resorts (Heavenly, Squaw Valley, and Northstar).

What to Pack for Lake Tahoe

As I mentioned above, Lake Tahoe is a great place to visit all seasons of the year but temperatures can fluctuate dramatically. Because of this, it’s best to pack for either a moderate to hot summer or snowy winter.

This is what I’d recommend bringing in your overnight bag , depending on the season. 

If you’re packing for a summer stay:

• Light Layers
• Brimmed hat  
• Flip flops  
• Hiking shoes
• Beach towel

If you’re packing for a winter vacation, bring these items along:

• Sunglasses / goggles / sunscreen
• Long underwear
• Heat warmers
• Ski / snowboarding gear
• Warm jacket
• Snow Chains

How to Get to Lake Tahoe 

How to get to lake tahoe from san francisco.

If you’re planning a trip to Lake Tahoe from San Francisco, the easiest way to get there is by car.  

South Lake Tahoe is around 200 miles from San Francisco and takes around three to four hours to get there, depending on traffic. 

Most people take I-80 to CA-50 to get to South Lake Tahoe from San Francisco. 

If you’re going to North Lake Tahoe, it’s about the same time in the car, you’ll just stay on I-80 for the majority of the drive and then cut over on CA-267 once you get to Truckee.

If you’re driving to Lake Tahoe in summer, I highly recommend visiting mid-week and avoiding holiday weekends if possible.

If you can only get up to the lake for a weekend getaway , try and leave before noon on Friday from San Francisco to avoid the worst traffic.

There are bus and train options from San Francisco that drop you off near Lake Tahoe, but I wouldn’t recommend visiting the lake with public transportation. 

Public transportation up to the lake involves transfers and takes much longer. And once you get up to the lake, public transit isn’t the best outside of the main Lake Tahoe cities. 

It makes a huge difference if you can have your own car to get around the Lake Tahoe basin. 

How Far Is Lake Tahoe from Yosemite? 

Yosemite may seem like it should be close to Lake Tahoe since it’s also in the Sierras, but it’s about a three-hour drive to get from Lake Tahoe to Yosemite.  

It’s a little far for a day trip from Lake Tahoe but it can be a worthwhile detour on a tour of the Sierras.

Or if you have the time to stop at Yosemite for two or three days on your way back to San Francisco that can be a good option too.

Read our two days in Yosemite itinerary .

PRACTICAL INFO FOR LAKE TAHOE

Find accommodation ,  book your rental car , or  sign up for a local tour .

Book a vacation rental on Airbnb  (and get $40 off your first booking).

Buy your Lake Tahoe Guide here .

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mimi McFadden Founder & Editor-In-Chief

Mimi McFadden grew up in Santa Cruz, California, and founded The Atlas Heart in 2013. Mimi has always been into fashion to some extent, but really started paying attention to it more at the age of 28 when she no longer lived out of a backpack as a full-time traveler. Once she started owning her personal style (and had an actual closet), she focused on finding the perfect balance of comfort and versatility for her wardrobe. As one of the main clothing testers at The Atlas Heart, she is always on the lookout for fun new clothing brands to try out that can add style and comfort to her travels around California, especially those that focus on sustainability.

Looking for more bucket list ideas for California? Check out my related posts below!

The BEST San Francisco Packing List Guide for 2024

The BEST Time to Visit San Francisco in 2024

39 BEST San Francisco Date Ideas for 2024

9 Best Places to See Redwoods Near San Francisco in 2024

Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park Guide: Everything to Know

Muir Beach Overlook: California’s Most Iconic Coastal Vista?

Pin one of these images for future reference

Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

2 thoughts on “50 Things to Do in Lake Tahoe, California (From a Regular Visitor)”

This Lake Tahoe, California guide is incredibly helpful. You’ve really thought through everything you need to know before planning a trip. Thank you for this helpful resource. Saving this guide for later!

What a comprehensive list! Wow! Great job as always!!! So many fun things to do and you say there is much more! I have never been to the Lake Tahoe area but this makes me want to visit! You provide such great information! Lovely photography, even of the Minnie Winnie! ?? Happy for you that you live in such a nice area. It was great to see all the options on top of the individual places you wrote about in previous posts. If I had 3 days in the Tahoe area, what would you recommend the most from this list (or anything you kept out) if coming in the spring to summer time period? I like the outdoors and adventure, enjoy the water, but also am into museums, history, and places that are interesting but not in the typical way (like a great restaurant in Dallas where the owner said the upstairs was haunted. Of course we all went upstairs and explored anyhow!)

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

The Atlas Heart is a California travel website dedicated to showing you the best of the Golden State from a local perspective.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

©2024 The Atlas Heart

Lake Tahoe   Travel Guide

Courtesy of MariuszBlach | Getty Images

21 Top-Rated Things to Do in Lake Tahoe

Skiing? Check. Swimming? Check. Golfing? Check. Shopping, dining and nightlife? Check, check and check. The Lake Tahoe area offers the best of all worlds rolled into one vacation destination. Spanning the California-Nevada border, there's

• All Things To Do

Emerald Bay State Park Emerald Bay State Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Emerald Bay can become very crowded during the day, especially during the summer months. Visitors are frequently ticketed for parking in areas marked "no parking at any time." Arrive early in the day if you wish to avoid crowds and secure parking. – Katie Joll

Carved millions of years ago by passing glaciers, this state park is a must-see for anyone looking to experience Lake Tahoe's beauty. Surrounded by towering trees, this inlet along the southwest shore is known for its monumental granite cliffs and stunning panoramas. Follow Highway 89 south from Tahoe City, California, (about 20 miles) or north from South Lake Tahoe, California, (about 10 miles) and you'll come across the spectacular vistas of Emerald Bay. Make sure you have a camera on hand – the scenery is breathtaking and travelers say there are photo opportunities everywhere you turn. Emerald Bay offers some stunning hikes on popular trails, including the 1.9-mile Eagle Lake Trail, an out-and-back hike that takes visitors about an hour to complete and features waterfalls, granite peaks and even swimming opportunities.

Sand Harbor State Park Sand Harbor State Park

Visitors who want to see the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe flock to Sand Harbor. This is a great launch point for summer water activities. Swimmers, boaters, scuba divers, and fishers will all find something to enjoy in this beautiful stretch of Lake Tahoe. Picnic areas with barbecues are located in the shade of huge cedars and pines. This is also the site of the annual Shakespeare Festival.

If you're there in winter, Sand Harbor is a picturesque spot for photography, or for a stroll around the interpretive trail. You can expect that there may be snow on the trails during winter.

Incline Village Incline Village free

Incline Village lies on the northeastern shore of Lake Tahoe, on the Nevada side. It is frequently described as an outdoor adventurer's paradise, with access to a range of activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, golf, skiing and water sports.

For those who prefer a more sedate pace, there are several spa options, gambling at the Grand Lodge Casino, lazy beach days, shopping and several well-rated restaurants. One very popular activity is to head a few miles south down Highway 28 to Sand Harbor. The azure waters and sandy beaches are very attractive to visitors, but it's often necessary to arrive early in the day during the summer months to ensure parking. Once there, the clear-sided kayak tours are a well-rated activity that should be reserved ahead.

Popular Tours

2 Hour Sailing Cruise on Lake Tahoe

(495 reviews)

from $ 140.00

Clear Kayak Paddle Tour at Sand Harbor

(37 reviews)

from $ 150.00

Tahoe Coastal Self-Guided E-Bike Tour - Half-Day | World Famous East Shore Trail

(245 reviews)

from $ 119.95

Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum free

The Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum honor one of the darkest moments in American pioneering. Here, you'll find a great stone pedestal commemorating the Donner Party, the legendary pioneers who fell victim to the harsh Sierra Nevada winter of 1846 to 1847. The party (originally consisting of nearly 90 emigrants) was en route to California when their wagon train encountered a severe snow storm. Only half of the pioneers survived (many by resorting to cannibalism). The stone marker near the Emigrant Trail Museum stands 22 feet tall.

For more information about the tragic Donner Party, head to the Donner Memorial State Museum. There you'll also find intricate dioramas detailing the history of railroad development in the Sierra Nevada region. It's a great spot for history buffs, according to recent visitors, though some expressed that they felt parts of the story were sanitized to be more "kid friendly."

Kings Beach State Recreation Area Kings Beach State Recreation Area free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For the friends and lovers out there, Kings Beach is home to a "love locks" pier. Come prepared with your own padlock if you'd like to add yours to the collection! – Katie Joll

Stretching along Lake Tahoe's northern California shore, this beach is one of the largest in the area. The 979 feet of shoreline is ideal for swimming, sunbathing and boating; plus, there is a picnic area and a playground, as well as restroom facilities. There's also a shop offering kayak, paddleboard and pedal boat rentals, among other crafts.

Palisades Tahoe Palisades Tahoe

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you'd like a ski-in, ski-out experience and to avoid any parking crowds, a stay at Everline Resort might be for you. The resort has a Palisades Tahoe ski lift in its backyard so guests can quite literally ski out the door. – Katie Joll

Encompassing both Olympic Valley and Alpine Meadows, Palisades Tahoe is considered one of the world's finest ski resorts thanks to its nearly 6,000 acres of terrain and its advanced lift system. Plus, it sees about 400 inches of snow per year, meaning Palisades operates one of the longest ski and snowboard seasons in Lake Tahoe. It's no wonder the resort was chosen to host the 1960 Winter Olympics. Formerly called Squaw Valley, it was renamed in 2020 to avoid continued use of the term squaw – a known racist and sexist slur against indigenous women.

Lake Tahoe Balloons Lake Tahoe Balloons

It's hard to beat Tahoe on a good day, and one of the best ways to see it in clear weather is from up high. Lake Tahoe Balloons inflates, launches and lands on the world's only U.S. Coast Guard-certified aircraft carrier for hot air balloons. That's right: You'll launch from the water. Visitors are awestruck to land on the lake and rate this activity as a top experience and one that shouldn't be missed.

Located at the Tahoe Keys Marina in South Lake Tahoe, the balloon flights operate early in the morning, beginning just before sunrise (between 5:30 a.m. and 7 a.m., depending on the time of year). Typically, they take two flights of passengers so that while one group flies, the other remains on the boat, taking in the sights. Packages include beverages and refreshments, and private flights can be arranged. Guests are advised to wear layers as temperatures can be cold early in the mornings, even during summer.

Homewood Mountain Resort Homewood Mountain Resort

According to skiers, this small resort on Lake Tahoe's west shore (about 7 miles south of Tahoe City, California) doesn't have the crowds of nearby titans like Palisades Tahoe and Heavenly Resort . Sitting on 1,260 acres, Homewood features 67 runs and eight lifts. But its laid-back atmosphere and spectacular scenery impress visitors, who call it one of the most gorgeous resorts with amazing lake views and a great place to ski through the trees. Some recent visitors did not feel the experience met expectations, noting potential maintenance issues on the mountain, mixed reviews of ski lessons and lack of flexibility when weather prevented them from using prebooked tickets.

Homewood is also the perfect spot for those trying to experience Lake Tahoe on a budget, as lift tickets are cheaper than those at nearby resorts (starting as low as $104 per day for adults). Some travelers did not feel the experience was good for beginner or young skiers, but others describe it as a good place to take lessons.

Emerald Bay Helicopter Tour of Lake Tahoe

(166 reviews)

from $ 110.00

Private Yacht-Class Boat Tour on Lake Tahoe

(59 reviews)

from $ 600.00

Private boat tours of Lake Tahoe for up to six guests.

(24 reviews)

from $ 645.00

Van Sickle Bi-State Park Van Sickle Bi-State Park free

Trying to avoid this region's parking challenges? Van Sickle Bi-State Park distinguishes itself from Lake Tahoe's many other outdoor areas in three ways: it is walkable from the casinos , it is open to equestrians and it offers a connector trail to the famous Tahoe Rim Trail. Until the 1990s, the Van Sickle family – which donated the 542 acres to create this state park – operated a stable here with dozens of horses.

Recent visitors delighted in this relatively uncrowded hiking area. Many praised the well-marked trails and opportunity to see a waterfall. The park is popular with visitors staying within walking distance, and several visited it more than once. That's high praise for a lake bursting with beautiful recreation areas!

Northstar California Resort Northstar California Resort

Although it's smaller than Palisades Tahoe or Heavenly Mountain Resort – boasting a mere 3,170 acres and almost 100 runs – Northstar California Resort is often rated among the top ski resorts in the West. In fact, Northstar had to construct an "express gondola" to accommodate the number of people who couldn't wait to hit the slopes.

Aside from skiing and snowboarding, other Northstar activities include ice skating and snowshoeing as well as swimming and biking in summer. After a long day on the slopes (or the trails or the rink or the pool), catch up on your rest and relaxation with some time at a nearby spa. There is also a movie theater on the property, as well as several shops and eateries. Recent visitors extolled the resort's awesome trails and family-friendly activities, but noted crowds and occasional service issues. Some have complained that accommodations in the village were below expectations.

Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort

Sierra-at-Tahoe is one of just a few ski resorts in the area that are not owned by large companies like Vail or Alterra. Dating back to 1946, these days Sierra boasts over 2000 skiable acres and 14 chair lifts.

With slopes suitable for beginner to advanced skiers and snowboarders, Sierra-at-Tahoe cultivates a fun atmosphere for all. Among their unique offerings is a mountain tour, targeted at intermediate and above skiers and riders. These tours introduce participants to trails and mountain lore. The company also offers a tubing hill, which is generally open Friday through Monday.

Lake Tahoe Boat Tours Lake Tahoe Boat Tours

After taking it in from the scenic shoreline, visitors will be itching to get out on Lake Tahoe's gleaming waters. There are plenty of company and tour types to select – from daylong excursions to sunset wine affairs. Many companies also offer tours lasting two to four hours during the day, which may be the most kid-friendly option. Tours typically include a mix of history, sightseeing, and sometimes opportunities to swim or tube in the lake.

Many recent visitors to Lake Tahoe considered this a must-do activity. Some cruises may be on the more crowded side; it is worth looking up reviews and capacity for particular boat tours before booking. Depending on your travel style, you may want to begin a visit with one of these cruises to help orient you to the lake area, or cap off your vacation with this activity. For many travelers it was the highlight of their trip.

Heavenly Ski Resort & Gondola Heavenly Ski Resort & Gondola

With its summit soaring 10,067 feet above sea level, this wildly popular resort truly is heavenly. The only ski resort on Lake Tahoe's South Shore, Heavenly offers 4,800 skiable acres – with runs appropriate for all levels – as well as a snowboard park, nearly 30 lifts and a 50-passenger aerial tram. The Heavenly Resort also offers daycare programs and children's ski lessons, so feel free to bring the kids along.

While fresh powder and stunning lake views are a key draw, Heavenly's gondola is a year-round (wind-dependent) attraction. These suspended cable cars carry passengers more than 2 miles through the mountains to a 9,200-foot-high observation deck. Rides will cost you a small fortune ($102 for adults, $54 for kids during peak seasons)), but travelers agree that the experience is a must for first-time visitors. In addition, in the summer at the resort's Epic Discovery adventure area, visitors can enjoy zip lines, a mountain coaster, climbing walls and guided hiking tours.

See The Whole Lake: 6 Hour Shared Tour of Lake Tahoe by Van

(13 reviews)

from $ 175.00

Small-Group Day Trip to Yosemite from Lake Tahoe

(100 reviews)

from $ 250.00

Electric Dirtbike Adventure in Lake Tahoe

from $ 200.00

Harrah's Casino Harrah's Casino

Sitting just over the border from South Lake Tahoe in Stateline, Nevada, Harrah's Casino offers a lively counterpoint to Lake Tahoe's natural peacefulness. There are plenty of gambling options, including table games and hundreds of slot machines, as well as in-house concert venues and nightclubs. Harrah's is also home to a spa plus several upscale and casual dining options.

Some recent visitors praised the cleanliness of this casino and its friendly staff, though many others griped about the age of some of the machines and accommodations. Despite reviewers' comments about the need for a casino face-lift, they still said it was a fun escape after a few days enjoying Lake Tahoe's outdoor pursuits.

Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point State Park Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point State Park

Visitors searching for dense forests, beautiful lake views and a historic summer home will find all three at Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point State Park. Summer travelers can hike, swim, fish, and stop by the Nature Center to learn about the area's native wildlife and geology. Winter visitors can traverse more than 20 kilometers (nearly 12.5 miles) of marked cross-country ski trails – or explore the shoreline on snowshoes. The Hellman-Ehrman Mansion offers tours from Memorial Day through to Labor Day each year, and visitors can walk the estate year-round.

Recent visitors enjoyed the rustic setting for picnicking and the scenic hikes. Those who visited the mansion, built on historically Washoe Tribal land, found it interesting and worth their time. Visitors noted that the facilities – including bathrooms – are pleasant and well-maintained, and that the park isn't as crowded as other spots around the lake

Vikingsholm Vikingsholm

The 1929 Scandinavian castle-style residence Vikingsholm differentiates Emerald Bay from other state parks. Lora J. Knight, though not Scandinavian herself, was inspired by the property's fjord-like setting to commission the unusual design. Today, travelers can visit this historic landmark via a milelong trail from the U.S. Highway 89 parking lot in Emerald Bay. It is also accessible by boat.

Recent visitors thoroughly recommend stopping by the mansion while visiting Emerald Bay. Several praised the guided tours. Travelers noted that the hike is steep; wear appropriate shoes. There is an easier 1.5-mile hike from the Eagle Point Campground campfire center, or boat tours may run from Camp Richardson during the summer

Cave Rock State Park Cave Rock State Park

Boaters, swimmers and snorkelers alike will enjoy Nevada's Cave Rock State Park. The aptly named spot features rocky shoals and a steep shoreline. This setting offers excellent views and fishing opportunities. The nearby Cave Rock trailhead is not accessible from the state park, but instead requires a short drive.

Recent visitors enjoyed the views and hikes, which are moderately strenuous. Many note that this area is a bit trickier to navigate than other parts of the shore, as signage is limited. Parking can be challenging. Some recommend taking a ride-share instead.

Pope Beach Pope Beach

U.S. News Insider Tip: Be aware of local beach rules before you head out so that you can make the most of your day. Dogs are not allowed on swimming beaches like Pope, and wood or charcoal fires are not allowed. If you're hoping to barbecue, you'll need a portable gas grill. – Katie Joll

Thrifty travelers – and anyone else – staying near the southern shores of Lake Tahoe can conveniently visit Pope Beach. Shrouded by pine trees, this beautiful beach has opportunities for biking and water activities in the vicinity of restroom and picnic table facilities.

2 Hour Private Boat Charter With Captain

(18 reviews)

from $ 499.00

Lake Tahoe Small-Group Photography Scenic Half-Day Tour

(632 reviews)

from $ 195.00

Zephyr Cove Helicopter Tour

(44 reviews)

from $ 185.50

Tallac Historic Site Tallac Historic Site free

Known as the "Grandest Resort in the World" 100 years ago, today the Tallac Historic Site welcomes the general public to view the historic summer retreat of the wealthy few. Take a tour of the stately Pope House and its grounds for a lesson in what life was like. For those who would rather stay outside, the site has easy access to beaches. There are biking, hiking, picnicking, and water sports opportunities as well. Although the historic site is only open from approximately June through September, winter visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Recent visitors enjoyed stepping back in time with a look at the historic site. Many praised the tour guides, and several combined the visit with other outdoor activities.

Fallen Leaf Lake Fallen Leaf Lake

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're visiting in spring, after snow has melted, there are some meadow areas around Fallen Leaf Lake that produce stunning wildflowers. Timing of the flowers changes every year, depending on how heavy snow was during the winter. – Katie Joll

Fallen Leaf Lake is often referred to as a "hidden" gem as the picturesque, 3-mile-long lake is tucked away off Highway 89. Fallen Leaf Lake Road provides some access to the lake, although most areas along the shore are on private land.

D. L. Bliss State Park D. L. Bliss State Park

Note: In 2023 and 2024, D. L. Bliss State Park will undergo a water infrastructure project. The park will be closed during construction.

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Rubicon Trail, which runs between Emerald Bay and D.L. Bliss State Park is one of the most scenic in the area. It's also a relatively mild option for anyone getting used to the higher altitude of Tahoe. – Katie Joll

Things to Do in Lake Tahoe FAQs

Explore more of lake tahoe.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

• VACATION RENTALS
• CABINS & CONDOS
• SPECIALS & DEALS
• RESTAURANTS
• THINGS TO DO
• Tahoe Hotels
• Vacation Guide
• Vacation Packages
• Transportation
• Groups/Meetings
• Real Estate
• Lake Tahoe Cam

Welcome to Lake Tahoe!

Lake Tahoe is often referred to as the perfect year round vacation and wedding destination with terrific weather and breathtaking scenery! Split down the middle by the California and Nevada border, Lake Tahoe boasts over 300 days of warm sunshine, 396 inches of annual snowfall, 18 world-class ski and snowboarding resorts , incredible golf courses, fantastic hotels , casinos and, of course, the beautiful blue Lake Tahoe itself!

Top Lake Tahoe Deals

Featured Deals & Packages

Only at Tahoe's Best will you find the best deals and promotions for Lake Tahoe hotels, restaurants and activities. Check them out here, and use our site for everything Lake Tahoe!

FEATURED SPECIALS, PACKAGES & DEALS!

• Lake Tahoe Hotel - Walk to the Beach and the Casinos
• Lake Front Special - Save 25%!! Private Beach & Spa!
• Hyatt Regency - Luxury Resort Accom w/Pvt Beach in Incline Village
• Tahoe Keys Resort-AAA-Approved 1-6 bdrm Waterfront home vacation rentals
• PROMOS – If you like paying full price for hotels rooms don’t bother checking out these deals!
• Big Pines Mountain House in South Tahoe-Pet Friendly & Walk to Casinos!
• Savings Of Up To $100/n per Residence in The Village at Northstar™

Featured Specials, Deals and Promotions

Welcome to Lake Tahoe's Official Travel and Tourism Guide, TahoesBest.com. Here you'll find deals on Lake Tahoe hotels and vacation rentals for everyone's tastes and budget with hundreds of lodging options that include economy and moderate hotels and motels, full service luxury resorts, casinos, inns, cabins and luxury vacation rentals . There is also plenty to do with incredible ski resorts , golf courses, beaches, hiking & biking trails, camping, fishing and boating options and restaurants ! With all this and more, it’s no wonder people from all over the world make Lake Tahoe one of the most popular year-round vacation destinations in the world today!

Featured Hotels & Lodging

• 3 Peaks Resort & Beach Club
• Courtyard Marriott-Carson City
• Super 8 South Lake Tahoe
• Lakeside Inn and Casino

Featured Vacation Rentals

• 2 BR w/loft Bath Cabin near Tahoe City Hot Tub!
• North Shore -1,2,3,4 BR Luux and Econ Townhouses!
• Tahoe Vacation Home Rentals offered by Owner
• Beautiful Lake Tahoe Cabins, Condos & Lodging

Winter In Lake Tahoe

The skiing and snowboarding in Lake Tahoe is arguably the "Best in the West"! Beautiful sunshine, deep powder, long groomed runs all make Lake Tahoe and its many world class ski resorts a very special place to ski! There are ski and snowboard steals and deals year round so act fast... and see you on the slopes! Many of the best ski resorts in Lake Tahoe report over 100 inches of snow each year and typically open in November and close in the late spring. Where to eat in Tahoe? No problem! There are plenty of fantastic restaurants to choose from.

Summer in Lake Tahoe

California and Nevada's retreat for summer fun. Our ideal summer climate is bound to satisfy anyone. Protected from excessive high temperatures and humidity levels, the region brims with summer activity. The Lake fills with skiers during the morning and sail boat races during the afternoon. Where to stay? Vacation Rental cabins, homes and condos are always popular so be sure to book early.

I feel compelled to write and let you know that this is one of the best websites I have ever used. It is really excellent!!! ~~Claudette Altamirano

Lake Tahoe Weddings

Lake Tahoe weddings create a lifetime of memories . Our Lake Tahoe wedding guide will provide you everything you need to plan your romantic wedding ! Looking for a wedding coordinator to help with the details and alleviate the stress? Decided on a place for your wedding ceremony or wedding reception ? Our wedding guide lists the net's largest collection of South Lake Tahoe and North Lake Tahoe area wedding packages and lodging accommodations, casino resorts , wedding receptions, wedding chapels , wedding consultants and coordinators, photographers , ministers , catering services, party supplies, wedding cake specialists, music and entertainment and more!

Featured Wedding Services

• Full Service Wedding Coordination and Consultation in CA & NV
• Tahoe's Best Wedding Photographers
• Lake Tahoe Wedding Party Rentals and Supplies
• lake Tahoe Wedding Reception and Rehearsals

Search This Site

Latest Blog Posts

Map of lake tahoe.

Lake Tahoe Featured Hotels

• Everline Resort and... - Check Availability
• Village at Palisades - Check Availability
• Ferrari Crown Resort - Check Availability
• Hyatt Regency Lake... - Check Availability
• Hyatt High Sierra... - Check Availability
• Parkside Inn at... - Check Availability
• 3 Peaks Resort... - Check Availability
• Stardust Tahoe - Check Availability
• Americana Village - Check Availability
• Palisades Valley... - Check Availability
• The Village at... - Check Availability
• Clair Tappaan Lodge - Check Availability
• Donner Lake Village... - Check Availability
• The Trailhead Lodge - Check Availability
• Basecamp Hotel - Check Availability
• Forest Suites... - Check Availability
• The Landing Resort... - Check Availability
• Marriott Grand... - Check Availability

* Room Rates shown above reflect the average nightly rate for a 2 night stay for 2024-06-07, our visitors should verify actual rates, promotions and deals directly with the hotel as we make no guarantees regarding rates, but only provide them as a convenience.

Tahoe's Best

Your local connection, about us | privacy policy and terms of use | advertise | press.

Copyright © 1998 - 2024 TahoesBest.com, Lake Tahoe CA

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Fox in the Forest

Colorado Hiking Blog. Life Outside.

Explore Lake Tahoe

The crown jewel of the sierra.

Discover Lake Tahoe

The crown jewel of the sierra​, explore lake tahoe like a local..

From the bustling high-rise casinos of South Lake to the tranquil western shoreline there’s a lot to unpack in Lake Tahoe.

World-renowned for incredible skiing and even more unbelievable jewel-colored waters, Lake Tahoe has long been a hot spot for stunning scenes and adventure.

Get the local’s scoop on how to make your Tahoe journey one to remember.

Must-See locales

Incline Village

South Lake Tahoe​

Lake Tahoe in Summer

Visit Tahoe in the Winter

Top Tahoe Hikes

Where to go in lake tahoe.

The adventure starts here. Here’s a look at a few helpful home bases and how to choose your flavor of Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe

The most popular spot to stay, you’ll have the conveniences of a city at your fingertips. You’ll also be close to a lot of the top attractions in Lake Tahoe.

Best for: Big hotel enthusiasts,  people coming from California, hikers, and those who like lively nightlife.

This is posh Tahoe. The vibe here is more local, but it’s just as exclusive. However, if you stay here you’ll have access to private beaches, the most stunning shoreline, and it’s the closest to nearby Reno.

Best for : Luxury travelers, quiet vibe, great views.

North vs South Lake

Don’t know where to start? Check out this guide on how to choose between North Lake and South Lake Tahoe. Written by a long-time local of nearly 25 years.

Summer has a wide array of outdoor activities from mountain biking to lounging on the beach. Here’s a look at what’s on the menu during the summer months. 

There’s more to Lake Tahoe than just skiing. Check out this guide to incredible winter activities you don’t want to miss.

Stand on top of the world and uncover delicious scenery with this mega-list of incredible Tahoe hikes.

Best time to visit Tahoe

It’s hard to go wrong when it comes to visiting Lake Tahoe. You should time your visit with your preferred activity. 

Love to swim? Late July is your time. Fall is the best for hiking, while January and February see the most snow.

With an average depth of 1,000 feet, lake Tahoe is one of the deepest alpine lakes in the country. That's where those deep blue hues come from.

Visit lake tahoe like a local.

Traffic jams and tourist traps are abundant in the jewel of the Sierra. But you can stay one step ahead of the crowds with this breakdown on how to visit like a local.

Best time to visit Tahoe​

Unique lake tahoe experiences.

Lake Tahoe is home to so many beautiful vistas and fun-filled activities. Here’s a few hot spots you need to know about.

Emerald Bay

Arguably the most famous place in the Lake Tahoe Basin, Emerald Bay is a must-see. But here’s how to do it without the hordes of tour buses. 

This casual roadside stop is not only an important Native American landmark, but it’s a killer viewpoint too.

Stand on the tallest mountain on the Nevada side of Tahoe with this stunning hike. The views are worth the butt-busting gains!

Rocky Mountain National Park

Maroon bells.

Garden of the Gods

Colorado National Parks

The Million Dollar Highway

Hanging Lake

Lake Tahoe has some of the most blazing mountain sun I’ve ever encountered. Be sure to pack plenty of water and wear sun protection to avoid sun stroke. Even as a mountain dweller, I find the air to dry out my skin. Lotion helps to fight that tortise skin feeling!

Beating the Crowds in Lake Tahoe

There's never been a sunrise in Tahoe that I haven't enjoyed. Plan to be at the most popular spots before the sun (thank me later when you wave to all the people heading up). For beaches, opt to hike to a beach or visit during the week for (slightly) less people. Private beaches will always have fewer crowds.

Quick tips for visiting

Lake Tahoe has some of the most blazing mountain sun I've ever encountered. Be sure to pack plenty of water and wear sun protection to avoid sun stroke. Even as a mountain dweller, I find the air to dry out my skin. Lotion helps to fight that tortise skin feeling!

Essential Gear

Stay cozy with these must-have gear items for your Lake Tahoe Adventure!

REI Flash 22 Hiking Pack

• A cost effective hiking bag suitable to carry all of your essentials.
• Light and fast, the REI Flash is great for travel or stashing in your backpacking pack.

• The mountain sun can be harsh and unforgiving. This layer keeps you protected.
• Breathable fabric lets you stay at the beach longer!
• The partial zip and pocket are a perk, but they come at a premium.

Puffy Layer

• Stay cozy and comfortable on crisp mornings or breezy hikes.
• A puffy layer is the perfect companion when you stop to take a break or if you're chasing a sunrise.

Meet Meg Your Local Lake Tahoe Expert

I may live in colorado, but don't be fooled. my family lives in lake tahoe and i've been coming here for almost 25 years - even lived here for a short stint. i've seen this place change and morph over the years. and when you're here multiple times a year, living with the locals, you learn a thing or two about how to avoid the tourists..

I may live in Colorado, but don’t be fooled. My family lives in Lake Tahoe and I’ve been coming here multiple times a year for almost 25 years – even lived here for a short stint. I’ve seen this place change and morph over the years. And when you’re here multiple times a year, living with the locals, you learn a thing or two about how to avoid the tourists.

Even More Lake Tahoe Adventures

Enjoy these incredible Lake Tahoe adventures that you won’t want to miss

Unbeatable Tahoe Views

Tahoe Beaches to go Ga-ga for

Sledding in Lake Tahoe

The best ski resorts

The perfect 3-day Itinerary

Your outdoor travel blog.

Explore the most that Colorado, Lake Tahoe, and the American Southwest have to offer. I’m out and about every week bringing you the best of the west!

Your outdoor travel blog

15 Fun Things to Do in Winter Park Colorado Now

Ultra-rad guide to 15 awesome things to do in Winter Park Colorado right now.

The Royal Arch Loop: The Grand Canyon’s Most Difficult Trail?

The Royal Arch Route is a rugged, off-trail backpacking loop in a remote corner of the Grand Canyon.

Music Mountain in Colorado Might Be the Best Secret Scrambling Route in Colorado

Music Mountain in Colorado’s Sangre de Cristos might be the best route in the state. Here’s a look at what it’s like to scramble to the summit of this secret gem.

North Lake Vs. South Lake Tahoe? What is the Perfect Fit For You?

Find out if North or South Lake Tahoe is the better choice for you.

The Crestone Traverse is One of the Greatest Scrambling Routes in Colorado

Everything you wanted to know to enjoy a successful climb up the Crestone Traverse.

Granite Park Chalet in Glacier National Park is Worth a Night (or Three)

Looking for peace and quiet? Then Granite Park Chalet is a perfect place to stay in Glacier National Park.

Colorado in April: Everything You Need to Know This Minute

Want to visit Colorado in April? Find out why that is a really good idea.

Skip the Crowds, Beat the Heat, and Discover the Best Month to Visit the Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon Rim-To-Rim Hike: Everything You Need to Know Right Now!

Baptist Draw in Utah is the Perfect Beginner Technical Slot

Can’t-Miss North Rim Grand Canyon Hikes

10 State Parks Near Denver to Check Out this Season

Highly Under-Rated Hidden Gems in Colorado According to a Long-Time Local

7 Rad Grand Canyon Tours from Phoenix that Will Astound You

Colorado in March: What You Really Need to Know from a Local

Unbelievably Beautiful Hikes in Arizona You’ve Got to Check Out

The Ultimate Expert Guide to Visiting the Grand Canyon in March

Secret Challenging Hikes in Colorado You Won’t Find on Any Best-of Lists

Unforgettable Grand Canyon Hikes

Hermit Road in the Grand Canyon Delivers Countless Ways to Adventure

18 of the Best Slot Canyons in Utah That Will Transport You Into Another Planet

21 Mega Fun Things to Do in Golden CO

Mega Epic Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park Guide with Secret Local Tips

17 Relaxing Hot Springs in Colorado You Need to Soak In

The Only 4-Day Colorado Road Trip Itinerary You’ll Ever Need

7 Rocky Mountain National Park Tours that Will Leave You Speechless

Steamboat Springs Hikes You Won’t Forget

Your Guide to Lake Tahoe in February

The Most Over-Rated Outdoor Attractions in Colorado Revealed

28 Fantastic Things to do in Leadville CO That You Cannot Afford to Miss

11 Mega-Stunning Hikes in Estes Park, Colorado You Need to Know About

Horseshoe Bend: Is it Worth the Hype?

15 Unique Weekend Trips from Denver with Killer Scenery

Lake Tahoe in January is Absolutely Magical

23 Things to Do in Durango that Will Leave You Speechless

How the Locals Enjoy Colorado in December

Experience 6 Magnificent Arches in Rattlesnake Arches Canyon

Expert’s Secret Guide to the Grand Canyon in Winter

19 Incredible Hikes Near Boulder

Jacob Hamblin Arch via the Sneaker Route a Hike into a Desert Oasis

Here’s Where You Can Cut Your Own Christmas Tree Near Denver This Year

You Don’t Want to Miss Moab in November

15 incredible things to do in incline village for an exquisite weekend getaway.

The Pro Guide to Dead Horse Point State Park

Colorado in November: Everything You Need to Know from a Real Local

Expert’s Guide to 25 of the All-Time Best Things to Do in Kanab, Utah

Your Complete Local Guide to Lake Tahoe in November

12 Ultra-Rad Fort Collins Hikes that You Cannot Miss

30 Unforgettable Things To Do In Moab, Utah

19+ Things to Do in The Grand Canyon that You Can’t Miss in 2024

The Hickman Natural Bridge Delivers Stellar Scenery in Capitol Reef National Park

17 Incredible Things to Do in Pagosa Springs

10 Stunning Grand Canyon Sunset Tours that Everyone Will Adore

The Most Drool-Worthy National Parks for Fall Colors

Ways to Enjoy Fall in Colorado

16+ Must-See Spots for Fall Colors in Colorado in 2024

Drive the Mt Blue Sky Scenic Byway Like a Pro

10 Incredible Guanella Pass Hikes to Add to Your Bucket List

The Ultimate Aspen to Crested Butte Hike Guide

When Do the Leaves Change in Colorado?

5 Ultra Rad Moab Rafting Tours You Cannot Miss

Fun-Filled Things to Do in Ouray, Colorado

20 Spots that Offer Unbelievable Free Camping in Colorado

11 Fantastic Fall Hikes in Colorado that You’ve Never Heard of

13 Stunningly Beautiful Black Canyon of the Gunnison Hikes to Try!

15 Awesome Colorado 13ers Less than Two Hours from Denver

16 Escalante Hikes that Deliver Stunning Desert Scenes

The Ultimate Local Guide to the Alpine Loop in Colorado

Engineer Pass: Your Stunning Journey Through Colorado’s High Country

18 Fun-Filled, Easy Colorado 14ers to Add to Your Bucket List

8 Incredible Moab Jeep Tours to Check Out

13 Romantic Getaways in Colorado to Turn Up the Heat

Maroon bells hikes: a local, expert guide.

20+ Super Sweet Things to do in Grand Junction from a Local

12 Dreamy South Lake Tahoe Hikes to Add to Your List

13 insanely sweet things to do in tahoe city.

12 Dreamy Kanab Hikes that You Need to See to Believe

Enjoy Camping with Babies and Toddlers (Yes, It’s Possible)

Next Level Fun Things to Do in Colorado Springs That You Will Never Forget

The Most Mind-Blowing Sedona Hikes for Your Bucket List

How to Visit Bryce Canyon in One Day Without the Crowds

Hit the Road with These Unbelievably Scenic Drives in Colorado

Moab to Bryce Canyon: Your Ultimate Road Trip Guide

Mega awesome south lake tahoe activities that you will adore.

The Cosmic Ashtray in Escalante, Utah is from Another Planet

Stop What You’re Doing and Enjoy These Buena Vista Hikes Now!

Amazing Nederland Hikes that Need to Be on Your Colorado Bucket List

28 unforgettable lake tahoe summer activities.

Fantastic Things to Do in Estes Park, Colorado

29 Local Things to Do in Breckenridge in Summer

8 Colorado National Monument Hikes You Need to Tackle Now

Everything You Need to Know for Hiking Quandary Peak

The Chicago Lakes Trail is a Rewarding Challenge

Your Guide to the Moon House Ruins in Cedar Mesa, Utah

22 Ultra-Rad Things to Do in Salida CO That You Will Not Believe

20 Fabulous Things to Do in Steamboat Springs in Summer from a Savvy Local

The Cassidy Arch Trail in Capitol Reef is So Worth It

How to Plan an Ultra-Rad Colorado Summer Vacation like a Local

Wicked Awesome Capitol Reef Hikes that Will Blow Your Mind

Colorado’s most spectacular mountain towns.

Your Comprehensive Guide to Indian Peaks Wilderness Hikes

Note: This website participates in affiliate marketing. That means if you click on some of the links and purchase something, I get a small kickback at no added cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more, see the Fox in the Forest Privacy Policy .

All opinions are my own.

The alpine waters of Lake Tahoe rest at 6,225 feet above sea level among the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The combination of crystalline lake and crowning mountain peaks creates gorgeous vistas from every angle, stunning sunsets, and marvelous star-gazing. Tahoe is as loved in its snowy winter as in its brilliant summer. With each season, the area beckons nature lovers, adventurers, and those in need of a retreat. Skiers, snowboarders, and snow aficionados flock to Tahoe each winter, while hikers, mountain bikers, and lake devotees return every summer.

• Copy Link copied

Photo by CSNafzger/Shutterstock

Can’t miss things to do in Lake Tahoe

The true treasure of Tahoe is in its kaleidoscope of natural beauty and the unique possibilities to experience these marvels. Lingering over a lake view at sunset is essential to any visit, as is discovering the vistas of a mountain peak. Visitors enjoy breathtaking views along Sierra Nevada ridges by gondola, sky tram, hot air balloon, or their own two feet. Kayaks, sail boats, and paddleboat cruises allow a more intimate experience of the lake. Interactions with Tahoe’s natural wonders can come in many forms, from snowshoeing treks under a full moon to a soak in natural hot springs.

Food and drink to try in Lake Tahoe

Tahoe serves up fresh local ingredients with culinary creativity. At West Shore Café & Inn, everything down to the marshmallows is handmade. PlumpJack at Squaw Valley has a menu that changes with the local harvest, as well as special seasonal events. The traditional Zephyr Cove Restaurant is a South Lake classic dedicated to all things local, sustainable, and delicious. The local drinking scene is similarly alluring, with wine bars such as Uncorked and Picchetti Winery’s tasting room, brew houses such as Mellow Fellow and Stateline Brewery, and artisanal cafés for those who need a caffeine fix.

Tahoe has multiple options for those who love to shop or meander through local markets. In the summer, there are weekly farmers’ markets on both the north and south shores, brimming with regional produce, local art, and the spirit of the mountain communities. While these markets hibernate for the colder months there is a winter farmers’ market (open every other Sunday) in nearby Reno. Truckee and Tahoe City welcome visitors in any season to stroll their streets and browse antique stores, artist galleries, mountain furniture stores, and local shops that create everything from soaps to olive oil. For those that wish to stay closer to the comforts of a ski resort, Northstar, Squaw Valley, and Heavenly all have shopping complexes.

Practical Information

The mountain setting that makes Tahoe so beautiful also creates a need for caution. Keep an eye on the weather in winter, especially when driving. Roads can close for a time, and you should always have a full tank of gas and carry snow chains; pay attention to the road signs and listen out for radio advisories; drive slowly and never brake suddenly. Finally, watch out for snow plows! Summers are hot and bring beautiful rain storms and possibly cool nights, so pack appropriate attire. Keep in mind that you are at an elevation of 6,000–10,000 feet, so if you are undertaking strenuous outdoor activities you need to pace yourself, bring water, and always tell someone where you are going and what you are doing.

Guide Editor

Vanessa Petersen

DISCOVER CALIFORNIA

© 2024 California.com All Rights Reserved

RECOMMENDED BUSINESSES

The Ultimate Guide to Lake Tahoe

From dispersed camping and luxury hotels to water sports and skiing, Lake Tahoe has it all. Here's the Lake Tahoe travel guide you need.

September 04, 2020

Ready for a legendary vacay? Break free and hit the road to Lake Tahoe, where endless adventures await you. From dispersed camping to luxury hotels, Lake Tahoe has it all. Hike along the Tahoe Rim Trail until your feet are numb, sunbathe at Kings Beach, or ski from dusk 'till dawn—North America’s largest alpine lake welcomes you year-round. Escape to a majestic mountain wonderland , regenerate riverside, let wildflower-dotted meadows enchant you, and see buzzing small towns to lift your spirits . 

Book your flight to Reno-Tahoe International Airport to effortlessly arrive in paradise. Either taxi to your destination or rent a car for more flexibility. For strict non-flyers, the journey to Lake Tahoe passes through Sacramento; follow Route 50 east until you reach stunning landscapes beside paved mountain roads. For an extraordinary experience and sustainable alternative to flying or driving, take a ride on the wild side—hop on the California Zephyr train from the Bay Area to the charming town of Truckee . From there, rent a car or take the Amtrak shuttle to Lake Tahoe.

To inspire your next California adventure, this short-and-sweet Lake Tahoe travel guide gives you a glimpse into its dreamy universe.

Things to do in Lake Tahoe

Does your business rank among the best in California?

Recomended businesses

Show me california.com recommended businesses near.

Learn more about our selection criteria and vetting process.

Whether you are longing for solitude in nature or are in dire need of extreme outdoor action, Tahoe has you covered. With over 154,851 acres of public lands, there are countless activities year-round .  

Hiking 

Hike along all or portions of the 165-mile Tahoe Rim Trail , one of the most epic Lake Tahoe hikes . While traversing around the lake, you'll traipse through ancient forests and wilderness and go across mountains and open hillsides covered with manzanita. Join the Tahoe Rim Trail Association for guided hikes to level up your skills and see Lake Tahoe from a local’s point of view. You can cross two remarkable hiking trails off of your bucket list, too, since several segments run alongside the Pacific Crest Trail . 

Water Sports

The azure waters of Lake Tahoe bids for maritime fun under the sun. Relax on Tahoe Cruises' Safari Rose yacht, and get a closer look at Emerald Bay and the stone Tea House set atop Fannette Island. Lounge on the deck of this luxurious yacht while the wind ruffles your hair.

You can also rent a clear stand-up paddle board (SUP) or transparent kayak from Wild Society at Kings Beach in North Lake Tahoe. After working up an appetite, there's nothing more rewarding than feasting on baked trout or grilled salmon you caught yourself. Sign up for a fishing excursion with Fish Tahoe or set up camp along the Truckee River for bank fishing. 

For history buffs, Lake Tahoe has some incredible sites to explore. Step into Gatsby's world at the Pope-Baldwin Estates and get a glimpse into the lifestyle of the 20th-century Bay Area elite. Wander through the gardens of Emerald Bay's Vikingsholm Castle to appreciate its fine Scandinavian architecture. Imagine summer evenings spent here by its previous owners, gazing upon the shimmering waters. 

Venture to the abandoned Donner Pass Tunnels above Donner Lake to see a historical tunnel system. Long before they became a graffiti artists' base camp, the tunnels were once an important contribution to the Gold Country’s development. Many pioneers, settlers, and laborers lost their lives before the construction work on the tunnels was finally accomplished in 1868. 

Mountain Biking

Strap on your helmet, and push yourself to the limit while mountain biking through the verdant forests and wildflower-covered meadows of Lake Tahoe. Scenic bike trails with mesmerizing views of the alpine lake make cycling one of the most popular Lake Tahoe activities . Pedal along the Power Line Trail, Saxon Creek, or Fountain Place in South Lake Tahoe . Feel the adrenaline rush through your veins as the alpine air caresses your cheeks. 

Spa & Relaxation

While there’s an abundance of things to do in Tahoe in the summer , even rainy days are welcome here. It's the chance to part ways with the lively outdoors and spoil yourself at The Spa at The Landing Resort , savor a cup of freshly roasted coffee ,  or shop for cozy sleepwear at the What a Girl Wants Boutique in Heavenly Village.

Besides shops and eateries, Heavenly is one of the largest California ski destinations in the world. Winter in Lake Tahoe brings 360 inches of snow a year and numerous things to do . With 97 trails and nine high-speed lifts, great skiing and snowboarding for any level is guaranteed.

Looking to improve your skills? Book a private lesson. Winter in Lake Tahoe is all about swooshing down the slopes while soaking up exhilarating vistas. As the lift takes you to the top of Squaw Peak , the lake shimmers playfully beneath. Feel like one of the participants of the Winter Olympics hosted here in 1960, and let the excitement redden your cheeks. 

Where to stay in Lake Tahoe

Lodging at Lake Tahoe is as diverse as the region's activities . Camp in the Desolation Wilderness while hiking the Tahoe Rim Trail, book a luxury hotel room with spa access, stay at an Airbnb in South Lake Tahoe, rent a cabin, or splurge on a villa. 

If you're in need of a serene escape away from the big crowds, head to the Desolation Wilderness—stretching more than 60,000 acres, this alpine landscape is the perfect place to hike to your heart’s content and pitch your campsite when you can walk no further.

When camping in Lake Tahoe, make yourself comfortable at Meeks Bay Campground, situated just minutes away from the sandy beach, and wake up to the early sun rays shining over the calm waters of the lake. Feel right at home in nature—huddle up in a yurt at the Fallen Leaf Campground. It's the glamping experience you’ve always dreamed of .

Fantasizing about a fancy hotel for a romantic getaway? The villa at Northstar Lodge by Welk Resorts just might do the trick; sink into your king-size bed to prepare for the adventures that await you. For a sustainable stay, the Lodge at Edgewood Tahoe has what you need to relax and unwind. Head to the spa to destress with a Sierra Swedish massage or to rejuvenate during a Reiki Energy Healing session. Join movie night, stargaze with a star guide, and start each day with a yoga session by the lake. 

You can also opt to rent a cozy cabin at Camp Richardson  and leave all your worries behind. Each cabin has its own name—Aristo, Star, and Sun Beam, to name a few—and unique amenities. No matter where you choose to stay, you certainly won't regret going on a Lake Tahoe vacation .

Need help with a home improvement project? Get a free quote today!

Enter your zip code.

Inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.

Awesome thank you for subscribing to our newsletter..

When you provide your email address, you are agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy , and you are giving your consent to receive email communications from California.com regarding updates, happenings, special offers, and promotions from our partners.

RELATED Articles

RELATED CITIES

Discover More

5 Reasons You Should Do The Seven Bridges Hike

Take this as your sign to enjoy the iconic Seven Bridges hike down in San Diego.

Best Coffee Shops in Sacramento - A Guide to the City's Top Cafes

Discover the best coffee shops in Sacramento, from cozy spots to artisanal coffee bars. Find your new favorite coffee spot in Sacramento.

Savor the Flavor: Top 5 Italian-Style Pizzas in Los Angeles

Savor LA's finest Italian-style pizzas and discover authentic flavors & unique culinary experiences in the City of Angels.

The 9 Best Parks in Santa Rosa, CA

Santa Rosa is rich in diverse landscapes and a top visited coastal city in Northern California. Here are the best parks in the area.

• Meeting Planners
• Travel Planners
• Event Venues

• Plan Your Trip
• Flights to Reno Tahoe
• Tourist Information
• Visitor Center
• Maps of Reno and Lake Tahoe
• Transportation

Blessed with sparkling natural beauty, Lake Tahoe is considered the jewel of the Sierra Nevada and has been named one of the best adventure vacations , one of the best family vacations, one of the best ski vacations in the United States and more in the United States by the U.S. News & World Report . Tahoe is known for the clarity of its water and the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains on all sides. At 6,229 feet above sea level, Lake Tahoe is the highest lake of its size in the United States, measuring 22 miles long by 12 miles wide, with a surface area of 191 square miles and 72 miles of shoreline. Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in the United States, with a maximum depth of 1,645 feet, trailing only Oregon’s Crater Lake.

In addition to its awe-inspiring size, Lake Tahoe features unique Lake Tahoe dining experiences, local art galleries , and a broad selection of boutiques and shops.

Conveniently located just 30 minutes from downtown Reno, Lake Tahoe and all it has to offer is just a short drive , whether you want to grab lunch, see a concert or spend the day exploring hiking and biking trails. Looking to pay a visit? Discover where to stay in Reno Tahoe .

Things to do in Lake Tahoe

Lake tahoe outdoor activities.

The best way to see Lake Tahoe is to get out there and experience it! Offering countless opportunities to venture to the highest peaks or dive deep below the water, it’ll be hard to just choose one.

During the winter months, visitors flock from around the globe to experience world-class skiing and snowboarding . A handful of lakeside towns are spread along the shores of the lake including Incline Village, Kings Beach, South Lake Tahoe, Truckee and Tahoe City.

During the summer months, there is everything to do from hiking and kayaking to whitewater rafting , to lounging on the beach or even backpacking the Sierras . Popular beaches in Lake Tahoe include Kings Beach, Chimney Beach, Hidden Beach and Sand Harbor State Park. Sand Harbor , in particular, is a favorite among visitors and locals, offering a boat launch, picnic areas and a beautiful sandy beach. During July and August, the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival at Sand Harbor offers plays set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Tahoe. If you are looking for other ways to explore the lake from the water, there are several shops in the area to rent stand-up paddleboards , kayaks and other water toys.

Another fantastic way to experience Lake Tahoe is on foot. There are a number of trailheads around the lake, offering hikes for beginners to advanced. A fun one to check out is Spooner Lake trail, a family-friendly hike where you can really appreciate the flora and fauna of the area. Another local favorite that offers one of the best views you can get of the lake is the Mount Rose Trail. Not for the faint of heart, this 9.5-mile round trip hike climbs 2,444 feet in elevation to awe-inspiring 360° views of Reno and Lake Tahoe.

These are just some of the limitless amazing outdoor activities that the Lake Tahoe area offers. Check out more Lake Tahoe outdoor activities .

Lake Tahoe Arts and Culture

What better way to experience the lake, than to see it through someone else’s eyes? Lake Tahoe’s arts and culture scene offers a selection of local art galleries and performing arts centers allow visitors to see art in its many forms. Dramatic photography and print, impressive sculpture and interpretive performance are just some of the ways that the lake inspires locals and non-locals alike.

Lake Tahoe Shopping

There is nothing like taking in the fresh mountain air while window shopping in Northstar Village , picking up some new snow gear at the Village at Palisades Tahoe or strolling through Truckee or Tahoe City for a unique Tahoe souvenir. The various Lake Tahoe shopping selections are as unique as the areas in which they reside. You won’t find big box stores or large shopping malls here, but what you will find is a cool selection of locally-owned shops, thrift stores, and outdoor marketplaces.

Lake Tahoe Dining

Lake Tahoe has a dining option for everyone’s taste buds, ranging from fine dining to cheap eats. If you have the chance, lead your own food tour by eating your way around the lake. Start with a cup of locally brewed coffee in Reno and take a short drive over Mount Rose Highway to get lunch at T’s Mesquite in Incline Village, a favorite among locals. No day exploring Lake Tahoe is complete without a refreshing Wet Woody at Gar Woods Grill & Pier in Carnelian Bay with views overlooking the lake. Cozy up next to a beachside fire pit for a cocktail and s’mores at Lone Eagle Grille in Incline Village.

More Places to Visit in Lake Tahoe

Incline village.

Incline Village is named for the Great Incline Tramway, built by loggers in the late 1870s. Incline’s proximity to Sand Harbor and Diamond Peak, both known for their stunning views of Lake Tahoe, means you can soak up the lake views year-round from the slopes or the shoreline.

In summer, theatergoers flock to see the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival at nearby Sand Harbor State Park. Mountain bikers and hikers can explore perfect trails, such as the Flume trail, which ends near Sand Harbor, just south of Incline Village. Winter sees snowboarders and skiers making turns at Diamond Peak and Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe  only a short drive away.

Tahoe City is perched on the north shore of Lake Tahoe at the headwaters of the Truckee River (the only river outlet for Lake Tahoe). A concoction of lively year-round activities awaits every visitor. Bike, walk, jog or skate the unspoiled trail system along the lake, across the historic Lake Tahoe dam and down the river. Soak up the summer sun with a host of challenging water sports, family fun, outdoor concerts, art shows, movies at the beach, farmers markets, lakeside camping, backcountry hiking and mountain biking. Also, don’t forget to feed the colossal trout from Fanny Bridge!

Crystal Bay

The Lake Tahoe neighborhood of Crystal Bay serves its namesake and sits upon a magnificent peninsula scattered with granite boulders, straddling the California and Nevada border. This area caters to everyone from the outdoor enthusiast to the low-key vacationer with a handful of outdoor rental companies, lively casinos, and many delicious dining options. One of the newest additions to this area, the Border House at Crystal Bay Casino offers luxury lodging, a world-class entertainment venue, and a high-end steakhouse .

If you are looking to get out during the day for a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure, visit Tahoe Adventure Company in Crystal Bay for anything from kayak and SUP rentals to hiking and guided tours.

Carnelian Bay

Boating is to Carnelian Bay what blue is to Lake Tahoe. In summer, it is life. The Sierra Boat Company –  considered a premier U.S. wooden boat builder – opened here in the early 1950s and draws boat fanatics from around the world each year to see their classic wooden boats at the Concours d’Elegance wooden boat show for a weekend of nostalgic cruising and flair.

The town was christened Carnelian Bay in 1860 because of the semi-precious yellow and red stones sprinkling the shoreline. Today, a plentiful prize of vacation rentals contour the bay as well. Carnelian Bay is also considered the place where big, hungry Mackinaw trout can be found lurking in the depths.

Emerald Bay State Park

Emerald Bay State Park is a popular location for tourists to get some fantastic views of the bay’s jewel-toned waters. Emerald Bay is home to Fannette Island (Lake Tahoe’s only island). Located in South Lake Tahoe , just a short distance from DL Bliss State Park , Emerald Bay State Park offers water sports, hiking, biking, and some of the best views. Tip: Get there early. Parking around Emerald Bay is limited and fills up fast!

Best Time to Visit Lake Tahoe

The best time to visit Lake Tahoe depends on what you want to do while you’re there. During the warmer weather months of June through August, there are plenty of summer activities, and December through April are usually best if you are a winter sports enthusiast. Spring and fall are also great times to visit since the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. There really is no “bad” time to visit Lake Tahoe .

From sno w-c apped mountains surrounding the clear water of the lake in the winter to warmer weather and lots of sunshine in the summer, you will enjoy your trip to Lake Tahoe no matter what time of year it is. Visiting the area in the fall? The Lake is one of our fall favorites in Reno Tahoe , with patches of aspens turning brilliant gold, making hikes here a breathtakingly beautiful experience.

Lake Tahoe Seasonal Averages

The mean annual precipitation ranges from more than 55 inches in watersheds on the west side of the Lake Tahoe basin to about 26 inches near the lake on the east side of the basin. Most of the precipitation falls as snow between November and April. There is a pronounced annual runoff of snowmelt in late spring and early summer, the timing of which varies from year to year.

The warmest season in Lake Tahoe is usually between July and August, with August sustaining an average high temperature of 77.2°F (25.1°C). The coldest month is typically January, with an average high of 38.7°F (3.7°C). No matter what type of weather you prefer, whether you love summer or winter , it’s always a great time to visit Lake Tahoe .

Explore more of our re gion.

Lake Tahoe FAQ

Got a question? We’ve got the answers. Check out the most frequently asked questions below about Lake Tahoe.

What Can You Do in Lake Tahoe in One Day?

There are plenty of things to do in Lake Tahoe in one day. Here are some ideas:

• Visit Crystal Bay, Sand Harbor or Kings Beach
• Check out ski resorts like Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe , Northstar California Resort , Diamond Peak and more
• Discover Lake Tahoe hiking trails like the Tahoe Rim Trail, Mount Rose Trail, Tunnel Creek Trail or Tahoe East Shore Trail
• Visit Truckee , Incline Village or Tahoe City and enjoy local shops and restaurants
• Hit up local breweries, including Tahoe Mountain Brewing Company, Alibi Ale Works or Bear Belly Brewing Company. Check out the Reno Tahoe Brewery Map for more information
• Fish for brown trout and Kokanee salmon at a depth of 1,645 ft on a Lake Tahoe fishing charter

Can You Go Swimming in Lake Tahoe?

In the summer months, swimming in Lake Tahoe will certainly leave you refreshed and cooled off. Since Lake Tahoe gets its water from snow run-off from the surrounding mountains, the water is clear and very cold. While that first jump in may leave you catching your breath, swimming in Lake Tahoe is an unforgettable experience.

Is Lake Tahoe a Natural Lake?

Yes, Lake Tahoe is a natural lake. The water level of the lake is regulated by Lake Tahoe Dam in Tahoe City, where the Truckee River begins.

Is September a Good Time To Visit Lake Tahoe?

Looking for a less crowded time to visit Lake Tahoe? While Tahoe doesn’t technically have an “off-season,” September is a great time to visit because summer crowds have left and you’re more likely to have trails and beaches to yourself. For those looking for a relaxing trip to Lake Tahoe, visiting in September might be right for you, with fewer crowds and lower room rates.

CHECK OUT OUR TIPS, LISTS AND STORIES

Explore Reno Your Way

Hand-picked content based on your interests

Let us feed you news.

Newsletter Signup

Amp up your inbox, life is unfiltered in.

Save your favorite pages and visit them here!

• Sustainable Travel
• Vacation Rentals
• Campgrounds
• On the Water
• Downhill Skiing/Snowboarding
• Nordic Skiing
• Casual Restaurants
• Fine Dining
• Bars and Breweries
• Coffee Shops and Bakeries

Know Before You Go

• Getting Here
• Getting Around
• Itineraries
• Visitor Guides
• Road Conditions
• Visitor Centers

Have Twice the Fun this Spring

ADVENTURE AWAITS

Welcome to North Lake Tahoe. Lake Tahoe is a big blue centerpiece, surrounded by massive granite peaks of the Sierra Nevada, with skies reflecting into the largest alpine Lake in North America. North Lake Tahoe spans two states, California and Nevada, with top rated lodging for your perfect family, romantic or relaxing vacation. Unique and beautiful communities dot the shores of North Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountainsides, each offering fine, casual and leisure dining options. Lake Tahoe offers hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails, dozens of beaches, world-renown downhill and nordic skiing, snow sports of all kinds, and 39 trillion gallons of water to enjoy. Many nationally recognized Lake Tahoe events including music festivals, concerts, food pairings and sporting events take place each season. With so much to do, you may need to stay awhile.

PLAN YOUR PERFECT VACATION IN NORTH LAKE TAHOE

Click on a category that fuels your passion and start planning your one-of-a-kind vacation in North Lake Tahoe today!

Sustainable Travel – Take the Pledge!

From alpine blue waters to expansive mountain peaks, the Sierra landscape is truly awe-inspiring. To protect and preserve our beloved environment in Lake Tahoe, please commit to six travel pledges that will amplify environmental stewardship efforts. Rooted in preservation tactics, education and mindfulness, the pledge reminds visitors and locals alike to travel with awareness and observe the impact of your individual actions.

Visitor Itineraries

What's Happening in Lake Tahoe

With its sparkling blue waters, phenomenal mountain scenery and endless recreation, Lake Tahoe is a treat during any time of year. But around the lake lie many other treasures — lesser-known activities — that offer explorers one-of-a-kind experiences in this special place.

Treasure #6

Tahoe lakeside sunsets.

Treasure #1

Best panoramic view.

Treasure #3

Historic hideaways.

What to Do This Spring in Lake Tahoe

As the days grow warmer, consider spending your spring in Lake Tahoe. Lake Tahoe is best known for the sun-soaked summer afternoons.

Regenerative Travel in Lake Tahoe is Good for Everyone

Sustainable travel has always been an important cornerstone of Lake Tahoe’s mission. Regenerative travel aims to take responsible tourism a step further.

Welcome to a one of kind, winter experience. Unified by 12 unique towns, the North Lake Tahoe adventurous spirit will open up your mind and awaken your winter soul.

Welcome to a destination where dual days thrive, elevating every spring day into an extraordinary experience.

North Lake Tahoe is the perfect mix of lakeside adventure and on-mountain activities with a thriving summer scene loaded with experiences.

The vivid autumn colors, crisp mountain air and thinning crowds mark the beginning of North Lake Tahoe’s breathtaking secret season.

Follow us on instagram #TahoeNorth

Connect with us:

Stay and save this summer, deal of the day, extended stay, the ultimate backcountry guide: gear and outfitting.

Top 22 Things to Do in Lake Tahoe's Incline Village this Summer

L ake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in the U.S., offering several quaint towns to explore along its shores. On the northern side of Lake Tahoe, Incline Village is one of the largest communities in the Lake Tahoe Basin. From hiking to kayaking to biking, visitors can enjoy the Sierra Nevada mountain views in every direction. Here are the Top Things to do in Incline Village this Summer.

Anchoring the North Shore, it offers lodging and dining, as well as cultural events, like its annual Shakespeare Festival. There are also several Nevada State Parks in the area. After visiting for years, I recommend spending a great deal of time outside during your summertime visit to Incline Village.

Top Things to Do in Incline Village this Summer

Lake tahoe national scenic byway , mount rose highway, lakeshore boulevard , sand harbor lake tahoe nevada state park, spooner lake – lake tahoe nevada state park , tahoe star tours, preston field and playground, incline village skate park, mount rose meadows.

Tahoe Rim Trail

Tahoe Meadows Hike

Chickadee ridge , tahoe east shore trail, flume trail, thunderbird lodge, lake tahoe shakespeare festival, incline village fourth of july fireworks, live music on the beach, tahoe science center, incline village cinema, hyatt regency lake tahoe casino, diamond peak ski resort , why visit lake tahoe.

From the granite mountaintops to the evergreen forests to the wildflower meadows, Lake Tahoe puts on a summer show. The stunning scenery is hard to beat.

Starting in Incline Village, I recommend you see the rest of Lake Tahoe. The easiest way is to drive around its perimeter on a scenic drive. Along this route, there are lots of places to stop and explore. Small towns ring the lake, like Tahoe City and South Lake Tahoe. Each offers places to eat and outdoor activities.

Scenic Lake Tahoe Drives

Lake Tahoe offers spectacular scenery in every direction, so a scenic drive around Lake Tahoe is a must. Highways wind through national forests dotted with craggy mountain peaks. In between the mountains, visitors will find wildflower meadows.

It’s a 68-mile (109 km) drive that rings the lake and connects U.S. Route 50, California Highway 89 and Nevada Highway 28. Easy entry points are on the north side of Lake Tahoe in Incline Village, including Nevada State Route 431 (Mount Rose Highway) and California State Route 267 (into Kings Beach).

Taking the scenic byway around the lake is one of the top things to do in Lake Tahoe. Though, it’s an all-day excursion, so pack a picnic and stop at one of the parks around the lake.

From Reno (and its regional airport, Reno-Tahoe International Airport), Nevada State Route 431 is also called the Mount Rose Highway. With s-curves and switchback, this 23-mile (37 km) route heads over the highest year-round pass in the Sierra Nevada Mountains at 8,911 feet.

Most of the area along Mount Rose Highway is part of the Humbolt Toiyabe National Forest. During the summer, traveling the Mount Rose Highway passes the seasonal Mt Rose Ski Tahoe Resort. Another top destination along Nevada State Route 431 is Tahoe Meadows, just north of Incline Village.

For lovers of large homes, drive down Incline’s Lakeshore Drive. This residential road is lined with some of the largest homes at Lake Tahoe. It offers a multi-use path, and the south end of Lakeshore Drive offers a small parking area. This area is popular with residents, their kids and dogs.

Top 35 Summery Things to Do at Lake Tahoe

Top parks near incline village .

With Lake Tahoe as a backdrop, one of the things to do in Incline Village this summer is spend time in a park. There are several in and around Incline Village.

This is the most popular park on the North Shore. It offers the most photographed rocks in Lake Tahoe set in the turquoise and blue water. This is one of the top things to do in Incline Village this summer.

Sand Harbor Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park rents kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. For those who would like a guided tour of Lake Tahoe, this area offers clear kayak tours. It’s a favorite spot to explore on the water.

Visitors will find a sand beach at Sand Harbor that offers boardwalks along the water. For those staying close by, consider riding a bike to San Harbor and using the Tahoe East Shore Trail that connects Incline Village with the park. Rental bikes are available in Incline Village.

Located at 2005 NV-28, five miles south of Incline Village on Lake Tahoe’s north shore. This is a day-use park. Open year-round from 8 a.m. to one hour past sunset. Admission $10/$15 per car. Arrive before 10 a.m. during the summer for parking. When the parking lot is full,  no cars are allowed to enter. Parking is not allowed along Highway 28.

At the intersection of Highway 50 and Highway 28, this park is located near the Carson Range Pass. It offers 50 miles of multi-use trails, including part of the Tahoe Rim Trail and the Flume Trail.

Spooner Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park offers cabin and backcountry camping. A new Spooner Lake Visitor Center and amphitheater opened recently and offers interpretive programs.

Located on Highway 28 just after the turn-off from Highway 50. Open year-round from dawn to dusk. Admission is $10/$15 per vehicle.

Explore the night skies with a choreographed astronomy show. Then, see the night sky for yourself using a  Celestron telescope.

Held at the Spooner Lake Visitor Center and Amphitheater and the Northstar Cosmoarium. Adult admission is $50, and kids 3 to 12 are $30. Held at alternating locations every Thursday and Saturday from mid-June until Labor Day weekend. Program starts at 8 p.m.

Winter Guide to Incline Village

For little kids who need some playground time, Preston Field offers a parking lot and a shaded playground with lots of equipment. This area also offers a restroom, picnic tables, and stand-up grills.

Located at 700 Tahoe Blvd. Free to enter.

For the older kids, they can drop in at the in-ground concrete skate park.

Located at 939 Southwood Blvd. Free and seasonal.

Best of Sacramento with Kids

Located along the Mount Rose Highway (Nevada State Route 431) and just down-mountain from the year-round pass, Mount Rose Meadows is a favorite destination in North Lake Tahoe. With Ophir Creek running through a wildflower-studded meadow, everyone from dogs to seniors to babies in backpacks seems to be hiking there. This is one of the top things to do in Incline Village this summer.

This area features year-round restrooms and off-highway parking, along with several marked trails. Some of the trail is covered with a boardwalk to protect the vegetation. There are several trails in the area, and they are clearly marked, including a section of the Tahoe Rim Trail (TRT).

Top Things to do in Lassen Volcanic National Park

Top hiking trails near incline village, trt- tahoe rim trail.

The Tahoe Rim Trail (TRT) is a popular 165-mile (266 km) long-distance trail that rings Lake Tahoe. It shares 50 miles with the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and travels through the national forests and state parks. It’s a popular hike with long-distance hikers.

Take a wildflower hike with level terrain and a well-defined 1.3-mile trail in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Explore a sub-alpine mountain meadow and walk along Ophir Creek’s boardwalk to enjoy the summertime wildflowers.

Stop and read the interpretive signs to learn more about Lake Tahoe. Leashed dogs are welcome. This is one of the top things to do in Incline Village this summer.

Located 3.8 miles west of Mt. Rose Ski Resort on Nevada Highway 431 in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Free

Named after the birds that frequent this area, Chickadee Ridge is a 2.4-mile hike that uses the Ophir Creak Trail until it heads into the forest. It is an in-and-out trail labeled as moderate.

Located 3.8 miles west of Mt. Rose Ski Resort on Nevada Highway 431 in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Park along the highway in this area.

This multi-use paved path offers three miles of accessible hiking and biking along the shore of Lake Tahoe. From Sand Harbor State Park to Lakeshore Bike Path, this path is free to use and paid parking is available at Highway 28 and Tunnel Creek. This is one of the top things to do in Incline Village this summer.

For those who want to rent a bike, head to Flume Trail Mountain Bikes. It offers mountain bikes, e-bikes and bikes for kids for 2 hours (or all day). Located at 1115 Tunnel Creek Rd. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for the season (May until September). Visitors will find a cafe along with paid parking.

A 14-mile one-way mountain bike trail with amazing views of the lake. Since it’s above 7,000 feet, it’s considered moderate to difficult.

Use the shuttle ($) from Incline Village to Spooner Lake State Park to start the Flume Trail with Flume Trail Mountain Bikes.

Top Things to do in Kings Canyon National Park

Top attractions in incline village.

Back in the 1920 and 1930s summer estates strung up along the shores of Lake Tahoe. George Whittell, Jr. built his summer getaway on the north shore. It is open for tours and considered one of the top historic homes. During the tour, walk through the main house, along with a card house (for playing cards), a boat house and more. Learn about early Tahoe history and the wooden boats of Lake Tahoe, like the wood speedboat the Thunderbird. 

From Memorial Day until mid-October, tours are on Tuesdays and Fridays at 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2 p.m. Admission is $75 per person, and you must be 6 or older. Shuttles (required) depart from 969 Tahoe Blvd., Incline Village.

Don’t let the name put you off—it’s more than Shakespeare. From June until mid-August, professional performers come to the Warren Edward Trepp Stage in Sand Harbor Lake Tahoe State Park.

Performances include Broadway shows, the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra, and select Shakespeare plays.

Located at 2005 NV-28, five miles south of Incline Village on Lake Tahoe’s north shore. This is a popular annual event. Tickets are necessary and available online.

If it’s the Fourth, visitors should find their spot early in the day along the lake. The annual fireworks show starts at dusk, and the fireworks reflect off the lake.

As a bonus, there are several shows around the lake, and most are visible. This is one of the top things to do in Incline Village this summer.

Visitors will find live music at several beaches at Lake Tahoe during the summer season. For 2024, nearby Kings Beach offers outdoor live music from June through Labor Day each Friday evening from 6 to 8:30 p.m. This is a free event.

Best California Beaches 

Indoor activities in incline village.

In partnership with UC-Davis, the Tahoe Environmental Research Center offers interpretive displays covering the scientific research to Keep Tahoe Blue. With hands-on activities, families can learn about lake ecology and how it changes.

Located at 291 Country Club Drive. Open from June 1 to Labor Day from Tuesday to Friday with tours at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m., Saturday tours are offered at 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. For the rest of the year, the Tahoe Science Center is open Tuesday to Saturday, with tours at 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

Advance reservations are required for a specific tour. Tours range from $5 to $10 per person.

Located at 901 Tahoe Blvd. and shows first-run movies.

Locals, visitors and guests mingle at the mountain-themed casino inside the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort. It offers live game tables and an assortment of slot machines and video poker.

Located at 111 Country Club Dr. at Lakeshore Blvd. Adults only.

Mountain Resorts near Incline Village

This resort is located in Incline Village, though it is closed for the summer season. From the base area, it offers a hiking and biking trail up to its Snowflake Lodge along the Fire Road.

Located at 1210 Sky Way, Incline Village. It is free to enter though no services are offered in the off-season.

Mount Rose Ski Tahoe

This resort is closed during the off-season. Located at 22222 Mount Rose Highway, Reno.

Best of Redwoods National and State Park 

Where to eat in incline village, austin’s restaurant.

A favorite for 20 years, it serves family-friendly fare. Start with the buttermilk fries and follow with a salad, burgers or chicken strips, all outstanding. The dining room is small, so expect a wait.

Located at 120 Country Club Dr. #24, across from the Hyatt Resort. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Inclined Burgers and Brews

Tucked into a strip center, find a small restaurant with good burgers, lots of beers and a few wine-by-th-glass plus a kids menu. A patio area overlooks the parking lot and the 7-11 next door. However, don’t let the lack of ambiance deter you. It’s packed most of the time, and take-out is available.

Located at 901 Tahoe Blvd. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Drink Coffee Do Stuff

An independently owned coffee and tea shop with an excellent mocha along with all the barista-made favorites. Find light snacks and bottled beverages as well.

Located at 907 Tahoe Blvd. #20A. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Lone Eagle Grille

Enjoy upscale dining with Lake Tahoe as a backdrop. Enjoy an New American menu packed with locally-sourced ingredients. Full wine and cocktail list available.

Located across from the Hyatt Regency at 111 Country Club Dr. at Lakeshore Blvd. Open for dinner only Monday to Wednesday from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday from noon – 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday noon – 10 p.m.. Reservations are recommended for dinner.

Raley’s Grocery Store

It features a large selection of wine, beer and liquor and many grab-and-go items in the deli. It’s a fully stocked grocery store with a pharmacy.

Located at 930 Tahoe Blvd.

Top National Park Road Trips in Southern California 

Where to stay in incline village, hyatt regency lake tahoe resort, spa and casino.

With 422 guest rooms, suites and cottages with direct access to Lake Tahoe, the Hyatt offers a AAA Four-Diamond resort perfect for family getaways. I found several restaurants on the property, and the Lone Eagle Grille offers lake views and a fine dining menu.

The Stillwater Spa is one of the largest spa facilities in the area. Grand Lodge Casino offers adults an upscale mountain-themed casino that tempts locals and travelers alike.

Hyatt offers a free ski shuttle and a kids camp for kids 5 to 12. Located 111 Country Club Dr. at Lakeshore Blvd.

The post Top 22 Things to Do in Lake Tahoe’s Incline Village this Summer appeared first on Carful of Kids .

California's Best Beaches Aren't Even Coastal

While California has some of the best beaches in the US, the best ones do not have an ocean.

• Lake Tahoe has some of the most beautiful beaches in California with crystal clear turquoise water and white sand not found on the coast.
• Beaches are located on the North and South Shores, offering different experiences: quiet and rocky in the North, popular white sandy beaches in the South.
• Lake Tahoe beaches cater to all visitors, offering activities like hiking, family-friendly options, and water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking.

California has some of the most beautiful beaches in the nation. From the white sandy beaches in Southern California to the more pebble and rock-filled beaches of Northern California, the golden sand beaches of the Central Coast, and even glass beaches filled with their rainbow-colored shorelines, there is incredible coastline to explore in the Golden State.

With the various beaches around California, coming up with the best beach could be difficult to do. However, what may come as a surprise to some is that California's best beaches are not even coastal. Instead, the best beaches are located in the northern part of the state where the water is not only the cleanest in California but also crystal clear, and the weather is temperate during the summer and freezing during the winter. Arguably the best beaches in Calfornia are located in Lake Tahoe.

10 Most Beautiful Alpine Lakes That We Promise Are Worth The Hike To See

Lake tahoe has the best beaches in california, lake tahoe is home to over 40 beaches, many of which have white sandy beaches to enjoy the turquoise clear water.

An amazing fact about Lake Tahoe is that tons of beaches are located there. The beaches, of which there are over 40, vary with their location, be it on the North Shore or South Shore, but all are incredible to visit.

What makes the beaches in Lake Tahoe stand out is the fact that, based on description alone, they sound like they belong in the Caribbean. From the white sand beaches, the crystal clear turquoise water where you can literally see tens of feet below on a calm day on one of the deepest lakes in America , it is easy to see why Lake Tahoe has some of the most pristine and breathtaking beaches in California.

Lake Tahoe is broken down into its different shores. Both the North Shore and South Shore have beaches that cannot be beat. They are divided by the California and Nevada state lines in both regions. Both California and Nevada get to reap the benefits of the "Jewel of the Sierra" with its clean lake water and its beaches when it comes to beauty and tourism as well.

Relax & Rejuvenate: 10 Best Lake Vacations In The U.S.

Differences between the beaches on the north shore and south shore on lake tahoe, south shore is busier and more crowded whereas north shore is quieter and more quaint.

North Shore and South Shore Lake Tahoe could not be more different when it comes to size, atmosphere, and beach type. This is what attracts so many to the area year-round. While South Shore is home to a variety of restaurants, casinos, and other nightlife, North Shore is much quieter and small-town feeling. The beaches in both are remarkably different as well.

North Shore

The beaches of North Shore are known to be more rocky in nature. This does not mean that sand is non-existent, but it is far less pristine than what is found at South Shore. Additionally, the beaches in this region have far fewer amenities as well.

Some of the best beaches found on North Shore include:

While these beaches tend to be less busy than those on South Shore, the parking is more limited. Those who want to spend the day at these beaches should plan on getting there early during the peak season.

South Shore

South Shore is known to have some of the purest white sand beaches in Lake Tahoe. Because of this, the beaches are more popular. This also has to do with the amenities available and proximity to restaurants and casinos on South Shore.

While North Shore and South Shore may look different from one another and have a drastic difference in visitors, this does not make one shore better than the other. It just means that there is plenty for visitors to do in each region of Lake Tahoe.

Sand Harbor Is Lake Tahoe's Best Swimming Spot, Here's Why

Lake tahoe's beaches are for everyone, the beaches at lake tahoe are perfect for those who want to hike, bring their families, or participate in water activities.

It does not matter if visitors want to lay out on the beach for a day of fun in the sun, take to the lake for water activities, or go hiking on the mountain trails. There are beaches that offer all these activities and things to do on the South Shore and North Shore, if not more.

Hiking Beaches

The beaches along Lake Tahoe offer hiking for those who want to enjoy views of the lake while exploring the forested areas as well.

Some of the best beach hiking trails include:

Vikingsholm Trail is temporarily closed for repairs as of September 2023. When the trail will reopen has not been disclosed.

Family Beaches

Lake Tahoe is a family-friendly region, despite it being home to casinos and nightclubs. As such, there are beaches along the shoreline that not only have child-appropriate equipment to play on, but shoreline that has a gentle descent into the lake itself that makes it perfect for wading.

Some of the best family-friendly beaches in Lake Tahoe include:

• Sandy Beach (North Shore)
• Kings Beach (North Shore)
• North Tahoe Beach (North Shore)
• Kiva Beach (South Shore)
• Regan Beach (South Shore)

All of these beaches offer great swimming with shallow shoreline, water activity rentals, and white sand to enjoy. While these beaches are popular, they are also the best for those who have little ones who want to frolic in the water and warm sunny days at Lake Tahoe.

Water Sports Beaches

With crystal clear waters, those who enjoy watersports head to Lake Tahoe as often as possible. This is because, be it paddleboarding, kayaking, or even waterskiing or wakeboarding in the cold water, the turquoise waters are a draw to spend a day being active.

Some of the best beaches to enjoy water sports from include:

With all of these activities Lake Tahoe has to offer, there is no reason not to get out and enjoy fun in the sun. Be it building sandcastles on the beautiful beach, hiking, or taking to the cooler water, Lake Tahoe has it all.

Why March Is The Best Month To Ski

• By Liz Worgan
• Experiences
• Feb 22, 2024

Tahoe locals and frequent visitors alike know that the month of March is the “sweet spot” for some of the best skiing and riding you’ll get all season, every season. At this point in the year, we have solid snowpack and our highest percentage of open terrain. This means that there’s space to spread out and plenty of different trails to choose from.

Miracle March

When east coast ski resorts are getting ready to finish out their season, in Lake Tahoe we often see our biggest snowstorms in March. Obviously, we can’t promise frequent snowfall to be a guaranteed part of your experience, but the past few seasons speak for themselves:

Historic Snowfall in March :

• March 2023: 191 inches in March at 8,200 feet
• March 2022: 86 inches in March at 8,200 feet
• March 2020: 151 inches in March at 8,200 feet
• March 2019: 88 inches in March at 8,200 feet
• March 2018: 227 inches in March at 8,200 feet (This was a record-breaking month!)
• March 2017: 82 inches in March at 8,200 feet
• March 2016: 139 inches in March at 8,200 feet

The Best of Both Worlds

While “Miracle March” is something we always keep our fingers crossed for, the early spring weather in Lake Tahoe is also a welcome treat. In March, if it’s not snowing, we get to enjoy laid-back groomers and comfortable temperatures that don’t require you to bundle up. Sunny, cloudless skies are often the norm.

We definitely think that this is the best of both worlds: a balance of fresh pow and spring-like conditions is arguably the most ideal pairing that skiing can offer! This dynamic weather can make it tricky to know how to dress appropriately, though, so make sure you check out our Lake Tahoe Packing Guide to cover all your bases.

Longer Days

Sunday, March 10th gives us the gift of daylight savings: This means that our days are getting longer and we’ll have more daylight to enjoy outdoor activities. Right now, the sun isn’t setting until around 6pm, which gives you time to enjoy an early dinner & some drinks outside after you’ve hit the slopes.

Itinerary Ideas

Like we mentioned before, March can bring some dynamic weather to the Tahoe region, so you’ll want to be prepared for anything. Here are some inspiring itineraries you might want to consider when planning your visit:

Pow Day Conditions

• Grab the latest demo gear so you can make the most of the fresh snow . You’ll want to try to book in advance , so keep an eye on that weather forecast! Pro Tip: If the pow day happens to fall on a Thursday, Ikon Pass holders get 30% off of demo gear every Thursday in March.
• Not sure about where to go, or how to navigate pow? Consider booking a private guide through our Mountain Sports School. Not only will you get to cut any lift lines that may have formed, but you’ll also get personalized instruction and insider info on the mountain. Private guides can accommodate up to 5 people.

At Palisades:

• If it’s a powder day, be prepared to hit the lower mountain first. We always aim to get the lower mountain open as soon as possible after snowfall, so KT-22 or Red Dog will be the preferred lower-mountain lifts on powder days.
• If it’s sunny, do your midday refuel outside . On the mountain, 39 North at Gold Coast (the top of the Funitel) was recently redone and often has a snow beach setup in the spring. In The Village, you can choose from one of our several outdoor dining options and relax on one of our patios. Don’t forget to grab a Wildflour cookie as a quick dessert before you head back out!

At Alpine Meadows:

• Make sure you’ve got layers, snacks, sunscreen & water. At Alpine, your vehicle can be further away from the base area than at Palisades, and we have limited indoor spaces, so you’ll want to make sure you bring some on-mountain supplies with you in a small backpack.
• Skip the Alpine Lodge deck and hit The Chalet instead to maximize time on the mountain . Kick back at this on-mountain, Bavarian-style dining option. If it’s cold, you can cozy up by the fireplace, or if it’s nice out, you can relax at chairs and tables set up outside on the snow. Don’t miss the gain pretzels! When you’re finished with lunch, you can click back in and be skiing again in no time.

Spring Weather & Conditions

Make sure you’re tracking with the Palisades Tahoe app ! Spring days are all about taking hot laps of your favorite runs. Who knows, if you track the most vertical feet or the most runs in a day, you might win a prize from GoPro or Smith.

Don’t forget about terrain parks! At Alpine Meadows, be sure to hit the Tiegel Park. At Palisades, you can test your moves in the new Adventure Trail, the Riviera boardercross course, or in the legendary Gold Coast Terrain Park, which has more jumps than normal this year. Palisades also has a park off of the Belmont lift. Soft spring snow makes for great conditions for learning new tricks.

Finish out the day with outdoor dining & apres . The deck on the Alpine Meadows lodge is always a great spot to end your day. You can get to-go food from both Meadows Cafe while you soak up those last rays of sunshine. At Palisades, you can enjoy a mountain view from your spot on the dog-friendly patio at Rocker . You can also pick from one of the other patios we have available in The Village at Palisades Tahoe, like Fireside Pizza Co , the Auld Dubliner , or Tremigo Mexican Kitchen .

• Follow the sun for the best conditions. Your first stop should be Sun Bowl, the aptly-named, south-facing slope off of Headwall. Tower 16 is also primed for early sun exposure. Around midday, Siberia Ridge will have softened up. Later in the day, make your way to the north-facing slopes of Shirley Lake or Hogsback. After some time on the groomers, if you would like to go off-piste, stick to an area that’s been in the sun for a bit.
• Start with breakfast at Treats Cafe or Mogrog Cafe . After you eat, make sure that you’ve applied sunscreen and have the ability to shed a layer if you get too warm. Spring days can get hot quickly!
• Follow the sun for the best conditions. With cold March nights and warm, spring-like days, terrain that isn’t exposed to the sun can be firm. Try Sun Spot off of the Summit chair first thing in the morning. By 10:30 or 11am, South Face and the back bowls off Sherwood Chair will soften up. In the afternoon, try Scott Chute for a fun challenge.

Non-Ski Day Itineraries

In Olympic Valley:

• Start the morning slow and enjoy yourself. There’s no rush to get on the slopes in a timely manner today. Grab a coffee from Coffeebar or Starbucks in The Village at Palisades Tahoe to fuel up, and enjoy a leisurely morning walk.
• Hit the Cross Country Skiing course . Head to Snoventures to pick up a ticket for the XC course that winds its way through Olympic Valley. Pro Tip: Ikon Pass holders get to use this course for free!
• Take the kids snow tubing . Sign up for a 1-hr snow tubing slot for a fun, family-friendly activity. We recommend booking in advance. Pro Tip: Ikon Pass holders get discounted tubing on Thursdays.
• Still have energy? Go ice skating at the Everline Resort . One of our neighbor hotels in the Valley, the Everline Resort, has an ice rink that is open to the public . You’ll want to make a reservation to ensure that you get a spot.

In the Tahoe Area:

• Get breakfast at Jax’s on the Tracks in Truckee . Sit outside next to the historic railroad and enjoy classic diner fare. Afterward, you’ll want to spend some time walking through Historic Downtown Truckee, which boasts tons of local shops and businesses that are sure to catch your eye.
• Try out snowmobiling on Brockway Summit. If we’ve recently gotten some snow, you’ll want to head to the top of highway 267, where you can try your hand at snowmobiling. Advance reservations are required .
• Take the kids sledding . Just on the other side of 267, towards the lake, you can drive to North Tahoe Regional Park. For a $5 parking fee, you can access this popular sledding hill. Please remember to pack out any trash, and if your sled breaks, please take it with you and dispose of it properly.
• Don’t forget to enjoy some lakeside dining . Enjoy an early dinner and sit outdoors at a number of locations in Tahoe City, including Moe’s Barbecue, which often has live music or Jake’s on the Lake.

Recent Posts

• Experiences ·
• May 16, 2024 ·

Made in Tahoe Vendor Spotlight

• May 7, 2024 ·

Spring Skiing Capital Challenge Final Voting

• April 22, 2024 ·

Spring Après Guide

Our partners.

©2022 Palisades Tahoe

• San Francisco
• Travel Inspiration

This California Lake Is the Most Beautiful in the US, According to Instagram

It’s not a great lake, but it is great..

We’ve always known Lake Tahoe has it all . From pristine powder for snow sports in the winter to adventurous water sports and stunning backcountry hiking trails in the summer, it’s hard to not fall in love with the see-to-the-bottom, turquoise waters surrounded by a pine-covered Sierra Nevada mountain range.

Now this veritable paradise that straddles the border between California and Nevada has acquired a well-deserved honor. According to a new study by the vacation rental company Lake.com , Lake Tahoe is the most picturesque lake in the United States.

This first prize spot was determined by counting the number of hashtags relating to each US lake on Instagram posts. The hashtag #LakeTahoe racked in more than three million posts. This number one spot comes as no easy feat, seeing that there are a whopping 125,000 lakes across the lower 48 states.

In close second on the study is Lake Michigan , followed by Lake Superior in third place.

“It's remarkable to see how social media platforms like Instagram can showcase the captivating allure of these lakes,” said Lake.com CEO David Ciccarelli. “They inspire countless individuals to explore and appreciate the wonders of nature.”

Instagram isn’t the only platform that regularly posts about the picturesque lake. Redditors routinely call the spot “unreal” and post photos of perfectly blue water and sky. The hashtag Lake Tahoe on TikTok reveals more of the same: wood-heavy cabins and water that literally sparkles through glass-bottom canoes.

If this data piques your curiosity, this summer is the perfect time to plan a trip to the second deepest lake in the United States. Kayak, paddleboard, and jetski on the crystal clear waters, embark on scenic hikes, and test your luck at the casinos on the Nevada side of the lake. Oh, and of course, post plenty of pics on Instagram.

Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram , TikTok , Twitter , Facebook , Pinterest , and YouTube .

Primary links

• Nevada Politics
• Carson City Government Meetings TV
• Live Video Events
• Carson Now Videos
• Carson Public Access TV
• Nevada State Legislature Live Video
• Arts & Entertainment
• Health & Wellness
• Announcements
• Carson City Crime Map
• Monthly News Archive
• Lake Tahoe News
• Daily Crossword Puzzles
• Carson Weather
• REAL ESTATE
• Submit Stories/Photos
• About Carson City
• Things to Do in Carson City
• Lodging Information
• Visitor Guide

Western Days in South Lake Tahoe the kickoff to 75th annual Wagon Train

Join the Lake Tahoe Historical Society for the 3rd annual Western Days on Saturday, June 1 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the museum complex. Entry and activities are free.

There will be free tours of the museum, the 1930s log cabin, a peek into the 1860s Toll House, children's hands-on activities, horse-drawn carriage rides, craft vendors, music by the Cash Only Band and Whiskey Wolves, and western entertainment and storytelling by David and Gayle Woodruff.

Chow down on BBQ from Chicken in a Barrel and quench your thirst with a hard (or soft) beverage, or fill up your water bottles.

Open 10 a.m.

• Performances

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Cash Only Band 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. - "The Reno Cure" Chautauqua performance 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. - Whiskey Wolves

Hangtown Marshals Kids activities and games - learn how the younger set played along the prairie! Free horse-drawn carriage rides

Close: 4 p.m.

Parking is available at the South Lake Tahoe Recreation Center and along Rufus Allen Blvd. and Lyons Avenue. The museum is on the bike trail and at a bus stop, so consider leaving the car at home or using Lake Link.

On Sunday, June 2, the 75th annual Hwy 50 Wagon Train will be making its way from Lake Tahoe to Placerville. They will be leaving from their campsite at Round Hill at approximately 9 a.m. and will be escorted to Rufus Allen Blvd. where they will lunch along the road starting at about 11:30 a.m. Unfortunately, this year they cannot stop at the museum for lunch due to construction at the adjacent ambulance station. Once they rest, its on to Meyers on Sawmill Road where they will camp overnight (sorry, this is a private event).

On Monday, June 3, the Wagon Train makes its way west over Echo Summit. For more information on the Wagon Train, visit https://www.hwy50wagontrain.com/

Celebrate the history of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra!

The museum complex is located at 3058 Lake Tahoe Boulevard, South Lake Tahoe.

Carson Now daily email newsletter

Click here to get the latest news sent to your inbox every day

Top Stories

... or see all stories

Pine Nuts: Church of Divined Connections

Discover Andean Music with Kantu Inka during 3-week series at Carson City Senior Center