lake tahoe trip

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.

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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 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

Follow this itinerary for your summer trip to Lake Tahoe (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 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!

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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?

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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.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

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.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Liesure

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

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Your Trip to Lake Tahoe: The Complete Guide

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate

Where to Stay

Getting there.

• Top Things to Do
• Best Beaches
• Best Ski Resorts
• Snow Sports
• Top Restaurants

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."

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• Day Trip to Lake Tahoe: One Day Itinerary for All Seasons

Looking to make the most of your one day in Lake Tahoe?

Whether taking a day trip to Lake Tahoe from San Francisco or closer, you’ve landed in the right spot. I’ve crafted an action-packed one day itinerary for Lake Tahoe, highlighting the best things I experienced during my two getaways to this crazy clear lake.

The problem is Lake Tahoe is so different in the different seasons. Luckily for you, I went once in the summer on a California road trip and once in the winter for some New Year’s snowboarding. And I’ll have two itinerary versions for each season.

Let’s make the most of your limited time with an exciting day of activities, starting with a hike at Emerald State Park, water activities in South Lake Tahoe, and the best stops on a serene drive around the lake. Below that, I’ll also give you a rundown of the best winter activities in the area.

Sample One Day in Lake Tahoe Itinerary

So you have everything in one scroll, here is a summarized version on the summer and winter Lake Tahoe itineraries. Below, I will go into more detail about each activity.

Summer Day Trip to Lake Tahoe

A day trip in Lake Tahoe is enough time to drive around the whole lake and see the main highlights. But, I recommend sticking to the south and east sides of the lake so you have time for hiking and water activities. 

• Drive in from the south, as South Tahoe  will be where we spend most of the day.
• If you haven’t had breakfast yet, head to the  Driftwood Cafe  in South Lake Tahoe for their fan-favorite pancakes. 
• In  Emerald Bay State Park,  stop at the  Emerald Bay  and  Vikingholm Castle. 
• Go on a  morning hike on the Eagle Falls Trail , a popular trail to a beautiful waterfall. 
• Grab a bite at  Freshies Restaurant & Bar  for a Hawaiian-inspired menu with fantastic lake views.
• Rent a kayak or paddleboard, or go on a sailing trip on top of the clear lake waters.
• Start on the  scenic drive , hugging the east Lake Tahoe  coast up north.

Zephyr Cove

Cave rock beach.

• Sand Harbor Beach
• Clothing Optional:  Secret Cove Nude Beach

Recommended lodging options for the Night: South Lake Tahoe

• Luxury: Edgewood Tahoe Resort
• Mid-range: Marriott Grand Residence Club, Lake Tahoe
• Budget: The Coachman Hotel

Feel free to mix and match based on your interest and pace. The tour covers a lot of ground, so don’t rush.

Winter Day Trip to Lake Tahoe

Most people who come in the wintertime do so for winter activities. 

• Alternative:  Go on a guided snowshoe tour.
• Lunch:  I always love warming up in the ski lodges with some fries and chicken strips.
• Alternative:  Snowtubing is also one of my favorite winter activities. 
• Relax at a Spa:  Treat yourself to a massage at The Landing Resort & Spa.

Quick Facts about Visiting Lake Tahoe

Did you know that Lake Tahoe is over two million years old and is considered one of the 20 oldest lakes in the world? It’s also the largest alpine lake in North America, and so deep – a whopping 1,644 feet – it could cover the Empire State Building!

Nowadays, Lake Tahoe is a playground that offers everything from thrilling water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding in the summer to adrenaline-pumping snow activities like skiing and snowboarding in the winter. 

Its clear blue waters and the mountains surrounding it, combined with attractions such as Emerald Bay State Park and Heavenly Mountain Gondola, make it a popular destination for West Coastians especially. 

Driving Around Lake Tahoe

Driving around Lake Tahoe is an adventure in itself! The entire loop is approximately 72 miles. It typically takes about 3 hours to complete without any stops. 

But, with the views of the lake and the Sierra Nevada mountains, you’ll want to take your sweet time. That’s why I recommend starting at one end and working your way up only one side (the east side) if you are coming for a day.

What to Do in Lake Tahoe in One Day

Lake Tahoe truly transforms with the seasons. In summer, soak up the sun on its sandy beaches and go boating. In winter, the snowy wonderland invites you to strap on your skis and carve down its world-class slopes.

Below, I’ll go into more detail about the best things to do in Lake Tahoe, divided by its season and according to the itinerary crafted above.

Summer Lake Tahoe Itinerary

Morning: emerald bay state park.

Emerald Bay State Park is a must-visit in Lake Tahoe, especially in the summer. This park is home to some of the area’s most beautiful landscapes and hikes. 

Start your day snapping a pic at the panoramic views of the bay from the scenic overlook on Highway 89. I’m sure your first sight of the emerald green waters of the bay will amaze you as much as it did for me. 

Travel Tip!  There is a parking fee, and this place gets crowded in the summer.

Vikingholm Castle

Next, descend the trail to the shore, where you’ll find the historic Scandinavian-style mansion, Vikingholm Castle. Built in 1929, this 38-room mansion is one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the United States. 

Originally built as a summer home, the castle is now a part of California’s state park system and is open to the public. You can reach the castle by a steep one-mile trail that descends about 500 feet from the parking area. 

Then, you can take a castle tour or just wander around alone. 

Travel Tip!  The castle is open for tours from late May through the end of September. 

Eagle Falls Trail

Also within the park is the popular Eagle Falls Trail. This hiking trail is a fan-favorite and one of the best in all of Lake Tahoe. The path leads you to fantastic views of high-altitude lakes and waterfalls towards Eagle Lake. 

Eagle Falls Trail is a relatively easy trail that takes about 2 hours to complete, covering a distance of about 2 miles round trip. After a few minutes, you’ll already have a great view of the lower falls and another amazing one of the Upper Falls at the end. You’ll have a complete panorama of Emerald Bay, Fannette Island, and Lake Tahoe in the distance.

Mid-Day: Lake Activities

After hiking, stop for lunch, then cool off with a refreshing swim. You can stay in Emerald State Park, South Lake Tahoe, or beyond. 

Many activities can be done on or around the lake at many beaches. You can get your adrenaline flowing by renting a speedboat for the day or try out water skiing, wakeboarding, or tubing. 

Here are a few of the best activities:

Sailing Cruise Around Lake Tahoe

There is no better way to take in the beauty of Lake Tahoe than aboard a sailboat. Many sailing cruises depart from various ports around the lake.

Depending on your pick, you’ll get to put your feet up and relax or participate in activities such as winetasting, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, and more.

This sailing cruise on Lake Tahoe is a very popular choice in the area. You’ll go out onto the water for two hours on a 40-foot sailboat.

Kayak or Paddleboarding

For those looking for a bit of activity on the water, head out in your own kayak or paddleboard. The Lake Tahoe coastline is dotted with many rental shops that offer hourly to full-day rentals. Paddle over to hidden beaches and secret coves.

Otherwise, you can take this guided kayak tour from Sand Harbor , where you’ll paddle in a completely transparent kayak.

Afternoon: East Lake Tahoe Scenic Drive

After an exciting day on the water, go for that scenic drive along the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe. Head out of South Lake Tahoe, taking Highway 50 towards Carson City. 

Along this route, the road weaves through the mountains with numerous overlooks to stop at.

Zephyr Cove is renowned for its beautiful beach and another place with exciting water sports. The wide sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing or a stroll by the lake. 

The Zephyr Cove Stables also has horseback rides that lead you through beautiful forest trails with amazing lake views. 

A bit further along the road, you’ll find Cave Rock Beach, a massive cavernous rock formation extending into the lake. The rock itself is a spiritual and historic site for the local Washoe tribe and has a unique geology that dates back millions of years.

Cave Rock Beach itself is small but a beautiful sandy beach. It’s also a favorite spot for fishing. The short Cave Rock trail also starts in a small parking lot on the west side of Highway 50 just before you reach the tunnel. 

This moderate hike is about 0.8 miles round trip and goes to one of the most accessible top-down views of Lake Tahoe and its shorelines.

Sand Harbor State Park

If you are following this route, Sand Harbor should be the last major stop on your drive. The park has gorgeous sandy beaches, rock formations that frame the shoreline, and turquoise waters. I would definitely include it in any Lake Tahoe itinerary. 

Another highlight of the park is the Sand Point Nature Trail, a short, half-mile trail that takes about 30 minutes to finish.

You can find any and all water activities here. In the summer, the park hosts a Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival. You can catch performances in an open-air theater overlooking the lake. 

From here, if you are headed back towards beautiful West California , you can pop out on the north end and keep driving west. If not, you can retrace your steps back to South Lake Tahoe.

Winter Lake Tahoe Itinerary

Winter road conditions might be icy, so going all around the lake or up steep mountain passes can be a bit scary.

All Day: Ski and Snowboard at World-Class Resorts

Lake Tahoe is renowned as a hub for winter sports, hosting an array of world-class ski and snowboard resorts. These resorts cater to all skill levels, from beginner slopes to challenging black diamond runs. 

Many resorts also have other activities like snow tubing and sleigh rides. 

I’m a very big snowboarder and have been since I was 8 years old. Around Lake Tahoe, I went to Palisades Resort and Heavenly, some of my favorites in the country.

Travel Tip!  If you’re going many times a season, I recommend getting the Ikon or Epic Pass as this gives you access to multiple resorts in the area. Or, opt for single-day lift tickets.

Lake Tahoe is home to 15 ski resorts, which is just insane.  But the best would be Heavenly, Northstar, Palisades Tahoe (formerly Squaw Valley), and Kirkwood. 

The complete list of resorts includes:

• Alpine Meadows Ski Resort : Known for its diverse terrain and scenic views.
• Boreal Mountain Resort : A family-friendly destination, Boreal is renowned for its night skiing.
• Diamond Peak Ski Resort : Breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe.
• Donner Ski Ranch : One of the West’s oldest and most iconic ski areas.
• Granlibakken Resort : A historic ski and sled area in a dense forest.
• Heavenly Mountain Resort : The largest ski resort in California and Nevada.
• Homewood Mountain Resort : Unobstructed views of Lake Tahoe from every trail.
• Kirkwood Mountain Resort : Famous for its deep snow and challenging terrain.
• Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe : The closest ski resort to Reno, NV.
• Northstar California Resort : Luxury accommodations and high-end dining facilities.
• Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort : Known for its welcoming atmosphere and innovative terrain parks.
• Soda Springs Mountain Resort : Great for families and first-timers.
• Squaw Valley Ski Resort : Hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics.
• Sugar Bowl Resort : One of the oldest ski resorts in California.
• Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area : A great place for beginner skiers and snowboarders.

Alternative Activity: Snoeshowing Lake Tahoe

If smashing your tailbone all day isn’t your thing, or you’re just looking for a change of pace, snowshoeing is another fun winter thing to do around Lake Tahoe. 

Hands down, one of the best places to snowshoe is around the frozen Echo Lakes.  Mount Tallac Trail  is an excellent choice as a more challenging option that will take you to the top of Mount Tallac, the highest peak in the area. 

If you have no experience (but are looking to), take this guided snowshoeing tour, which will provide equipment and lessons .

Ice Skating Lake Tahoe

On the list of delightful winter activities around Lake Tahoe, you can’t miss ice skating. I used to compete back in the day, so I always love showing off to my friends who have no clue about my past axel attempts (which, by the way, I never quite nailed).

Around the lake, several outdoor and indoor ice skating rinks cater to skaters of all levels and provide skate rentals. 

Spas Around Tahoe

Rest those burnt-out thighs with a rejuvenating spa treatment. I love going for massages and a sauna after being cold all day, and Lake Tahoe has lots of top-quality spas and services.

Here are a few:

• Spa at Squaw Creek
• Stillwater Spa and Salon
• The Landing Resort and Spa  
• Elements Spa

Places to Visit with More Time

Other places around lake tahoe.

• Taylor Creek Visitor Center : A popular spot for nature walks and bird watching.
• Truckee River : Go rafting, kayaking, and fishing.
• Tahoe Rim Trail : A 165-mile trail that circles Lake Tahoe.
• Kings Beach State Recreation Area : A popular place to swim and do watersports.
• Tahoe City : A quaint town on the lake’s shore.
• Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park : A vast park with hiking trails and lake overlooks.
• Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point state park : A state park with miles of hiking trails, a historic mansion, and a beautiful beach.

Day Trips from Lake Tahoe

• Sacramento, California : The state’s capital has many attractions, including the historic Old Sacramento Waterfront, the California State Railroad Museum, and the State Capitol Museum.
• Reno, Nevada : Known as “The Biggest Little City in the World”, Reno has a great arts scene and is home to the National Automobile Museum.
• Sierra Hot Springs:  Drive down Highway 395 for crazy cool hot springs like Travertine and Wild Willy’s.
• Virginia City, Nevada : A historic mining town to explore old saloons, visit the Virginia and Truckee Railroad, and try your luck panning for gold.
• Yosemite National Park : Although it’s a longer drive, the beauty of Yosemite’s waterfalls, valleys, meadows, and giant sequoias is well worth the trip.
• Napa Valley, California : World-renowned for its vineyards and wineries, go wine tasting and fine dining.
• Monterey, California : Famous for its beautiful coastlines, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and historic Cannery Row.

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe

I stayed in South Lake Tahoe because of how close it was to numerous ski resorts, beaches, and nightlife. I think this is the best place with the most options. That’s why I’ve given a few top options below based on different budgets.

In the north, Tahoe Vista is more laid-back and is close to several parks, beaches, and hiking trails. Northstar California Resort area is where the luxury experience is at.

Best Hotels in South Lake Tahoe

Is 1 day enough for lake tahoe.

More than one day is needed for Lake Tahoe, especially because you are likely driving in from a few hours away. The region is brimming with activities and attractions in all seasons, and many people vacation here for a week or even more.

A day can be enough if you want to do a highlights tour or go skiing or snowboarding at one of the acclaimed resorts. But with more days, I recommend driving the entire Lake Tahoe Look, going on more hikes, or checking out other activities. 

Best Time To Visit

Lake Tahoe really is a year-round destination, so the best time to visit depends on what you want to do. 

In summer (June-August), the weather is sunny and great for hiking, water sports, and beach days. However, this is the peak season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

In winter (December-February), Lake Tahoe transforms into a winter wonderland with plenty of snow for skiing and other snow activities. This is also a popular time to visit, especially around Christmas and New Year’s. It also gets crazy expensive. 

How to Get There

Lake Tahoe is situated near several major cities. If you’re flying, the nearest significant airports are Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) in Nevada, approximately an hour away, and Sacramento International Airport (SMF) in California, about two hours away.

Many people go on a day trip to Lake Tahoe from San Francisco or Sacramento through beautiful landscapes. 

I don’t recommend public transportation, but several shuttle services operate from the airports to the Lake Tahoe region. Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit ( TART ) provides service throughout North Lake Tahoe, and Tahoe Transportation District ( TTD ) covers the south.

Final Thoughts: One Day in Lake Tahoe

Whether you’re coming in the summer or winter, come prepared to enjoy the great outdoors. Since I’ve been in both seasons, I can’t even make a final judgement into which I liked better since it was so different. The focus was so much more on the lake in summer, while in winter, it was on the mountain.

And if you have time constraints at Lake Tahoe because you’re seeing other destinations in California, continue to our next article. 

Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in California?

I’ve lived and vanlifed around, about, and through all of California for 3 years. If you’re looking for more information on California, check out these other destination itineraries.

• Perfect One Day In Lassen Volcanic National Park Itinerary
• Perfect One Day In Redwood National Park Itinerary
• Perfect One Day In Joshua Tree Itinerary For First-Timers
• One Day In Death Valley Itinerary For Adventurers
• Perfect One Day in San Diego Itinerary: What Not to Miss
• Perfect One Day in San Francisco Itinerary for First Timers
• Perfect Day Trip to Sonoma Itinerary for Wine Lovers
• Perfect Day Trip to Napa Valley Itinerary for Wine Lovers
• Perfect One Day in Los Angeles Itinerary from a Local

Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.

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Perfect 3 Days In Lake Tahoe Itinerary

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Apr 7, 2023 | North America , Travel Tips , United States

Traveling to Lake Tahoe soon? In this post, we’ll discuss the best time to visit Lake Tahoe and we’ll present our recommended itinerary for 3 days.

Lake Tahoe is a hidden gem in the United States’ western part, sitting between Nevada and California. It’s a massive lake in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, 6,000 feet above sea level.

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Surrounding the lake, you will find endless activities, viewpoints, restaurants, nature, and fun. The best part – it is a year-round destination, as it has activities for both the snow and the sun! 

In this guide, you’ll find the perfect itinerary for 3 days in Lake Tahoe . It offers everything from skiing to beaches. 

Anyone who visits is amazed by its natural beauty. Beautiful nature, crystal clear water, and endless activities, why would anyone want to leave?

Before we start, let’s talk about the best time to visit Lake Tahoe and the recommended length of stay.

Best Time To Visit Lake Tahoe

As mentioned before, Lake Tahoe has numerous outdoor and indoor activities all year round!  If we had to pick the best time to visit Lake Tahoe, we would say the summer!

The summer, mainly July and August, is the peak season for tourists and it can get really crowded! The end of May and early June are quieter, and you can still enjoy the gorgeous weather without the large crowds.

If you prefer colder activities, the winter is a great time to visit. You can do all the winter classics, snowboarding, skiing, ice skating, snowmobiling, and so much more!

After deciding when to visit, you can think about where you want to stay . The South shore is more touristy with casinos, budget hotels, and more nightlife.

The North shore has more outdoor activities and is quieter as it has more local people. However, you will find the area more expensive. Wherever you stay, you can access sites anywhere in the area.

How Many Days In Lake Tahoe

If you’re wondering how many days in Lake Tahoe you’ll need, we recommend a minimum of 3 days. Of course, it depends on the activities you want to do in Lake Tahoe as well as your arrival and departure time.

This is why we recommend you make a list of the things you wish to do in Lake Tahoe and you’ll have a better idea of your ideal length of stay. 

If you wish to hike around, take it easy or just enjoy the views, you may want to add a couple of days.

The following Lake Tahoe Itinerary is for 3 days. You can adapt it to the number of days you’ll have.

Lake Tahoe Day 1 

Our first day will start with a visit to Emerald Bay State Park . Emerald Bay State Park is about a 25-minute drive from South Lake Tahoe, and there is enough to do for you to spend the whole day here.

This is a stunning site – a gorgeous turquoise lake with spectacular mountains painting the backdrop for this stop.

There are many things to do in this state park, but one of the most popular attractions is Vikingsholm Castle. The history and architecture of the castle make it a sought-after attraction.

If you enjoy history, make sure to check out this castle!

There are so many activities to do in Emerald Bay State Park! Numerous hikes, water sports, biking trails – choose your favorite activity and cater the experience for you!

Of course, one of the best ways to experience the beautiful lake is to get in it!

You can take a relaxing boat cruise to sit back and take in the views. If you’re looking for a little more action, you can rent a paddleboard or a kayak.

Now for the hikes, there are so many options! Hike Eagle Lake Trail , which will lead you to Eagle Falls. You’ll find some beautiful views – waterfalls, lush green scenery, fantastic rock formations, and more to enjoy. 

Rent a kayak to get to Fannette Island , which is the only island on Lake Tahoe.

There is a small house at the top of the island, which gives you an amazing 360 view of your surroundings. There are also numerous points to jump off into the lake for added fun.

Travel Tip – Download the All Trails App on your phone to make the most of all the trails and make sure you don’t miss out!

Lake Tahoe Day 2

Today, visit Van Sickle Bi State Park , which is a stunning state park overlooking Lake Tahoe. The park sits between Nevada and California. You can even stand on the line between the two states!

The Van Sickle Trail is great for hikers of all abilities. For a shorter hike, hike to the waterfall and appreciate the beauty of the waterfall along with views of the Lake – visitors can do this hike in 90 minutes.

If you’re looking for a longer trek,  continue to follow the trail to enjoy more vista points and breathtaking views.

If you are looking for winter activities, you can check out Squaw Valley . Squaw Valley was the site for the 1960 Winter Olympics. There is an aerial tram ride, giving you gorgeous views of the mountains and Lake Tahoe.

A hotel, The Village, offers excellent restaurants and lots of activities! 

A short drive away from Squaw Valley is the town of Truckee , a cute stop with a lovely old town area. Truckee is a touristy town with lots of cute shops and restaurants – a great place to relax after a busy day!

If you still have some energy left, there is a river in Truckee you can go tubing down. 

Lake Tahoe Day 3

To end your trip in Lake Tahoe, time for a challenge – hiking Mount Tallac . It’s the largest mountain in Lake Tahoe. If you are a complete beginner at hiking, you will find this hike challenging.

Even seasoned hikers may find this hike demanding but the result is worth it.  When you reach the mountain’s summit, everything is amazing- the views, the atmosphere, the calmness – all of it! 

The hike is about 10 miles in total. There are a few viewpoints on the way to the top, but the real beauty is at the top.

Make sure to bring a lot of water and wear the appropriate clothing – it can get cold at the top!

Final Thoughts On Lake Tahoe Itinerary

Travelers cannot understand Lake Tahoe’s beauty until they go and see it for themselves! There are numerous activities for you to enjoy the outdoors, no matter what time of year. 

We hope you enjoyed this Lake Tahoe itinerary and that you’ll enjoy your vacation in Lake Tahoe!

By the way, did you know that Lake Tahoe is an excellent destination for a honeymoon or to elope? Read our guide to find out how to elope in Lake Tahoe .

Need more travel inspiration? Read one of the following blog posts:

• Niagara Falls itinerary
• Jackson Hole itinerary
• Questions for couples on a road-trip
• Best hikes in Lake Tahoe

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CALIFORNIA , LAKE TAHOE , NORTH AMERICA , UNITED STATES · January 29, 2021 Last Updated on August 30, 2024

THE ULTIMATE LAKE TAHOE GUIDE

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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. 

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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 – Take in the incredible views over Lake Tahoe with this Emerald Bay Helicopter Tour ! There’s no better way to experience the beauty of Lake Tahoe than from the sky.
• 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.
• Lanza’s Restaurant – Great family style Italian food in Kings Beach, reasonably prices, big portions, fun, lively atmosphere. 
• Old Range Steakhouse – An upscale, vintage steakhouse located in Tahoe Vista. Aged meats, prime rib, full cocktail bar and our famous wall of wines. Great spot for a date night!
• 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.

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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

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Lake Tahoe   Travel Guide

Courtesy of MariuszBlach | Getty Images

Why Go To Lake Tahoe

Incredible, extraordinary, mind-boggling … try as you might, you'll have difficulty finding words that do justice to the sheer beauty of Lake Tahoe. Resting on the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe has long been a favorite vacation spot, welcoming about 15 million visitors each year. Travelers are drawn here by the steep granite cliff sides and towering mountaintops, as well as the crystal-clear waters that have earned Lake Tahoe the reputation of being one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the United States. While the stunning blue lake alone is worth a trip, the surrounding area, also known as Lake Tahoe, boasts miles of hiking trails, dozens of picture-perfect vistas and some of the best skiing in North America.

But wait – there's more. Lake Tahoe seems to have adopted the major traits of its neighbors. You'll find  San Francisco -style high-end shopping and dining along the lake's north shore, while opportunities to test your luck reside in the south shore's  Reno -esque casinos. You'll also find plenty of activities that Lake Tahoe is proud to take credit for, including mountain gondola rides, hot air balloon adventures and scenic cruises across the mirror-like water.

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• # 2 in Best Places to Visit in California for 2024
• # 3 in Best Places to Visit in June
• # 4 in Best Winter Family Vacations

See All 13 Rankings

Best of Lake Tahoe

Best hotels in lake tahoe.

• # 1 in The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe
• # 2 in Edgewood Tahoe Resort
• # 3 in Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino

Best Things to Do in Lake Tahoe

• # 1 in Emerald Bay State Park
• # 2 in Sand Harbor State Park
• # 3 in Incline Village

Popular Tours

Lake Tahoe Emerald Bay Scenic Cruise

(106 reviews)

from $ 99.00

Lake Tahoe Sunset Dinner Cruise

(59 reviews)

from $ 140.00

Clear Kayak Paddle Tour at Sand Harbor

(99 reviews)

from $ 150.00

Lake Tahoe Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Lake Tahoe are from March to May and from September to November, but the area welcomes visitors throughout the year thanks to the wide variety of attractions and activities. With warmer weather comes beachcombers: In July and August, Tahoe's shores are lined with oversized umbrellas and sun-drenched kids. There's a small break in tourist activity during the fall, but as the temperatures decline, visitors re-emerge with skis in hand, ready to tackle the powder. Traveling in early March or early to mid-November specifically will allow you to experience the area at a fraction of the price.

Weather in Lake Tahoe

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

It's big This massive lake spans almost 200 square miles. To get the most out of your visit, choose an area and stay there – you can always come back for more.

It's cold Lake Tahoe's waters can feel like ice: Even in the summer, the lake's temperature barely reaches 70 degrees. If you're swimming, make sure to take frequent breaks to warm up.

It's expensive A Lake Tahoe vacation will put a rather hefty dent in your bank account; save accordingly and book as far in advance as possible to score a deal.

How to Save Money in Lake Tahoe

Head south  South Lake Tahoe is jam-packed with budget-friendly hotels and restaurants. Sure, they're not as glitzy as the places you'll find in Tahoe City or Incline Village, but your wallet will thank you.

Stay and ski  Lift tickets at Lake Tahoe's ski areas are expensive. However, many resorts offer combo packages, so check ahead when booking your room.

Visit during the week  You're more likely to score deals on hotels and lift tickets if you avoid the weekend crowds. A post peak season spring visit (in March or April) will also save you a bundle.

What to Eat

Whichever side of the state line you're on, you'll have a variety of dining options at your fingertips. Of course, if you're vacationing at a resort, it's easy to stay put and enjoy the hotel's restaurants without having to set foot off the property, but it's definitely worth getting out and exploring. Without a doubt, dining lakeside is quite popular, and happily, there are a range of options from high-end to casual, to suit all budgets.

Jason's Beachside Grille , which sits on Kings Beach in North Lake Tahoe, is a fun, casual spot on the water. Recent visitors raved about the large potions and reasonable prices, although there were mixed reviews about the customer service. In the summer, there's outdoor seating and live music on the weekends. If it's fine dining you're after, head to Le Bistro in Incline Village. It offers a romantic setting with a menu featuring classic French dishes like escargot and coq au vin. The chef sources local, seasonal and organic produce and meats. 

Before heading out for a day of skiing or other outdoor adventures, a hearty breakfast is essential. In South Lake Tahoe, a local favorite is the Getaway Cafe , which serves what it calls "alpine comfort cuisine." Almost everything is homemade and the restaurant is known for its large Mexican breakfast specialties, with dishes like chilaquiles, which are composed of fresh corn tortillas that are fried, topped with sour cream, avocado and red onion and served with refried beans and eggs. The coconut French toast is another popular dish. Another mainstay to fuel up for the day is the Driftwood Café . Eggs benedict and potato pancakes are signature dishes.

The area also has its share of food, wine and beer festivals, such as the Tahoe Brewfest in summer and Brews, Jazz & Funk Fest  in August. Craft beer lovers might also want to check out the North Lake Tahoe Ale Trail. The tourism board has a helpful online map , which features more than a dozen spots to quench your thirst and sample local beer and food. There's also a South Tahoe Beer Trail, with another handy map . Any of the recommended spots offer a great way to unwind after a day hitting the slopes.

Getting Around Lake Tahoe

The best way to get around Lake Tahoe is by car. Because there are more than 70 miles of shoreline at just the lake alone, you'll find that having your own set of wheels will be most convenient. You can rent a car at the Reno/Tahoe International Airport (RNO) about 50 miles northeast of Tahoe City. To get from the airport to your accommodations in Tahoe, you can rent a car, take a cab (ride-hailing services, Uber and Lyft, also operate in the area) or hop on a shuttle. The South Tahoe Airporter offers frequent trips between the Reno airport and six resorts in South Lake Tahoe for about $30 per person one way. Meanwhile, the North Lake Tahoe Express offers service between the Reno airport and the North Lake Tahoe-Truckee region for around $100 per person one way. There is a city bus that connects the airport to downtown Reno.

The Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit (TART) provides public bus services, but only around the north shore. Lake Link – a free, on-demand shuttle bus – provides transport to passengers in South Lake Tahoe.

With a pristine lake and epic mountain activities, Lake Tahoe is a premier destination any time of year.

Explore More of Lake Tahoe

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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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!

Ultimate California Bucket List – 101 Things to Do

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

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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!)

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A Scenic Lake Tahoe Itinerary: 1-3 Days in Tahoe

By: Author Taylor Lorenz

Posted on Last updated: 04/29/2022

Lake Tahoe is one of California’s most beautiful nature spots and a haven for hikers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts. As North America’s largest alpine lake (and second deepest after Crater Lake in Oregon), there is undoubtedly much to see and do with 72 miles of shoreline, multiple state parks, and a vast mountain range. But don’t let the abundance of things to do in Lake Tahoe make planning your first day trip or weekend in Lake Tahoe overwhelming.

Fear not, though, as we’re here to share what to do in Lake Tahoe on a short road trip. Read on to discover the best Lake Tahoe itinerary for one, two, or three days.

Table of Contents

Lake Tahoe 1 Day Itinerary

With just one day, your Lake Tahoe itinerary will be pretty fast-paced. While you won’t be able to see everything, you’ll undoubtedly be able to check out the highlights, such as Sand Harbor, Eagle Falls, and Emerald Bay which will take you from North Lake Tahoe to South Tahoe so you’ll get a great idea of the sights on the west coast of the lake.

But first: Just know that I’ve got plenty more California trip guides where this one came from!

Beaches: Sand Harbor, Secret Cove, Chimney Beach & Zephyr Cove

You have a few beach options to begin your trip! You could spend the morning in the northeast of the lake, enjoying the crystal-clear waters and long sandy beaches of Sand Harbor. The shoreline here gives a magnificent panoramic view of the lake and is beautiful all year round. In the winter, you can enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride along the snow-covered beach.

In the summer, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard from Sand Harbor Rentals and explore the rocky coves. Also, check out Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival to see if there is a show on while you’re here. Outdoor performances happen most evenings in July and August right in the park.

During peak season, Sand Harbor gets pretty crowded, as it’s only 3 miles south of Incline Village, one of the top areas to stay, which is why we recommend beginning your day here. Arrive as early as possible to experience the harbor while it’s still peaceful. Other nearby options (beach hopping anyone?) are Chimney Beach & Secret Cove Beach, but note that Secret Cove Beach is a nude beach!

Or, if you want to escape the crowds altogether, take the nearby Skunk Harbor Trail to discover one of Tahoe’s most hidden beaches. Alternatively, Zephyr Cove is 25 minutes south of Sand Harbor and is a great choice as you can rent lots of water equipment here and it’s closer to the next stop!

Heavenly Mountain Gondola

The 2.4-mile gondola ride up Heavenly Mountain is undoubtedly one of the most popular Lake Tahoe attractions. The 8-passenger glass cabin departs from Heavenly Village in South Lake Tahoe and takes you up to an observation deck sitting 9,123 feet above sea level. 

Here you can take in the breathtaking perspective of the lake and incredible views out to Carson Valley and the Desolation Wilderness. There is also a cafe at the observation deck where you can enjoy a coffee or cocktail with the best landscape in town. 

Eagle Falls and Eagle Lake

Eagle Falls within Emerald Bay State Park is another of the most popular things to do in Lake Tahoe for daytrippers. It takes just one hour to hike from the falls to the lake and back. This natural lake is perfect for cooling off during the hot summer months, and the water has a mirror effect, reflecting the surrounding mountains and trees for a truly breathtaking view.

However, if you’re short on time, you can skip the lake and just drive to the trailhead at the falls to admire the gorgeous waterfall up close. 

Sunset cruise in Emerald Bay

Conclude your Lake Tahoe day trip by catching the sunset in the best spot in the state, Emerald Bay. As the sun goes down, the lake reflects the sky’s ever-changing colors, creating one of the most memorable Lake Tahoe sights. 

The best way to enjoy the sunset at Emerald Bay is onboard the famous Tahoe Bleu Wave yacht . You’ll cruise 11 kilometers of the lake, see the sky turn from day to night, and maybe even spot some native wildlife.

Lake Tahoe 2 Day Itinerary

On a Lake Tahoe weekend getaway, you can explore extra attractions and spend more time in nature. If you’re visiting in the summer, check out the beaches and coves and enjoy a picnic by the shoreline. Or, if you’re coming in the winter, head up to the mountains and spend a day on one of Lake Tahoe’s famous ski resorts.

Sunrise at Inspiration Point

Resist the temptation to sleep in, and instead, head to Inspiration Point in Emerald Bay State Park before it gets light. Inspiration Point is set in the tall pines 600 feet above Lake Tahoe. The east-facing direction means you’ll see the sunrise behind the Sierra Mountains in the background. As well as being the best spot to see dawn break, visiting Inspiration Point early in the morning makes for a much more tranquil experience before the crowds arrive. 

Cascade Falls

Cascade Falls is a quieter but equally beautiful alternative to Eagle Falls. Located just by Inspiration Point, it makes sense to check out this waterfall before leaving Emerald Bay. It’s a short and easy walk down to the falls, starting at Bayview Campground opposite the Inspiration Point parking lot. The entire trail is incredibly scenic, too, so be sure to include this natural wonder on your Lake Tahoe itinerary.

Kings Beach

As the most loved beach in the area, Kings Beach is a must-see on any 2-day Lake Tahoe summer itinerary. The long stretch of sand in the north of the lake gets sunshine from morning until late afternoon, giving you plenty of opportunities to catch a tan. However, if it gets too hot, the pine tree backdrop means you don’t have to go far to find a shady spot either. 

The beach is well equipped for visitors, with plenty of parking, public restrooms, and a shaded picnic area with barbecues. It’s a safe spot for swimming, and there are places to rent kayaks and paddleboards from here. What’s more, Kings Beach town is full of independent boutiques and awesome restaurants. So if you don’t fancy the hassle of doing a barbeque on the beach, you can enjoy the splendid food options in town.

Alpine Skiing

Suppose it’s not beach weather during your Lake Tahoe weekend getaway. In that case, naturally, you’ll prefer to head into the mountains than to the shoreline. There are many excellent ski resorts around Lake Tahoe, but Squaw Valley (Palisades Tahoe) is perhaps the most popular. 

As the 1960 Winter Olympics site, you’re bound to have an incredible skiing experience here, whether it’s your 1st, 10th, or 100th time hitting the slopes. Here you’ll have 34 lifts and 6,000 skiable acres with slopes for all levels and classes available for beginners. Squaw Valley has a super fun ski town feel, too, so be sure to finish the day with an “apres-ski” in one of the resort’s cozy bars. 

Lake Tahoe 3 Day Itinerary

A 3-day Lake Tahoe trip itinerary can feature lesser-known sites like the hidden Vikingsholm Castle. Plus, if you’re an avid hiker, you can use this extra time to tackle one of the longer and more strenuous trails like Rubicon. Alternatively, you might even decide to climb one of the tallest peaks in the park, like Mount Rose or Mount Tallac.

Rubicon Trail

One of the most popular routes for hiking in Lake Tahoe is the Rubicon Trail. The route follows the western shore but is set high above the water, resulting in incredible lake views. If you have the time to complete it, this 10-mile hike from D.L. Bliss State Park to Emerald Bay State Park is an excellent way to see a large part of the lake. 

Vikingsholm Castle

Most tourists coming to Lake Tahoe for a day totally miss this abandoned castle. Vikingsholm is a 38-room mansion hidden by the trees on the sandy shore of Emerald Bay with a truly enchanting feel. It’s also open for tours during the summer months, so you can check out the fascinating interior. It’s also easy to get to, with a leisurely 1-mile downhill stroll, so it is totally worth adding this cool attraction to your Tahoe itinerary.

Van Sickle Bi-State Park

Van Sickle Bi-State Park sits right on the border of California and Nevada, with the entrance close to Heavenly Resort in South Lake Tahoe. It’s a fantastic place to spend an afternoon as there’s plenty to do and see here. You can go hiking or horseback riding between the two states or explore the park’s ancient buildings, such as the historic barn from the Van Sickle farm.

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe

There are several best places to stay in Lake Tahoe , but the most popular area is undoubtedly South Lake Tahoe. Here you are close to all the attractions of Emerald Bay State Park, the famous Heavenly Ski Village, and plenty of restaurants and bars. So, no matter what you’re coming for or what time of year, you’ll always be in the heart of the action in South Lake Tahoe.

Here are the top picks for hotels and resorts in South Lake Tahoe, covering all budgets.

Luxury: The Landing Resort and Spa is a beachfront hotel with 5-star views, service, and facilities. The resort has an on-site spa with a hot tub, a heated outdoor pool, and a rooftop terrace. 

Mid-range: The 3-star Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel offers value for money suites with private balconies in one of the most convenient locations, at the base of Heavenly Mountain Resort. Highlights include an expansive breakfast buffet spread, an indoor heated pool, and a hot tub.

Budget: Bluelake Inn in Heavenly Village offers clean and comfortable motel-style rooms for an excellent price. Guests can enjoy the use of the seasonal outdoor pool and hot tub and tasty breakfast each day, too.

Lake Tahoe FAQs

If you’re tight on time, 2 days in Lake Tahoe will suffice, but if your timeline allows it, it’s best visited over a long weekend, 3 days being ideal. Of course, more time can always be spent here, there’s enough to do!

This destination is spectacular to visit year-round thanks to the numerous activities that change with the seasons. The shoulder seasons offer the best time to visit Lake Tahoe, from March-May, and Septmber-November. Both seasons offer good weather and fewer crowds.

Enjoy your trip to Lake Tahoe!

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The Perfect Itinerary for 2 Days in Lake Tahoe in the Summer

Your detailed Lake Tahoe itinerary for a summer weekend in the Sierras, including the best things to do, places to eat, and where to stay.

Lake Tahoe Summer Itinerary

Lake Tahoe is one of the most popular places to visit in California and a favorite weekend getaway from San Francisco . And it’s easy to see why with the amount of natural beauty to be found in the area and the year-round attractions for families, couples, and adventurous travelers around the lake.

Nestled in the Sierra Nevadas, Lake Tahoe straddles the California and Nevada state line. Since gambling is legal in Nevada, numerous casinos have popped up on the Nevada side of the lake for those who are looking to test their luck. But gambling isn’t the only thing that makes Lake Tahoe such an attractive destination to visit in California.

From snowboarding, skiing, snowshoeing, gondolas, and cozy cabins in the winter, to hiking, water sports, lazy beach days, and hot weather in the summer, there’s a lot to love about Lake Tahoe – no matter the season.

When people say Lake Tahoe, they’re usually referring to South Lake Tahoe. The lake is huge (72 miles) and takes three hours to drive around, so visitors tend to base themselves in South or North Lake Tahoe.

South Lake Tahoe is by far the most popular area of the lake to visit and has a lot of attractions, beaches, and hikes to enjoy, so I always recommend starting there if it’s your first time in Lake Tahoe.

For that reason, this 2-day itinerary focuses on how to spend a summer weekend in South Lake Tahoe to soak up the best scenery and attractions in the area.

Let’s dive in!

Travel Tips for Lake Tahoe

• Book accommodation early and expect it to be busy – Summer is Lake Tahoe’s high season so expect it to be fairly busy. In the summer, there’s usually some traffic to and from Lake Tahoe. It’s also good to book accommodation far in advance. If you can visit Lake Tahoe during the week instead of the weekend, even better. If you go on the weekend and you’re coming from San Francisco, try to leave before noon on Friday from the Bay Area.
• Bring layers and a warm jacket – Even during the summer when the weather is hot during the day, nights are often cool. Make sure to bring a jacket to bundle up once the sun goes down. It’s also good to bring at least one pair of warmer shoes besides flip flops that can be used for activities and easy hikes around the lake ( I’m personally a fan of Allbirds ).
• Drink plenty of water – At over 6,200 feet, the higher elevation of South Lake Tahoe means that dehydration is common. Drink more water than you normally would and bring extra water with you if you plan to go hiking.
• Protect yourself from the sun – It’s easier to get sunburned at higher altitudes, so lather on plenty of sunscreen, bring a hat, sunglasses, and some aloe vera just in case (especially if you tend to sunburn easily like me).
• Plan how you want to get around – If you’re staying near downtown South Lake Tahoe, it’s a fairly walkable area that can easily be explored by your own two feet. If you want to explore outside the downtown area though, it’s best to have your own car. There is public transport in Lake Tahoe but it’s not the fastest or most convenient way to get around. It also won’t take you to the more off-the-beaten-path trailheads and beaches. There are both Lyfts and Ubers in South Lake Tahoe too, which are ideal to use after a night at the casinos or bars.
• Check conditions ahead of time for the possibility of forest fires – In the summer, it’s not uncommon for forest fires to happen near Lake Tahoe. Check conditions and air quality ahead of time before you head up to the lake.

A 2-Day Itinerary for Lake Tahoe in the Summer

Lake tahoe itinerary: day 1.

The hike starts near Emerald Bay, from the parking area on the west side of Highway 89. It’s only around 2.5 miles roundtrip but full of generous views and plenty of local flora and fauna to make it a worthwhile hike. Since this is one of the most popular hikes in Lake Tahoe it’s recommended to get to the parking lot before 9am as it fills up quickly.

Also, this hike goes into the backcountry of the Lake Tahoe area, called Desolation Wilderness. Because of this, you’ll need to pick up a permit (which you can do on the trail) as soon as you reach the backcountry portion of the trail.

Kayak or SUP to Fannette Island

This is the only island in Lake Tahoe and it’s close enough to the shore to paddle to either via kayak or a standup paddleboard (depending on your preference). You can rent kayaks or standup paddleboards near Vikingsholm and paddle out directly from the rental location.

Emerald Bay State Park is one of the most scenic state parks around Lake Tahoe, so make sure to give yourself time to soak up the views on the way to the island. Once you get to the island, hike to the top of the hill to find an abandoned tea house at the top and stunning 360-degree views of the bay, before heading back towards Vikingsholm.

Visit Vikingsholm

After you drop off your kayak, sign up for a tour of Vikingsholm . This 38-room Viking-inspired castle is nestled in the dramatic scenery of Emerald Bay State Park. It’s a quirky sight to visit next to the bay and features one of the best examples of Scandinavian architecture in the United States.

The castle was built in 1929 and commissioned by Mrs. Lora Josephine Knight, who drew similarities between Lake Tahoe and the fjords of Scandinavia. It became the summer home for Mrs. Knight and her family for 15 years until her death. And if you’re visiting in the summer, you can take a tour of the property.

If you have the energy to squeeze in one more short hike, head to D.L. Bliss State Park , on the west side of the lake. This beautiful park is the perfect place to further explore the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe and get some fresh air and exercise in the afternoon.

There are numerous trails you can tackle at D.L. Bliss State Park, but I’d recommend doing the Rubicon Lighthouse Trail. This easy 1.5-mile trail takes you up 250 feet in elevation to the historic Rubicon Lighthouse that was built in 1919. Along the way, you’ll get stunning bay views that peak out from green forests. Most of the trail is shaded and it’s easy to do within an hour.

Explore Heavenly Village and Ride the Gondola

Head into Heavenly Village for an afternoon of shopping, eating, and gondola riding. With over 40 shops featuring international and local brands, there are a lot of boutiques to poke your head into.

And even more than the shops, Heavenly Village is a lively place to get a good feel for the Lake Tahoe community. There’s often live music, as well as ice skating, spas, and mini-golf around the village. The Village is also where you’ll find some of the best restaurants in the region, such as The Loft and Base Camp Pizza Co. Time your visit around dinner time to taste test what the Tahoe culinary scene has to offer.

Once you’ve explored Heavenly Village thoroughly, hop on the Heavenly Village Gondola for expansive views over the Lake Tahoe area.

Optional: Ride the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster

A fun add-on to the scenic gondola, especially in the summer when skiing and snowboarding aren’t happening, is to ride the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster at Heavenly Ski Resort.

This high altitude gravity-powered coaster will not only give you a good adrenaline rush but also stunning views looking out over the lake from Heavenly Mountain.

Gambling at a Casino on the Nevada Side

To end your day in Lake Tahoe, try your hand at the slot machines or blackjack tables at one of the many casinos that line the Nevada side of the lake. A few of the most popular casinos in Lake Tahoe include Montbleu, Harrah’s, and the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Even if you’re not that into gambling, similar to Las Vegas, it’s a fun activity to do at Lake Tahoe because it’s such a big part of the culture.

Finally, there are various dance clubs and bars in and near the casinos if you want to experience the Lake Tahoe nightlife before calling it a night.

Lake Tahoe Itinerary: Day 2

Road Trip Around the Perimeter of the Lake

There’s no better way to start a morning in Lake Tahoe than by exploring the perimeter of the lake.

The scenic 72-mile drive around Lake Tahoe takes around three hours with no stopping, but I’d give yourself at least five hours so you can take your time.

Hit the road early to avoid traffic and enjoy the viewpoints around the lake without the crowds. I’d also recommend driving the lake clockwise so you’re always driving on the right side of the road closest to the lake.

A few popular stops that can be added on to your Lake Tahoe road trip are Meeks Bay, Sugar Pine Point State Park (and the Ehrman Mansion), the Tahoe Maritime Museum, Gatekeeper’s Museum, Watson Cabin Museum, Kings Beach, Crystal Bay, Stateline Lookout, Mt. Rose Lookout, Memorial Point, Sand Harbor, Spooner Lake, and Cave Rock Vista Point.

If you have a couple of extra hours, I’d also add on a trip to the Olympic Museum at Squaw Valley, the Donner Party Museum, and the historic railroad town of Truckee.

Optional: Horseback Riding at Camp Richardson Corral

If you have the time to squeeze in an hour-long activity onto your road trip around the lake, sign up for a horseback ride through the Lake Tahoe wilderness at Camp Richardson Corral .

In operation since 1934, this family-owned corral is the place for scenic guided horseback rides or summer hay wagon rides for the little ones.

Their standard trail rides leave hourly in the summer and start at $56 per person. With tours lasting about an hour, you’ll see the best parts of South Lake Tahoe by horseback, as well as ride through the lush national forest, meadows, and see stunning lake views along the way.

Head to the Beach at Zephyr Cove

This is the perfect spot to relax for a couple of hours. You can go swimming in the transparent alpine water, enjoy parasailing or jet skiing, play a game of beach volleyball, or simply soak up the sun, read a book on the beach, and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Dinner Cruise on The MS Dixie II PaddleWheeler

Wrap up your time in Lake Tahoe with a dinner cruise on The MS Dixie II PaddleWheeler, which leaves from Zephyr Cove. The cruise usually leaves around 5pm every night and lasts for three hours so you can see the lake in daylight and at dusk.

On the cruise, you’ll enjoy live music, champagne, dancing, and a nice dinner on the water. The best part about this cruise is that you’ll be able to watch the sky change as it transitions into dusk from the water.

If you’re lucky and the cloud cover isn’t too low, you might luck out with being able to see one of Lake Tahoe’s multi-hued sunsets that light up the sky on your way back to the dock. Just make sure to bring layers and a warm jacket because the lake gets chilly at night.

Where to Eat in Lake Tahoe

Alpina Coffee Cafe – One of the best coffee shops in Lake Tahoe, Alpina Coffee Cafe is a good spot to get your caffeine fix and start your day in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The cafe is located in a cottage and offers the usual cafe fare, decent coffee, and even mimosas, wine, and beer if you’re looking to imbibe.

Base Camp Pizza Co – For some reason, Lake Tahoe has a ton of pizza places (I guess eating pizza near a beautiful lake isn’t the worst thing ever). One of the tastiest is Base Camp Pizza Co . Besides pizza, they have a good selection of other Italian fare that comes out in generous portions. This is a lively place that often has live music and an outdoor patio, perfect for those long and hot summer days.

Simple Bliss – For anyone looking for something a little healthier than pizza and burgers, Simple Bliss is South Lake Tahoe’s first and only vegan cafe. On the menu, you’ll find organic, soy-free, and gluten-free dishes that are full of colorful veggies. They also have a decent selection of vegan desserts and fresh juices and smoothies, as well as coffee and tea.

The Loft – A popular place for dinner and a show in Lake Tahoe, The Loft features bistro-style dishes and a casual setting full of friendly service, good food, and entertainment. They’re most well known for their nightly magic shows that are a fun way to spend an evening in Heavenly Village.

Heavenly Donuts – If you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, there’s no better place than Heavenly Donuts . The guys who own this shop have been making donuts for 30 years and they’ve now expanded to six locations on the West Coast. This is all to say that they know their stuff when it comes to donuts. At their location in Tahoe, you’ll be able to find every type of traditional donut your heart might desire.

Where to Stay in South Lake Tahoe

Although cabin rentals and Airbnbs can be a fun way to go when you’re staying in Lake Tahoe, especially if you’re traveling with a group, sometimes it’s nice to have the luxury of a hotel. These are some of my top picks for accommodation in Lake Tahoe for all budgets.

7 Seas Inn at Tahoe – The best word to describe this accommodation is charming . At 7 Seas Inn, you’ll find the friendliness and feel of a bed & breakfast but with an affordable price tag. Another plus to this inn is that it’s centrally-located. The property is only a seven-minute walk from the lake and just a few blocks from the most popular South Lake Tahoe casinos. Click here to read reviews and click here to see latest prices .

Grand Residences by Marriott – If you’re looking for a little more luxury, the Grand Residences by Marriott is a good mid-range accommodation option in South Lake Tahoe. Located right in the heart of Heavenly Village, there are various shops, restaurants, and the ski resort (and its scenic gondola) just steps away. Click here to read reviews and click here to see latest prices .

Hotel Azure – For a more luxe weekend getaway accommodation that won’t break the bank, Hotel Azure is a solid choice in South Lake Tahoe. Conveniently located right on Lake Tahoe Boulevard and right across the street from the lake, this recently remodeled accommodation oozes comfort and relaxation. The property features two hot tubs, a heated pool, a small gym, and a game room. It’s also dog-friendly if you’re looking for a hotel to bring your pooch. Click here to read reviews and click here to see latest prices .

Author’s Bio

Mimi McFadden is a travel blogger, avid yogi, and paneer enthusiast. Originally from California, she has been slow traveling the world and blogging about it since 2013.

After living abroad for five years in Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Greece, and Portugal she has finally found a home in San Francisco, California. You can find her on Instagram , Facebook , and her blog, The Atlas Heart .

Need some more California inspiration?

• Best California Road Trip Songs (For Your Road Trip Music Playlist)
• Best Quotes About California & California Instagram Captions
• California Bucket List: Best Places to Visit in California
• Bucket List Places to Visit on the West Coast

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savvyglobetrotter

Lake Tahoe looks and sounds amazing! Definitely added it to our bucket list.

Wow what a gorgeous place Patti and Mimi. Tahoe has been on my list because the Sierras are in-demand, in my household. Huge Bigfoot fan 😉 This guy is often spotted in that region.

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Things to Do in Lake Tahoe

Voted Best Ski Vacations and more!

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.

Reno to Lake Tahoe

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. 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.

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.

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 snow-capped 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.

Lake Tahoe FAQs

What can you do in lake tahoe in one day, can you go swimming in lake tahoe, is lake tahoe a natural lake, is september a good time to visit lake tahoe.

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This Beautiful Beachside Campground Is The Hardest To Book In America

There's nothing like packing the family up and going on a camping trip over the weekend. Unfortunately, impromptu tent adventures are looking to soon be a thing of the past. More and more, parks are requiring reservations before you head to the campground, which can be made up to six months in advance.

Even with this reservation system, it's not easy to get a spot. According to The Dyrt , over 45 percent of campers last year struggled to reserve a site at the location they wanted to visit. While it's most common in national parks, some other popular locations are starting to do the same. Thanks to the large number of campers in recent years, over 80 million people in 2023, reservations help to ensure a site instead of hopeful campers traveling miles only to find them fully booked. Though frustrating, it is a necessary system as there are some popular places that are always full. 

Every year, The Dyrt makes a list of the most difficult campgrounds to get into in the United States. These are the sites booked for the majority of the year. For the 2024 season, Nevada Beach Campground took the lead for the hardest-to-book. This is pretty impressive, considering it wasn't even in the Top 10 in 2023, and has now surpassed them all to make it to number one on the list, meaning you have to be vigilant or lucky to get a spot here. 

Why Nevada Beach Campground is so hard to book

According to The Dyrt, Nevada Beach Campground is booked for 99.4 percent of the year. Booking for sites opens six months in advance and the spots are often swept up in minutes. The park is only open from May to October, which further increases the demand for the campsite and therefore makes it harder to book. 

This campground is located on Lake Tahoe, on  the beautiful shore with Caribbean vibes known as Zephyr Cove . It accepts both small RVs and tents, offering a total of 54 sites. It is no doubt a stunning location, as it sits right on the water. The spots are fairly spacious and offer plenty of pleasant scenery. Another benefit is that there is a dog-friendly beach. Not only can you take your precious pooch camping with you, but they can go and play on the water.

At the campground, visitors have a half-mile of pleasant sandy beaches, where people can play, swim, and take in the view. There are also places to rent kayaks and even a spot to grab a quick bite without having to leave the beach. While the area feels isolated, it's not that far from civilization if you forgot something, only about a half-mile west of the Roundhill Shopping Center. There, you can find restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores, and more.

Alternatives to Nevada Beach Campground

Thanks to its beauty and location on Lake Tahoe, Nevada Beach Campground is nearly impossible to score a spot in unless you are lucky enough to log in to the reservation site or  use a cancellation checker to help you book spots in busy campgrounds . However, that doesn't mean you're completely without options. There are plenty of places around Lake Tahoe offering camping and worth checking out. 

Sand Harbor is equally pretty, though as of summer 2024, they have also started to require booking in advance as well, at least during the prime camping season from April 15 to October 15. However, since this is a new system, and they are still allowing first-come, first-served after 10:30 in the morning, it's not quite as daunting a possibility as Nevada Beach Campground. Some other options for camping around Lake Tahoe include Fallen Leaf Campground, Sugar Pine Point Campground,  and Zephyr Cove Resort. They all are close enough to the lake you can still access the water every day, and may be less crowded than Nevada Beach Campground. Some even offer walk-in sites if you aren't one to make a reservation before camping.

Or, you could try somewhere completely different. For example, Georgia's Cloudland Canyon is ideal for those who want solitude while camping . Who knows? You may find your new favorite vacation spot if you try somewhere new instead of waiting for a chance to explore Nevada Beach Campground. 

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Lake Tahoe Summer Activities

Lake Tahoe is a can’t-miss summer destination. Whether you’re in search of a fun family vacation or an all-out mountain adventure, there are plenty of things to do in Lake Tahoe in summer. From spectacular hiking and biking, to water sports and sunbathing, to simply soaking up the fresh mountain air, summer is the season to get outside in Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe Activities in Summer

There are more Lake Tahoe summer activities than you could ever fit into one trip. Seriously, we can’t make this up! Explore the Sierra by foot or by pedal, splash in turquoise water that’s so clear it looks tropical, take a swing on manicured golf courses, and zip by boat or jet ski to secret coves. With so much to choose from, it can be hard to decide what things to do in Lake Tahoe in summer. Luckily, Lake Tahoe is here to help make your decision a little easier. Here is an overview of the best Lake Tahoe activities in summer. If you’re planning on coming during a different season, check out all things to do in Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe Summer Sports

Get out there and enjoy the view of the lake! With stunning mountain vistas, meadows painted in wildflowers, and pristine alpine lakes, it’s no wonder that one of the most popular Lake Tahoe summer activities is hiking . You can explore near Tahoe’s south shore on mellow, scenic paths, or ascend into the Sierra when you hike on the Tahoe Rim Trail or into Desolation Wilderness. Regardless of which trail you choose, enjoy the view of Lake Tahoe and remember to practice Leave No Trace principles whenever you wander in the woods. 

• Water Sports

One of the best things to do in Lake Tahoe in summer is to explore from the water. Lake Tahoe has plenty of water sports for adventure seekers. This is a must-do Lake Tahoe summer activity! You can rent a speedboat or jet ski and zip to Emerald Bay, soar over the lake on a parasailing adventure, kayak or paddleboard along the shoreline to hidden beaches, or get your thrill on when you try wake-surfing and wake-boarding. Pro tip – the lake is smooth as glass in the morning, so head out early!

Cast your line into the crystal waters of Lake Tahoe. There are plenty of fishing charters on the south shore and these seasoned captains know the secret spots to get your line-jumping. Additionally, the rivers and streams that feed Lake Tahoe teem with trout, so whether you’re a fly-fishing expert or a spin-casting extraordinaire, you’re sure to land a big one on the south shore of Lake Tahoe.

Bikers get ready! The Lake Tahoe summer season is rife with biking opportunities. As a designated Bike Friendly Community, there are plenty of trails for every ability, from paved paths for social spins to single-track for downhill demons. Speed down heart-pounding trails and try to appreciate the mountain scenery as it whizzes past on Corral Trail and the infamous Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride. Prefer a leisurely pedal with family and friends? Take a cruise down the South Lake Tahoe Bike Path where paved trails wind to all the best beaches on the south shore. You’re never far from the water when biking in Lake Tahoe, so take a plunge after a sweaty ride.

Relaxing Summer Activities in Lake Tahoe

Looking for relaxing activities during your Tahoe vacation? Lake Tahoe has got you covered. There are tons of Lake Tahoe summer activities to enjoy without having to wear a helmet. 

Food, Drinks & Shopping

Sip artisan cocktails at a waterfront restaurant or enjoy aromatic IPAs on our recommended beer trail where you can cool off after spending the day out in the Lake Tahoe playground. Heavenly Village also offers plenty of shopping to find your new favorite gems, from quaint local shops, to established retail stores.

Art & Music

Enjoy live music at South Lake Tahoe summer concerts and don’t miss seeing your favorite band play at the Harveys Summer Concert Series, which brings Grammy-winning musicians to the south shore. There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy art, crafts, and music at Lake Tahoe so make sure to check out upcoming events .

Honestly, you just can’t beat a beach day in Tahoe in the summer. Our beaches are simply divine with fine-grain sand and the clearest water you’ve ever seen. Don’t feel guilty if you scrap the hiking plans and decide to laze the day away on a Lake Tahoe beach – there are few summer activities that can compete with such high-quality beach-bumming.

Explore the Guide

There are so many things to do during a Lake Tahoe summer, you will be hard-pressed to accomplish it all! If you need help planning your trip, check out our summer activities guide to hash out the perfect itinerary for your Tahoe vacation. 

Explore Lake Tahoe Beaches

Angora Lakes Resort Beach

Round Hill Pines Beach Resort

Whale Beach

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More Things To Do in Lake Tahoe in Summer

Ask almost any Tahoe local and they’ll tell you they came here for the winter, but they stayed for the summer. We’ll let you in on the secret – summertime in Lake Tahoe is glorious! Check out this list of Lake Tahoe summer activities to discover more.

Explore Lake Tahoe Summer Activities

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The sun is out. ☀️ The temperature is 77°F. Ready to go to the beach?

Best Beaches in Lake Tahoe

For the quintessential Lake Tahoe summer experience, spend a day splashing and sunbathing on a south shore beach. Pristine sandy shores, turquoise water, and blue skies, place Lake Tahoe beaches among the best in the world. Simply put, the beaches here are gorgeous. 

Get your volleyball game on at Zephyr Cove Beach, watch the sunset at Nevada Beach, bring the whole family to Pope Beach for a picnic, and dive into the clearest water you’ve ever seen at Baldwin Beach. No matter which stretch of sand you sprawl on, Lake Tahoe beaches are unforgettable. 

Family Activities for Lake Tahoe Summer Fun

If you’re looking for family fun, the list of things to do in Lake Tahoe in summer is endless. Make a splash with the kids at a south shore beach, rent bikes to cruise forested paths, or zip to iconic Emerald Bay by boat. You’ll find all the best family activities here to make your summer getaway special.

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10 Essential Things To Pack On A Trip To Lake Tahoe

• Headphones are a must-have item for any traveler heading to Lake Tahoe, offering private enjoyment of music and avoiding disturbance to others. Consider Marshal Headphones with wireless options and a one-year warranty.
• Power banks are essential for travelers exploring Lake Tahoe, allowing for extended phone usage while capturing every moment. Consider OtterBox Fast Charge Standard Power Banks for durability and multi-device charging.
• Capture the beauty of Lake Tahoe with a camera and tripod stand, perfect for creating memorable photos and videos. Consider the 9-inch Ring Light with Phone Holder from Bed Bath and Beyond for easy capturing of every beautiful moment.

Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America , located in the Sierra Nevada of the Western United States. The region is also a popular destination for travelers located in California and Nevada, offering various breathtaking features perfect for a great vacation experience. This beautiful natural landmark draws tourists from all over the world to enjoy its many features and experiences. These include everything from adventurous activities to relaxing ones.

Travelers who wish to visit this natural landmark should read on and discover the essential items to bring along. Whether hiking, enjoying a lavished getaway in the comfort of their favorite Lake Tahoe resort, enjoying the beaches, or exploring the beautiful towns in and around Lake Tahoe , here are some travel essentials every traveler needs to ensure they are prepared and ready to explore all the destination has to offer.

Headphones are essential for several reasons, from enjoying private conversations to being polite and not disturbing other travelers. Travelers need to bring their headphones to enjoy good music on a plane, listen to their favorite tunes while sipping a cocktail on the beach, or solo stroll to the gorgeous hiking trails in Lake Tahoe . Headphones are a must-have item for any traveler heading to Lake Tahoe.

The Marshal Headphones are a great choice. The brand offers a range of wireless headphones, earbuds, and even portable speakers. Additionally, Marshal Headphones come with a year warranty.

• Product : Minor III By Marshal Headphones
• Price : $159
• Considerations : They are wireless, and they come in three different colors, 25 hours of wireless playtime and Bluetooth 5.2

Related: 10 Lake Tahoe Cabins That You Should Book This Winter

Fast Charge Power Banks

Phone batteries can easily run out, especially when exploring Lake Tahoe and its charming day trip destinations like the nearby Truckee & Donner Lake and capturing every moment. Power banks are a lifesaver for travelers looking for a day out on the beach or while touring the city. They are portable and come in various capacities. The portable OtterBox Fast Charge Standard Power Banks are a great choice. They are durable, allow multi-device charging, and come in various capacities from 10,000 mAh to 20,000 mAh.

• Product: Portable OtterBox Fast Charge Standard Power Banks
• Price: $34.95 for 10,000 mAh, $44.95 for 15,000 mAh and $54.95 for 20,000 mAh
• Considerations : Works with several devices, LED power indicator displays charging status and current battery life, quality finish, and durable design.

Camera And Tripod Stand

While traveling with loved ones, it's natural for travelers to want to capture memories by taking pictures and videos of their time together. Lake Tahoe is a stunning location that provides the perfect backdrop for some of the most amazing Instagram-worthy pictures and videos. This beautiful region offers a lot to see and capture. From content creators searching for the perfect shot for their next post to loving families looking to make a keepsake, Lake Tahoe is the best place to be. This nine-inch ring light with a phone holder and a remote from Bed Bath and Beyond makes it easy for tourists to capture every beautiful moment of their Lake Tahoe trip.

• Product: 9 inch Ring Light with Phone Holder, 4 Level Adjustable Tripod Stand with Remote
• Price: $42.99
• Considerations : 4-level adjustable tripod stand, three brightness choices, simple installation

Related: 10 Amazing Lakes In Nevada Besides Lake Tahoe

Non-Beachwear

Lake Tahoe is a great destination for swimming; however, this region offers more to travelers besides aquatic adventures. For instance, Lake Tahoe boasts several scenic destinations that are worth exploring . These include biking, tours, shopping, Lake Tahoe Road trips , and its delightful nightlife. Active travelers may want to visit the gym, explore the easy hikes in Lake Tahoe, or even step outside their Lake Tahoe resort to see what is good in the nearby cities. Moreover, travelers enjoying a romantic getaway in Lake Tahoe need a date night outfit, such as the elegant Quira Black Sheer Turtleneck from Sv77 .

• Product: Quira Black Sheer Turtleneck
• Price: $700
• Considerations : Versatile and stylish

Beach Essentials: Beachwear

Lake Tahoe's vast shoreline includes over 40 beaches and numerous coves , making it an ideal destination for swimming, fishing, and a bunch of aquatic adventures. These features mean that adventurous travelers will be tempted to spend most of their time exploring the lake's beaches and coves. Lake Tahoe is a one-of-a-kind destination that can transform tourists' experiences. The sand also allows for a unique experience when swimming in the lake. Visitors should wear swim fins to take full advantage of this fantastic experience. Maaji offers a variety of swimwear for women, like the Ink Black Ciele Classic One Piece , and several other suitable options for men.

• Product: Miniflore Sailor Sporty Shorts
• Price: $69.00
• Considerations : Elastic waist with adjustable drawstring, quick dry technology

Related: March In Lake Tahoe: 13 Things You Should Do

Tourists traveling with their families, especially those with younger kids, need to prepare for the unforeseen. Kids could get injured while exploring some of Lake Tahoe's best swimming spots , or hikers can also get sprained during hikes. Alternatively, it is also helpful to have in case others require it. Travelers need not worry about packing and leaving first aid items scattered around. This belt bag from SV77 would make an ideal carrier for travelers who do not want to sacrifice personal style while carrying their first aid kit . This item is portable, stylish, and easy to carry, especially for hikers.

• Product: Readymade belt bag
• Price: $1870
• Considerations : Three zippered compartments, stylish, adjustable nylon strap

Sunshades are a must-have accessory for travelers visiting Lake Tahoe, especially during summer when the weather is glorious. Lake Tahoe is a popular summer vacation spot for many travelers , and sunshades offer protection from the bright sun rays. Additionally, sunglasses and shades can enhance a traveler's style and personality, even when it's not summer.

• Product: Nike Marquee Edge
• Price: $175
• Considerations: Fashionable, nose pad

Hiking Shoes

Lake Tahoe is home to several resorts offering guests easy access to the area's hiking trails. Tourists can enjoy the beauty of the forests, blue lakes, and sharp granite peaks on these trails. Travelers interested in seeing the beautiful fall foliage in Lake Tahoe can choose from several hiking trails in the region . These include the Rubicon Trail, the shores of Emerald Bay, and the Skyline Trail at the top of the Gondola. To explore all the incredible hiking options, travelers need the right shoes. Depending on the season, the right shoes for hiking in Lake Tahoe can be winter boots with rubber soles for safety or comfortable sandals for the warmer months.

• Product: Nike Zegama
• Price: $170
• Considerations : Perfect for various difficult terrains, good grip and stability, Stylish

Related: 10 Amazing Lakes In California Besides Lake Tahoe

Hats are an essential item to pack when going on a trip to Lake Tahoe. Functionally, they act as protective shields from the sun for some of the outdoor activities travelers explore in Tahoe , from hiking to enjoying a day at the beach. Additionally, several stylish sun hats on Maaji make for the perfect fashion accessory to capture some of the best Instagram photos.

• Product: Greenleaf Rita Hat
• Price: $36.00
• Considerations : Drawstring closure, reversible, assorted prints

Hiking Clothes

Travelers visiting Lake Tahoe must know that the region provides some of the easiest hikes worth exploring. Lake Tahoe is a sanctuary for numerous rare bird species . Migrating birds, such as pelicans, American white pelicans, and osprey, thrive in the lake's open waters. Nature lovers, especially birdwatchers, will have a filled day exploring the region's birdlife and other flora and fauna. To make the most of the hiking and outdoor adventures, travelers need the best clothes for comfort and functionality, and a great option is the Maverick Kpggers by Threads For Thought .

• Product: Maverick Jogger by Threads For Thought
• Considerations : Comfortable, stylish, smooth and breathable Fabric

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Discover North Lake Tahoe’s Secret Season

What’s better than leaf-peeping? Leaf-peeping with Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada as a backdrop.

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Whether you’re looking for beautiful fall colors, a change of scenery for your remote office, or both, North Lake Tahoe is the perfect destination for any getaway. From its scenic hiking trails to the breathtaking lakeshore, the area’s vibrant fall colors just make everything better. To learn more about this awe-inspiring escape in the Sierra Nevada, we have some fall adventure tips from the North Lake Tahoe team. Here’s what they said.

Why Fall Is Special

If you like vivid autumn colors, fun events, and open space, you’ll love North Lake Tahoe in the fall . During this secret season, the community celebrates with the Made in Tahoe Festival, two Oktoberfests (one in Tahoe City and one at Palisades Tahoe), a collection of food and wine festivals, and more. It’s also a perfect time to leaf-peep while exploring hiking or biking trails, taking a swing on a golf course, zipping down treetop ropes courses, walking along the beach, strolling around the destination’s 12 unique towns, hopping in the water to kayak or stand-up paddle—the opportunities are endless. Come for a weekend getaway or midweek escape to breathe it all in and experience Lake Tahoe in the secret season.

Take a Trail

While there are hundreds of trails to explore, we collected the top 12 for hiking and biking in North Lake Tahoe to help narrow the selection. These are some of the trails that made the list:

• Tahoe Rim Trail North Shore Segment: A well-known 165-mile point-to-point trail, the Tahoe Rim encircles the entirety of the Tahoe Basin. Hiking a short segment of the trail along the North Shore is a great way to experience fall color along Lake Tahoe.
• Tunnel Creek Trail: The view at the top overlooks one of the best panoramic views in Lake Tahoe. This 4.7-mile out-and-back trail is also home to Monkey Rock.
• Eagle Rock Trail: This short 0.7-mile trail only takes about a half hour but carries a huge payoff. From the top of Eagle Rock, you get an incredible view of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains.
• Vikingsholm Trail: Take this 1.7- mile trail down to the Emerald Bay beaches and the historic Vikingsholm Castle (open for tours May 25–September 30). Keep in mind that it’s a steep hike back to the parking area from the shore.

Hiking and mountain biking are some of the most popular activities in the region, and it’s important to leave no trace by staying on the trail, packing out what you packed in, and giving wildlife space. Learn more and help Make a Clear Difference in the region.

Get on the Water

The crystal-blue waters of Lake Tahoe create a one-of-a-kind fall backdrop. From an early morning walk on the beach to a sunset dinner cruise, time spent on and near the lake creates truly unforgettable experiences. Kayaking and paddleboarding are favorites, and you can use the Lake Tahoe Water Trail to guide your journey along 72 miles of fun. The route connects designated launch and landing sites that feature restrooms and interpretive displays.

For a truly unique experience, rent a clear-bottom kayak during the day, or paddle an LED-lighted kayak on a guided stargazing tour. And if you plan to bring your own watercraft, please wash, clean, and dry it before putting it into the lake to help prevent the spread of invasive species.

Fishing along the lakeshore or on the river is a great activity for any age. You can also cast a line from a boat or kayak. Trout and salmon are common catches along the West Shore, in Sawmill Lake (reservations required), and at Martis Reservoir. Be sure you understand safe fish handling and catch-and-release practices.

Try the Bites and Brews

North Lake Tahoe is home to some of the most enticing dining options in Northern California and Nevada. And the beer scene isn’t too shabby either! Take your pick of more than 150 restaurants and breweries. Some spots will also welcome your four-legged companions.

The ultimate resource for finding a frosty brew after an outdoor adventure? The Ale Trail . From most trailheads, there’s a world-class brewery, bar, or restaurant nearby. This means you can start your day working up a sweat and end it with regionally crafted refreshments. If rum is more to your liking, check out the Rum Trail —a collection of five restaurants and bars located around the North Lake Tahoe shoreline offering specialty rum cocktails.

Looking for the best bites around Lake Tahoe ? Download this interactive map . Dine in or take your meal to enjoy at one of the many picnic tables along the beaches—just be sure to dispose of your trash in the designated receptacles.

Adventure Deeper

Midweek adventures offer more open space. With 12 unique towns, it can be hard to choose a base camp, but we’ve created a quiz and itineraries to help guide you to the best town for you. By extending your stay, you have time to explore more of North Lake Tahoe. If you need a hand in planning, we have your Tahoe Trifecta . Just spin the compass and uncover your ideal itinerary in the mountains, on the lake, and around town. Ultimately, an extended trip allows you to more freely explore the region, escape into nature, and feel rejuvenated.

North Lake Tahoe spans two states—California and Nevada—and boasts two dozen beaches, 11 downhill ski resorts, ten cross-country ski areas, hundreds of miles of biking and hiking trails, and communities filled with local artisans and shopping experiences. North Lake Tahoe is a 45-minute drive from Reno-Tahoe International Airport, two hours from Sacramento International Airport, and just over three hours from San Francisco International Airport. Visitor information centers are located at 100 North Lake Boulevard in Tahoe City, 8611 North Lake Boulevard in Kings Beach, and 969 Tahoe Boulevard in Incline Village. For more information, visit gotahoenorth.com .

When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, we may earn a small commission. We do not accept money for editorial gear reviews. Read more about our policy.

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Kyle Richards Vacations in Lake Tahoe After News Buying Beverly Hills Was Canceled

Richards appeared on the Netflix series, which ran for two seasons, alongside her estranged husband Mauricio Umansky and their daughters

Kyle Richards/Instagram

Kyle Richards is soaking up the sun in Lake Tahoe.

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star shared highlights from the scenic trip in an Instagram carousel on Saturday, Aug. 24, starting with a snap of herself lying on a dock in a red bikini.

“Had such a peaceful vacation in beautiful Lake Tahoe 🙏,” Richards, 55, wrote. “Lake Tahoe is one of my favorite spots on earth.”

She added, “Spent our days cooking, making s’mores, playing pool, kayaking... Can’t wait to get back there 💙.”

The next  photos show Richards in a kayak, followed by a picture of a red-felt pool table. In two of the images, Richards poses with Riley and Tatum Shea, the daughters of her late best friend Lorene Shea, who died in 2022.

Richards concluded the carousel with another swimsuit shot, in which she reclines on the dock.

“You look amazing!!😍🔥🔥🔥,” commented Richards’ niece Paris Hilton , whose mom Kathy Hilton is her sister.

Eduardo Umansky, the father of Richards’ estranged husband, Mauricio Umansky, 54, wrote, “Love you Kyle,” to which Richards replied, “❤️ love you!”

The Bravo star’s post comes after the news that Mauricio’s reality series, Buying Beverly Hills, was canceled.

The show, which premiered in 2022, centered around Mauricio’s luxury Los Angeles real estate firm, The Agency. The couple’s daughter Alexia, 28, and Richards' daughter Farrah, 35, also starred on the show, and Kyle appeared on its second season, released in March 2024.

Sources told Deadline the reason for the cancellation was related to the viewing numbers versus the cost of production.

Richards and Mauricio, who announced their separation in July 2023, filmed season 2 of the show amid their split.

In March 2024, Mauricio told PEOPLE how he and Richards navigated their marital hardships on the real estate drama.

“There were definitely challenges,” he said. “It was happening, it was real life. We had the cameras on.”

He continued that he and Richards had a “choice” to “pretend that it wasn’t happening” while they were filming. However, he adds that, “I think that would’ve been awkward on television.”

“The reality is that we are going through our issues after being married for 28, 29 years. We did it and we chose to put it on camera and it was great, and now the audience gets to see the way that we interacted with each other.”

In one episode, news of their separation became public during a family trip to Aspen, and the couple remained lighthearted while addressing the situation with their kids. (The pair, who tied the knot in 1996, also share daughters Sophia , 24, and Portia , 16.)

“I’m getting that in the divorce," Umansky jokingly told Richards after she put on an apron. "That’s my apron. You can borrow it for now.”

"You can have it," she told him. "That's all you're getting."

Eventually, they brought up the topic with their daughters.

"We should talk about that now that we’re all here by the way. Because coming out of the blue what happened, it kind of blindsided all of us. I know it was a lot,” Richards said.

She added, "I really am sorry about that because it’s not fair to you guys. I’m just used to it."

Sophia said it was hard not to hear the news directly from them first. 

Sophia Kylie Umansky/Instagram

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"This time was different because everyone was reaching out. My phone was blowing up with people reaching out. I opened instagram and it was everywhere. It was definitely hard feeling like maybe I don’t know the whole story,” she said.

Lester Cohen/Getty

Last month, Richards made a change to her Instagram account, after Mauricio was photographed kissing a woman at the airport in Mykonos, Greece. The woman was later identified as actress Nikita Kahn.

Eagle-eyed fans noticed that Richards removed the word “wife” from her bio, which currently reads, “Mom, actor, author, producer, animal lover, a RHOBH.”

While the Agency founder vacationed in Greece in July, Richards was spotted at the Minnesota Yacht Club music festival in St. Paul, Minn., with gal pal Morgan Wade . 

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• ENVIRONMENT

Wildfire smoke threatens lakes, too. How will it impact Lake Tahoe’s future?

California’s fires disrupt lake ecosystems, and mountain lakes like Tahoe may be especially vulnerable.

Lake Tahoe, California — On a clear day at Lake Tahoe’s beaches, visitors to the cobalt waters of North America’s largest alpine lake don’t see signs of smoke from wildfires raging across much of California in what is shaping up to be one of the worst fire seasons in the state’s history.  

Historically, wildfires haven’t been seen as much of a threat to lakes like Tahoe—after all, fire and water don’t mix. Efforts to "Keep Tahoe Blue," as the ubiquitous bumper stickers here say, have primarily targeted impacts of mass tourism.

But a flurry of new research has begun to highlight the connection between lakes and wildfires—or, more specifically, the smoke that fires produce. Recent studies reveal that California’s lakes—and indeed lakes across all of North America—are increasingly exposed to wildfire smoke at much higher intensities and for longer durations than just a few years ago.

It’s still unclear what this will mean for lakes, but scientists warn that the impacts could be significant. Increased smoke may alter light and temperature conditions in lakes, leading to disruptions in the ecosystem’s food webs and energy flows. Nutrient-rich ash deposited in lakes could stimulate harmful algae growth.

“It could potentially change entire ecosystems,” says Sudeep Chandra , director of the Global Water Center at the University of Nevada, Reno, who has been at the forefront of the research efforts.

He and others point out that lakes are already among the most vulnerable habitats found in nature, with some lakes, like Tahoe, under enormous pressure from tourism and building developments, and many lakes suffering from biodiversity loss, species invasions, and an array of climate change impacts. “Wildfire smoke is adding another major threat to lakes,” Chandra says.

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In the U.S., California is one of the states most affected by climate change , and wildfires have grown more frequent and destructive throughout the state. This year alone, fires—including the still-active Park Fire—have scorched four times the average acreage of the past five years.

To examine how climate change impacts lakes, scientists have previously concentrated on issues like reduced snowpacks —the amount of compressed snow that melts and trickles down into streams, rivers and lakes in the spring. Only relatively recently have researchers begun analyzing the impact of wildfire smoke on lakes , using remote sensing and satellite data to quantify the problem.

The findings are striking. For example, some California lakes have suffered smoke exposure for up to two months certain years. And it’s not just lakes in California, or even the western United States, that are affected. According to one recent study in Global Change Biology , almost all of North America’s lakes experienced at least one “smoke day” —where smoke can be seen in the air— per year between 2019 and 2021, and nearly 90 percent of all lakes endured more than 30 such days.

“Smoke has become more pervasive and extreme than in the past, and even lakes in regions that don’t typically experience wildfires are now feeling the effects,” says Mary Jade Farruggia , an ecology graduate student at the University of California, Davis and the lead author of the study.

The fallout of this smoke exposure is yet to be fully understood. But smoke impacts many of the key factors, such as light, temperature, and nutrient deposits, that also drive fundamental lake processes. Thick smoke can block sunlight, which in turn can lead to cooler water, reduced photosynthesis , and slower rates of cellular respiration—meaning aquatic plants and microbes produce energy more slowly.

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Ash falling into lakes adds nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus to the ecosystem.   Algae feed on these nutrients, and the extra food disrupts normal nutrient cycles and could have ripple effects up the food chain. When it comes to ash being deposited in lakes, impacts may depend on the composition and origin of that ash.

During the 2021 Caldor Fire, large areas around and into the Tahoe basin burned, exposing the lake to days of smoke and ash. Researchers found that smoke closer to the source of that fire, which contained heavier ash, caused less algae growth in Lake Tahoe than finer ash, which actually may contain more key nutrients, that was deposited farther from the fire. “It shows that not all smoke is created equal,” says Chandra.

Blocking ultraviolet light

California’s many mountain lakes, which are typically low in nutrients, may be especially vulnerable to large influxes of nutrient-rich ash. “Any addition can mean a doubling or tripling of the amount of nutrients [in mountain lakes], and that can really shift these fragile ecosystems,” says Janice Brahney , an environmental biogeochemist at Utah State University in Logan.

However, the most important determinant for how a lake may respond to smoke exposure may be its size, according to Adrianne Smits , an aquatic ecosystem ecologist at the University of California, Davis. “Small lakes will be more sensitive and reactive to perturbations of any kind,” she says.

One small mountain lake that has been well studied is Castle Lake, nestled in northern California’s Shasta Mountains. Researchers have monitored the lake across smoke-filled as well as clear years. In 2018, smoke covered the lake for 55 days straight, and lake water temperatures cooled substantially . Moreover, smoke also reduced ultraviolet light, which normally cleans the top of a lake, and increased algae levels in shallow waters.

Castle Lake’s surface only spans 47 acres, compared to Lake Tahoe’s 122,000 acres. This year, the lake’s airshed—meaning the area from which pollutants can reach the lake’s surface—has once again been intermittently covered in smoke, even if much of the smoke from the Park Fire has drifted northeast, away from the Shasta Mountains.

Researchers say changing light conditions in lakes can also impact fish behavior, including feeding for some species. “Trout and salmon are visual predators that need light to hunt,” says Chandra. “If that light is diminished by smoke cover, the fish might have to move into new areas of the lake.”

With many of California’s freshwater systems—some of which have been heavily modified by diversions and dams—already under extreme pressures, the threat of   increased wildfire smoke presents an additional stressor.

But with the focus largely on the human health effects of wildfire smoke, raising awareness about this environmental threat could be challenging. “It’s an issue that hasn’t risen to the policy level yet,” says Patrick Wright, who leads the California Wildfire and Forest Resilient Task Force . But, he adds, “the fact that some of our most treasured ecosystems are at risk—obviously it’s a really big deal.”

The key, Wright contends, is to not tackle issues in a vacuum. “We’re constantly reminded of the notion that everything is connected,” he says. “We really need to look at whole watersheds, whole ecosystems, whole forests, and treat everything holistically. The smoke issue adds another level of urgency to that effort.”

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