Lake Tahoe
Imagine a place where sapphire-blue waters mirror snow-capped peaks, and outdoor adventures await in every season. Lake Tahoe’s 72 miles of shoreline promise a variety of unforgettable experiences, no matter what type of explorer or vacationer you are. From lounging next to crystal clear water and mountainous views at Baldwin Beach to skiing down Diamond Peak Ski Resort, Lake Tahoe has a little something for everything. Let me be your guide to the crown jewel of the Sierra Nevada!
Straddling California and Nevada, this natural wonder boasts some mind-blowing stats – it’s the largest alpine lake in North America and the second-deepest lake in the U.S. at 1,645 feet.
This lake holds enough water to cover the entire state of California in 14 inches! Because of its enormous size, with a total volume of approximately 39 trillion gallons of water, the lake has immense thermal inertia, meaning the Lake rarely freezes over. Combined with over 300 days of sunshine annually, this is an excellent location for year-round activities. To help navigate what to do and where we will break it down by region.
Getting To The Lake
No matter how you travel, getting to the lake will require some driving. Most people who don’t live in California or Nevada will fly to either Tahoe Airport or Reno-Tahoe International Airport and drive for an additional 45 minutes. The next closest airport is Sacramento International Airport, a two-hour drive. Those who want to avoid renting a car are encouraged to take one of the shuttle services from either the Tahoe Airport or the Reno Airport. These shuttle services operate regularly and provide a convenient and comfortable way to reach your destination in Lake Tahoe.
Traveling during the spring, summer, or fall seasons is the most convenient, considering extra preparation is required during the snowy winter. During these seasons, you can pack light and enjoy the pleasant weather without worrying about snow chains or additional layers. No matter what time of the year you decide to visit Lake Tahoe, planning your visit is essential.
North Shore
These charming mountain towns feature premier ski resorts that are great to stay at during any season. When it’s not snowing, these mountain terrains become excellent places to hike in Lake Tahoe. On top of having some of the best places to stay, hike, and ski, North Lake Tahoe is also the home of several historical sites and cultural attractions. Discover everything there is to do in North Lake Tahoe here.
South Shore
In South Lake Tahoe, visitors will notice the most significant difference: the vibe. While the north side of the lake is full of more nature-oriented destinations, and South Lake Tahoe is a vibrant hub for a variety of activities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, snowshoeing, skiing, and more.Plus, it offers a high-energy atmosphere with some of the best bars, live music, and late-night parties.
It’s also a great place to find even more world-class casinos! When you’re not adventuring the outdoors or partying the night away, another great place to visit in South Lake Tahoe is The Heavenly Village, filled with shopping and diverse dining options. You can find even more
things to do in South Lake Tahoe here.
East Shore
East Lake Tahoe is a hidden gem, with dozens of secluded beaches, hidden coves, and pristine shorelines, making it an excellent spot for kayaking and paddleboarding. While it’s not often talked about, East Lake Tahoe features some of the area’s most untouched beauties. Here, you can explore off the beaten path and find some spectacular views and even more photo opportunities.
West Shore
On the west side of the lake, you’ll find some iconic locations like Vikingsholm Castle, west shore is guaranteed to offer picturesque beaches, waterfront estates, and historic mansions, not to mention even more hiking trails that will provide incredible views, such as the Rubicon hiking trail.
While each part of the lake offers something different, each region shares a common list of top Tahoe experiences, such as world-renowned ski and snowboard resorts, hikes for all levels of expertise, casinos, water sports, and stunning views. That’s just things to do. Lake Tahoe is also known for having a variety of delicious bars and restaurants in every town, many of which feature a breathtaking view of the surrounding areas. With so much to do, deciding what’s best for you or your group can feel impossible.
We’re here to help you plan your Lake Tahoe vacation, whether it’s during the summer with warmer weather and peak water activity season, fall with fewer crowds and beautiful fall colors, winter for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow activities, or spring, where it’s the best time to spot wildflowers on an adventurous hike. We’re here to help you plan every part of it, including where to stay, from campgrounds to luxury resorts to getting around Lake Tahoe and its public transportation options.
This great lake isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that will leave you breathless – sometimes literally, at 6,225 feet elevation! Whether you’re carving up the slopes, paddling on crystal-clear waters, or simply soaking in the stunning alpine views, Lake Tahoe promises memories that will last a lifetime. Start planning your 2024 Lake Tahoe adventure today, and discover why this jewel of the Sierra Nevada captures the hearts of millions year after year. Trust me – once you visit, you’ll already be planning your next trip!