In the midst of the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains on the border of California and Nevada is Lake Tahoe, a breathtaking region known for its crystal-clear waters, rugged landscapes, and outdoor recreation for every season. At over 22 miles long and more than 1,600 feet deep, it is the largest alpine lake in North America. Visitors come from far and wide to marvel at its natural beauty and explore its numerous adventures.

During the summer, Lake Tahoe offers many outdoor activities, such as swimming, boating, fishing, and kayaking surrounded by towering pine trees and majestic mountains. Hiking and mountain biking are a must, as the trails provide panoramic views, waterfalls, and wilderness areas.

Winter snow covers the area during the colder months and provides activities like skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and snowshoeing at its world-class ski resorts.  There are many ski areas, including Heavenly, Squaw Valley, and Northstar, where you can experience exhilarating downhill runs, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.

Lake Tahoe has several cute towns along the lakeside with cabins, hotels and resorts, shops, cozy cafes, gourmet restaurants, and live entertainment.  The possibilities are endless for families, couples, or groups for fun activities or just for quiet relaxation.

Lake Tahoe Travel Guide

TOP ATTRACTIONS

Emerald Bay State Park

Emerald Bay State Park is an absolute must-see. It is known for its stunning views of snow-topped mountains and forests and clear blue waters. You can hike to Inspiration Point’s scenic overlook, explore Vikingsholm Castle, or take a boat tour to Fannette Island.

Eagle Falls Trail

The Eagle Falls Trail is located near Emerald Bay. It is a moderate hike to cascading waterfalls, lush meadows, and stunning panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. The trail is a great spot for photography and a popular place for birdwatching and wildflower viewing in the spring and summer.

Tahoe Rim Trail

The Tahoe Rim Trail spans 165 miles around Lake Tahoe and provides stunning views, pristine wilderness, and excellent opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and mountain biking. Sections along the trail offer access to alpine lakes and panoramic viewpoints.

Stateline Lookout Trail

Take a hike up the Stateline Lookout Trail in South Lake Tahoe for panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains. The trail is challenging but rewarding, with breathtaking vistas at the summit.

Heavenly Mountain Resort

Heavenly Mountain Resort has some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the region with its expansive terrain, breathtaking views of the lake, and a range of winter activities, including snowshoeing, tubing, and sleigh rides.

Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows

Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows played host to the 1960 Winter Olympics.  It’s a premier ski resort with diverse terrain, world-class amenities, and a vibrant apres-ski scene. During the summer, there is hiking, mountain biking, and scenic tram rides.

Diamond Peak Ski Resort

Nestled on the northeast shore of Lake Tahoe, Diamond Peak Ski Resort offers family-friendly skiing and snowboarding with stunning lake views, affordable lift tickets, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Sand Harbor State Park

Sand Harbor State Park is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. With its sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and rocky coves, the park offers plenty of activities, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling in the harbor’s calm waters.

Mount Tallac

Tallac Historic Site

The Tallac Historic Site is a step back in time. Here, you can explore the restored estates of Tahoe’s early pioneers and learn about the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. There are guided tours and interpretive exhibits. The site is open only from Memorial Day through September, although you can still walk the grounds.

Truckee

The small railroad town of Truckee is a unique blend of rustic charm. Cozy boutiques, coffee shops, and diners are surrounded by mountain peaks and the sounds of rustling rivers.  

Check out Truckee River Rafting, where you can float down the Truckee River from Tahoe City to River Ranch. The route offers scenic views, gentle rapids, and opportunities for swimming and sunbathing along the way.

Where To Stay

There are quite a few charming little towns and neighborhoods around the lake, each with its own unique character and attractions. Here are some of the best:

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a popular destination for visitors looking to enjoy the area’s stunning natural beauty, vibrant nightlife, and outdoor recreational activities. The area is home to Heavenly Village, a bustling hub with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, and the Heavenly Mountain Resort, which offers world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking and mountain biking in the summer. We stayed in this area at the Black Bear Lodge, which was in an excellent location. I recommend it. Click here to book it.

North Lake Tahoe

North Lake Tahoe is known for its picturesque shoreline, quaint towns, and laid-back atmosphere. There’s Tahoe City, Kings Beach, and Incline Village, each with a variety of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and dining options. The area is also home to several ski resorts, including Northstar California Resort and Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows.

Tahoe City

Situated along the northwest shore of Lake Tahoe, Tahoe City is a charming mountain town with a bustling downtown area, scenic parks, and access to outdoor recreational activities. Along the town’s historic main street, visitors can explore boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants or enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and picnicking at nearby Commons Beach.

Incline Village

Located on the northeast shore of Lake Tahoe, Incline Village is a peaceful resort community known for its upscale amenities, pristine beaches, and outdoor recreation opportunities. You can relax on the shores of Incline Beach, play a round of golf at the Incline Village Championship Golf Course, or explore the nearby trails of the Tahoe Rim Trail.

Stateline

Situated on the border of California and Nevada, Stateline is home to several casino resorts, upscale hotels, and entertainment venues. Try your luck at the slot machines or gaming tables, catch a live show or concert, or check out the fine dining and nightlife options in the area.

Kings Beach

Nestled along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe, Kings Beach is a family-friendly destination with a scenic beach, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Here there is swimming, sunbathing, and water sports on the lake, as well as hiking and biking trails in the surrounding mountains.

Getting Around

Car

I definitely recommend having a car to explore during your stay.  If you plan to visit each area or venture off the beaten path it really is the best option, in my opinion.  Several rental car agencies are available in the area, and major highways like Highway 50 and Highway 89 provide easy access to different parts of the lake.

Shuttle Services and Public Transportation

Several shuttle services operate in Lake Tahoe, providing transportation between various towns, ski resorts, and attractions. These services are particularly for those staying in South Lake Tahoe and want to access ski resorts like Heavenly or explore the North Shore without the hassle of driving.

There are limited public transportation options, including the Tahoe Area Regional Transit (TART) buses. TART operates bus routes around the lake, making stops in major towns and providing access to ski resorts and other attractions. However, schedules may be limited, especially in the offseason.

Biking

Biking is a popular way to get around Lake Tahoe, particularly during the summer months when the weather is warm and the roads are clear. Many towns offer bike rentals, and there are paved bike paths along the lake’s shorelines and through scenic areas like the Truckee River Bike Trail.

Walking

Walking is convenient and enjoyable in town centers and around popular attractions. Many areas have pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and pathways, making it easy to explore on foot.

Boating

If you’re staying on the lake or want to explore its many coves and beaches, boating is always fun. Boat rentals, charters, and cruises are available at various marinas around the lake, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely day on the water while exploring different parts of the lake.

Food and Drinks

Artemis Lakefront Cafe

Lake Tahoe’s food scene is all about lakeside dining and comfort food. After a long day of hiking or skiing, there’s nothing like grabbing dinner by the lake while watching the sunset over the Sierras. Especially in the winter, what’s better than a warm, hearty meal after playing in the snow all day?  Here are a few good places you should add to your list, including some really yummy breakfast spots and some popular craft beer breweries and taprooms.

Lakeside Dining
Sunset Bar & Grille at Zephyr Cove Resort
Edgewood Tahoe
Artemis Lakefront Cafe
Riva Grill
Chart House Lake Tahoe

Comfort Foods
Shangrila Himalayan Kitchen
Austin’s
Donner Lake Kitchen
Fat Cat Bar and Grill
Jax At The Trax

Breakfast
Heidi’s Pancake House
Bert’s Cafe
The Red Hut Cafe
Driftwood Cafe

Craft Beer
South Lake Brewing Co.
Lake Tahoe AleWorX
The Hangar Taproom and Bottle Shop
Cold Water Brewery & Grill