Top Things to Do When Visiting Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is a year-round paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking for a serene getaway. It also offers a great place for families and those in search of nightlife and entertainment. Straddling the borders of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe boasts a wealth of activities promising unforgettable experiences, from world-class skiing to exciting festivals. This guide unveils the top things to do in Lake Tahoe to help you plan your next trip.

The best way to get around Lake Tahoe is by driving. Compare car rental prices here. You can also download this audio-guided tour to follow as you drive through the Lake Tahoe area. Highlights include Emerald Bay, Donner Pass, Chimney Beach, Mt. Rose Scenic Byway, and more.

Planning Your Trip To Lake Tahoe Right Now?

Below are some of the top tours in Lake Tahoe. Planning ahead is essential when visiting Lake Tahoe!

Top Activities and Tours in Lake Tahoe:

• Sunset Wine and Cheese Boat Charter Emerald Bay (Likely to sell out)
• Emerald Bay Helicopter Tour (Most Popular in Lake Tahoe)
• Self Guided E-Bike East Shore Tour (From Incline Village Nevada)
• Two Hour Sailing Yacht Cruise on Lake Tahoe (Includes local beer and wine)

1. Emerald Bay State Park

A visit to Lake Tahoe isn’t complete without experiencing the allure of Emerald Bay State Park. Located on the south shore, this park is one of the most picturesque locations around. One of the top attractions is Vikingsholm Castle. Hike down the trail from the parking area to reach this historical architectural gem that offers guided tours to give visitors a taste of Lake Tahoe’s past.

One of the most popular trails is the Eagle Falls to Eagle Lake Trail. A permit is needed to hike to Eagle Lake or you can turn around at Eagle Falls, where you’ll take in the views of Eagle Creek and the waterfalls.

2. Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Kayaking

When exploring Lake Tahoe in the summer, Emerald Bay serves as an excellent spot for water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding. You can rent kayaks and paddleboards from Kayak Tahoe, which has five locations with calm and inviting waters ideal for these activities. Other popular locations include Baldwin Beach, Pope Beach, Nevada Beach, and Meeks Bay.

Extend your adventure by visiting Fannette Island, the only island in Lake Tahoe. A paddle out to the island allows for a close-up view of the Tea House ruins. Back on shore, the park’s trails present varied hiking options for all levels. For a more relaxed activity, enjoy a picnic on the beach or visit the park’s visitor center to enrich your knowledge about the area’s ecology and history.

3. Emerald Bay Lookout

If you find yourself driving around Lake Tahoe, make a stop at the Emerald Bay Lookout for the perfect view of the largest alpine lake in North America. You can also take a boat cruise on Emerald Bay. The Tahoe Emerald Bliss Boat Cruise is an hour-long tour that takes you from Tahoe Keys to Rubicon Point, showcasing the beautiful scenery of the shores of Lake Tahoe. For a more exclusive experience, consider booking a private boat charter to explore at your own pace.

4. Ride the Heavenly Mountain Gondola

No trip to Lake Tahoe is complete without a scenic ride on the Heavenly Mountain Gondola. This breathtaking journey takes you to Tamarack Lodge at 9,123 feet (2,781 meters) above sea level, providing stunning views of Lake Tahoe, Carson Valley, and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The gondola ascends to an observation deck, where panoramic vistas await.

At the summit, explore enchanting hiking trails or visit the Tamarack Lodge for a meal with picturesque views. In winter, enjoy the ski and snowboard runs. Regardless of the season, this ride offers an unforgettable way to appreciate the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe. Summer visitors can also experience the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster at Heavenly for an exhilarating ride down the mountain.

5. Ski Lake Tahoe

Among the many activities in Lake Tahoe, skiing is a must. The area boasts 12 ski resorts, with six main resorts providing world-class skiing and snowboarding. Ski terrain exists in both North and South Lake Tahoe, catering to various skill levels and preferences.

Heavenly Ski Resort is the most popular skiing destination in Lake Tahoe, featuring the highest vertical drop in California. Located in South Lake Tahoe, it attracts many visitors, but its massive size allows for some escape from the crowds. Another popular spot is Kirkwood Ski Resort, known for having the deepest snow in the area and less congestion.

If skiing isn’t your thing, you can still ascend Heavenly via the 2.5-mile gondola ride to an observation deck for stunning views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Lake Tahoe.

6. Hike Mount Tallac

If you’re seeking a challenge along with spectacular views, consider hiking Mount Tallac during summer. This demanding trail is a beloved choice among seasoned hikers. As you ascend, enjoy a varied landscape filled with forest, meadows, and gorgeous alpine lakes. Upon reaching the summit, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and its surrounding peaks, making it a perfect spot for photography.

7. Tallac Historic Site

For those not inclined to hike, visiting the Tallac Historic Site allows you to relive the grandeur of what was once hailed as the Grandest Resort in the World. If you visit in summer, partake in guided walks. In winter, this site is a haven for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, with free entry and a museum housed in the former Baldwin House.

8. Tahoe Art League’s Art Center & Gallery

Art enthusiasts must explore the Tahoe Art League’s Art Center & Gallery. This non-profit organization showcases local artists and their diverse works, from paintings and photography to sculpture and ceramics. The exhibitions are frequently updated, ensuring something new is always on display.

Additionally, the Art Center provides art classes and workshops year-round, perfect for visitors eager to express their creativity. Many pieces are available for sale, offering a unique memento from your Lake Tahoe experience.

9. Take a Hot-air Balloon Ride over the Lake

For a bird’s-eye view of Lake Tahoe, consider embarking on a hot-air balloon ride. This unforgettable experience allows you to admire the lake’s sparkling blue waters, sandy beaches, and surrounding peaks from a unique vantage point. Launching from a boat deck, you’ll float over the lake at sunrise, the most stable time for flights.

10. Scenic Helicopter Tour

If you’re in search of excitement coupled with impressive scenery, consider a helicopter tour over Lake Tahoe. These tours provide breathtaking aerial views of prominent landmarks, including Emerald Bay, Fannette Island, and the surrounding snow-capped mountains. Choose from a variety of tour lengths and routes to find one that suits your preferences.

11. D.L. Bliss State Park

D.L. Bliss State Park is a natural wonderland waiting to be explored. Renowned for some of the best beaches in Lake Tahoe, it’s an ideal location for swimming during the summer. The park is also famous for its remarkable granite formations, including the Rubicon Point Lighthouse.

A network of hiking trails, such as the Rubicon Trail, offers stunning views of the lake and shoreline. For a unique experience, visit the Balancing Rock nature trail featuring a large, well-balanced granite boulder.

12. Casinos

While not a primary focus, casinos across the border into Nevada have captured the attention of many visitors. The excitement and atmosphere in South Lake Tahoe thrive with venues like Bally’s and the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, offering popular nightlife and dining options.

13. Zephyr Cove

Zephyr Cove offers lovely scenic views of islands and beaches, and it’s here that you’ll find the famous lone tree, popular on social media platforms like Instagram.

14. Tour the El Dorado Wine Region

Just an hour’s drive from South Lake Tahoe lies the El Dorado Wine Region, a paradise for wine lovers. Nestled in the Sierra Mountains foothills, this region spans over 2,000 acres of vineyards. Book a wine tour to sample and bring home some California wine.

Lake Tahoe North

15. Tahoe City Winter Sports Park

If you’re interested in fat biking, snowshoeing, ice skating, or cross-country skiing, the Winter Sports Park is the ideal location. The park offers an all-inclusive experience where one price grants access to all activities, while Café Zenon situated on the golf course allows parents to relax while kids have fun.

16. Paddleboarding on Kings Beach

During the summer, take advantage of Lake Tahoe’s clear waters by paddleboarding at Kings Beach. This calm, sandy beach provides an excellent spot for both beginners and practicing stand-up paddleboarding. Rentals are available nearby, making it easy to enjoy this engaging activity.

17. Lake Tahoe Spas

After a day of outdoor activities, unwind at the Lighthouse Spa in North Lake Tahoe, indulging in massages, facials, or a full-body treatment like a warm aromatherapy body wrap. Alternatively, enjoy a spa day at the Resort at Palisades Tahoe (formerly Squaw Valley Resort), which features a range of rejuvenating treatments.

18. Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum

Immerse yourself in the history of Westward Expansion at Donner Memorial State Park near Truckee. The park’s visitor center offers insightful exhibits on the Donner Party, Native American history, and local wildlife. A short walk from the visitor center leads to the Pioneer Monument, dedicated to the pioneers who crossed the Sierra Nevada.

19. Treetop Adventure Park

Release your adventurous spirit at Treetop Adventure Park, featuring a series of courses set high in the trees, including rope swings, bridges, and zip lines. It’s an exciting and challenging activity suiting all ages and fitness levels under the guidance of professional instructors.

20. Go Mountain Biking at Northstar California Resort

Northstar Mountain Resort offers winter skiing and snowboarding, but if visiting during the summer, be sure to hit the mountain biking trails. The resort features various paths for single-track, cross-country, and downhill mountain biking, with an introductory bike park catering to beginners.

21. Go Rafting Down the Truckee River

If you’re seeking river fun during your Lake Tahoe adventure, book a whitewater rafting trip down the Truckee River. This enjoyable family experience takes you from Tahoe City through scenic meadows and mountains, navigating manageable rapids.

22. Snowfest

Each February or March, the Snowfest event hosts ten days of winter fun across different locations. Expect parties, live music, and outdoor activities just waiting to be enjoyed. The festival occurs in Tahoe City and Kings Beach, with the next event slated for February 24 to March 10, 2024.

23. Summer Concert Series

During summer, Lake Tahoe buzzes with live entertainment, hosting a series of festivals and events. The summer concert series features weekly happenings at The Village at Palisades Tahoe, Kings Beach, and Commons Beach.

24. E-Biking from Incline Village to Sand Harbor

Rent an e-bike to explore the East Shore Trail from Incline Village to Sand Harbor Beach. The paved trail spans three miles, offering visits to beaches, coves, and the lovely Nevada shoreline. This leisurely ride lets you explore landmarks like the Mark Twain Cultural Center and various hikes.

25. Sand Harbor Beach

If you decide to cross to the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, visit Sand Harbor Beach, a well-liked destination for water sports and warm weather activities. Renting kayaks and stand-up paddleboards is popular, along with enjoying picnics or utilizing the boat launch for boating enthusiasts.

26. Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival

Experience the enchantment of Shakespeare under the stars at the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, held annually at Sand Harbor State Park. This sought-after event draws thousands to enjoy high-quality performances amid the stunning backdrop of Lake Tahoe. Enhance your evening with a pre-ordered meal or a delightful beach picnic.

27. Tahoe National Forest Hikes

California is home to many national parks and forests, and Tahoe National Forest, positioned between Reno and Sacramento, is no exception. With an abundance of hiking trails, the Five Lakes Trail is particularly beautiful, featuring a steep climb that rewards those who reach the top with breathtaking views of the five lakes.

28. Ski Lake Tahoe North

Sugarbowl holds a special appeal to locals, being the closest resort to both San Francisco and Sacramento with the highest snowfall in the region. Skiing at Olympic Valley, where the 1960 Winter Olympics were hosted, is a requirement during winter visits. Lake Tahoe is home to 12 ski resorts, guaranteeing excellent skiing experiences across various skill levels.

Palisades Tahoe: Known for its Olympic history, this resort features a range of terrains suited for beginners to advanced skiers, along with ski lessons available for newcomers.

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe

Where to stay in Lake Tahoe depends on the activities you wish to engage in. For nightlife, restaurants, and family vacations, consider South Lake Tahoe. If skiing is your primary goal, then North Lake Tahoe is suggested.

Lake Tahoe North

Cedar Crest Cottages – Ideal for large families or couples looking for a kitchen and outdoor firepit. While a bit removed from the action, this fits the desires of many who visit Lake Tahoe.

Sunnyside Resort – Located directly on Lake Tahoe, offering an excellent central location that feels like a ski village.

Lake Tahoe South

Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel – Conveniently situated next to the Heavenly Gondola. It’s a well-frequented hotel with many families, though it could benefit from some upgrades. Still, its location is fantastic.

Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination offering activities for families, couples, and groups alike. Visitors will appreciate North Lake Tahoe’s laid-back pace and tranquil atmosphere, while families and younger travelers will thrive in South Tahoe’s vibrant nightlife and casino scene.

Have you been to Lake Tahoe in the winter? What are your favorite things to do?